A milestone

Sometime soon, likely within the next twelve hours, Left in Aboite will surpass the 10,000 hits mark. While there are far busier blogs as well as smaller sites, I am personally proud to hit this number and I sincerely thank everyone who has contributed to it. Even those of you who raise my blood pressure and cause me chest pain. ;)

It's never been much about the numbers here. If that were the case, there are many examples which I could follow that would pile up 10,000 hits in a month or two if I so desired. I prefer to play things "off the cuff" here. . .I don't take myself all that seriously. Therefore, you may read an op/ed piece about the political hot button of the day followed by a dirty joke or a funny picture. Clicking on LIA is like opening a box of Cracker Jack; you'll never find a Coupe de Ville, but it's always a surprise. . .

Left in Aboite began in January of this year as a strictly political blog. As I grew in my blogness, I began to incorporate my humor (sometimes juvenile, I readily admit) into my posts. I am very serious about my politics, but I also have a need to find the funny things in life. . .If I can't chuckle along the way, then the journey isn't worth taking. I think most people agree with that statement.

I also enjoy meeting like-minded individuals. The blogosphere has really opened up that world to me. I live in one of the most conservative townships in one of the most Republican states. I am friendly with all of my neighbors; they know my politics (yard signs tell the story). But it's nice to have new friends whom you know share your beliefs and positions. Blogging has led me to new friends that I never would have met otherwise, due to obvious geographic differences and chance.

It has also allowed me to become involved in local politics. I'm not the sort of guy who ever wants to run for office, but it's satisfying to help out local candidates who share my views. So many people complain about politicians but don't get involved, or don't even bother to vote. In my opinion,these people have no right to complain. I'll be campaigning for a local candidate tomorrow, how 'bout you? Get involved or shut up. You know who you are. . .

My thanks go out to:

- The Fort Wayne Reader - For posting an article about my old friend, Robert Rouse's blog. It led me to his site, and eventually to starting my own blog.

- Robert - For setting a fine example, and for support and graphic design.

- All of my blogging friends - TOO numerous to mention, you're all in my blogroll.

I thank you all and, to borrow a line from Murrow, Good Night and Good Luck!