Why Moms Blog

If you've ever wondered why mothers read blogs, you need only read a post like this to find out for yourself.

The post (from the blog Attack of the Redneck Mommy) is written with a rawness and passion that demands your attention. I dare you to even try to walk away from your computer halfway through the post (or the post that it links back to, which is just as powerful and evocative).

* * *

Every mother has a story to tell. And every blog has the potential to form a community around itself -- a community made up of readers who want to learn more about the blogger's experiences.

Blogging is like opening up your living room to a group of friends, staying up late, talking until all hours -- and then, the next night, hopping over to another friend's blog (or virtual living room) to continue the conversation.

There's a certain amount of etiquette involved in blogging, with the rules of what's acceptable and what's not acceptable varying from blog to blog. (Just as some friends couldn't care less if you remember to bring a dessert to book club, while others are unspeakably offended, some friends couldn't care less if you comment on their blogs, while others are miffed if you pass through without ever adding to the conversation.) Yes, it can get complicated. Choose your blog travelling companions wisely.

But (minor politics aside), blogs allow mothers to speak their minds on issues both personal and political and to find community, both locally and globally. They can be a powerful force for change, both within the woman herself and in the world she is creating for her family.

I'm happy to be back to blogging again. (I've been blogging here for about six weeks and the blog is starting to find its voice. I always find it takes a bit of time for that to happen.)

I look forward to carrying on many conversations here with blogging friends new and old.