Where to begin?

In the beginning... there was THE BLOG-  What does it mean?  We hear it all the time, but what exactly is a blog?

"A blog (a blend of the term web log)^[1] is a type of website or part of a website. Blogs are usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or video. Entries are commonly displayed in reverse-chronological order. Blog can also be used as a verb, meaning to maintain or add content to a blog." - (thanks, Wikipedia)

Hmmm, that's not exactly what I had in mind, so, let's read further-

"Many blogs provide commentary or news on a particular subject; others function as more personal online diaries. A typical blog combines text, images, and links to other blogs, Web pages, and other media related to its topic. The ability of readers to leave comments in an interactive format is an important part of many blogs. Most blogs are primarily textual, although some focus on art (art blog), photographs (photoblog), videos (video blogging), music (MP3 blog), and audio (podcasting). Microblogging is another type of blogging, featuring very short posts."

Yes, that's more like it. I love the idea of sharing videos, articles, and having a place to unleash my thoughts, feelings and general observations on life, love, relationships, the world, existence, you name it!

I also like the interactive part. But I could be doing this all on a social media site. And I certainly DO! But, a blog is a lot more personal and indepth. Less quick and dirty and more thoughtful and exploratory. Facebook just doesn't cut it if you actually love writing. Anyone can use Facebook, right? There's no true skill or talent or actually any real thought. It's like instant pudding. It tastes ok, but there is nothing to really savor. Hopefully, I will be able to convey some thoughts and ideas to savor. It's taken me a long time to feel ready for this, and so, I am taking the plunge into a blog.

I am so tardy to this party. I know, that's no way to start one's blogging career. But it is really true. I have been planning this day for a few years. I have purchased a few domain names and have not gotten around to getting them set up. I am hopelessly lost as far as the technical side of this business is concerned. I will require a great deal of assistance with the other blogs I am scheming on. BUT, I simply got tired of procrastinating and waiting around for that magical day to arrive. This adventure is a "dream come true" for me. I put it off for too long because I was waiting for the "perfect time". There is no such thing. Sometimes you simply have to jump right in!

So, here I am, doing this the low-tech way. No super high-tech bells and whistles. My maiden voyage through the blogosphere. I have a great deal to say, and each day I have less time to say it. My postings and musing are only for my facebook friends and those who follow some of my other pursuits. I will probably use this site to enlighten, opine, share, occasionally rant, and I will say what I mean and try so very hard not to say it meanly. Although, considering that there is always someone in the room who will be offended, my good intentions may have to suffice.

So, for this, my first posting, I will keep it straight and to the point. I love writing. I always have and I imagine I always will. I have neglected my poor inner muse and have put off challenging myself for far too long. I write for other people and other organizations and most of my hard work and labors will never be attributed to me or see the light of day. That just isn't good enough anymore.

One caveat, my words and this blog are my own thoughts, feelings, opinions and ideas. I don't speak for any group or organization or engage in discussions that would or could risk my current career. So, if you are looking for any political banter or partisan cheerleading- sorry, there won't be any. This is going to be a thoughtful and possibly insightful blog. I am hoping to stay clear of potentially conflicting interests. Worlds colliding is not my cup of tea. I am not fanatical or fundamental enough to throw myself into the chasm of unemployment over some politician or provocative cause. This is going to be a very low-key and, hopefully, enjoyable little piece of my mind.

Now that the disclaimer is out of the way, I can start thinking of all kinds of topics and musings to share. Comments and feedback are welcome if they are sincere, direct and to the point. And I want everyone to play nice. I know being sarcastic, snarky and ironically nasty is in fashion, but I prefer clever, cheeky and naughty. It's more my style. AND this is my blog. If you want snarky and nasty, hey- write your own blog. There's an audience for everyone!!!

So, here we go. As they say, "You have to start somewhere." Here is where I am starting and it's a new beginning. I hope you will join me on my adventure.

Alea iacta est 

- go ahead  GOOGLE IT, you know you want to!-

And if you are wondering about the name associated with this blog- DCgal62, that is my social media name. It isn't very interesting or in the least bit insightful. I created it a long time ago when I was in my social media infancy and in retrospect, I should have picked something cooler. Alas, we learn. But, it is now something I have associated myself with professionally and so... that's my story and I am sticking with it.

But, I am, and always shall be, Diana. Thanks for reading. I hope you will be back for more.