Tuesday, April 14, 2009

IT'S KINDA WEIRD....

Here's what's on my mind tonight....


None of my friends "in real life" blog. Not one single friend. And they know I do, but they're still not really interested....in doing one themselves or reading mine. Now, don't get the wrong idea. They're not mean or ugly about it. They're just uninterested. They don't "get" blogging. They don't really say it, but I think that they think that it's kinda odd to be communicating with people you don't even know. They have no idea how blogging brings us together. How we become a "family" of sorts. How we care about each other. How we pray for each other. How we encourage each other. How we learn from each other. And so much more.
~~~
And I don't know how to make them understand...or even if I should try...so I don't.
~~~
How about your friends?
~~~
I have a couple of family members who blog though, so that's how/why I got started.
And I have quite a few family members who read my blog (and I know they do because they mention it from time to time), but they rarely, if ever, comment. Weird.
~~~
What about your family?


Hugs and kisses,
Kat
(BTW...I don't care what others think. I enjoy blogging. I appreciate your friendship and your comments. I'd much rather be communicating and learning and building friendships than sitting in front of the "boob tube".)

54 comments:

Mari said...

I'm so glad you blog - You are a blessing to me, even though we live so far apart!
I hav lots of family members who blog - 2 sisters, a son, husband and 2 daughters. I have quite a few friends who blog and there is quite a group from our church who have a blog. So - I guess I'm blessed in that way!

Susie Q said...

I agree aboutthe TV Kat...when people comment that I spend so much time blogging, I always say that I spend less time with that then they do watching TV! And look at what I have gained through blogging!
I have no friends who blog...no family members either. I have a few friends who read it but they never leave comments. They DO talk about it all with me when we see one another. : ) My brother reads my blog often and at least one or two cousins do.
Heck though, I LOVE it and will go right on living it! I am SO glad you blog...I LOVE *knowing* you!

Love,
Sue

Sandra said...

Most of my friends don't know because they would think I was wasting my time spending time reading and posting. I am sure of that, so I just don't even tell them. I think they would probably make fun of my talking about shopping, etc. They are not at all into the same fashion style, etc. as I so I have chosen not to share . . . I do have one friend who reads it regularly. She loves reading, but has no interest in blogging and never comments. As far as family - both my children and my daughter-in-law know, but I don't think they read on any kind of regular basis. I have two nieces and a sister-in-law who read all the time and NEVER comment. I think that is kind of weird, too. When I see them it is kind of creepy cause they know everything I have worn, etc. but they have never commented - haha. Sorry this is so long, but I feel you and I have similar situations ;-) xoxo

Teresa @ Grammy Girlfriend said...

I think that is why it took me so long to start...All my girlfriends (who play bridge religiously) think blogging is WEIRD...They do not even know I have started, although they ask me to write any and every letter they need to write...they always love my Christmas letters but the blog thing...they are not at all interested in...I just finally decided I loved it...and who cares...My immediate family ...kids, husband...etc read it and have been really supportive..but I have never even mentioned it to my other family members...I also really wanted to document our lives...and the older I get the worse my handwriting is, so this is easier than a journal.

Anonymous said...

Hi Kat,

I hear you...none of my "real" life friends are interested either. I even tried "twitter" but nope they're just not going there either...

I feel like you do...I have met so many nice people here and they accept me even being "annon" !! I also feel proud of myself for learning how to maintain a blog, set it up etc...it keeps my minds active :)

I am trying to blog less with the good weather upon us, but to be honest it's harder than I thought it would be !!!

Good post Kat, night night
Kathy :)

ps I am glad Steve O went tonight what about you ???

Harbor Hon said...

I was resistant, at first, but my sisters goaded me until I did it. I didn't think my laptop had enough power to go forward with it. Then I did my first post and I was hooked. Well, you know, you visit me often which I really appreciate. I love coming here too and hearing about your fabulous life and seeing all the smiles on the faces of your family and friends. Does my heart so much good after being cooped up with work people who manage a smile once in a while. I'm glad you're in the blogisphere my friend. xxoo

Judy said...

Hey, I'm the first to comment!

I, too, have no friends or family members who blog. They don't "get" it either! I find myself saying "my blog friend...." and they start rolling their eyes. They are not interested and probably don't understand our little blog family just like you said. And I, too, will continue to blog cause I can't imagine my world without such wonderful friends, like you!

Hugs!
Judy

Bacardi Mama said...

Only my daughters and my hubby know I blog. I know for a fact that my oldest sister would think it was just plain stupid. That's just how she is. I don't know about the rest of them. Very few of my friends know I blog. I don't really know why. It's something I do for me. I use to think it was a little weird until I actually got involved in it. Now, I don't know how I ever did without it. All my blogging friends have come to mean so much to me. I am actually going to meet two of them this weekend. It's funny you posted this tonight because I've been thinking all night about emailing my aunt in Arizona and giving her my blog address. I thought she might like to keep in touch that way. Since I started blogging, I don't spend as much time emailing as I use to. Except of course, with my blogging friends. How was that fora long winded answer?

Sandi @the WhistleStop Cafe said...

I got my sister started on blogging since she lives in London. It is a great way to keep in touch.
We have conversations all the time... Did you see what Kat did today?? We had to stop in at 'Duh' just because you went.
It is to funny!

Essential Oil Premier University said...

Yup, same thing. My family and friends read my blog, but don't blog themselves or comment on mine! Possible reasons? I don't know. Jealousy, intimidation, they think blogs can be boastful, they have no life so they have nothing to blog about? Just kidding. No clue. If they read, you'd think they would at least comment. When they come to my house they can't wait to "see" what I blogged about, however.

Blessings,

Sher

Linda said...

I don't have one "real" friend that blogs and they don't know that I have a blog either. I think I'd rather keep it that way. It's just sorta my thing. My sister found out I had a blog and she told my mom, otherwise my family probably wouldn't even know...and they've never left me a comment either! People who don't blog just don't get it and they never will...unless thay start blogging themselves.

Teresa @ Grammy Girlfriend said...

I am so glad you blog....as yours was one of the first that I got really HOOKED on...I just loved your love of life...and your love of family....

Pat@Back Porch Musings said...

A few of my old school friends read and comment on my blog. I only know one other person, in real life, who blogs. We comment on each others blogs.

I think most of the people I know, including friends and family, don't blog, because they don't feel they would be able to keep it going or find things to write about. I have several readers who know me, personally and encourage me to continue, because they've made the Back Porch a regular stop.

Wonderful post, Kat!

Tales From My Empty Nest said...

My oldest daughter started blogging first. She was so excited about it that she got my youngest daughter interested and she in turn got me started. I am totally hooked now. I have been blogging since January. One of my good friends likes to read my blog and my girl's blogs, but does not have a blog of her own. My other friends do not blog. I'm like you, I can't imagine life without my blogger friends. I have learned so much from everybody, gotten some wonderful recipes and craft ideas and prayed for lots of my fellow bloggers. I hope to get to meet some of you blogger friends one day!!! Kat, you and I have a lot in common and I enjoy your blog so much! Love& blessings from NC!

Kathy said...

I can relate. No one else in my "real life" as you said, blogs. They don't get it. The thing is, I didn't get it either until I started. There are so many people all over the country - the world - who really do become true friends. Blog world is a wonderful community! I'm awfully glad you're a part of it, Kat. You're a nice lady with a great blog! Have a fabulous week...Kathy

Belle (from Life of a...) said...

I know JUST what you mean. Nobody I know blogs and when I tell them I do they look at me like I'm strange. A couple of people at work read my blog occasionally and both of my kids check in occasionally. I hate to admit it, but it kind of hurts my feelings a little bit. On the other hand, I ADORE all of the new blog friends I've made. What a wonderful support network we have!

Zaankali said...

I have a lot of friends "like Mari" that blog so that is great but my family (mom, dad, sister) don't get it either. They too think "you don't know them, you found them on the computer". Like that makes you unreal or something. I think it is a hoot and I chuckle inside because I know what they are missing out on by being so closed minded to anything "different".
So thanks for being my "different friend"!
Love you!
Smiles!

Terri Steffes said...

SAME HERE... no friends at home but plenty of family. I have a couple of coworkers who blog but I am their boss and it is rather weird for them to read my blog!

Cherdecor said...

I agree, Kat! I agree.

barb cabot said...

Your post today has prompted me to comment. I found your blog through Sandi at Whistlestop. I know Sandi through our Slowtrav.com group. I started to blog this past Dec. but before that read your blog which helped inspire me to write my own. You shine through your blog, your open-ness, love of family and God, your positive attitude being a survivor are bright, cheery moments that start or finish my day. It is somewhat strange that friends or family do not comment but it is not unusual I'm sure. For some, attempting anything new or out of their comfort range may seem strange. I think you should feel very proud of yourself for being "flexible" at this stage in life...trying something and doing it well like blogging. You are reaching out and touching souls far away. People that consider what you have to say warm and sensitive and often find inspiration. It is a gift you give to loved ones as well as strangers. I understand completely what you are saying. Whether those close to us are interested or disinterested is just the way it is. Keep on blogging. You touch so many lives. I truly appreciate what you do. Love your blog! Come visit me at mine sometime. http://followbarbsbliss.blogspot.com/

blah blah blah said...

I am finally leaving a comment - though you know how I really feel about comments : )

Most of my friends don't read my blog, they may glance at it but they don't read it. I don't take it personally. If all my friends had a blog and I felt that I had to read them all, then I would get nothing done and I would miss out on opportunities to create real life moments with them b/c I would be too busy reading about their life instead of being in their life.

I do love how blogging can create a sense of community with people from around the world. It's wonderful to peal the pages back on people and expose what is underneath. So many times we are willing to be more vulnerable with people we don't "know" b/c we face know we will face less judgment b/c these are people we don't vacation, shop, or go to church with.

It's amazing to see how blogging has created such a voice for people in this generation. It's like - I WANT TO BE HEARD - so we publish the details of our life so we can be heard. I often think, are we bloggers just so egotistical to think that our thoughts, feelings - life - need recognition from anyone and everyone? It's just a thought I ponder every once and a while.

Love you.

Anonymous said...

Good Morning Kat,

I had to come back this morning to read what others wrote...guess there are quite a few of us in the same boat huh ???

Thanks for writing this post, it really made me feel good...like most of the rest I do this for myself, I always kept a journal and now "the family blog" is really an extention of that...

Have a great day, tennis?? I am off to my treadmill and exercise when I finish this post...

Bye for now,
Kathy :)

Unknown said...

Hi Kat,

A few of my kids friends blog but not any of my day to day friends. I know my best friend kind of wonders why I put so much time and attention into this bloggging stuff but I truely love it and have gotten to know so many wonderful people who I know would be prayer warriors for me if I ever needed them. Maybe we wouldn't have been friends in real life but it doesn't matter in the bloggy world. There are some whose beliefs and political views are so different from mine but they still take the time to comment and leave me nice messages. I feel blessed to have to have "met" so many nice people this way(you included).

Sometimes It's Good said...

Some of my friends "Don't Get It" but they're the ones missing out on the fun. They don't get why I joined the "Red Hats" or some "meet up" groups, too. I like to get out and meet people and do new things. Life's too short to just sit around and watch TV.
I have a couple of friends who read it sometimes. They don't comment but they'll talk to me about my blog.
Hugs, Susan

Connie said...

I have ONE real friend who blogs...Karen at Some Days are Diamonds and we are talking more now because of our blogs. LOVE IT!!! My family and a few friends read my blog but they never comment. I hear from others that they read my blog. AND yes...my family thinks I'm crazy when I talk about my blog friends and even wanted to come with me when I was going to meet the crazy online stalkers Kat and George recently. :) It was so good to meet you in person and what fun to read your blog and now call you a real friend.

I love hearing about life in other parts of the country and what a life lesson we all get seeing that though we live in different parts of the country or other countries that we all care about our families, have crazy quirks, love our savior Jesus, enjoy sharing our recipes, sharing photos of events and our trips, decorating ideas and a great bargain. I love seeing the different seasons...love the snow pictures, the beaches on the east and gulf coasts and the cabin photos, etc.

So I'm gonna keep blogging because it makes me feel good, it's my updated journal of my life and I've enjoyed meeting everyone and making friends in this world of blogging.

Have a wonderful day friend....Connie

Melissa said...

I got started on blogging because of some people from my church...But no-one in my family or really close friends blog. I do know that they read my blog often, however, like yours, they don't comment either! So, I guess you're not the only one in this boat! :)

Irene said...

Hi! Some people IRL know I blog, some don't. It is weird. I didn't tell my IL's because I am afraid they will think I am strange. My mom, however, LOVES my blog. We talk daily, but she loves when I write about the kids and she gets a better idea of what is going on here. My only sister used to blog, and USED to read mine and comment all the time. I loved it because I felt like we were getting closer. However, she decided it was too time consuming (and almost made me feel a bit guilty about it) so she stopped writing. But she also stopped reading mine which, honestly, was very hurtful. I would think she would actually care to see and hear about me and my family. I can understand not wanting to write, but I am her only sibling, so reading mine would take mere minutes out of her day. Makes me seriously think she just doesn't care. But I guess, that is a whole 'nother story!!

Anyway, I love your blog!!! And I don't care what others think, blogging is such fun! I mean, you've made real LIVE friends thanks to blogging, right?

Holly said...

Blogging has opened up a whole other world for me. There are actually people just like me out there....interests, learning life's curves,the whole shebang!!. None of my friends or family blogs...it doesn't cross their minds. I am not a TV watcher either...don't mind it...just don't watch. Please keep up your blogs...they enrich so many lifes...kindered spirts we are.

heidi said...

I can so relate to the blog thing. None of my family or friends blog. Well a few of my friends do and they read my blog...but were talking ummmm like maybe 3. You know they'd really stay more current with me and we wouldn't have to spend like an hour on the phone, LOL.

And if any other family reads mine...they aren't letting me know.

My BFF who lives in Idyllwild never reads my blog. Two of my sisters read my blog and one comments. And one of my good friends reads and comments but not often. But, hey, there's a whole slew of them on Facebook. My mom plays me scrabble on Facebook. At least I'm getting a little love that way. =o)

I actually enjoy blogging and am glad I found you.

Miss Jean said...

I have a few friends close by that blog. They have become friends because we met via blogging! How cool is that. None of my long time friends blog. The worse is my daughter. She and her friends laugh at me for blogging. "Mom, we're not being mean. We think it's cute!" Cute. Cute. They just don't get it.

Gram said...

None of my friends or family blog. I know that some of them read my blog, but very few leave a comment. Some of them mention the blog in e-mails. I decided to start a blog about my experience as a grandparent as a way to keep track of that experience. I have found that I have ventured outside of that one topic to document other experiences in my life. I have become addicted to reading several blogs and it is a blessing to me to know that others are going through some of the same things I go through. Sometimes I find it easier to write things in a blog than to share in person.

Julie said...

I have one better than that... My friends were driving me crazy with individual e-mails about Don. When he finally told me he wanted me to write about his illness on my blog...I was thrilled and told everyone about it. They still wanted me to answer their e-mails. I just gave up and told them that if they were interested enough - they would bookmark the sight and read it...and if not - they would have to wait until I had time to answer the 50,000 e-mails....Yeah Right ...."when I have time!" ha ha..

We got Don's Viral Load results back. I have not posted on it and might not until tomorrow - but the news is not good.

Jill said...

I don't have any IRL friends who blog, but I think several of them read my blog...and they do not comment. I'm with you on the bloggy friendships though (you and I are a good example). Huge blessing and great network and support.

Sally said...

I love blogging; it's something I can do if I feel like but there's no pressure at all! Most days I feel like and most every single day I do visit even if I don't post.

Like you, I don't have friends in the outside world (that does sound wierd) who blog or if they do, they don't tell me! None of my family members do, but they know I do. I think they believe I like it to be personal for me and that's fine although if they wanted to know about it I would tell them. I usually don't blog about anything I would say in front of them. I try not to say too much, however, about things that trouble my heart as I don't want to sound morbid. Like when my grandson was killed, I didn't give a lot of details. Now, I'm considering a blog for grandparents who are grieving as I've noticed there isn't much to be found. Goodness me, I sure didn't mean to get going on that. Forgive me, Kat! Heavens.

Take care!! Sending lots of HUGS!!!

Betty Jo said...

I'm truly glad you blog, and that I discovered it too. Don't know what I would have done this past year without my precious blog friends. My best friend blogs a little, she hasn't in a long while. None of my other real life friends or family members, blog. But that's ok, they just don't know what they're missing. Although I don't get to my blog as much as I would like, I can't imagine life without it. ♥

Melissa in Mel's World said...

Hello Dear Friend, long time no bloggy talk!!! I've missed you but have enjoyed catching up with you and George through your posts and pictures.

Nope, no one in my family blogs, well...hubby started to and hasn't updated since Jan 09 (oh boy). A few of my friends blog, but most of them don't and no, they just don't "get it" either.

That's ok...I LOVE my bloggy (online) friends and thank God for the friendships, community, and prayer partners He has placed in my life.

On a side note, would you please pray for my mom. Her name is Regina, she's 57, and at the beginning of March she was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. She had surgery and started her 1st chemo treatment this past Friday (Good Friday).

Thanks so much Kat for being YOU...you are an incredible woman!

xoxo,
Melissa

pearlsnpreppy said...

Blogging ( even though I don't have one yet) is such a wonderful way to share talents,kind thoughts, support, and advice. I read recently on a blog, that blogging is "all about sharing the love." It surely seems that it is true! I have learned so much from many wonderful blogs...recipes, photography lessons, travel advice,parenting tips, holiday gift ideas, party themes, etc. It is mostly just a wonderful sharing of the kindness in life! :)

Angela Baylis said...

I love how Jill puts it... IRL friends. My sister-in-law used to blog, but quit. I don't think a lot of people "get" it either. Some of my family read, but don't comment either. One of my SIL said she will just tell me what she thinks. Boy, this post made everyone want to comment! Sometimes I get a little sensitive about this blogging thing. I heard a blogging friend whose feelings got hurt say that blogging friends are conditional. They are only friends if we continue to comment. It made me think. I LOVE your blog. Some days it's light and some days deep. Don't ever change!
Much love, my friend!
Angie xoxo

Tonja said...

Some of my friends blog, and I have quite a few aquaintences who blog. They comment at times, but not always. None of my very close friends blog, however, they do read. But, don't comment. None of my family blog, or comment...but, they read often.
I don't understand why more people don't comment...it would really make me happy to get more feedback,

HOWEVER...my 'blog family' is another story. I can always count on them to read, hear what I am trying to convey, and give me the affirmation that I am heard and understood. Which is what I think all of us bloggers really desire.

I guess that I would blog even if no one ever commented...since I do it for me. It is a place to put down the things I think and feel and are important to me. It is a place for me to tell my stories, share my fears, and voice my opinions. It is a place to meet friends...and share with them and them with me.
Blogging has enriched my life and provided me an insight to more of the world we live in. It has given me an opportunity to share my faith, and to learn from others.
AND...it has the "B" Club..which IS going to meet again!

Ms. ~K said...

I hear ya' loud and clear Girlfriend!!!!
My girlfriends even asked me to stop posting their pictures on my blog, so now it appears that my only friends are my hubby and dogs...
Oh well, I have made wonderful friends (like you) through blogging and it is an important part of my life.
Those who don't understand can just "Kiss my Grits!"
Hugs to you and Blog On,
Kit

Lisa Pogue said...

Great post! I have only one friend who blogs and one cousin. I have plenty of friends and family who read me but never ever leave comments. My husband will not look at my blog either, unless I tell him I've written something about him then he "might". You are right, some people just don't get it. I think it may be an acquired thing too. Kinda like an acquired taste maybe. Make sense? I'm addicted, that's all I can say.

Jean said...

I have many family and friends who read my blog, but seldom comment - except when they see me face to face.

I love to write, so blogging has been the way I can accomplish that at this stage of my life. Gaining the friendships that I have along the way has been a surprise and a wonderful plus.

I am so thankful that I have also found a way to create an interesting diary of my life the past four years. I often refer back to find the dates of certain events.

And I'm thankful to that I found such a good friend in you, Kat.

Barbara said...

You are so right.....except for my dearest friend Sharon, who doesn't blog but she got me started and she reads lots of blogs everyday.

A few of my friends around here will drop in every now and then.

But I wouldn't give up any of my blogger friends regardless!

I have met several in person and hope one day to meet you dear Kat.
Some days it is all of you that put a smile on my face and a song in my heart and when I feel low, you wipe away my tears.

Thanks for being there and sharing your lives with all of us.








a

annie said...

I have the same ... friends who are just not into blogging. I think if I had a friend who blogged I would be really interested in their blog? BUT it is really interesting to me how some people just get into blogging and some don't. I try to remember why I started and how it stuck... I'm so happy I've made so many special bloggy friends ... like you!

Linda said...

My sister, Sandy, started blogging first then me. It is a great way for our out of town family to keep up with our lives. I always love visiting you here on your blog. I may not always comment but I visit often.
Blessings,
Linda

Sheila said...

Kat I am soo glad you choose to do a daily blog!
I understand where you are coming from on the "real life friends not blogging" thing! I do have other people in our hometown whom I know blog daily. Some of their blogs are wonderful to read and share, but there are a few that are so competitive (this is usually the ones who are selling things) we live in a fairly small town 32,000 and it just hurts my heart to see them "at each other or saying blogging hurtful things" I almsot gave it up because of this. TO the others who are trying to communicate, reach out, contriubute, they are the ones who keep me coming back.
My mother has been in poor health the last few months and at times I felt I would just throw in the towel on the daily blog....until my family from out of town and friends started to comment on missing me and wanting updates. Thank you so much for sharing this morning (opening my can of worms) this has been so heavy on my heart lately and I just didn't know how to address it on my blog. That is one of the main reasons I have been missing lately.
I am praying and I am letting God lead me in my daily decisions and I don't think I will let others who have bad motives influence me to give up something I love.
You just touched my heart today more than you know. God bless and never give up your blog, I (we) need you and your insight, funny thoughts, and love you share....God bless and keep on blogging....
Much love,
Sheila
PS I am so sorry this is so lengthy and I ramble at times.

Unknown said...

Kat - Honey - I could have written this post myself! I tend to tell them who don't "get it" that if they would just try it and give it a chance, they'd be as hooked as I am. I'm thankful for the expansion of my horizons due to "meeting" so many wonderful friends via my blogging addiction! I do have family members who read, a very low number actually leave comments. Other friends know everything going on in my life but have NEVER left a comment.

Unknown said...

Isn't it funny how so many of our comments mirror what you wrote. I have a few local friends who read my blog, but none of them blog themselves. Some read it from Facebook, but they may never get to the blog itself. It is more likely that their daughters are the ones doing the blogging. For me, it's just a way of combining two things I enjoy...journaling and cooking. I also have a closed blog that I do just for my grandchildren. We make up stories together, sometimes I just make them up for them, and read those together. What a joy! Thanks for sharing your thoughts with all of us.

Gone said...

No friends ("real" life) blog and my sister sometimes posts to her FACEBOOK...but other than that no one!!

A couple of people we've told about our blog, have "looked at" it and told us...but didn't comment.

Go figure.

See you after our Looooooong BREAK from blogging.

Jan

Love Being A Nonny said...

Hi Kat!!

Yeh, some of my family think it's weird that I blog and that I read blogs. But they read my blog because I will often hear them comment on things I have put on here.Only one of my friends has a blog. She is my coworker. I talked her into it...and now she is hooked too!!

Actually, you are one of the first blogs I got hooked on and you were the first person who offered to help me set mine up. So, I always think of you when I refer back to my early blogging days!!Thanks for being a friend!

Anonymous said...

50 comments. Wow seems like this has struck a chord with a lot of bloggers - including me. I was a little disappointed and surprised when I discovered so many people that I thought would be interested in my blogs just weren't. Some family members are regular readers but some of them are indifferent too. I find that so many people aren't even that familiar with computers that they can really appreciate people like us who are hooked on blogging. That said - isn't it nice to meet so many people on line that you don't even know that are interested and after awhile you feel like you know them very well. You certainly fall into that category for me. I have enjoyed your blog for a long time.
Charlotte

Becky said...

Hi Kat;

Both my daughters and my sister blogs, but none of my friends. They don't even know I have a blog. They too would probably think I was wasting my time. I don't watch TV at all, except for American Idol. I sit with my laptop at night right beside my husband....he watches whatever he wants on tv and I blog. We're together and both happy doing what we want at night.

I have met some of the most wonderful people through blogging and no I don't know nor have I ever met anyone in person, except Leigh Ann (ran into her at the mall one day) but I feel like I could be friends with any of these wonderful ladies.

Meggie said...

None of my friends blog either and they only read mine from time to time. I like hearing from folks all over he world...makes me feel connected to a family other than my own.

Miss Janice said...

My friends don't blog...when I give out my blog site address...they go "dot blogspot dot...what is blogspot, I've never heard of that"? Oh well, to each his own...