So, it's official! Come check out my brand new space at...
And pardon the moving boxes. I'm sure it'll only take me a year or so to straighten things out. ;-)
Showing posts with label blog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label blog. Show all posts
Monday, October 5, 2015
Friday, September 4, 2015
Moving...Virtually
Nope, not moving to a new house. (We wish...although, stability is a good thing. ;-))
MegActsOut is packing its bags to make a move from Blogger to Wordpress.
I've used Wordpress on and off for other projects and while I find the dashboard (or whatever the heck they call it) to be more...juvenile-looking, I guess...it should make blog maintenance and growth easier than it has been. Plus, there are a lot of built-in features that I'm itching to play with.
So, I'm hoping to make the migration this weekend sometime. If you follow me, be sure to check back here for an updated link to the new page. Heck, I may have even finalized a brand new blog name by then and everythin'. ;-)
As always, thanks SO much for reading. Hopefully, this is only the start of bigger and better things.
MegActsOut is packing its bags to make a move from Blogger to Wordpress.
I've used Wordpress on and off for other projects and while I find the dashboard (or whatever the heck they call it) to be more...juvenile-looking, I guess...it should make blog maintenance and growth easier than it has been. Plus, there are a lot of built-in features that I'm itching to play with.
So, I'm hoping to make the migration this weekend sometime. If you follow me, be sure to check back here for an updated link to the new page. Heck, I may have even finalized a brand new blog name by then and everythin'. ;-)
As always, thanks SO much for reading. Hopefully, this is only the start of bigger and better things.
Friday, August 21, 2015
Things 'n Stuff
I've obviously been pretty sporadic (at best) with my blogging this summer. I don't have any excuses for that, but I have spent my time well: hanging out with an awesome toddler, working on getting said toddler potty-trained, doing fun family stuff, letting my brain sit and stew, and writing for Green Child Magazine and Thirsties cloth diapers. While I've had ideas galore for blog posts, every time I sat down...nada. And that's okay.
Over the past year or so, the blogosphere has taken an interesting turn. There's definitely a sea change going on, isn't there? Some of my favorite bloggers have called it quits, and that sucks (I still mourn Young House Love...daily), but I can't blame them...or anyone. The pressure, especially when you're getting tons of hits and tons of money, is incredible.
Luckily, I don't have that problem. My hits took a hit (ha) this summer, and I'm fine with that. I make $0 here on the blog currently. Yet, I enjoy writing and sharing, and I'm not ready to give it up. So, even though things will be getting busier, I'll be easing back into posting more.
That said, things will be different.
I'm looking to streamline my posts. As you may know, I'm a pretty random writer. Seriously, I talked about pickles yesterday and have a post about cleaning your washing machine coming up. Personal posts about trips and others about nursery decor. It's how I write and who I am. That aspect won't change, necessarily.
The focus, however, will. Ultimately, we're a pretty normal, down-to-earth (I like to think) family. What makes us a little different than most is the fact that we're trying to live a simpler, more natural life.
So, that's where I'm going here. I'm planning on doing a complete blog overhaul (which may take a month...or a year...no big hurry, we're dealing with enough of that lately) with better organization, particularly regarding the topics that I love talking about that may help people in living a happier, simpler life.
What I'm asking for today is a little input of your own. No SurveyMonkey, no quiz - just leave your thoughts in the comments. Where do your interests lie? What visual style do you prefer for a blog? What do you already like here and what do you dislike? Go ahead and share!
Oh, and one of the most important changes I'll be making? My name. I've loved "Meg Acts Out" (or "Meg, Acting Out" -- I never figured out how the heck to use it), but considering that a) I haven't had much time for community theater acting and b) I'm ready for a fresh start, I'm starting new.
I'm brainstorming everything from "Simply Meg" to titles not utilizing my name to jumping on Dave's "The Dorky Daddy" bandwagon with a "The Dorky Family" (because, let's face it...we are). That last one may not align well with the natural thing, though. So, I'm always up for suggestions. Heck, it's how I got my original blog title. ;-)
A little rambly, but you guys are used to that, right? Please and thanks for any comments, and I welcome you along on the ride!
Over the past year or so, the blogosphere has taken an interesting turn. There's definitely a sea change going on, isn't there? Some of my favorite bloggers have called it quits, and that sucks (I still mourn Young House Love...daily), but I can't blame them...or anyone. The pressure, especially when you're getting tons of hits and tons of money, is incredible.
Luckily, I don't have that problem. My hits took a hit (ha) this summer, and I'm fine with that. I make $0 here on the blog currently. Yet, I enjoy writing and sharing, and I'm not ready to give it up. So, even though things will be getting busier, I'll be easing back into posting more.
That said, things will be different.
I'm looking to streamline my posts. As you may know, I'm a pretty random writer. Seriously, I talked about pickles yesterday and have a post about cleaning your washing machine coming up. Personal posts about trips and others about nursery decor. It's how I write and who I am. That aspect won't change, necessarily.
The focus, however, will. Ultimately, we're a pretty normal, down-to-earth (I like to think) family. What makes us a little different than most is the fact that we're trying to live a simpler, more natural life.
So, that's where I'm going here. I'm planning on doing a complete blog overhaul (which may take a month...or a year...no big hurry, we're dealing with enough of that lately) with better organization, particularly regarding the topics that I love talking about that may help people in living a happier, simpler life.
What I'm asking for today is a little input of your own. No SurveyMonkey, no quiz - just leave your thoughts in the comments. Where do your interests lie? What visual style do you prefer for a blog? What do you already like here and what do you dislike? Go ahead and share!
Oh, and one of the most important changes I'll be making? My name. I've loved "Meg Acts Out" (or "Meg, Acting Out" -- I never figured out how the heck to use it), but considering that a) I haven't had much time for community theater acting and b) I'm ready for a fresh start, I'm starting new.
I'm brainstorming everything from "Simply Meg" to titles not utilizing my name to jumping on Dave's "The Dorky Daddy" bandwagon with a "The Dorky Family" (because, let's face it...we are). That last one may not align well with the natural thing, though. So, I'm always up for suggestions. Heck, it's how I got my original blog title. ;-)
A little rambly, but you guys are used to that, right? Please and thanks for any comments, and I welcome you along on the ride!
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Blogiversary 5.0
Holy crap, guys. Happy Earth Day! You know what this means, right?
Earth Day just coincidentally happens to be our blogiversary! Perfect, right?
I love that there's a connection between our eco-friendly attempts and the ol' blog. Wow. Now, it really IS old. Five years is forever in the world of the web.
Today, I thought I'd just chat a bit about this place that I call home. Meg, Acting Out. Meg Acts Out. Whatever.
I haven't converted to Wordpress. I haven't linked the site up to a unique URL. I haven't actively monetized.
I haven't taken professional head shots. I haven't glammed the place up. I've thought about getting a DSLR camera, but it's just as much to get awesome pictures of my family as it would be to enhance the blog.
I've started posting a little less (I used to do MWF). I've even started to worry less about our number of hits (although I do find myself growing excited when I hit a certain modest number). I have no cares about whether we're SEO-aligned or not.
But, instead, I've taken a small step back. I'm kind of taking after my husband, The Dorky Daddy, only posting about topics that I enjoy writing about, when I feel like doing so. We're slowly but surely converting to Wordpress (but, really, no hurry). I'm not accepting offers that simply sound like a commercial or don't align to my values.
Ultimately, y'know what I'm doing? I'm enjoying it. I'm blogging when I feel like it. I'm not beating myself up when I decide to spend my night goofing around with my little boy or watching a great movie instead of getting that fluffy blog post set for the next morning. I'm valuing my outlet and using it just as that. And. It's. Awesome.
Will I suddenly get a spark to organize the place into a more user-friendly, resource-based space? Will I start posting daily? Will I ever make a career out of sharing my ideas for living a simply fun life? I have no idea. If I don't, it's fine. If I do? Incredible!
But, in the meantime? It's just fun.
So, on this fifth (!) blogiversary, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for sticking around and stopping by. It means the world that you're reading, whether you've followed for years, just check in from time to time, or you just found my small section of the world.
Now, who wants some birthday cake? ;-)
Earth Day just coincidentally happens to be our blogiversary! Perfect, right?
Today, I thought I'd just chat a bit about this place that I call home. Meg, Acting Out. Meg Acts Out. Whatever.
I haven't converted to Wordpress. I haven't linked the site up to a unique URL. I haven't actively monetized.
I haven't taken professional head shots. I haven't glammed the place up. I've thought about getting a DSLR camera, but it's just as much to get awesome pictures of my family as it would be to enhance the blog.
I've started posting a little less (I used to do MWF). I've even started to worry less about our number of hits (although I do find myself growing excited when I hit a certain modest number). I have no cares about whether we're SEO-aligned or not.
It's not that I don't want to put the effort into all these things. As a matter of fact, it's a dream of mine to focus on the blog and make it what it deserves to be.
But, instead, I've taken a small step back. I'm kind of taking after my husband, The Dorky Daddy, only posting about topics that I enjoy writing about, when I feel like doing so. We're slowly but surely converting to Wordpress (but, really, no hurry). I'm not accepting offers that simply sound like a commercial or don't align to my values.
Ultimately, y'know what I'm doing? I'm enjoying it. I'm blogging when I feel like it. I'm not beating myself up when I decide to spend my night goofing around with my little boy or watching a great movie instead of getting that fluffy blog post set for the next morning. I'm valuing my outlet and using it just as that. And. It's. Awesome.
Will I suddenly get a spark to organize the place into a more user-friendly, resource-based space? Will I start posting daily? Will I ever make a career out of sharing my ideas for living a simply fun life? I have no idea. If I don't, it's fine. If I do? Incredible!
But, in the meantime? It's just fun.
So, on this fifth (!) blogiversary, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for sticking around and stopping by. It means the world that you're reading, whether you've followed for years, just check in from time to time, or you just found my small section of the world.
Now, who wants some birthday cake? ;-)
Monday, March 9, 2015
First World Issues
Today's post is probably the most random of random posts I've ever shared...and I've shared some super random stuff. So, if you're in a "train of consciousness" mood, follow along. Otherwise, see ya Wednesday! ;-)
(No, really. You can stay. Just keep the eye rolls to a minimum.)
I'm perplexed. On my slow-but-constant quest to better this here blog, I've stumbled over a technological conundrum.
See, my less-than-a-year-old HP laptop suhuuucks. I had a Dell before that for numerous years and I knew I didn't want another. Well, now I know I definitely don't want an HP. The issue here is that I've had it so long that it's not returnable (I assume; I suck at calling customer service #nopleasedontmakeme). Plus, the issues I'm having with it seem to be everyone's issues with the thing (the touch pad decides to stop working every so often, in addition to other system crashing annoyances), so I clearly don't want a replacement. After numerous Google searches, it seems to simply be what it is.
I'm not sure how to dispose of (or possibly sell? Who'd want it?) this one in order to purchase a new one. Wop-wop.
And that's where my question turns into a two-parter.
I've also been saving my pennies here and there (namely from my work for Green Child Magazine which, honestly, isn't like work at all) to buy a low-end DSLR camera. I've been pining about it for about 2-3 years, and I'm reaching the point where I'll be able to make that investment shortly. Er. Maybe.
Since I'm an overthinkerus maximus, I've been weighing which option to get (Canon Rebel or Nikon 3100 refurbished or 3200...or something else). But, now that I'm close, I look at the literally hours that I've added to working on my writing on my HP Crapfest 2000 and find myself thinking, "Uuuummmm, maybe I should get a replacement laptop instead."
Damn.
So, here we are. My first world issues. We eat mostly organic food. We have warmth and comfort (not just in the form of cat heat). We don't get snowed/rained/hailed on. We. Are. Majorly. Lucky. I'm a brat that I'm even concerned about this, in all honesty.
Yet, I need your help. If you'd like to enable my brattiness (j/k...kinda), please vote on what YOU would do in my situation. Plus, feel free to hit up the comments to weigh in about it, and be sure to add your two cents as to what brands you prefer (either camera- or laptop-wise). Oh, and while I'd love to have an Apple product, it just ain't in the cards so don't bother suggesting it. ;-)
Please and thanks!!
(No, really. You can stay. Just keep the eye rolls to a minimum.)
I'm perplexed. On my slow-but-constant quest to better this here blog, I've stumbled over a technological conundrum.
See, my less-than-a-year-old HP laptop suhuuucks. I had a Dell before that for numerous years and I knew I didn't want another. Well, now I know I definitely don't want an HP. The issue here is that I've had it so long that it's not returnable (I assume; I suck at calling customer service #nopleasedontmakeme). Plus, the issues I'm having with it seem to be everyone's issues with the thing (the touch pad decides to stop working every so often, in addition to other system crashing annoyances), so I clearly don't want a replacement. After numerous Google searches, it seems to simply be what it is.
I'm not sure how to dispose of (or possibly sell? Who'd want it?) this one in order to purchase a new one. Wop-wop.
And that's where my question turns into a two-parter.
I've also been saving my pennies here and there (namely from my work for Green Child Magazine which, honestly, isn't like work at all) to buy a low-end DSLR camera. I've been pining about it for about 2-3 years, and I'm reaching the point where I'll be able to make that investment shortly. Er. Maybe.
Since I'm an overthinkerus maximus, I've been weighing which option to get (Canon Rebel or Nikon 3100 refurbished or 3200...or something else). But, now that I'm close, I look at the literally hours that I've added to working on my writing on my HP Crapfest 2000 and find myself thinking, "Uuuummmm, maybe I should get a replacement laptop instead."
Damn.
So, here we are. My first world issues. We eat mostly organic food. We have warmth and comfort (not just in the form of cat heat). We don't get snowed/rained/hailed on. We. Are. Majorly. Lucky. I'm a brat that I'm even concerned about this, in all honesty.
Yet, I need your help. If you'd like to enable my brattiness (j/k...kinda), please vote on what YOU would do in my situation. Plus, feel free to hit up the comments to weigh in about it, and be sure to add your two cents as to what brands you prefer (either camera- or laptop-wise). Oh, and while I'd love to have an Apple product, it just ain't in the cards so don't bother suggesting it. ;-)
Please and thanks!!
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
How May I Help You?
I'm a bit of a people-pleaser. Well, I'm sure I don't please everybody all of the time, but it's an innate concern of mine. It's only natural, really. Wondering if you're doing enough to help others. Wondering if what you do is worth it. Wondering if anyone's listening and hearing and caring. It's probably rooted in some anxiety and esteem issues, but that's not what I'm getting into today.
What I am getting into is YOU. I've asked for feedback before, and even surveyed you. But, the focus was generally the blog. Yes, I want to improve the blog, and this post is somewhat related to that, but mostly, I want to know what I can do for YOU with this here tiny nook of the internet.
Here's what I mean...
What do you hope to see when you stop by Meg, Acting Out?
Why do you read? What do you get out of reading?
What are your favorite types of blog posts (on any blog)?
What I am getting into is YOU. I've asked for feedback before, and even surveyed you. But, the focus was generally the blog. Yes, I want to improve the blog, and this post is somewhat related to that, but mostly, I want to know what I can do for YOU with this here tiny nook of the internet.
Here's what I mean...
What do you hope to see when you stop by Meg, Acting Out?
Why do you read? What do you get out of reading?
What are your favorite types of blog posts (on any blog)?
How-to? Recipes? Life betterment/tips? Entertainment? Inspiration (if so, in what way)?
What are your life concerns? Goals?
Do you prefer a different format from time to time, like video or podcast?
Overall, what would you like to see more/less that will benefit you and your needs?
*****************************
What are your life concerns? Goals?
Do you prefer a different format from time to time, like video or podcast?
Overall, what would you like to see more/less that will benefit you and your needs?
*****************************
We're obviously still going to share random personal posts, but I want to know that the time that I put into this joint isn't falling upon disinterested ears. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy writing and would do it for an audience of one, but once in awhile I need some focus and to touch base to see what's what. Does that make sense?
So, if you have any responses to the above questions (or any further suggestions or ideas), please don't hesitate to drop me a line in the comments. Or, if you'd like to chat further and more anonymously, feel free to reach out to me at megactsout@gmail.com. I'd love to hear your thoughts!
So, if you have any responses to the above questions (or any further suggestions or ideas), please don't hesitate to drop me a line in the comments. Or, if you'd like to chat further and more anonymously, feel free to reach out to me at megactsout@gmail.com. I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Friday, September 26, 2014
Favorite Posts?
Happy Friday! Is it as gorgeous where you are as it is here? Seriously, it's like late summer here. It's messing with my mind a bit, actually. I'm jonesin' for some crisp fall air -- just isn't the same picking apples in shorts, right?
Oh, and between getting over a virus that I caught at school and not having a lot to contribute, I'm not doing a "currently" post this week. Obviously. ;-)
So, anyhoo, I was filling out a form for the blog the other day when I found myself perplexed. It asked for a sample of my writing, and since it was with regards to the blog (I could've listed some of the Green Child Magazine articles I've written), I figured I'd share a few links of my favorite posts.
But. Um. You see. Huh. I'm stumped. I really don't know what to share.
I've got some posts that are purely personal, highly emotional, and probably a tad heavy for just such a purpose. Those are, at times, my favorites.
Then, there are those stupid, "Wow, why did I write that?" posts. It's nice to look back and see where my brain was on stuff, but still. Wow.
And, of course, the "that's one of my favorite posts" posts...the ones that get very little views or feedback, LOL.
There are humorous, kidcentric stories and heavier, "topic"-based discussions. Talks about food and where it comes from, and just little glimpses into our life as a family.
Looking at the "popular" posts as dictated by Blogger's counting system, I'm kind of surprised. The quality of the writing on them is fine, but between the amateurish photography (I'm currently saving my pennies for a DSLR camera, woohoo!) and random differences in topics, they're a hodgepodge that don't really tell a cohesive story. Like my rant about giving up Facebook (update: I've cut back, but admittedly could do better), the introduction of our horrible pre-makeover bathroom, my attempts at creating a small mantle shelf since we lack a real mantle to call our own, and a piece I wrote about a terrifying shooting we had locally awhile back. See? Super random!
What do you guys think? Do you have a favorite post or two that you've seen here? If you have an idea but can't remember the title or when it was written or anything, click on the "Archive" link to search by date, or just "search" (there's a box under all my social media rigamarole and at the top left of the page) and see what pops up.
Also, if you'd rather just take a survey with the "general" topics I cover, here ya go. (Notice there's an "other" section...'cuz God knows I can't fit everything I spout off about in a survey.)
I'd love to hear what you think the bright points have been on this here blog! And if you're new around here, take this mini-assignment as a chance to get acquainted with the randomness that is MAO. :-) And welcome to all!
Oh, and between getting over a virus that I caught at school and not having a lot to contribute, I'm not doing a "currently" post this week. Obviously. ;-)
So, anyhoo, I was filling out a form for the blog the other day when I found myself perplexed. It asked for a sample of my writing, and since it was with regards to the blog (I could've listed some of the Green Child Magazine articles I've written), I figured I'd share a few links of my favorite posts.
But. Um. You see. Huh. I'm stumped. I really don't know what to share.
I've got some posts that are purely personal, highly emotional, and probably a tad heavy for just such a purpose. Those are, at times, my favorites.
Then, there are those stupid, "Wow, why did I write that?" posts. It's nice to look back and see where my brain was on stuff, but still. Wow.
And, of course, the "that's one of my favorite posts" posts...the ones that get very little views or feedback, LOL.
There are humorous, kidcentric stories and heavier, "topic"-based discussions. Talks about food and where it comes from, and just little glimpses into our life as a family.
Looking at the "popular" posts as dictated by Blogger's counting system, I'm kind of surprised. The quality of the writing on them is fine, but between the amateurish photography (I'm currently saving my pennies for a DSLR camera, woohoo!) and random differences in topics, they're a hodgepodge that don't really tell a cohesive story. Like my rant about giving up Facebook (update: I've cut back, but admittedly could do better), the introduction of our horrible pre-makeover bathroom, my attempts at creating a small mantle shelf since we lack a real mantle to call our own, and a piece I wrote about a terrifying shooting we had locally awhile back. See? Super random!
What do you guys think? Do you have a favorite post or two that you've seen here? If you have an idea but can't remember the title or when it was written or anything, click on the "Archive" link to search by date, or just "search" (there's a box under all my social media rigamarole and at the top left of the page) and see what pops up.
Also, if you'd rather just take a survey with the "general" topics I cover, here ya go. (Notice there's an "other" section...'cuz God knows I can't fit everything I spout off about in a survey.)
What are your favorite types of posts here at Meg, Acting Out?
0%I'd love to hear what you think the bright points have been on this here blog! And if you're new around here, take this mini-assignment as a chance to get acquainted with the randomness that is MAO. :-) And welcome to all!
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Moderately Green
Am I the only 32-year-old who's still trying to find her identity in a super awkward way? I hope that my son can see me as a fun, silly, intelligent, independent, take-no-guff sort of woman. He may be young enough still to naively see that, but I'm scared that he's going to see me as the un-hot mess that I feel I truly portray on a daily basis...any day now.
Just puttin' that out there. Am I alone? Maybe. And that's okay.
To add to the un-hot messiness and my lack of real identity -- I don't identify as a librarian (although that's technically what I am, in a school setting), I don't identify as a 30-something most of the time (I'm still 12, right? Or am I 80?), I don't identify with a million other things; I only truly identify as a wife and mother -- I'm green. Er, well, I try to be green. I try as much as my oft-zapped energy will allow. And life sometimes gets in the way of that.
Thing is, seeing the levels of "green"-ness out there, it's easy to deal with the dreaded green guilt. Actually, this happens in most areas of life these days -- competition. It's mostly a female thing, it gets greater and greater when you become a mom (WHY IS THAT?! As Arrested Development's Gob would say, "C'MON!!!"), and it can get overwhelming. Soccer moms. Urban moms. Christian moms. Heck, doggie moms.
"I did *such and such*."
"Oh, yeah? Well, I did *a such and such deemed greater thing*." {Thinks to self, "I'm the best."}
It's a thing, and it sucks.
It's not always stated openly this way, but just seeing blogs and Pinteresty ideas and such things, it's hard not to get dragged down that you're not doing enough.
Like...for instance...I've failed at some of the things that a green mama might use to generally identify herself as a green mama. Our diapering situation never took a turn for the cloth. It just didn't. I used them a bit, but it never stuck. (We have used eco-friendly dipes all through, but still, I'd have preferred cloth.) Next time around, we'll do them, I swear. But it just didn't happen this time.
Baby wearing never stuck, either. Or baby led weaning. Or co-sleeping. Or probably 30 other things that the cool kids are doing. They just didn't work for us.
I try not to feel badly about it, and I'm really learning how to not feel "Less" anymore. This really is a HUGE thing for me in every aspect of life. I've had self esteem issues f-o-r-e-v-e-r, and saying "I'm sorry!" for everything has become the norm. So, I'm working on apologizing less, taking responsibility only for myself, and not letting the judgments make me feel -- you got it -- Less than anyone else. That's capitalized for good reason, by the way.
Which is why I love contributing to Green Child Magazine. It never feels like work. I'm able to learn about topics that are directly important to me, and can often write the pieces pretty quickly out of sheer excitement. Currently, it's an unpaid gig, but that's fine to me. I'm "meeting" (virtually...do we still use that term, virtual?) some incredibly genuine, dedicated, talented, kind women in the process, and what's better than that? No, really. What's better? Good people are hard to find.
I mean, what's better than this article (written awhile back, but still one of my faves), which pretty much sums up the fact that NO ONE'S doing it perfectly. No one's living the "greenest" life. Whatever we're doing...it's good enough, until we decide to do more. At least we're doing SOMETHING.
So, I'm happy with the things I do. Which, come to think of it, are plenty.
I've chatted with y'all about green guilt before. A few times, actually. But, it's always good to return, especially now that I'm a mama...and green mamas be some of the coolest (yet competitive) ladies on earth. I'm trying just to be "enough" in my own book, and the best I can be for my family and the future of the planet.
Now, off to research essential oils. ;-)
Just puttin' that out there. Am I alone? Maybe. And that's okay.
To add to the un-hot messiness and my lack of real identity -- I don't identify as a librarian (although that's technically what I am, in a school setting), I don't identify as a 30-something most of the time (I'm still 12, right? Or am I 80?), I don't identify with a million other things; I only truly identify as a wife and mother -- I'm green. Er, well, I try to be green. I try as much as my oft-zapped energy will allow. And life sometimes gets in the way of that.
Thing is, seeing the levels of "green"-ness out there, it's easy to deal with the dreaded green guilt. Actually, this happens in most areas of life these days -- competition. It's mostly a female thing, it gets greater and greater when you become a mom (WHY IS THAT?! As Arrested Development's Gob would say, "C'MON!!!"), and it can get overwhelming. Soccer moms. Urban moms. Christian moms. Heck, doggie moms.
"I did *such and such*."
"Oh, yeah? Well, I did *a such and such deemed greater thing*." {Thinks to self, "I'm the best."}
It's a thing, and it sucks.
Like...for instance...I've failed at some of the things that a green mama might use to generally identify herself as a green mama. Our diapering situation never took a turn for the cloth. It just didn't. I used them a bit, but it never stuck. (We have used eco-friendly dipes all through, but still, I'd have preferred cloth.) Next time around, we'll do them, I swear. But it just didn't happen this time.
Baby wearing never stuck, either. Or baby led weaning. Or co-sleeping. Or probably 30 other things that the cool kids are doing. They just didn't work for us.
I try not to feel badly about it, and I'm really learning how to not feel "Less" anymore. This really is a HUGE thing for me in every aspect of life. I've had self esteem issues f-o-r-e-v-e-r, and saying "I'm sorry!" for everything has become the norm. So, I'm working on apologizing less, taking responsibility only for myself, and not letting the judgments make me feel -- you got it -- Less than anyone else. That's capitalized for good reason, by the way.
Which is why I love contributing to Green Child Magazine. It never feels like work. I'm able to learn about topics that are directly important to me, and can often write the pieces pretty quickly out of sheer excitement. Currently, it's an unpaid gig, but that's fine to me. I'm "meeting" (virtually...do we still use that term, virtual?) some incredibly genuine, dedicated, talented, kind women in the process, and what's better than that? No, really. What's better? Good people are hard to find.
I mean, what's better than this article (written awhile back, but still one of my faves), which pretty much sums up the fact that NO ONE'S doing it perfectly. No one's living the "greenest" life. Whatever we're doing...it's good enough, until we decide to do more. At least we're doing SOMETHING.
So, I'm happy with the things I do. Which, come to think of it, are plenty.
I've chatted with y'all about green guilt before. A few times, actually. But, it's always good to return, especially now that I'm a mama...and green mamas be some of the coolest (yet competitive) ladies on earth. I'm trying just to be "enough" in my own book, and the best I can be for my family and the future of the planet.
Now, off to research essential oils. ;-)
Friday, May 16, 2014
megactsout on instagram
Well, howdy there! Happy Friday to y'all! It's supposed to be a super rainy one in our neck of the woods, but 'tis fine. We've had a gorgeous string of sunny, warm weather, so it's all good. (Unless you're one of the brave few who have to do a charity ride today; in which case, I am SO, SO SORRY!)
I'm excited because I have a half-work day followed by a half-meeting day, then hopefully a date night with the hubby. Mind you, a half-meeting day for me entails meeting up with some awesome librarians, getting a break from the craziness at my school library, and learning something new. Never a bad thing.
And that date night? Hopefully taking place at a local food-serving joint to celebrate Food Revolution Day.
See? What's not to love about the day? (Don't answer that. I totally just jinxed myself and SOMETHING horrific will happen. #karma)
I thought I'd put my feelers out there and see how many of you use Instagram. Random, I know.
I'm a fan, although during the school year I seem to use it far less. I started a year ago (June 2nd, to be exact, with a picture of us meeting former NY governor Patterson) when I got my iPhone and have enjoyed grabbing candids and using funky filters along the way. Nope, I'm no purist.
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My favorite thing about Instagram is the protection. You can't save or repost other people's pictures...unlike naughty Facebook, where friends (or even Facebook) can use your likeness (or your son's, grrrr) all they want. It's also great to have all these awesome shots in one place.
I have realized recently that, although I'm a mama to an awesome almost 2-year-old (and have the pictures to prove it), I'm still a super proud kitty mom.
Yep.
And food. I'm totally a food-picture-taker, especially Hadley food.
With a few #TBTs thrown in for good measure.
Not a fan of the selfie. The fact that my mother, just this week, used the term "selfie" blew my mind. (At least she's never taken one.) Regardless, still not a fan. None of my likeness was made to be photographed, particularly in an awkward self-induced angle. Just not built that way, I guess.
The funny thing is, I've overheard the exasperated conversation of "Who needs Facebook AND Instagram AND Twitter??" Well, um, me.
See, I don't use Facebook religiously; we have a love/hate relationship, after all. When I do, I post a blog update (shout-out, FB checkers!) or see what's up with friends. Once in awhile, I'll re-post something...but it has to really hit me enough to do so. I'm not a huge fan.
So, when I feel like sharing a random thought or opinion or quote or something...I turn to Twitter. It feels like it's less likely to be criticized or misconstrued when it goes off into the Twittersphere. Plus, the best part of tweeting? You can follow celebs. And, of course, by celebs I mean @iammrvandy (Dick Van Dyke!), @jamieoliver, or @PBSKids (yes, that's one celebrity, in my book). There are a million more, but those are the ones that interest me. ;-)
And Instagram is my safe little photo stash. I only follow a minimum amount of people so it doesn't turn into an overwhelming Facebook-like crazy place, and I enjoy seeing what people come up with. Not to mention, my brother-in-law's images are INSANE. Just awesome.
So, how about the rest of y'all? Any Instagrammers in the bunch? Do you like to tweet? I'm still getting the hang of all of them (and I know I haven't discovered the full power of the hashtag), but I can see the value. I can, and it's pretty cool.
I'm excited because I have a half-work day followed by a half-meeting day, then hopefully a date night with the hubby. Mind you, a half-meeting day for me entails meeting up with some awesome librarians, getting a break from the craziness at my school library, and learning something new. Never a bad thing.
And that date night? Hopefully taking place at a local food-serving joint to celebrate Food Revolution Day.
See? What's not to love about the day? (Don't answer that. I totally just jinxed myself and SOMETHING horrific will happen. #karma)
I thought I'd put my feelers out there and see how many of you use Instagram. Random, I know.
I'm a fan, although during the school year I seem to use it far less. I started a year ago (June 2nd, to be exact, with a picture of us meeting former NY governor Patterson) when I got my iPhone and have enjoyed grabbing candids and using funky filters along the way. Nope, I'm no purist.
And food. I'm totally a food-picture-taker, especially Hadley food.
The funny thing is, I've overheard the exasperated conversation of "Who needs Facebook AND Instagram AND Twitter??" Well, um, me.
See, I don't use Facebook religiously; we have a love/hate relationship, after all. When I do, I post a blog update (shout-out, FB checkers!) or see what's up with friends. Once in awhile, I'll re-post something...but it has to really hit me enough to do so. I'm not a huge fan.
So, when I feel like sharing a random thought or opinion or quote or something...I turn to Twitter. It feels like it's less likely to be criticized or misconstrued when it goes off into the Twittersphere. Plus, the best part of tweeting? You can follow celebs. And, of course, by celebs I mean @iammrvandy (Dick Van Dyke!), @jamieoliver, or @PBSKids (yes, that's one celebrity, in my book). There are a million more, but those are the ones that interest me. ;-)
And Instagram is my safe little photo stash. I only follow a minimum amount of people so it doesn't turn into an overwhelming Facebook-like crazy place, and I enjoy seeing what people come up with. Not to mention, my brother-in-law's images are INSANE. Just awesome.
So, how about the rest of y'all? Any Instagrammers in the bunch? Do you like to tweet? I'm still getting the hang of all of them (and I know I haven't discovered the full power of the hashtag), but I can see the value. I can, and it's pretty cool.
Monday, April 28, 2014
Summer Plans
Howdy! Now that the snow has sufficiently melted and we're experiencing an honest-to-goodness springtime, I feel it's safe to let my mind wander to the wonder that is S-U-M-M-E-R! Last year, I laid out a whole plan of what I hoped to accomplish and a few little "first timer" milestones I hoped to have fun with Hadley with. This year is really no different, although a lot of the stuff we'll do isn't a milestone; just "for fun."
The biggest difference this year is Hadley. He's so different, guys, it's crazy. Last year, he was afraid of grass, wasn't walking (hardly mobile at all, comparatively speaking), and couldn't communicate. This year, he's got a couple dozen (probably more) words and several gestures he uses to get his point across, walks/runs/trips/falls down/gets up/runs again, and enjoys dirt and grass and picking flowers (ie picking the heads of flowers off) and generally discovering the world around him with zeal. It's exhaustingly fun.
So, you'll notice some repeats from last year's list. However, I think the actual experiences will be insanely different -- for us AND for Hadman. Should be fun!
A touch more streamlined than last year, but still with a bit of an explanation (I'll try to keep it concise):
1. We've all (adults, that is) got a lil' family winter pudge going on. I need to be less vampirey/anti-social. Hadley loves bugs and dogs and dirt and saying "hi!!!" to big kids and attempting to run into the road. All ideal reasons to walk. A hike or two would be awesome, too.
2. T-2 1/2 months and counting until the monkey turns 2 years old (sniff, sniff). It looks like we've landed on a theme, which I'll share soon. Our ultimate goal is to keep it low-key yet fun (I can't NOT decorate, and I can't NOT have a theme...it's just not me. And he's just too darn special.) It's important for me to remember that we'll have varied ages, and only a couple of little ones, so it's not like we need much entertainment or giveaways or games. If you're interested in seeing what I'm thinking, check out my Pinterest board for what I'm thinking. (Some are from last year, too. Speaking of which, here's a link to how last year's turned out!)
3. We went last year, and it was a blast. This year, Hadley recognizes animals, can point them out, makes tons of cool noises, and is generally a funner version of Hadley 1.0, so unless a crazy meltdown occurs, this should be awesomesauce.
4. Vague, no? We're nailing it down, but Mama gets the itch to move every now and again. This could be one place far away. It could be several close-to-home trips. Who knows?
5. I've started bringing home some books for Hadley from my school library lately, but I thought it'd be fun to see if there are some family-related library events at our local book haven. If not, it's cool. I'd just like to get there with him more often so he realizes there's more than the overstuffed bookshelf in his bedroom. Plus, Mama can do a little more reading, too.
6. The sooner, the better! Maybe two!!
7. To simplify things, we're not growing from seed this year. I've already made a garden plan, so at least I know what we need to go and buy. The Easter Bunny DID get the munchkin a little kit to grow one's own basil plant, along with a cool little metal watering can and a mini trowel and cultivator, so he'll hopefully be digging around, too. Yay, wormies! Oh, and I live in upstate NY, so it's not really advisable to plant much pre-Memorial Day.
8. I'm not making any grandiose "I'm going to finish this monstrous project!!!" statements. Instead, I'm going to take a few of Hadley's naptimes a week to get outside (or in the basement) to work on some organizing...and cleaning...and maybe painting...and stuff. My grandpa was a putterer, so it's important to me to try to connect with that and have a hand in the care of the house.
9. Grilling, yes. Setting up and USING the outside table to eat, yes. Getting away from the TV set (regardless of how awesome Dick Van Dyke reruns may be), yes. I'm also hoping that our gate will fit at the top of our deck, so munchkin can eat up there with us and it'll be a low-stress environment for all involved. Oh, and I'd also love to have a picnic. With pickles. 'Cuz monkey loves a good pickle.
10. Don't care where, this just must happen. We may have a picnicking day at a state park with my sis and her little one, so that may be our chance.
11. Last year, I mentioned writing a children's book. I've got the ideas behind several simmering (and even outlined), but getting any of it on paper has remained elusive. This summer, I hope to change that. All I need is the focus...um, and an incredible artist to illustrate it. (I'm also mulling over chapter book. Loves me a good historical fiction.)
What're you looking forward to most about summertime, summertime, sum sum summertime, summertime? Am I jumping the gun thinking about summer when it's not even June yet? I think this school year has blown by so quickly (and Hadley has grown so much, so fast) that I'd rather take all the time that we can to hold on!
The biggest difference this year is Hadley. He's so different, guys, it's crazy. Last year, he was afraid of grass, wasn't walking (hardly mobile at all, comparatively speaking), and couldn't communicate. This year, he's got a couple dozen (probably more) words and several gestures he uses to get his point across, walks/runs/trips/falls down/gets up/runs again, and enjoys dirt and grass and picking flowers (ie picking the heads of flowers off) and generally discovering the world around him with zeal. It's exhaustingly fun.
So, you'll notice some repeats from last year's list. However, I think the actual experiences will be insanely different -- for us AND for Hadman. Should be fun!
1. We've all (adults, that is) got a lil' family winter pudge going on. I need to be less vampirey/anti-social. Hadley loves bugs and dogs and dirt and saying "hi!!!" to big kids and attempting to run into the road. All ideal reasons to walk. A hike or two would be awesome, too.
2. T-2 1/2 months and counting until the monkey turns 2 years old (sniff, sniff). It looks like we've landed on a theme, which I'll share soon. Our ultimate goal is to keep it low-key yet fun (I can't NOT decorate, and I can't NOT have a theme...it's just not me. And he's just too darn special.) It's important for me to remember that we'll have varied ages, and only a couple of little ones, so it's not like we need much entertainment or giveaways or games. If you're interested in seeing what I'm thinking, check out my Pinterest board for what I'm thinking. (Some are from last year, too. Speaking of which, here's a link to how last year's turned out!)
3. We went last year, and it was a blast. This year, Hadley recognizes animals, can point them out, makes tons of cool noises, and is generally a funner version of Hadley 1.0, so unless a crazy meltdown occurs, this should be awesomesauce.
4. Vague, no? We're nailing it down, but Mama gets the itch to move every now and again. This could be one place far away. It could be several close-to-home trips. Who knows?
5. I've started bringing home some books for Hadley from my school library lately, but I thought it'd be fun to see if there are some family-related library events at our local book haven. If not, it's cool. I'd just like to get there with him more often so he realizes there's more than the overstuffed bookshelf in his bedroom. Plus, Mama can do a little more reading, too.
6. The sooner, the better! Maybe two!!
7. To simplify things, we're not growing from seed this year. I've already made a garden plan, so at least I know what we need to go and buy. The Easter Bunny DID get the munchkin a little kit to grow one's own basil plant, along with a cool little metal watering can and a mini trowel and cultivator, so he'll hopefully be digging around, too. Yay, wormies! Oh, and I live in upstate NY, so it's not really advisable to plant much pre-Memorial Day.
8. I'm not making any grandiose "I'm going to finish this monstrous project!!!" statements. Instead, I'm going to take a few of Hadley's naptimes a week to get outside (or in the basement) to work on some organizing...and cleaning...and maybe painting...and stuff. My grandpa was a putterer, so it's important to me to try to connect with that and have a hand in the care of the house.
9. Grilling, yes. Setting up and USING the outside table to eat, yes. Getting away from the TV set (regardless of how awesome Dick Van Dyke reruns may be), yes. I'm also hoping that our gate will fit at the top of our deck, so munchkin can eat up there with us and it'll be a low-stress environment for all involved. Oh, and I'd also love to have a picnic. With pickles. 'Cuz monkey loves a good pickle.
10. Don't care where, this just must happen. We may have a picnicking day at a state park with my sis and her little one, so that may be our chance.
11. Last year, I mentioned writing a children's book. I've got the ideas behind several simmering (and even outlined), but getting any of it on paper has remained elusive. This summer, I hope to change that. All I need is the focus...um, and an incredible artist to illustrate it. (I'm also mulling over chapter book. Loves me a good historical fiction.)
What're you looking forward to most about summertime, summertime, sum sum summertime, summertime? Am I jumping the gun thinking about summer when it's not even June yet? I think this school year has blown by so quickly (and Hadley has grown so much, so fast) that I'd rather take all the time that we can to hold on!
Monday, April 21, 2014
Blogiversary 4.0
Tomorrow's Earth Day again, and you know what that means! Well, maybe you don't, but let's pretend you already know that it's my...
Yep! This marks my fourth year blogging. Pretty cool, huh? Also super cool that I share my blogiversary with Earth Day. It's only appropriate, really, although I realize I haven't written many "green posts" lately. We're just livin' it everyday, is all. This is one of my favorite weeks of the year, though, except for that whole "spring break is over" thing.
My mind was blown and I was wicked humbled when we topped 2,000 views last month -- one day being the brunt of the views with 753...yes, in one day! (I still haven't figured that out...and I MUST KNOW! I'm blaming a computer glitch. ;-)) Overall, we've had shy of 35,000 views. Considering last year we had close to 16,000 (and only around 6,000 [or 9,000, depending on who's doing the math...which would be me...which means they're probably both off] the year before), I'm floored. And happy. And, again, humbled. It's just nice to know that I'm not just writing for myself. Well, I AM, but I'm not...y'know what I mean?
I thought today I'd share a story of my love affair.
Um, no. Not that one. Or any of them, for that matter.
This is the story of my long love affair with the world wide web.
When we were kids, "computer class" was all about playing Oregon Trail and maybe even typing a paper up...maybe. That was kinda it. And I loved it. My family had an ancient Mac that my dad used, but my oldest brother got to use it after Dad passed...and I don't really remember what happened to it after that. So, our weekly computer class was pretty much the peanut butter to my jelly. Yes, I even preferred it to library. (I didn't always see eye-to-eye with my librarian in elementary school. I am TOO ready to read Little House in the Big Woods!! Forget you, lady.)
Then, one of my best friends (who happened to be better off than my family; the things we didn't wonder or feel weird about when we were kids) got a computer. It was housed in her parents' room, and every once in awhile we'd be allowed to use it. I can still remember that god-awful sound of the dial-up internet screeching and crackling making its eventual connection to the outside world. I loved it. I loved it more than my friend did, so I'm sure I irritated her when I'd (almost constantly) ask if we could hop on the computer almost every time I visited. The obsession had begun.
What did we do on this oh-so-new contraption? Why, go into chat rooms, of course! I look back and consider how a) stupid and b) innocent I was about those people we were talking to from, oh, everywhere.
I started to save up for my own computer, but given their extreme expense, I just couldn't swing it. Cue my mother's marriage to my stepdad when I was in 8th grade.
Shortly thereafter, he purchased us a laptop. A heavy, square-ish, clunky gray laptop whose fan ran at jet-level propulsion speeds and whose graphics took an hour (or more) to load. Those were the days when we'd turn it on, go let the dog out, pour some cereal, finish our social studies homework, then go back to the computer to click on Internet Explorer. Type in site (Geocities, anyone? Monkees.net? I can't remember the other chat rooms I used; probably Yahoo), continue doing chores, let dog in, see that half of Peter Tork's face has appeared on the computer screen, finish eating cereal...and the beat goes on.
Eventually, AIM (for those too young, it was AOL's Instant Messenger, and it saw me through high school and college before MySpace) made communicating with friends from school insanely convenient and faster than a phone call. I got into writing some Monkees fanfic and started researching other musicians I enjoyed. Heck, I even "met" some fans and for the first time didn't feel like quite such an outcast for my interests.
I still recall the time we got home; my mother, Jerry and I, from Christmas Eve mass. I jumped online and found (probably from Napster, of all places) an old Bing Crosby Christmas radio show (on our fancy schmancy desktop -- movin' up in the world!) that bellowed throughout the first floor of our house. It was probably one of the first times my mom didn't despise the computer.
Years later, I've logged countless hours, as have many of us, on several computers. I now have a smartphone -- a thing that my stepdad predicted in the '90s would exist someday -- and a brand new less-than-$500 laptop that does far more, far faster than any of the $2,000+ models of yore.
Today, I still use social media -- namely Facebook, but I'm trying to learn G+, as well as Twitter (on rare occasion), Pinterest, and Instagram -- but don't have to seek out social interaction with strangers as I once did. I'm far more guarded and, hopefully, wiser about my choices on the web. I still over-share (here I am, blogging!) But, I still find my time easily getting sucked up with articles about child-rearing, blogs about how to DIY your own art, and quizzes (things never change there) about which movie character you are.
But, what's my favorite thing to do with the WWW these days? (You know, ASIDE from taking addictive Buzzfeed quizzes.) Tied with blogging comes...
Ancestry.com.
I swear, I'm 90.
It's the weird "gotta find stuff out" research-based side of my brain meeting the romantic history-obsessed side in a glorious series of late-nighters. Yeah, the only time I can get much family tree-ing done in when Hadley's asleep...um, and Dave. Generally next to me in bed. Snoring.
It's an adrenaline rush when you start to see pre-Civil War (and Revolutionary War) years and names popping up. When you're given extra reading to really LEARN the story behind the names, or when you realize that your direct ancestor is laid to rest at a famous historical cemetery that you've visited several times while touring Boston (or, hell, at a tiny historical cemetery less than 15 miles away at the old homestead...that I've never perused), it's exhilarating. Looking up further web sites for information about historical events those names took part in helps the names to walk and move and even talk a little.
So, that's what I'm doing thanks to good ol' technology these days. What about you? How different is your computer experience today than it was, say, 20 years ago? Clearly, you're reading my blog, so I want to give you a HUGE hug (you know the kind...the full-on happy squeeze one) and say "thanks!!!" with a tear in my eye for using a few minutes of your precious time stopping by.
While you're responding below about what you're doing on the Internet these days (um...I should say "keep it clean," but I really don't care ;-)), feel free to let me know what you LIKE, LOVE, and think NEEDS IMPROVING here at Meg, Acting Out. Any feedback helps SO much, guys!
My mind was blown and I was wicked humbled when we topped 2,000 views last month -- one day being the brunt of the views with 753...yes, in one day! (I still haven't figured that out...and I MUST KNOW! I'm blaming a computer glitch. ;-)) Overall, we've had shy of 35,000 views. Considering last year we had close to 16,000 (and only around 6,000 [or 9,000, depending on who's doing the math...which would be me...which means they're probably both off] the year before), I'm floored. And happy. And, again, humbled. It's just nice to know that I'm not just writing for myself. Well, I AM, but I'm not...y'know what I mean?
I thought today I'd share a story of my love affair.
Um, no. Not that one. Or any of them, for that matter.
This is the story of my long love affair with the world wide web.
When we were kids, "computer class" was all about playing Oregon Trail and maybe even typing a paper up...maybe. That was kinda it. And I loved it. My family had an ancient Mac that my dad used, but my oldest brother got to use it after Dad passed...and I don't really remember what happened to it after that. So, our weekly computer class was pretty much the peanut butter to my jelly. Yes, I even preferred it to library. (I didn't always see eye-to-eye with my librarian in elementary school. I am TOO ready to read Little House in the Big Woods!! Forget you, lady.)
Then, one of my best friends (who happened to be better off than my family; the things we didn't wonder or feel weird about when we were kids) got a computer. It was housed in her parents' room, and every once in awhile we'd be allowed to use it. I can still remember that god-awful sound of the dial-up internet screeching and crackling making its eventual connection to the outside world. I loved it. I loved it more than my friend did, so I'm sure I irritated her when I'd (almost constantly) ask if we could hop on the computer almost every time I visited. The obsession had begun.
What did we do on this oh-so-new contraption? Why, go into chat rooms, of course! I look back and consider how a) stupid and b) innocent I was about those people we were talking to from, oh, everywhere.
I started to save up for my own computer, but given their extreme expense, I just couldn't swing it. Cue my mother's marriage to my stepdad when I was in 8th grade.
Shortly thereafter, he purchased us a laptop. A heavy, square-ish, clunky gray laptop whose fan ran at jet-level propulsion speeds and whose graphics took an hour (or more) to load. Those were the days when we'd turn it on, go let the dog out, pour some cereal, finish our social studies homework, then go back to the computer to click on Internet Explorer. Type in site (Geocities, anyone? Monkees.net? I can't remember the other chat rooms I used; probably Yahoo), continue doing chores, let dog in, see that half of Peter Tork's face has appeared on the computer screen, finish eating cereal...and the beat goes on.
Eventually, AIM (for those too young, it was AOL's Instant Messenger, and it saw me through high school and college before MySpace) made communicating with friends from school insanely convenient and faster than a phone call. I got into writing some Monkees fanfic and started researching other musicians I enjoyed. Heck, I even "met" some fans and for the first time didn't feel like quite such an outcast for my interests.
I still recall the time we got home; my mother, Jerry and I, from Christmas Eve mass. I jumped online and found (probably from Napster, of all places) an old Bing Crosby Christmas radio show (on our fancy schmancy desktop -- movin' up in the world!) that bellowed throughout the first floor of our house. It was probably one of the first times my mom didn't despise the computer.
Years later, I've logged countless hours, as have many of us, on several computers. I now have a smartphone -- a thing that my stepdad predicted in the '90s would exist someday -- and a brand new less-than-$500 laptop that does far more, far faster than any of the $2,000+ models of yore.
Today, I still use social media -- namely Facebook, but I'm trying to learn G+, as well as Twitter (on rare occasion), Pinterest, and Instagram -- but don't have to seek out social interaction with strangers as I once did. I'm far more guarded and, hopefully, wiser about my choices on the web. I still over-share (here I am, blogging!) But, I still find my time easily getting sucked up with articles about child-rearing, blogs about how to DIY your own art, and quizzes (things never change there) about which movie character you are.
But, what's my favorite thing to do with the WWW these days? (You know, ASIDE from taking addictive Buzzfeed quizzes.) Tied with blogging comes...
Ancestry.com.
I swear, I'm 90.
It's the weird "gotta find stuff out" research-based side of my brain meeting the romantic history-obsessed side in a glorious series of late-nighters. Yeah, the only time I can get much family tree-ing done in when Hadley's asleep...um, and Dave. Generally next to me in bed. Snoring.
It's an adrenaline rush when you start to see pre-Civil War (and Revolutionary War) years and names popping up. When you're given extra reading to really LEARN the story behind the names, or when you realize that your direct ancestor is laid to rest at a famous historical cemetery that you've visited several times while touring Boston (or, hell, at a tiny historical cemetery less than 15 miles away at the old homestead...that I've never perused), it's exhilarating. Looking up further web sites for information about historical events those names took part in helps the names to walk and move and even talk a little.
So, that's what I'm doing thanks to good ol' technology these days. What about you? How different is your computer experience today than it was, say, 20 years ago? Clearly, you're reading my blog, so I want to give you a HUGE hug (you know the kind...the full-on happy squeeze one) and say "thanks!!!" with a tear in my eye for using a few minutes of your precious time stopping by.
While you're responding below about what you're doing on the Internet these days (um...I should say "keep it clean," but I really don't care ;-)), feel free to let me know what you LIKE, LOVE, and think NEEDS IMPROVING here at Meg, Acting Out. Any feedback helps SO much, guys!
Friday, March 28, 2014
Any Idears?
Since we all know what a relatively indecisive person I am (if not, well...now you know), it's just about time to ask you lovely folks for your opinions again. Yay! This time, it's with regards to my lap-lap-lappytop.
Ahem. Laptop.
My current model is a Dell Inspiron 1520 that's over 5 years old. (Um, yep. It's time.) The caps lock is missing and there's a big ol' line down the middle of the screen (video card issue, I assume). Clunky, kinda warmer than I'd like, as slow as a...very slow dinosaur. It's pretty ghetto, and getting worse every time monkey spots it open.
So, I've finally decided that, for cost sake, I won't be getting a Mac; it's just not worth it to me right now when we've got other things we're saving for -- like a non-scratching post armchair for Mama to nest in every night. ;-) At least I've got ONE decision down.
Here are my wishes, oh fairy godmother:
- A good amount of storage and speed
- A slot for a USB port (and a DVD burner, if possible, but it's not a deal breaker)
- Under $500
- Does it HAFTA have Windows 8??? Windows XP is and always will be my BFF.
- A good size screen (~13" or more-ish) that's not TOO heavy
- Photo editing (I love my PicMonkey, but I'm not sure I can live without my Photoshop and Publisher...but maybe I can be persuaded) -- so I don't think any Chromebooks would be viable. Right? (No, really, I'm asking. I'm no expert.) I've been searching around and know there are some Chrome apps that might replace this...but I'm apprehensive. I guess this could be another non-deal breaker but it reminds me of the time my husband opted for the pared down version of his car (meaning no car starter and no cruise control...wait, what? Yes. Cruise control. That's just not safe NOT to have).
Anyhoo. Too unrealistic? I'm not a slave to brand names, necessarily, but a good review is kind of a must. And your opinions would help greatly, too!
A few that I'mstalking ogling researching...
Contestant #1, c'mon down!!! Toshiba Satellite (we'll leave out the numbers 'n stuff for anonymity) is a super-cheap date at around $400. While Toshy's got some of our basic "turn ons" -- such as two USB 2.0 ports (do I NEED a 3.0??), a 15.6" screen without super heft, a DVD drive, good battery power -- it's got 3 GB of ram vs. competitor's 4 and may be a bit sluggish. Ultimately, she's what we call okay to look at, but not sure how much substance is lurking beneath. Is she shallow and ditzy? Is she witty and fun, worth taking a deeper look at? No idea! But, isn't that half the fun of looking?
Contestant #s 2 and 3 are twins who hale from sunny California (not really, I made that up). Let's double our pleasure with Acer Aspire #1 and Acer Aspire #2!!! Our first twin is the less expensive of the two (at around $350, although I'm not a Walmart fan, so this may shift if we go with it) and comes with great ratings -- an editor's pick, actually. It's got a 15.6" screen with 4 GB of memory, and they have generally great (although sometimes backhanded) compliments for the machine, considering its price. It's also lacking in a DVD drive (necessary? Probably not) and USB 3.0 (ditto), and I'm not sure if it can handle my kazillion-tabs-open-at-a-time habit. Maybe! It's not like I'm a gamer.
For Acer #2, coming in at just around $500, seems to have the positive bells and whistles of her sister (along with an awesome review for the price), but with added awesomeness such as a DVD burner, a lighter weight (for the same size sceen), a USB 3.0, and greater storage. Hmm. Certainly enough to put us in a pickle, huh?
Just for fun, let's meet a newbie in the bunch who's known for her value (read: cheapness) with a "space, the final frontier" unknown quality about her -- we have the Samsung Chromebook ($250). This one's a challenge to compare since it doesn't have a traditional operating system and calls for the Internet to get much of anything done, so there'd be a large learning curve, but for that price and adorable package, it needs to be considered.
Wild card time!!! Since our guest (um, I) will be making QUITE the commitment at the end of today's Dating Game, we're going to throw a couple of "nicer options" out on the table just to see if anyone has experience with them or enjoys the brands.
'Cuz it's my game and I said so, that's why. ;-)
Here's the infamously sexy HP (I almost came up with a horrific Dating Game name for that one...) Pavilion. There's something to be said for looks, considering how much time you spend staring at your computer in a given day. (And let's just say I'm sick of the view currently.) From an aluminum chassis to the ports to the storage...simply put, this has it all. The only thing I'm iffy on (and this is the thing that has me considering a higher price of $650 in the first place) is that its metal look has a navy blue hint to it. Very unique. And, of course, my current laptop is navy blue...and I've generally hated that it wasn't silver (or black, if it has to be). I might be able to rationalize to myself that it's become a wicked awesome neutral lately and be done with it.
Ahem. Laptop.
My current model is a Dell Inspiron 1520 that's over 5 years old. (Um, yep. It's time.) The caps lock is missing and there's a big ol' line down the middle of the screen (video card issue, I assume). Clunky, kinda warmer than I'd like, as slow as a...very slow dinosaur. It's pretty ghetto, and getting worse every time monkey spots it open.
So, I've finally decided that, for cost sake, I won't be getting a Mac; it's just not worth it to me right now when we've got other things we're saving for -- like a non-scratching post armchair for Mama to nest in every night. ;-) At least I've got ONE decision down.
Here are my wishes, oh fairy godmother:
- A good amount of storage and speed
- A slot for a USB port (and a DVD burner, if possible, but it's not a deal breaker)
- Under $500
- Does it HAFTA have Windows 8??? Windows XP is and always will be my BFF.
- A good size screen (~13" or more-ish) that's not TOO heavy
- Photo editing (I love my PicMonkey, but I'm not sure I can live without my Photoshop and Publisher...but maybe I can be persuaded) -- so I don't think any Chromebooks would be viable. Right? (No, really, I'm asking. I'm no expert.) I've been searching around and know there are some Chrome apps that might replace this...but I'm apprehensive. I guess this could be another non-deal breaker but it reminds me of the time my husband opted for the pared down version of his car (meaning no car starter and no cruise control...wait, what? Yes. Cruise control. That's just not safe NOT to have).
Anyhoo. Too unrealistic? I'm not a slave to brand names, necessarily, but a good review is kind of a must. And your opinions would help greatly, too!
A few that I'm
Contestant #1, c'mon down!!! Toshiba Satellite (we'll leave out the numbers 'n stuff for anonymity) is a super-cheap date at around $400. While Toshy's got some of our basic "turn ons" -- such as two USB 2.0 ports (do I NEED a 3.0??), a 15.6" screen without super heft, a DVD drive, good battery power -- it's got 3 GB of ram vs. competitor's 4 and may be a bit sluggish. Ultimately, she's what we call okay to look at, but not sure how much substance is lurking beneath. Is she shallow and ditzy? Is she witty and fun, worth taking a deeper look at? No idea! But, isn't that half the fun of looking?
 |
| Toshy the Toshiba Satellite All images from PCMag.com |
 |
| Acer #1 |
For Acer #2, coming in at just around $500, seems to have the positive bells and whistles of her sister (along with an awesome review for the price), but with added awesomeness such as a DVD burner, a lighter weight (for the same size sceen), a USB 3.0, and greater storage. Hmm. Certainly enough to put us in a pickle, huh?
 |
| Acer #2 |
 |
| Samsung Chromebook Va va voom... ...yet so strange. |
'Cuz it's my game and I said so, that's why. ;-)
Here's the infamously sexy HP (I almost came up with a horrific Dating Game name for that one...) Pavilion. There's something to be said for looks, considering how much time you spend staring at your computer in a given day. (And let's just say I'm sick of the view currently.) From an aluminum chassis to the ports to the storage...simply put, this has it all. The only thing I'm iffy on (and this is the thing that has me considering a higher price of $650 in the first place) is that its metal look has a navy blue hint to it. Very unique. And, of course, my current laptop is navy blue...and I've generally hated that it wasn't silver (or black, if it has to be). I might be able to rationalize to myself that it's become a wicked awesome neutral lately and be done with it.
 |
| HP Pavilion You sexy thing (You sexy thing you) |
The last wildcard in our game is Sony Vaio. I'm 50/50 about this brand name, so if anyone has some super wonderful things to say, speak up or forever hold your peace. The fact that PC Mag can't rave enough about it (even saying that they had to keep double-checking the price, $629.99, considering all that you get out of the machine) speaks volumes...but I'm still not sold.
 |
| Sony Vaio Really? Maybe...? |
As Monty Hall once said..."Let's pick Meg a computer!!!" (Clearly never said that.) And I'd love to hear what your favorite brands are in the comments. What do you swear by? Anything I've mentioned, or should I check out something I haven't mentioned? Thanks so much for your help, guys!!!
Friday, February 14, 2014
A Valentine's Day Look Back
Hey, folks! Happy Valentine's Day! We're setting aside our tradition of eating at Beardslee Castle (our go-to romantic locavore meal place, since it was where we had our wedding reception and it's just so freaking awesome) in favor of a homemade, "adult" meal. Read: Mom's watching the Hadman so that I can cook food that he doesn't really eat (or, at least I don't have to worry about whether he eats it or not); scallops provencal and a nice steak (surf 'n turf, anyone?), probably with a bit of wine.
So. What're YOU doing for the day? Nothing? Having a romantic dinner or watching a sappy movie? Watching your annoying daughter's kid so that she can spend a couple of hours with her husband?
I really have no idea where this post is going to go today. From time to time, I have folks mention that they have a hard time finding their way around MAO (erm, the blog), although the "Archives" tab should help a bit with that. But, I thought it'd be interesting to "walk around" the ol' joint and share some of my favorite moments. And, according to page views, a few reader favorites, as well.
Come along, won't you?
Since it's V-Day, and this is, of course, one of my all-time favorite posts, I thought I'd share my "it's been 6 months and I finally got around to showing wedding pics" post. You'll laugh. You'll cry. You'll find reality is a harsh broad when you realize how many of our friend-couples aren't together anymore. Ahhh, life. And I can't believe that was 2011...seems like yesterday.
While we're at it, I would be remiss if I didn't include a post about the Hadman. Because, of course, he's everything.
Okay, more than one post (such a scary weekend!). Maybe three (such a fun weekend!). And the original post where I talked about breastfeeding issues...and announcing his birth.
And our other boys are also still tops with us, even with a kid in tow. I've shared about how we got each of them, but I think a brief kitty post like this fits the bill just fine. Just a blurb about their personalities and what we appreciate about each of their idiosyncrasies.
And, now for some of YOUR favorites (based on what my stats tell me).
BY FAR, my most-viewed post is about Overcoming Facebook Addiction. This is still an uphill battle for an addict like me, but I try to keep it at a minimum. And, not to make excuses, but this becomes a bigger challenge in the winter months when my mind and body go into hibernation mode. (Can't wait to get outside with the monkey!)
In a case of "ya never know what people will like" lies my mantle-without-a-fireplace post...which should really just be called "hanging a shelf."
Similarly random (and voyeuristic) is the showing of how horrific our bathroom started out. I recently found better "before" pictures that I'd like to show when all is said and done, but I really don't want to call our bathroom "done" until I can get the shower surround completed. It's about 90% done, in that case. :-) (This is what I would call the "in-between" phase where we'd at least switched up the sink and mirror, etc.
Sadly, this next post has a ton of views, which makes me proud yet numb to think about. It's about a few days that changed the way of life in our humble little towns. No pictures, just words. Very true, very broken words.
Aaaaand a trip down memory lane wouldn't be complete without a breastfeeding post, right? But, this isn't just ANY breastfeeding post. This is the ever-controversial (in my mind; nobody had anything negative to say -- thank goodness) "I lost my baby weight thanks to breastfeeding" post in response to countless comments from folks (women) regarding how much weight I'd lost.
Last but not least, since our own Dorky Daddy's birthday just happens to be two days after Valentine's Day, I thought I'd share my favorite gushingly corny post about him. Just for embarrassment's sake.
Mind you, some of these old posts are from before I realized that small pictures kinda suck, so please be kind. The heart's still there, and that's what matters most.
What about you? Do you have a favorite old post? Are you surprised at how things have changed around here, or do you think they're pretty much the same (just with three more cats and a kid)? Anything you want to read more (or less) about? I'm always open to suggestions. :-)
So. What're YOU doing for the day? Nothing? Having a romantic dinner or watching a sappy movie? Watching your annoying daughter's kid so that she can spend a couple of hours with her husband?
I really have no idea where this post is going to go today. From time to time, I have folks mention that they have a hard time finding their way around MAO (erm, the blog), although the "Archives" tab should help a bit with that. But, I thought it'd be interesting to "walk around" the ol' joint and share some of my favorite moments. And, according to page views, a few reader favorites, as well.
Come along, won't you?
Since it's V-Day, and this is, of course, one of my all-time favorite posts, I thought I'd share my "it's been 6 months and I finally got around to showing wedding pics" post. You'll laugh. You'll cry. You'll find reality is a harsh broad when you realize how many of our friend-couples aren't together anymore. Ahhh, life. And I can't believe that was 2011...seems like yesterday.
Okay, more than one post (such a scary weekend!). Maybe three (such a fun weekend!). And the original post where I talked about breastfeeding issues...and announcing his birth.
And, now for some of YOUR favorites (based on what my stats tell me).
BY FAR, my most-viewed post is about Overcoming Facebook Addiction. This is still an uphill battle for an addict like me, but I try to keep it at a minimum. And, not to make excuses, but this becomes a bigger challenge in the winter months when my mind and body go into hibernation mode. (Can't wait to get outside with the monkey!)
In a case of "ya never know what people will like" lies my mantle-without-a-fireplace post...which should really just be called "hanging a shelf."
Aaaaand a trip down memory lane wouldn't be complete without a breastfeeding post, right? But, this isn't just ANY breastfeeding post. This is the ever-controversial (in my mind; nobody had anything negative to say -- thank goodness) "I lost my baby weight thanks to breastfeeding" post in response to countless comments from folks (women) regarding how much weight I'd lost.
What about you? Do you have a favorite old post? Are you surprised at how things have changed around here, or do you think they're pretty much the same (just with three more cats and a kid)? Anything you want to read more (or less) about? I'm always open to suggestions. :-)
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