Blogging: Weekly Summary (August 11-17, 2025)

Blaugust and the Blogging Marathon

So, Blaugust 2025 is in full swing, and it's like a marathon for bloggers. Nik Kantar kicked things off with a roundup of links from the first ten days. It's like a treasure trove of blog posts, all neatly organized. The excitement is palpable, but there's also a sense of being overwhelmed by the sheer number of participants. It's like trying to keep up with a fast-paced TV series where new episodes drop every day.

Then there's Notes by JCProbably, who seems to be feeling the weight of this challenge. They talk about running out of words, which is something I think many of us can relate to. It's like when you're at a party and suddenly realize you've been talking non-stop and now you're just out of things to say. But there's a sense of taking it one day at a time, which is kind of comforting.

The Traffic Game

Lee Peterson has been reflecting on their blog traffic, and it's a bit of a mixed bag. Apparently, Apple-focused wallpapers are bringing in 70% of the traffic. It's like when you bake a cake and everyone just wants the frosting. There's enjoyment in sharing these wallpapers, but also a bit of frustration that the more thoughtful content isn't getting the same attention. It's a balancing act, really.

Blogging as a Craft

Tracy Durnell and Seth Werkheiser both touch on the idea of blogging as a craft. Tracy talks about preserving online information and the evolution of internet culture. It's like keeping a scrapbook of memories, ensuring that the digital past isn't lost. Meanwhile, Seth emphasizes the power of well-crafted blog posts. It's like wielding a pen as a sword, using words to cut through the noise and inspire meaningful discussions.

The Personal Touch

Blogging is personal, and JTR captures this beautifully. They liken blogging to a steam valve, a way to release mental pressure. It's a reminder that blogging doesn't need a specific purpose; it's about processing thoughts and inviting conversation. It's like having a chat with a friend over coffee, where the conversation meanders but always feels meaningful.

The Struggle with Platforms

Amit Gawande shares a bit of frustration with blogging platforms, particularly Ghost. It's like trying to find the perfect pair of shoes—some look great but pinch your toes, while others are comfy but not quite your style. There's a cycle of dissatisfaction, a quest for change, and the struggle to find a platform that ticks all the boxes.

The Blogging Journey

Several bloggers reflect on their journeys, like Thomas and Juha-Matti Santala. Thomas talks about the therapeutic nature of writing and the platforms used over the years. It's like looking back at old photo albums, seeing how things have changed and evolved. Juha-Matti shares insights into their blogging setup and the joy of sharing thoughts. It's a reminder that blogging is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

The Creative Process

Frank Meeuwsen and Bin Wang delve into the creative process. Frank likens a quiet period on their blog to a summer break, a time to recharge and plan future endeavors. It's like taking a deep breath before diving back into the pool. Bin, on the other hand, discusses using LLMs to review blog posts. It's a meticulous process, like editing a manuscript, ensuring everything is just right before hitting publish.

Celebrating Milestones

Dr. SkySkull celebrates 18 years of blogging with "Skulls in the Stars." It's a moment of reflection, looking back at how a simple experiment became a significant part of life. It's like celebrating a birthday, acknowledging the journey and the growth over the years.

Encouragement and Self-Kindness

Finally, there's a theme of encouragement and self-kindness running through these posts. Notes by JCProbably emphasizes the importance of participation and sharing one's voice over perfection. It's a gentle reminder that it's okay to take breaks and enjoy the creative process. It's like being told it's okay to color outside the lines, as long as you're having fun.

These blog posts paint a vivid picture of the blogging landscape in 2025. It's a mix of challenges, reflections, and celebrations, with each author bringing their unique perspective to the table. There's a sense of community, a shared journey, and a reminder that blogging is as much about the process as it is about the final product. If you're curious to dive deeper into these stories, I'd recommend checking out the linked posts for a more detailed look.