Friday Five: Social Media

KathrynZJ is wondering:

1) What have been the benefits for you of social networking (blog, twitter, facebook, etc...)

Blogging brought me a wonderful group of far-flung friends, most of whom I would never have met otherwise. It also has provided an outlet for writing at times when I had something to sayand no other place to say it. Facebook has helped me reconnect with some old friends and keep up with folks on a daily basis.

2) Which medium do you use the most? Or if you use them all, for what do you use each of them?

It seems to me that the social aspects of blogging have largely been taken over by Facebook. I still blog when I have something on my mind and no other outlet for it, but lately I blog less than I used to...and have noticed that many other bloggers are doing the same. I've never used Twitter and don't even know how (or care).

3) If you could invent a networking site (with no limits on your imagination), what would it provide? What would it not provide?

I think between blogging, FB, and email (remember email?), and just picking up the telephone, all of my networking needs are met.

4) Who have you met that you would not have met if it were not for the 'miracle' of social networking?

Where do I begin! Everyone who might possibly read this today, except for my friend QG, who got me into this blogging business. Blogging has been a blessing and a joy to me, and I have loved the times I've been able to spend with RevGal friends.

5) Who do you secretly pray does not one day try to 'friend/follow' you?

Nobody that I can think of. I have hit the "Ignore" button on FB once or twice.

BONUS: What was the most random/weird/unsettling/wonderful connection you made that would not have happened if it were not for the ease of which we can find each other in the computer realm?

When I put my maiden name on FB, naturally people from junior high and high school started popping up. I was a bit mystified at why some of them might want to friend me, but so far no harm has been done. One day, one of my (not-serious) high school boyfriends sent me a suggestion that I friend another (more serious) high school boyfriend. After a little hesitation, I wondered what harm it could do now, and out of curiosity I sent him a friend request. Well, he is deeply involved in breed rescue and fostering, and we've exchanged a number of dog rescue-related messages. With the encouragement (urging? exhortation?) I've received from him and my dear Dogblogger, I have decided to try fostering rescue dogs. Riley is used to living with other dogs, and seems a bit lonely by himself. We'll see what happens!