Becoming a better blogger.

We're making big changes around here - coming soon!

"Don't panic - this is not a masterclass in how to blog (we all know I'm not capable of that don't we?). Quite the opposite in fact!"

3 years ago, whilst having a leisurely drink with friends in a local bar, our good friend Michael mentioned he was thinking of starting a "blog".

I looked at him rather strangely and simply said "What's a blog?".

He did explain, but being totally honest, I still had no idea what a blog was!

A short time later I stumbled upon some food blogs and it all became clear.

I had recently become a member of The BBC Food Messageboard and it became apparent that many of the other members there had their own blogs.

I made many friends on the message board and also became a regular visitor to some of their blogs.

Then, in April 2009 I decided I wanted a blog too.

I have to confess I had know idea how to do this, but found my way to blogger and followed the simple steps. That was the easy bit!

Anyhow, to cut a long story short. As proud of myself as I was in actually managing to create a blog, it was a little confusing navigating my way around the features etc.

As time went on I learnt to be more creative and less frightened of pressing buttons too.

However, at some point during my enthusiasm I realise I've lost the way and my blog has become a bit of a mess. Did you notice? I'm sure you did!

In fact, it's become such a mess that I recently expected my laptop to explode!

I've come to realise that I have made many mistakes along the way (I'm sure you noticed that too, didn't you?).  But equally so, I have also learnt an awful lot too.

Now don't get me wrong, I have not become an expert, far from it.  But I have learnt some very valuable assets, eg. a little about HTML, a little about photography (and I mean a little, but I'm improving, I think, what do you think?) and many other requirements needed to become a successful blogger.

There was a time when I would see something on somebody else's blog and think "how do you do that" or "I want to be as good as them".

There is still so much to learn, but I now feel capable of  greatly improving my blog.  Not just for my benefit, but for my readers too including those who are past, present, old and new alike.

The changes and improvements are going to take some time and I would be extremely grateful for your patience during this process.

I would be interested in any thoughts and suggestions you may have (good or bad), so don't be shy, please leave your comments below.