A blogger's tale

A while ago I was asked,
Why and when did you decide to start writing?
Furthermore - what persuaded you to take your talents to the Internet?

Here is what I wrote in reply.
In 2007 I was working in a pressurised environment for the NHS in the UK. My job held plenty of responsibility and hassle, for few rewards. Feeling that I was approaching breaking point I decided that it was time to walk away. As it has turned out I did return in a few short months but in a part-time capacity and different hospital environment.

When I first left though I took a drop in money. My new, temporary job was only just above the minimum wage and the 16 hours reduction in the working week added to the financial restraints.

Still I was much happier and the break gave me time to re-evaluate life and my priorities.

So, at home, with more time on my hands, and no money, I began to research ways that I could make a little extra money on-line.

Simply google "making money online" and all sorts of opportunities and scams are easy to find.

I wanted something that was legitimate, non pressurised and offered a little pocket money.

I began with surveys and mystery shopping and found the rewards nice. They were not always vast but they were steady extra cash.

English had been one of my best subjects at school and writing seemed a possibility. I had been good at art but my poor eyesight limited these opportunities.

I signed up at Dooyoo.co.uk and Ciao.co.uk and began to write product reviews. My initial reviews were dire. Whether it was lack of experience, my health at the time or simply lack of practice I do not know, but some reviews were dreadful. Still I earned a little money and built up a community. All in all I enjoyed these sites. Epinions was another that I joined, but only for a short time.

As my writing improved I gradually abandoned these sites and moved on. For a while I did go back and amend some of the reviews but as the rewards were small it felt time to move on.

I guess Helium was my first proper Internet writing site. It was in its infancy when I joined. Over the five plus years that I have been a member Helium has morphed into a new entity. Some of this I like. Some I do not.

Then in time I came across Hubpages. That site for me fulfilled many of my creative needs at least it did back then. It was user friendly, easy to get to grips with and did not make too many changes, too often. Yes, it has made some but most have been welcome improvements. Infobarrel was recommended by a fellow Hubber other sites followed. In time I streamline my Internet writing. There are only so many hours in a day and I do not want to be a, Jack of all trades, master of none, as the saying goes.

I guess on the whole I would say that I decided to try writing as a means to earn some extra money, but it turned out to offer so much more. Writing online offers flexibility, instant writing rather than jotting down notes and needs little initial financial outlay except for needing to have a computer.

It has helped me keep track of new technological innovations, make many virtual friends and stretch my brain. As practise makes perfect it has greatly improved my writing skills. At least I hope it has. It has become a big part of my daily life. I use it as a means to unwind from my daily part-time work.

As I am approaching retirement I have seen and experienced so much over the years that in some ways I have a wealth of knowledge. That is true of all of us as we go through life. The Internet enables us to share our knowledge and experience with people around the world.

The Internet was the place I chose to write mainly because it is accessible, relatively free, non restrictive and World wide. I also liked the possibilty to remain anonymous when required or wanted. I have no delusions about being another Jane Austen or J K Rowling but enjoy putting my thoughts into words.

Now with two websites under my belt I have gone from blogger to webmaster. Who would have though it? Certainly not I.

If you think that it is easy to make a bundle of cash writing online you are mistaken. It could however be the hobby for you.

As part of the 2012 Diamond Jubilee celebrations various members of the British Royal Family will be hot footing it abroad. This may be good for diplomacy, business,the Royals and the celebrations but in some cases it may not be what the particular country wants. Many of the countries still tied to Great Britain would prefer total independence.

Currently Prince Charles, heir to the throne, and wife Camilla, are to visit Canada. In 2011 Prince William and new Bride Kate, had a hugely successful visit to North America. However Charles and Camilla are not Wills and Kate. Charles and Camilla's Canadian visit is scheduled to run from today, May 20 to May 23, 2012.

As part of their visit they will participate in a commemoration of the War of 1812. This harps back to a time when Canada and Great Britain fought as one against the US. Times changes though and some in Canada want a more independent country these days.

A planned visit by the Queen's son, and Charles' brother, Prince Edward to Gibraltar has ruffled feathers. Queen Sofia of Spain made her feelings plain when she snubbed the Queen's Royal Luncheon held May 18, 2012 at Windsor Castle. Edward and his wife, the Count and Countess of Wessex, are due to visit Gibraltar between June 11 and June 13 2012. Spain has lodged an official complaint over the Wessex's planned visit. Whilst this may be understandable it has not gone unnoticed that King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia of Spain decried protests against their recent visit to Spanish held African countries.

Looking at the overseas itinerary of Charles and Camilla it would appear that they have been swanning off around the globe for much of 2012. The problem for all the UK Royals is old British history and when they visit countries with disputed sovereignty. When they do it looks like a slap in the face or even the raising of two fingers to the people involved. Come to think of it, it also looks that way to the British people at home being told to tighten their belts!