Most of you have noticed that I enjoy reviewing not only good books, but also quality blogs. However, these authors do not ask me to plug their blogs. I choose these blogs from a personal list of quality criteria, observing them for quite some time, and following the development of both the author, and their work. So, let’s get on with it.

This spotlight is dedicated to The Blog Entrepreneur. Yes, this is what some may call a ‘MMO’ blog, which means, ‘make money online’. However, it is not your run of the mill ‘make money online’ site. It is one of two such blogs that I follow in my feed. I predict that they are both high flying blogs, and on their way to the top of their niche. Furthermore, their talents and strengths uniquely differ. These two authors will sometimes disagree with each other about best approaches and practices. However, what they hold in common is that their unique personalities shine through in their content. They are both diligent, and self-disciplined publishers and developers.

Before I mention what I appreciate the most about Bill’s work, I would like to address the issue of mmo-bashing that is mumbled among many in the halls of the blogging world. I have one thing to say about the derrogatory comments I read. They are rubbish. That’s it. Yes, I am sure that most of us would agree that many of these blogs are less than top quality. However, there are a few good pieces of work to be found, and it is work.

It is a neverending time consuming job to figure out the riddles of this particular world. Anyone that has ever created a blog with serious intentions knows that putting the puzzle pieces together, understanding the playing rules, and finding good solutions takes effort. Effort, and a lot of thinking. I appreciate authors such as Bill, because I certainly know how many hours I, myself, have thus far invested.

Most bloggers have visited sites within this niche. Even if people are not interested in monetizing their sites, they search for help with their questions about traffic, ratings, networking, directories, the technical aspects, and various other issues. As we work at understanding this puzzle, we hunger for information. Now, when you come across a jewel like Bill, you almost can’t let him slip away from your feed. Why? Because, all of the groundwork he does, simplifies our own process. He digs for the best out there, and it saves the rest of us time.

It is a bit comical that when I first noticed Bill, I found him to be a bit grumpy. He disagrees with me, calling himself mildly sarcastic. Anyhow. A while back I had a technical question that I had been pondering for quite some time, and I had the feeling that I would get a straight answer from Bill. I wandered over to his place, however, not without the fear that he may bite. I was mighty surprised to be met by such a friendly, service-minded Professional, upon entering his front door. I was welcomed with my question, and encountered decent and honest discussions. Not to mention a vast amount of useful information written in posts of quality content.

Bill appeals to me, because he has a rational, sensible, cut-the-crap approach to any issue at hand. He oozes realism. The best thing about his site is that he shares with us his own learning as he figures out the facets of the blogging world. He studies in depth, he considers all sides of each issue, he is curious, tech-savy, creative and reflective. Believe me when I write that he will dispel any residing negative attitudes anyone might have about MMO writers. He authors excellent content, encouraging his readers to self-think how the content may apply to their individual blogging goals. If you need good advice, discussion, or help with the technical aspects, Bill is the guy to visit. He is no newcomer to the world of business. He lays solid groundwork on his sure-footed climb to the top. He is steady, and he is a stayer.

Kudos Bill! We will see you at the top.

header image; ©The Blog Entrepreneur

Oh, what a beautiful day at the track! Can you just smell the sweetness of the freshly cut grass, feel the warmth of the spring sunshine, and the steam from your coffee rising to dampen your nose?

Ah, you have been waiting for this. Standing on your tiptoes to peek over the tall guy in front of you, anxiously waiting, head swingin’ time and time again toward the infamous gate. Awaiting the call over the loudspeaker, the bell, the slamming of the–.

What was that?

“Aaaand, awaaay they go! They’re off in a tight pack down the starting stretch, Curlin in blue colors racing straight off to an expected lead, now by 4, War Pass and Pyro neck and neck, followin’ close behind, War Pass leading by a nose as they come around the first swing! Elysium Fields tucked in neatly behind them in fourth. Setting a nice pace, young colt Curlin doing a fine job not even close to looking tired, distancing the lead now at seeeeven lengths. And, what is it we see comin’ at a strong run closing in? It’s War Pass and Pyro still fighting to clear ground, and Pyro takes off, coming up on the outside, War Pass hanging on. Caaaan you believe it, folks? This is the race of the year! Curlin’s man turning his head to take a look behind him. Pyro and War Pass now at #2 and #3 closing in the gap and Curlin’s lead. Whaaat is this we’re seeing? A surprise coming up right flank, and Curlin getting closed in gate-side as Pyro makes his move around him, War Pass still in third, puttin’ Curlin in a bind. How iiiis this going to end? A locked threesome in the lead, fighting at the bit as they head in top of the lane! Curlin looking to make his move, looking for a way out, and theeeere he goes, jumping outside track, taking on Pyro in a dead heat towards the finish! A nose between them back and forth, with War Pass struggling to follow pace, tiring out and falling behind. And, now it’s heat on for Curlin and Pyro , almost in, and the crowd jumps to their feet in a frenzy! A haaair away, and ooover the line they go, Curlin taking it by an eyelash! Oh, what a race we have seen today!”

Now, while you all are catching your breath, I have to let you in on a secret. There is an amazing atmosphere of excitement and enthusiasm that can be found at Stafford’s, The Aspiring Horseplayer. A passionate author, Stafford provides thoroughbred horse racing coverage from across the USA. He covers everything you need to know ranging from news, handicapping selections, analysis, and race replays.

I am a picky reader. I use a minimum of two hours daily scouring the Web for blogs to read. I enjoy partaking in the creative work of others. However, it takes that extra special something for me to continue to visit a blog, and even more for me to stay on to learn something entirely new that would otherwise not interest me. The Aspiring Horseplayer is one of these blogs, and the author displays rare and authentic qualities that make it a winner.

Pentad predicts that the The Aspiring Horseplayer will be the leading, top-of-this-niche blog in the very near future. If you do not believe me, I will be taking bets at the door!

click and vote

Curlin in the shower.

Images by, http://gocurlin.com and, http://blogs.nypost.com

It is customary in the blogging world to review other blogs. I am new to this game, yet I have understood this. However! I march to my own drum. I am not particularly fond of, “I’ll review you, if you review me” tactics. I mean, really. Can we not do anything anymore just because we want to, and because we like something? Right, then.

This little diddy is in recognition of one of my favorite places to go when the world is looking a little wacky. That’s right my fellow bloggers. When the world seems a little twisted, where do I go? Well, I head on over to Sy’s place for confirmation. When I’m feeling a little down, where do I shuffle to, with my head hanging low? Righty-o. I head on over to Sy’s place, and have a laugh. And, when I’m having an off day, I head on over to Sy’s place, because his day is usually a bit more off-tune than mine.

Sy is a good chap. He takes the prize in humbleness, and don’t let him fool you, because he is quite sophisticated underneath the Batman-underwear. Yet, I think he just may be a tad distracted. Wifey should probably be looking into pre-geriatric care.

Sy has so very many endearing hobbies. He is quite fond of knitting mittens after his latest self-induced mid-life crises, and he is quite attached to my “Drunk Airline Pilot” video down below. Alas, I still don’t know how to break it to the bloke that it soon will be disappearing down the list of posts. So, if anyone has a good Foster Brooks clip, do send it over to Sy. I’d hate to see a grown Homer cry when his favorite disappears. Ooo, Sy! (are you out there?) Here’s one for your collection. Foster Brooks Toast .

Please, do have pity on the fellow. He is bravely conquering an identity crises. We are diligently working through it, and have the choice narrowed down between Superman, and Batman. Darth Vader got voted out. Poor old Sy couldn’t deal with the guilt of evilness. And, for all the cheapies out there, drop a penny in the bloke’s tip bucket (Quick Sy! Put a tip bucket up. Hurry!), will ya? He’s awaiting the arrival of his unborn bambino, and we sure would like for it to have Homer home from the night-shift.

Right, then. Sy’s place is officially entitled, The world around him, according to Sy. Remember to join the behind-the-scenes comment section, because this is where the real fun takes place. Sy does not even know that I’m writing this review, so that’s proof to you all that his place is worth the visit.

Oh, and one more thing! We have a great dilemma to deal with. A dilemma the size of England, if not the entire globe. A predicament. You see, it has come to the attention of the good Jane Turley, that this world is overpopulated with insane and Mad Housewives! A travesty, really. Who woulda thunk it. I am still in shock. This means, of course, that her gig needs a new billboard. The vote is on over at her place, Jane Turley; Diary of a Mad Housewife . There are just so many choices, and help is needed! Now, to all you cheapies out there in Blogging Heaven. Run over, and partake in a little bloody charity work for once, will ya? It will bloody-well do you some good!

Well, that sums it up for now.
Cheerio, and all that.