by Bonnie Ferrar

Created on: December 10, 2008   Last Updated: January 08, 2009

The word blog seems like something out of Dr. Suess-a made up name. In a way it is. Until fairly recently, the word blog wasn't even a word and now it is both a noun and a verb. In 1997, the word Web Log was born as companies and media journalists began to use this new technology to chronicle events such as hurricanes and ongoing projects. The earliest web logs, known as online diaries, began in the mid 1990's and were mainly written by journalists, writers and researchers. By the turn of the century, web log was shortened (typical of our hurried generation) to "blog" and the craze began. Companies such as Wordpress and Blogger made it easy and free for anyone to open up a blog. Mechanics, hairstylists and business gurus all make up the incredible 100 million bloggers on the World Wide Web. Even President elect Barack Obama has a blog! (www.barackobama.com/blog)

What is a blog?

A blog is a personal diary or chronicle of events that allows average everyday people to tap into their creative spirit. Who hasn't dreamed of being a Dear Abbey, or a sports journalist? What pensive teenager hasn't wished for an outlet to vent about parents, boys, and friends? Blogging is now mainstream and provides everyone the opportunity to have their voice heard. Bloggers can freely vent about the latest political scandal, that all-important blown sports call, and give advice on love, sex, and money. Everyone is suddenly an expert and that has proved to be both a blessing and a curse.

Where can you find a blog?

Blogs can be found anytime you do a search on Google. Chances are you have read a blog without even realizing it. Many blogs are built to look like actual websites, which in turn lend credibility to the author's writings. If you want to find a particular blog or just surf blogs in your area of expertise, you can visit several websites.

1.www.wordpress.com

2.www.blogger.com

3.www.t echnorati.com

Wordpress is a free site that allows you to build your own blog for free and read the thousands of blogs contained in their library. Once on their home page, you can search for blogs by categories (known as tags), keywords, or just browse the latest entries of the day. Wordpress also offers choice blogs and ranks the best of the day for those with less time to browse. The best part about reading a blog is that it offers you the ability to comment on it. Disagree with the author's opinion? Say so in the comment box at the bottom of the page. Want to add your own two cents? Leave a comment for

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