Friday, March 23, 2012

Ninja News and One Downside to the A to Z Challenge

Thanks to everyone who said my guest post policy was fair. My Ninja Army always comes first.

Ninja News to the extreme – are you ready?

We’ve been doing “Getting to Know Your Hosts” over at the A to Z Challenge Blog and today it is my turn! Do you know your Ninja Captain…?

Patsy Collins is currently on a blog tour for her upcoming book, Escape to the Country. Follow along HERE. Congratulations, Pasty!!



Prayers for Charles Gramlich and Lana as they face a tough challenge.

Diane at Spunk on a Stick’s Tips is hosting a Sad Songs Blogfest on March 31.


Congratulations to Theresa Milstein, Justine Dell, Jocelyn Rush, Roland Yeomans, and Hart Johnson for making the second ABNA cut. You guys rock!

Don’t forget the next posting for the Insecure Writer’s Support Group is April 4. That’s the letter D for those doing the A to Z Challenge, so be sure to work it into your post. (Hopefully everyone doesn’t pick ‘Despair’ as their word!)

Big thanks to Rick and White Cat Publications for the awesome review of CassaFire this week.

And special thanks to CM Brown for her review of CassaStar!

One downside to the A to Z Challenge

You’ve all heard me talk about how the first Challenge changed my blog forever and that this year’s Challenge will be equally awesome. So what on earth could be the downside?

Not participating in the A to Z Challenge.

Last year as I visited blogger buddies who weren’t participating, I noticed something. With everyone focused on the Challenge, those blogs not involved seemed to get less comments than normal. So if you don’t participate, there is definitely a downside, which is why I encourage everyone to get involved.

However, those of us doing the Challenge need to be sure we don’t forget blogger buddies who aren’t participating. Ignoring those who aren’t involved for the whole month isn’t in the spirit of the Challenge, which is to make friends. And hopefully those not participating will continue to visit us as well. (I do know of one blogger who is unfollowing anyone doing the Challenge, which is really sad.)

So remember to maintain those friendships while you’re out making new friends!

Now, for a little insight into my world, visit the A to Z Challenge Blog.

Did I miss any news? Did I miss anyone who made the second ABNA cut? Are you ready for the Challenge? Starts Sunday April 1! And is anyone seeing a little movie called The Hunger Games this weekend…?

134 comments:

RHYTHM AND RHYME said...

Lovely to be back , most informative blog as usual. That is a good point to make not to forget buddies who are not taking part in the A to Z during April.
I signed for the sad songs now wonder if I can cope with the 2 blogfest. I didn't realise last night it was so close to the A to Z.
Have a good day and thanks for all the messages. during the past week.
Yvonne.

Sarah Tokeley said...

My very best to Charles and Lana,

I intend to visit my regulars first, and then at least five new challengers every day. That way, I'll be able to support the challenge whilst not forgetting the friends I already have.

And I'm sulking because I have to wait until Tuesday or Wednesday to see The Hunger Games.

Unknown said...

I'm not doing the A-Z this year because I want to focus on my wip, but I look forward to everyone's posts. A-Z posts tend to be short and sweet, allowing me to hit many blogs a day. I love your sentiments here, reminding participants and non-participants alike to visit each other in April. You rock, host!!

Have a great weekend!

Ted Cross said...

I'm not doing the challenge, but you are all welcome to ignore me!

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex .. we can all get carried away can't we - new blogging friends, posting, replying et al .. I'd hate to see my old buddies disappear ..

As in life - we need to remember everyone ...

I have been over to Charles and Lana - and just wish them every good thought that's out there with a positive outcome in due course.

Cheers Alex .. see you over at the A - Z .. Hilary

Arlee Bird said...

Nice wrap up and I agree with the points you make about the down side to A to Z. I've already got prepared for the Sad Songs and still need to put together some final A to Z posts.


Lee
An A to Z Co-Host
Tossing It Out
Twitter: @AprilA2Z
#atozchallenge

Old Kitty said...

Hooorah for Patsy and all ABNA second rounders!! YAYAYYAYAYAYAY!!!

Yay I won't be a bloggy pariah for not joining A-Z! LOL!! I feel loved again! LOL!

Take care
x

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Yvonne, really glad you're back!

Sarah, that's how I do it - blogger buddies first and then I attack the list.

Thanks, Nicole - and happy writing.

Ted, I wouldn't ignore you.

Hilary, we do need to remember everyone.

Lee, fortunately that is the only downside.

Rusty Carl said...

Looking forward to A to Z, I think everyone I know is participating, but I won't not visit someone if they aren't... I may not get to them, but that's because I'm so far behind already. I don't know how I'll get through the month.

S.A. Larsenッ said...

I'm sure Charles and Lana will appreciate your heartfelt message.

Despite participating in the A to Z, I know there will be blogs I'll miss. Geesh, you like a thousand, right? I'm hoping to find new blogs, plus visiting the regulars. But alas, I'm only human. lol

Juliana said...

I'm really sad I won't be able to participate on the A to Z Challenge because of my moving ...
But I'll watch Hunger Games tonight!

Cathy Olliffe-Webster said...

My best to Lana and Charles.
My also best to A to Z but, oh my goodness, so many blogs, so little time, so many good intentions! If I haven't said so before, I am astounded at what y'all have set up with this challenge and how successful it is. Kudos to all involved.

mooderino said...

It's going to be pretty full on month in April. I may need to get some extra sleep.

mood

Creepy Query Girl said...

oooh, you make a really good case for the A-Z. I haven't signed up yet- still hesitating. I don't know how I made it through last year but I do remember it was lots of fun. We'll see!

Christine Rains said...

That is a good point about the A to Z Challenge. Though I think most of the people I regularly follow are participating, there's a few I know who don't have the time. I won't forget about them.

I have no DVD to watch this weekend. I wonder what movie Syfy is playing.

Rachel Schieffelbein said...

I am not doing A to Z, but I am really looking forward to what everyone comes up with. :) As far as being ignored for the next month, that sounds like a good thing right now, too! (I'm so busy, I haven't been a good blogger lately.)
I wasn't blogging yet last April, so this is the first time I'll get to see all the A to Zers. I'm excited. :)

Amy said...

Escape to the Country sounds like a great read, I'll definitely be checking this one out. Thank you for sharing Alex! Have a great weekend! :)

A Daft Scots Lass said...

I can't wait for the a to z blog challenge. I'm definintely there like a bear in my underwear.

Laurita said...

Really good point about continuing to follow your favourite blogs. I didn't take part in the challenge last year, but I really enjoyed reading the blogs of those who did. And there are so many this time around!

Cate Masters said...

I'd love to see The Hunger Games but want to read the book first (I'm way behind on my TBR list!)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Kitty, you will always be loved!

Rusty, five new ones a day plus your buddies - you can do it.

Shari, I follow so many blogger buddies, it will be all I can do to visit new ones.

Cathy, that's why we say five new blogs a day. It's doable.

Katie, please join us!!!

Christine, most of my buddies are also participating. And whatever film SyFy is showing, you can bet it's cheesy and bad.

Rachel, you will be astounded!

Lass, that made me laugh!

Laurita, yes there are!

Anonymous said...

I was kinda hoping you had already seen Hunger Games, Alex! Are you seeing it this weekend?

Laura Eno said...

Keeping Charles and Lana in my thoughts.
It's sad that someone would actually unfriend people for participating in a blog challenge.

Unknown said...

I know a lot of people who went to the midnight viewing of The Hunger Games, but I am definitely waiting to hear if it was worth it.

Tasha Seegmiller said...

I have seen that with smaller blogfests, I already have the tendency to just hit those who are in the linky. Great reminder.

Kyra Lennon said...

I love reading Ninja News, it highlights super cool people I probably wouldn't know about otherwise!

Unknown said...

Yeah I can see the downside to the challenge but I have been planning mine so that when the challenge hits I have more time to visit as many of the blogs as I can. Regardless if they are in the challenge or not. Good luck to everyone.

Michael Di Gesu said...

HI, Alex,

Thanks for the updates. I couldn't believe that someone is unfollowing A-Z challengers. What is wrong with them?

I am so glad you reminded us about the Insecure post for D.... I need to come up with something awesome, especially since that is the letter of my last name.

Talk about a challenge. lol

Have a great weekend and thanks again for all you do for us!

T. Powell Coltrin said...

Thanks for the updates and the A-Z downfall.

Teresa

Julie Dao said...

I'm not participating again this year - too busy! Have fun though!

Sangu Mandanna said...

I think it unbelievably strange that anyone would unfollow all their blogger friends because they happen to be doing the Challenge. That is not good blog manners.

The Hunger Games is amazing!

Jeremy [Retro] said...

totally excited for the a to z challenge... my concern now is second guessing the theme, but you get an "a" for your post and i will "z" you all there...

you have a lot of things rolling, lots of cool things... i didn't see a movie for this weekend?

jeremy

Marta Szemik said...

What?! Someone un-following those who participate?
Well, to them I'd say "Boo hoo! Cry me a river and please un-follow me as well."
I can't believe not following someone for a silly reason like that.
But, to each his own.
Thanks for the updates Alex.

Kimberlee Turley said...

It's a good thing you said something about incorporating the letter with the theme because I was wondering if I'd have to post twice. *Whew* that makes things easier... Or does it? ;)

Tara Tyler said...

i just wrote up my iwsg post today =)

sad to unfollow for any reason, but to each his own. i'm not in it for the followers, but more for the friendships and knowledge!

Suze said...

Hunger Games, Hunger Games, everywhere I go, it's Hunger Games ...

farawayeyes said...

Interesting A to Z facts. There are some favs, that I could not NOT check in with, regardless. Hope I won't bore those not 'in' to tears.

Never thought about incorporating some 'regulars posts' like IWSG into A to Z. That's why 'your the man'.

Thanks.

Anonymous said...

I'll be seeing The Hunger Games at the IMAX today.

And I filled out a request for my local library to purchase a copy of CassaFire. The emailed me with a yes and it should arrive in about a week. It will stand right next to CassaStar.

Matthew MacNish said...

My traffic definitely suffered the last two years when I skipped it. That's part of the reason I let myself get talked into it.

Charity Bradford said...

OMGosh you gave me a heart attack! I didn't make the quarter-finals, but you had me going back to double check. LOL

I love the a-z challenge even though I haven't participated. Its amazing how diverse the posts are with so many people doing it.

Unknown said...

Lots of great news! I love this new feature you're doing on your blog. I agree that people who don't do the A-Z challenge get less comments, so do it, people!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Liz, I'm not sure.

Laura, that is a sad way to treat friends.

Jennifer, I just read someone's blog where they said it was excellent.

KD, good for you!

Michael, sad isn't it? And I'll be looking for your awesome IWSG post!

Sangu, no it's not!

Jeremy, not sure if I'm going to one or not.

Marta, that made me laugh out loud!!

Kimberly, I hope it does.

Tara, exactly!

Faraway, I am here to help.

Stephen, thanks!!!!

Matthew, you won't regret it.

Charity, I thought you did! My bad. I'll fix it.

LynnRush said...

I can't wait for the A to Z. I've got all my musicians picked out and ready to go. Yay!!! Should be super fun.

The Hunger Games? What's that?
JUST KIDDING. I've not read the books yet. MIGHT see the movie...MIGHT! :)

Have a SUPER WEEKEND!!!!!

Brinda said...

I'm doing the A - Z and have already tried to write a few ahead!

Unknown said...

Well stated (on the A-Z pitfalls), Alex. I do wish folks would be more patient with blogging/bloggers in general. I really don't get bent out of shape if someone doesn't comment on my blog for a while. I know it goest against the reciprocity edict, but I realize folks are busy. People read even if they don't comment.

Nothing made that more apparent than last week when I had some bad family news. People whom I'd assumed quit reading my blog a long, long time ago started offering their support. I was astonished!

Anyway, probably not participating in A-Z this year, but looking forward to reading what you all come up with!

EJ

Emily R. King said...

I'm expecting not to get many comments next month. Is it bad that I'm welcoming the quiet? I need to focus on my rewrite, oh, and getting ready to have a baby. Ha!

Anonymous said...

I'm with you hoping people don't use Despair. That would be quite a hard day to get through. I finally signed up for the A-to-Z Challenge. Twice, actually. Just finished pre-pending the posts with pics for each one for Vive le Nerd. About 7 posts done for the Cinema Challenge blog already, too. Had to get ahead so it doesn't consume me.

Heather M. Gardner said...

Good reminders Alex. We have to love everyone equally!
Spread the love!
Spread it!!!

HMG

Mina Burrows said...

A-Z should be interesting. I'm not sure if I can do everyday, but I will try A-Z sensei!

D.G. Hudson said...

I'm about half done with my A-Z posts, with some complete for certain days. I'm surprised at the info that someone is unfollowing for such a strange reason.

I'm enjoying finding out a lot of new things about my theme.

~Sia McKye~ said...

Last year there were some fabulous articles available. I loved some of the topics chosen and many different than the normal blog articles offered by the blogger when not doing the challenge.

I can't imagine anyone unfollowing bloggers doing the challenge. Our blogger buds are fascinating people and there is sure to be something offer that's fun to read. I figure, even if you can't get to everyone(I have troubles doing that now)--who says you have to?--you can still pick a few each day to read.

My girlfriend and her hubs are going on a date, lol, and seeing it. Dan and I haven't planned on it yet.

Have a great weekend Alex and Mrs Cavanaugh!

Sia McKye OVER COFFEE

Hildie McQueen said...

I'm scared! But I think I will do it!!

Hart Johnson said...

Hey, thank you for the ABNA shout out! And how had I missed Justine's name on that list!? Surely I need a spanking!

And that A to Z definitely makes it nearly impossible for people not participating.

M.J. Fifield said...

I saw The Hunger Games at midnight. I'm running on very little sleep now but it was totally worth it.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Thank you for mentioning my blogfest.

I don't intend to ignore my regular bloggers during the challenge.

And if someone unfollows me for doing the challenge, then good riddance.

Christopher Hudson said...

So, answer me this: Why was the Matthew Broderick version of Godzilla so roundly criticized? I thought it was pretty good.

Christopher Hudson said...

So, answer me this: Why was the Matthew Broderick version of Godzilla so roundly criticized? I thought it was pretty good.

Empty Nest Insider said...

I agree that loyalty is key! The blogosphere is one place where old friends and new friends should be able to get along without any cat fights! That's what makes it so much fun! Julie

Leovi said...

I am mulling over my subject from A to Z and I have two candidates, 1 - Spanish poets have been translated into English, 2 - Musicians Spanish with English songs. Do not even know which one.

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

Regarding traffic during the A to Z, I don't really understand what drives traffic to blogs anyway. I had 14,000 page views on Monday of this week alone, and it was due to some crazy search engine stuff directing Walking Dead fans and Prometheus fans to posts I had made. Sometimes it's Game of Thrones, and sometimes to some Exclamation point funny blog I made. So really, I think that not participating in the A to Z really won't affect blog traffic much. It may affect comments though and if people like comments then yeah, they should participate in these blog fests.

I am going to give the A to Z my best try. I am honestly a pretty lazy ass blogger. I struggle to write things ahead of time. I'm going to get busy this weekend and make a few posts ready.

Sigh.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Clarissa, yeah!

Lynn, your posts are going to rock. I mean really!

Karen, it is sad.

EJ, I have blogger buddies who hit and miss with comments, but I still try to visit them every time. And when I miss, I hope they understand it was just a busy day.

Emily, works in your favor then. But be warned - I will still comment!

Joshua, good for you!!! Ans with two blogs? Brave man.

Heather, that made me laugh!

Sia, I always learn something here. Often many things!

Hildie, you can do it!

Hart, it is almost impossible to avoid it.

Christopher, ironically enough, I watched part of it last night. It just wasn't Godzilla.

Charles, you are welcome.

PR said...

That's shame for the peeps who get left out. I've started creating folders so hopefully I won't end up ignoring anyone :)

Karen Lange said...

Thanks for all the notes and news! Have a great weekend!

Donna K. Weaver said...

You make me smile, Ninja Captain! Of course the only downside is not participating. Have a fun weekend.

Johanna Garth said...

Great summary! I love the "Make new friend but keep the old," theme!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Leovi, either sounds great.

Michael, it doesn't affect hits much, as those just randomly come from the Internet, but as Matthew already testified in an earlier comment, blog comments will take a hit.
And I have almost all of my posts written and ready to go!

Anna, good idea with the folders.

Donna, I am here for your amusement.

Johanna, that is the best plan.

Rachna Chhabria said...

I was looking forward to participating in the A to Z challenge this year, but as I will be travelling for an entire week I will not be able to participate.

Andrew Leon said...

I had only just started blogging last year before the challenge and only found out about it a week or two beforehand so didn't participate. But even I noticed the drop in visits to my blog with only having been on for a couple of months.

Ella said...

Well said, we do need to remain loyal to our regulars!
Ready? No not yet, I have a few ideas, but need to confirm my direction.
Enjoy your weekend

Laura said...

That's sad - unfollowing A-Z people! I'm looking forward to it, but a great reminder to keep up with everyone else too. I feel like a dunce - never came across The Hunger Games till today... oops!

Prayers going out for Lana.
Lx

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Rachna, bummer!

Andrew, it's sad but it happens. I still intend to visit all of my regulars. I did so last year, which is why I didn't get very far on the Challenge list.

Ella, whatever you come up with will be wonderful!

Jocelyn Rish said...

I hadn't thought about the fact that I might accidentally neglect my regular blogging buddies - thanks for the head's up.

Congrats to the Ninjas that made it to the quarterfinals of ABNA! My novel made it too (although I'm not a Ninja), and I'm super excited and biting my fingernails to nubs until the next cut.

Carol Kilgore said...

I can't believe someone is unfollowing A-Zers. Oh well. Like NaNo, A-Z falls at an inconvenient time for me. I'll be taking a blog break during part of it. For the first part, I'll still be blogging and still be following everyone. Y'all have fun!

Happy Weekend :)

Patsy said...

Thanks so much for the mention, Alex!

I'm off the the A to Z to see if there's any gossip about you that I didn't know.

Huntress said...

A great post as always.
I'll see Hunger Games but since crowds bring out postal tendencies I'll wait until next week. Or the week after.

There was a lot of snark going around during and after the A to Z last year. But *shrug* oh well.

Gwen Gardner said...

Just visited Charles and Lana - God Bless Them<3

I'd like to do the A-Z but right now I'm bogged down with editing and can't - just can't- be sidetracked!

Thanks for all the blog love, Alex!

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

Thanks for the shout-out on behalf of those of us not participating in the challenge, Alex. It was a really hard decision, but the best one for me at this time. I look forward to making the rounds and completely understand others' time will be zapped.

Be well.
xoRobyn

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jocelyn, sorry I missed you - you are listed now!

Carol, and you know I will visit.

Patsy, you are welcome.

Huntress, we can't please everyone.'

Gwen, that's all right.

Robyn, you know I will always visit you. And I have a surprise for you during the Challenge...

Jocelyn Rish said...

Thanks for adding me, Alex! Since I'm not a ninja, I wasn't expecting it, but I REALLY appreciate it!

RaveAir said...

Alex, I wrote you a short answer to your comment at my blog. And thank you for the visiting!

Jemi Fraser said...

This is my first year doing the challenge - but I've cheered from the side during the last couple of Aprils. I never felt slighted - and I met quite a few new friends through the challenge myself. It's going to be fun! :)

Mark said...

Gosh this month's flying by! I can't believe we're getting close to another Insecure Writer's Day. Thanks for the reminder as I often am off by a day or two:)

Morgan said...

I am SOOOooooo doing this next time! No doubt. Silly me... I let my WIP take complete control over my mind... *shakes head* ;)

Wendy Tyler Ryan said...

Don't know if I'm READY for the Challenge, but I will put my best foot forward.

Tyrean Martinson said...

We're going to see Tim Hawkins (Christian comedian) tonight, and Hunger Games tomorrow . . . it's going to be an awesome weekend!
The toughest part of A to Z is keeping up with all my blog buddies.

Helena said...

The naked Hart/Tart made the ABNA cut! Isn't that great? And yes, I really want to see Hunger Games but not until the crowds thin out a bit -- big crowds make me a little uncomfortable.

Annalisa Crawford said...

D is one of the letters I'm struggling with, but being insecure doesn't fit in with my theme. I might have to think creatively!

LynNerdKelley said...

Wow, Alex, your blog is full of news. This is definitely the happenin' place!

Thanks for the heads up about those who aren't participating in the A-Z Challenge not getting as many visits to their blogs. That makes sense. I'm still tackling all the unpacked boxes in our apartment, haven't been keeping up with my regular blogging, so I knew I couldn't do the A-Z this year. I can understand how some bloggers just don't have the time to visit everyone's blogs. That's sad about the one person who's unfollowing anyone who's participating. :(

Your advice about making new friends and keeping the old ones reminds me of a song I learned when I was a Brownie:
Make new friends,
but keep the old.
One is silver,
and the other gold!

It's a kid's song, but it still applies! LOL!

Golden Eagle said...

I'm going to try to keep up with blogs in Google Reader during the Challenge and comment on the blogs of people who haven't signed up; I'll end up doing it less than usual, but I'd hate to neglect those bloggers!

It's too bad someone is unfollowing all A-Z Challenge participants.

Ciara said...

I am SO going to see The Hunger Games on Monday. I'd scheduled going today but little guy ended up in hospital for another asthma attack. I thought that was more important to go to than the movie. :)

Oh, I had a YA release, Rise from Darkness.

I'm SO looking forward to the challenge, and glad you reminded me that the letter D falls on IWSG day.

J.L. Campbell said...

Lots going on based on your round-up. Definitely looking forward to the sad songs blogfest.

Gonna make the most of time left to try and get a few posts done and will definitely make an effort not to forget my regular visits. Thanks!

Dafeenah said...

I've been hearing so much about this hunger games I think I'm going to have to check it out. I'm probably the only person on the planet who doesn't know what it is but that is the way it usually goes lol. I'll not be doing the challenge though this year but it doesn't bother me if others do. I may not get to visit every day since most of the blogs I usually visit don't post every day so that'll be a change but I'll definitely visit as often as I can.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jocelyn, so sorry I missed you the first time!

Jemi, so glad you are with us.

Wendy, you'll do great I'm sure.

Tyrean, let me know what you think of Hawkins.

Lynn, friends are important no matter what they are doing.

Golden, it is a shame. Her choice though.

Ciara, oh no!!! Hope he's all right.

JL, we can't forget our friends.

Ruth Schiffmann said...

You sure do juggle a lot, Alex!

Siobhan said...

Who is your favorite character in The Hunger Games, Alex?

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

I'm not ready for the challenge yet but I didn't forget the Insecure D day.

Leigh Covington said...

I'm both excited for the challenge and nervous too! It'll be a first for me though so it should be fun! I love your positive take on all of this. Always fun to participate and always good to remember everyone - no matter what! Too bad about the "unfollower." That's no fun.

Rek Sesh said...

Congrats to the ABNA finalists... to be in the 250/2000 entries is awesome.
I removing my main blog from A-Z for various reasons, despite half my posts being done. My photos posts again not sure till 31st.
I will be lurking around, posting one or twice a week, so will check out some unfamiliar A-Z blogs with regulars.
Blogging is my addiction, like Edward says, "like my own brand of heroin"...please don't mistake me for a twimom, just liked the first book/movie. ;)
Maybe the person doesn't want a clogged inbox but is a really immature attitude.

Unknown said...

Well said. Some people just are not able to commit to the Challenge or simply have things happening. It's important to stay in touch with all our friends as much as we can.

I'm hoping to see Hunger Games this weekend myself.

AuthorAlden said...

I've been thinking about that letter "D" post a lot! I ended up picking a specific theme for my A-Z entries, and I'm not sure I can work my first IWSG post into it.

I suppose at the least, I might just have to post two entries that day.

Jeff Beesler said...

With a little one in the house now, the A-Z challenge this year isn't really feasible for me. It's not that I don't enjoy the challenge. It's just that I have to make sure I get the writing time in. Balance and all that good jazz.

Cindy said...

I want to do the A to Z, but just don't know if I can manage it. Thanks for the reminder about the insecure writer post. Need to get on that...

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the heads up on all those blogfests, but you missed one. MINE lol!
I've scheduled it for the letter P in the A-Z.
I'm having an A-Z blogging break this year apart from that though, and I hear you re: comments.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Siobhan, I've never read the books so I don't have one.

Susan, glad you remembered.

Leigh, you'll have a good time, trust me.

JW, you can do two or just add the IWSG part at the end.

Jeffrey, who needs balance?

Cindy, once it begins, you'll regret it if you don't.

Sorry, Madeleine. There's about five this upcoming week I didn't list.

Mary Aalgaard said...

I was wondering if we were starting on a Sunday this year, or waiting until April 2. I'll think about my Insecure post and the letter D. Oh, I have it. My word for the year - Dare!
My boys will be going to Hunger Games next weekend. I don't think we can get in this weekend.

Sarah Ahiers said...

wiat, what? Why are they unfollowing anyone doing the challenge? That makes no sense. That's like a crap load of people to suddenly not be friends with. I mean, if they're worried about it flooding their reader or something, why don't they just make a separate folder for everyone doing the challenge. Then they can just ignore them until may.
Eh. Weird.
I'm still not doing the challenge, though. I am just so frickin busy right now. I've been seriously neglecting my blog commenting which makes me sad, so throwing in 6 posts a week woud not help the situation. BUT, i certainly plan to keep visiting blogs whethe they're participating or not. I just may not be able to comment on every a-z post.

Allison said...

Thanks for not forgetting us folks who are unable to participate in the A-Z challenge!

Miranda Hardy said...

How can anyone unfollow challenge participants? That's just crazy talk.

I plan on reading as many as possible, but I usually do everyday anyway.

Took the kids to see the midnight showing of Hunger Games and ended up going again in the afternoon yesterday. lol they loved it.

Carrie Butler said...

Whew! So much going on this time of year! :)

I like what you said at the end there. I'm not doing the challenge because, honestly, I'm stretched way too thin as it is right now. I don't like to put half-effort into things.

I'm all for visiting the brave souls who do participate, though! Maybe I can join in on the fun next year. :)

Leovi said...

Interesting proposal Sad Songs Blogfest, I know many.

Lydia Kang said...

I can't commit to the A-Z challenge and know I'll get less visitors, but I'm okay with that. April is a super busy month for me, so I'll try to visit what A-Z posts I can, but it is what it is. C'est la vie! :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Mary, we do start on Sunday and that is a good word for the IWSG.

Sarah, separate folders makes sense. And that's all right you can't participate - you know I'll still visit you and Yvie!

Allison, never!

Miranda, it is extreme. And your kids must've really dug the movie to go twice.

Carrie, hopefully next year you have more time.

Tonja said...

Hmmm. A to Z plus Insecure Writers on the same day. Very tricky.

Unknown said...

I have one day break from all computer contact and what do you do, make a mention about my shout out supporting Cate's video!
Looking forward to the A-Z Challenge, this will be my first one and I am excited to be involved!

Morgan Mandel said...

I don't think I could handle the A to Z, since I'm trying to work on my sequel in my off time. Still, I'll have to pop in when I can to see what's going on.

Morgan Mandel
http://facebook.com/morgan.mandel

Katherines Corner said...

Hoping I am not forgotten. As I will not be participating. I have to wait for the dvd but I am looking forward to seeing the hunger games xo

Wanda said...

Wow, interesting that someone would unfollow based upon participation in the challenge.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

I'm still not sure I could handle the A to Z challenge. It's too massive for me. I know my Captain Ninja though. ;) He's amazing!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Tonja, you can do it.

Cm, that's all right!

Morgan, I'm doing the same thing right now.

Katherine, I won't forget you!

Wanda, sad huh?

George, I bet you could. And thanks!!

Jennie Bailey said...

That Sad Songs Blogfest looks like fun - thanks for posting that. I'm all signed up! Can't decide on the A to Z this year. Next year might be my year...or I might jump in at the last minute!

michelle said...

It's sad to hear that someone is going to unfollow A-Z participants...
that's so NOT in the spirit of "bloggy love"! Ah well, I'm sure that individal has his/her hidden reasons... each to his/her own etc.

Leovi said...

I prefer to think of the advantages of participating in the challenge, makes me focus on the target.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jennie, glad you're doing the blogfest. And join the Challenge! Come on, you know you want to.

Michelle, makes you wonder.

Great attitude, Leovi!

Chuck said...

Wow Alex...it tool me twominutes to get to the bottom so I could comment...and I wasn't even reading comments!! You are a rock star now.

Hunger Games is going to be a Tuesday matinee for the wife and I...can't wait! I'll have to be careful to not read any spoiler posts between now and then.

Anonymous said...

Great post. So sad that someone is choosing to unfollow blogs participating in the A to Z Challenge. I didn't participate last year, but found it lots of fun to read posts of those who were participating. Part of the reason I'm participating this year.

Have a fantastic week!

Cat Lavoie said...

April is going to be a crazy month but I'm really looking forward to the Challenge!
Went to see The Hunger Games on Friday and LOVED it!

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

Yes I know our Ninja Captain. His name is Alex and he is a Ninja Captain. What more is there to know? ;) Kidding!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Chuck, sorry - it's like scrolling to China! Everyone is posting about The Hunger Games, so be careful what you read between now and then.

Susanne, glad you're on board!

Cat it will be crazy but FUN!

Lynda, that does about sum me up!

cleemckenzie said...

Got the April 1 jitters. Already thinking I should have done this differently. In any case, I'm in and I'm staying.

klahanie said...

Greetings Alex,
Now then, my friend, one of the truly endearing qualities displayed on your site, along with your obvious articulate passion for the written word, is all the links that bring further awareness to fellow writers and bloggers. I think that is fantastic and indicates to me the finer sides of a well meaning blogging community interaction.
I know how exhausted I can get on my hardly know site just commenting on mine and a variety of other sites. And you have taken the time to comment on my blog on numerous occasions. For that I am grateful.
And speaking of the A to Z Challenge, if anything, with my alternative blogs to the challenge, I get a lot more comments.
And thanks for taking my satirical postings on the challenge in the good natured spirit intended.
With respect and happy writing, your way, Gary

Cassie Mae said...

It'll be one bloghopping month next month! I can't wait to meet some new bloggers! (And of course, not forget the old ones ;) )

Um, not to brag, but you did ask. I was one of the ABNA quarterfinalists as well. (I know, I don't believe it either, but I'm not lying :) )

Got all my posts up and ready for A to Z. I'll be in two places doing this awesomeness! Wahoo!

Saw HG twice already and seeing it again on Tues. I'm not obsessed, I swear!!!

Anonymous said...

Am not here for the month of April - off on vacation... :( sad to miss out on doing the A to Z challenge and to read everyone's entries....

Unknown said...

LOVED Hunger Games with a passion. :) Seeing it again (by myself!) on Friday. LOL!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

CLee, you can do it!

Gary thank you - I appreciate that! The blogging community has so supportive and I want to do everything to give back. I wish I had time to get around to everyone, but a hundred blogs a day is about my limit.

Cassie, sorry I missed you!!!

TF, we will miss you.

Candy, I still have to see it the first time!