Lets take it from the top

There seems to be some confusion about how to blog & what, exactly, this thing is. Its probably my fault, as I was setting this thing up last night while using my laptop, watching the Closing Ceremonies & trying to make Matthew think I was playing dinosaurs with him, all at the same time. So, lets take it from the top:*



The "blog" is like an on-line diary. Its an actual web page, out there on the Internet for all to see. However, its unlikely anyone but us will see it, as someone would probably have to do a "Google" search, and actually type in "kobobneckski" in order to find us. You access it like any other web page, and can add it to your "favorites" or "bookmarks" like any other page. I guess you can even create a desktop link, or make it your Home Page. That depends upon what browser you're using, and is beyond my knowledge, so you're on your own for that....



The first thing you need to do is accept the e-mailed invitation to be a "contributor" (or, author). Debbie, Andy, Judy & Mark have already done that. You can see on the right side of the main page who is approved to be a contributor. I've also invited Lauren, Becky, Andy Jr., Eric, Greg, and Lynn. I'd like to invite Kacey, Larisa and Sarah, but I don't have addresses for them. Someone please send them to me via e-mail, if you have them (for some reason, I have two addresses for Sarah, neither of which works). I don't recommend putting them on the blog, as this is not secure. Also, don't include any personal information such as DOB, SSN, addresses or phone numbers. Do that via e-mail, which is secure. If anyone knows of anyone else I've forgotten who should be included, let me know. I wish Diane had Internet, but I know she's got her hands full right now....

So, now that you're a "contributor" you can actually create posts for the blog. So far, everyone has been posting "comments" to "posts" I've written.

First, make sure you are signed in. (I just remain signed in on this computer). Then, you have two options. You can either click on the "new post" link on the sign in page, or, if you're on the main page (the actual blog page), you can look on the top line, on the right-hand side. There should be a "new post" or "create post" link there (but only if you're signed in!). That will take you to a page where you can compose your post. You can title it, and then move down to the blank box & write. There's spell check, buttons for posting pictures & video, bold, italics, & even change text color (now I'm just showing off!) -- all sorts of things. You can save drafts for publication later, or preview prior to posting. (But, Pictures and Video can only be put in a "post," not in a "comment.") Then everyone else can comment on your post, if they want. This will keep topics together & allow for everyone to join in a conversation, if they want. Anyone can read it & comment, but only those who are listed as "contributors" can post articles. Anyone can keep going back to an article again & again, commenting as much as they want.

The articles are permanent, and will never be deleted unless I actually do it. (I'm the "administrator" 'cause I set it up.) They will be archived, I think monthly, but will always be accessible, I think through links on the right side of the screen. (Just look around -- you'll figure it out!)

The point is, be creative, be adventurous & just experiment with the buttons and links. I think once we all become more comfortable with this, its going to be lots of fun & a great way to keep in touch.

I hope this makes things clear as mud. If you still don't get it, call me & I'll talk you through it.

---Love,
Your baby sister



*I realize all the young 'uns out there probably already know all this stuff. This post is for the education of all us old folks, and for you young 'uns amusement.