Lori, blogging can become a chore. At that point we need to rethink what we're doing. Sometimes we can take some time off. At other times, we may begin to shift the format, content, or even the schedule. Starting again is never a bad thing!

Matthew, I think this is such a great point! Blogging needs to be something we're interested in and you've done exactly that. And even though the blog may not be for your readers, having an active site will increase your visibility so much!

Rebecca, I'm 100% with you--all that moving content is SO distracting. Truthfully, I've never run into someone who says, "Oh, I wish all blogs had extra ads!" LOL!

Also, some of these tips are also great for newsletters because they're also read online. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

Leanne, I love talking to others who are bloggers! And yes, adding links is super helpful. Thanks so much for the link to this article!

Lynette, you are so right! A clinical blog, just full of information isn't the type I visit unless I'm researching something specific. I love sites like WITS that give me a community!

Sandra, I completely agree, although I do think a single image as the featured image is also important -- especially now when people can search for images! But you're right, cluttering up a post with multiple images bogs down the reading and often interrupts the flow. And I'm like you, I HATE all those adds that clutter so many sites. That's one of the reasons I love Writers In the Storm so much!!!