This is my newest feature and I hope to make it a regular. It's called 10 or less and it is a cross between a carnival and a group writing list. Every couple of days, I will post an idea (broadly interpreted) on something I want to know (or think other people might want to know). You can, if so moved, leave a comment in which you respond to that topic in ten words or less. It's so simple, you really don't have to work hard to get some credit and publicity for your site. So I hope you will all be jumping up and down with joy about how simple it is to participate (I tested it out and found that 10% of lab monkeys were able to create a coherent response to my topics in a 10 0r less format about 90% of the time).
Still, you may ask, why should you do this? I mean, you need to scroll down, find the link, hit the comment button and write 10 whole words. You've got more important things to do -- but think about it, in 10 words or less, you can have Prestige, Fame and Fortune (3 of the lab monkeys). You might want to do it because I am finding the blog world is filled with smart, weird, funny, interesting, quirky and cool people -- maybe you are one of them. If people join in, think how quickly you will have so many different ideas and perspectives on one issue: hang on to your head: it may spin right off. And you'll get more linkage: Once temporarily when you post, and once permanently when I close the topic and move on to the next topic (one day those links could be valuable I say with a sigh -- you were all newbies once too). Are those good enough reasons? How about one that appeals to your altruistic heart? I need some more interaction on this site, I know I am talking to myself most of the time, as are most newbies, and we want to play too. Finally, you may have fun and learn something in the process.
The Rules: I post a topic, you respond in 10 words or less. You can use random thoughts, fully formed ideas, or anything in between -- it just has to be 10 words or less. You may not post another 10 or less response again to that particular post but you can comment on any of the posts there -- it could lead to some lively debate. Just try to keep it clean. And, if you are taking someone else's idea, give them the appropriate credit (unless you forget who they are). Don't wait: just do it right now because I honestly do not know when this topic will come down (if at all) and a new one will replace it.
Like all good hosts, I will get the conversation rolling with the first topic : [Insert drum roll]. I want to learn about you. So, in 10 0r less, why do you maintain a website/blog? Anyone with good ideas for future topics can contact me with them. If I use them, I will give you the credit.