Successful Blog

The Mic Is On: Happy 3rd Birthday to SOBs Everywhere!

by 355 Comments

It’s Like Open Mic Only Different

Here’s how it works.

open mike night

It’s like any rambling conversation. Don’t try to read it all. Jump in whenever you get here. Just go to the end and start talking. EVERYONE is WELCOME
The rules are simple — be nice.

DING! DING! DING! Some comment boxes are pre-loaded with a prize.

There are always first timers and new things to talk about. It’s sort of half “Cheers” part “Friends” and part video game. You don’t know how much fun it is until you try it.

TODAY, ALL DAY, IT’S A PARTY!!

Other Birthday Kids

Bring a Link! Bring a Link!

That’s right, you’re invited to bring a link to your most successful post. When you leave the link, please write a comment about how you chose the most successful post to bring.

  • Bring a link to a page, a picture, a post that demonstrates, celebrates, illuminates your success and outstanding-ness as a blogger.
  • Or bring that ebook, that manifesto, that photo, that priceless work that you want to offer as a birthday gift to everyone.

I’ll compile a list of all of the links when the party is over.

C’mon in and get to know us! There’s free beverages and snacks in the sidebar. Join the party. See who you meet. Stay and come back again.

Happy Birthday, all of you! Thank you for making what we do meaningful!

–ME “Liz” Strauss

Related articles
2006 Birthday Party!
The Mic Is On: Happy 2nd Birthday to SOBs Everywhere!

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Comments

  3. amypalko says

    Happy Birthday to Successful Blog!
    My most popular post is this one: http://tinyurl.com/6pqqax
    It’s called The One Place You Must See Before You Die & it includes an exercise to help increase your awareness of the present moment. It’s a present of the present, in other words!

    Reply

  5. Duane Lester says

    Happy Birthday!

    It’s an honor to have my blog, All American Blogger on the list. Thanks, Liz.

    I started the blog with my best friend from high school May of 2007 and it has been a blast. I do the writing, for the most part, and he does all the coding.

    It’s a political blog, and some here might not agree with my politics, but that’s America, right?

    The post I chose is one that was popular on my site with my readers, and one that is one of my favorites. It’s called, “I Bought a Gallon of Milk Today.”

    http://www.allamericanblogger.com/2089/i-bought-a-gallon-of-milk-today/

    Happy Birthday again, and thanks for making a member of the club.

    Reply

  7. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi Duane,
    I remember when I copied your logo. I had to reconstruct part of it because you had a corner ad over it. Then when I went to attach the link you had the logo free again.

    Your blog deserves to be read that’s why you’re on the list. 🙂

    Thanks for coming. You’re not a stranger.

    Reply

  8. Jonathan Fields says

    Hey Liz,

    Hold on a sec, I need to warm up…meeemeemeeemeee. Okay, I’m ready.

    Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Super Liz’s fantastic Successful Blooooooooo-oooogggg. Happy birthday to yoooouuuuu! 🙂

    I’ve learned so much about blogging, connecting and building community and friendships from you and this great community. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

    So, for one of my fave posts, I’m going with:

    “Running To Catch The Sun” at http://is.gd/50f3

    It just came tumbling out one morning at the beach so organically, the way you hope all posts can come.

    Enjoy!

    PS – Sorry if I was singing a bit of key before, it was pre-coffee ya know. 🙂

    Reply

  9. Lea Woodward says

    Happy Birthday, Successful Blog!! And congratulations Liz 🙂

    Here’s my most successful post: http://tinyurl.com/32o2wo

    “Is A Location Independent Life Cheaper Than Living In One Place? A 12 Month Breakdown.”

    Chosen because it took ages to compile but I knew it was what people wanted to read (and I wanted to demonstrate) so it was well worth the effort!

    Reply

  11. Char says

    Happy Blogging Birthday Liz! I am so happy I have been able to be a part of your community and also to have had the great fortune of meeting you, too. In honor of your big day, I am bringing you two links – two of your favorites from my site:

    How Do You Explain Blogging to your Mom

    Getting Organized on a Tuesday Night

    Let’s just call them oldies but goodies!

    I’ll be stopping in from time to time today – in between tackling my monster sized to do list.

    Reply

  18. Pamir | Reiki Help Blog says

    Happy birthday w00t! Aw Liz, yer asking the impossible 😉 the most successful post? Ugh! 🙂

    Alright, I’m submitting this one because the writing is raw & honest; it reveals me (the blogger & you talk a lot about that Liz); and it’s also about the reason I do what I do on the blog & in the world with people. Lastly, people I work with go through what’s described in the post too.

    Soul Bravery

    Reply

  23. Karen Swim says

    Happy Birthday Liz! I brought the moon bounce so we can all jump around and celebrate! I will never forget the day I got the SOB Award. Although I just figured out how to get it on my new blog, it has driven my blogging day in and day out. I am so happy to celebrate with you today and wish for many more years of successful conversations!

    My most successful post was Timeless Tuesday. I chose it because it was a departure from my usual post and so much fun to write. It also stands out for me because of the wonderful interactions in the community of commenters.
    http://wordsforhirellc.com/blog/index.php/2008/09/timeless-tuesday/

    Reply

  25. Martin Neumann says

    Hey Liz – Has it been 3 years already!!!

    I remember the days when …

    To all, I’m SOB #231 – but I prefer my current site. 🙂

    What did I bring to the party?

    Well no real link – I just came back from seeing the documentary “Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson” – google it, lots of reviews and vids.

    My long-held view is that gonzo journalism was the forerunner to today’s blogs.

    Have a happy birthday you SOB’s and Liz, you scoundrel … you no want the mock-up I did for ya book? Fine! I’ll just have to use it myself… 😉

    Reply

  28. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hey Martin,
    Here’s a beer and some nachos. So good to see you. I’ll go switch out your site AGAIN. Kickstart was on the list once . . . [grin]

    You’re a gonzo journalist if I ever knew one. I can’t wait to watch the video you’re talking about. 😉

    Reply

  29. Robert Hruzek says

    Howdy Liz and fellow SOBs! Happy Birthday and a big tip o’ the hat to the most influential blog in MY particular universe, with many more to come!

    Without a doubt the most influential post I ever did was the “Let’s Be Brief” 6-word story contest I ran back in January of 2007. We garnered over 500 entries from 71 participants, and a great time was had by all.

    And for a Birthday present to anyone who wants it, here’s the link to my e-book, Poke It With A Sharp Stick.

    Enjoy!

    Reply

  31. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hello Robert!
    Your 6-word story contest forged a strong and familiar connection between your blog and mine.

    It’s 6-word history of our lives.

    Thanks for choosing to bring that.
    Thanks for your eBook too! You are a generous one. Always were.

    Reply

  33. Martin Neumann says

    AGAIN. What are you trying to say there? That I’m indecisive, a procrastinator, Get Bored Easily!!! Oh yeah, I am all that … and more. [bigger grin]

    “gonzo journalist”: how dare you label me! I’m an um, journalist that is um … influenced by the gonzo style, nothing more, nothing less – now give me my plate of nachos, some wild turkey, a pen and some paper and I’ll write the best damn account of this SOB gathering …

    Ahh screw it, I’m of to bed. It’s 1am. So Goodnight to all and I expect nothing less than to hear that SOB blew up the servers in a mass of fireworks as commenter’s shoved and pushed and rushed to join in the mayhem.

    Reply

  37. Eric Peterson says

    Happy Birthday Liz!

    What a great idea for a party! I’d like to pass out some klondikes to everyone! Here you go….

    It’s been a great inspiration to follow you and this wonderful community. I can’t wait until I can get back to the Tuesday night routine! Thanks for your inspiration.

    Reply

  39. Lea Woodward says

    @Michael Martin – Thank you Michael, that was very nice to hear! Glad you liked the post – was most definitely worth trawling through 12 months worth of bank statements for even just 1 person to find it useful 🙂

    But I have to say that I think your post trumps mine in terms of usefulness…love the photo tutorials.

    Reply

  41. ME Liz Strauss says

    #27
    Hi Michael,
    Glad to hear you’re already checking the links people brought. I am too!
    I’ve bookmarked that link you brought. I’ve been looking to kick things up a notch when my new design is done. 🙂

    Reply

  42. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi John,
    Thanks for coming all the way over. It’s great to see you on this side of the pond. I can see why that link is one of your favorites. I also like the top business post you did earlier this year. 🙂

    Reply

  46. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hey Eric,
    Thanks for bring the Klondike bars!
    It’ll be great to have you back on Tuesday nights. 🙂

    Are you going to bring something from your blog to add to the list of successful blog posts? 🙂

    Reply

  47. ME Liz Strauss says

    #44
    Hi CK,
    Welcome! Thanks for coming. I see you have the same glitchy thing with names that I do. . . .

    Love your enthusiam and the name of your post! Hope you hang around some. 🙂

    Reply

  48. Rose says

    Happy Birthday!!!!!!!!!!

    I used to post here a while ago with a different blog. Just starting up my blogging again. My post is:

    How to Cook: Cooking Lessons from the Ground Up
    http://lin.cr/4mn

    The post is successful for me from a personal stand point. Having just started I can’t measure it from comments or page views. But personally I’m proud of it. It has been bubbling around in me for a while. I think the series will be useful and could impact at least a few people’s lives for the better. For that I feel its successful.

    Reply

  49. Amy Derby says

    Happy birthday dear lizland, happy birthday to you. *throws confetti*

    How does it feel to be a great big three? 🙂

    So, um, I brought chocolate. 🙂 And there was coffee but I drank it all on the way over. 😐 Time to place another order through @starbucks!

    Say, is that a moonbounce? 😀

    Reply

  54. Karen Swim says

    Amy, Amy, the bouncing is good come on in! 🙂 I’m back and I have a yummy veggie casserole, it’s getting to close to lunch and oh yes cheesecake (it’s calorie free today!).

    Reply

  56. Brian Kim says

    Hi Liz!

    Congrats on the 3 year Bday!

    And thank you very much for the invite. I really appreciate it. You’re the epitome of great networking!

    The link I want to share with all successful and outstanding bloggers is my own personal story of how I quit my corporate consulting job to start pursuing my passion through blogging.

    It’s a very long one, but I wrote it to help those who might feel down and out about blogging (in terms of hoping it will make them enough money as their job did) as well as for those who feel down and out about pursuing whatever dream they’re currently going for.

    It’s entitled:

    It CAN Be Done: Let Nobody Else Tell You Otherwise

    http://briankim.net/blog/2008/03/it-can-be-done-let-nobody-else-tell-you-otherwise/

    I hope that it can provide the boost that we all sometimes need to get through the rough patches in our lives.

    Thanks again for the invite and I hope you and the rest of the Successful and Outstanding Bloggers will enjoy it.

    Regards,

    Brian

    Reply

  58. ME Liz Strauss says

    Saul!
    The smartest man in the world!!

    What a cool thing to see you here!
    Bring me a link to your best blog post. C’mon I want your brilliance on the list when I publish it.

    grin.

    Reply

  60. Brian Kim says

    Wonderful to see you as well Liz!

    I believe we were introduced by a third party who planted a link to one of my articles on your blog a long, long while back.

    I guess we have him/her to thank for linking us (I believe you have an idea of who that person is)

    In any event, congratulations again on everything. You have a very unique skill that not a lot of people have in this world. Everybody seems to gravitate toward your positive, enthusiastic, friendly energy and I hope the next 3 years will be even better.

    Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.

    Thanks again.

    Brian

    Reply

  62. Eric Peterson says

    Hey Liz,

    How did I almost forget the link! This first one is one I liked to write and I think is important for leaders to consider when trying to help develop other leaders

    http://leadershipramblings.blogspot.com/2008/08/leading-from-back-4-rules-to-developing.html

    This second link amazes me, because it was written back in January, but it still gets the most daily hits. It was just a fun way to get to know my readers and it seems to still get a lot of hits

    http://leadershipramblings.blogspot.com/2008/01/best-showers-morning-or-night.html

    Happy Birthday again Liz!!

    Reply

  66. Mike says

    Happy Birthday, Liz! Congratulations on reaching the milestone. The SOB list was and is still a fantastic idea. 721?!? Wow…That must have taken an age to go through over the last few weeks.

    My link isn’t to my most successful post, just my most recent one 😀

    http://www.twentysteps.com/lost-blogging-feeling/

    As you found when you were compiling the SOB list the other day, a lot of good blogs have disappeared over the last couple of years and this post kinda sums it up in 3 minutes 40 seconds 🙂

    Reply

  67. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi Mike,
    I agree. Thanks for the link you choose. Thinking back we’re starting to understand that people (and blogs) weave into/out of our lives as they do in the concrete world. Seems more real here though. 🙂

    Reply

  74. Geoffrey Philp says

    Happy Birthday, Liz! This is quite an accomplishment!

    Liz, the post I want to share has been one of my most popular and it’s one that I enjoyed writing because it’s about a hero of mine who has had a tremendous effect on my life and work as a writer: Bob Marley.

    Of course, I’ve written several other posts about Bob, but many people seem to like this one because it goes to the heart of Bob’s music:

    http://geoffreyphilp.blogspot.com/2006/07/fable-of-freedom-i-shot-sheriff.html

    Enjoy!

    Reply

  75. Brian Kim says

    Hi Liz,

    I want to squeeze in one more link just because this one is near and dear to my heart as it’s the very first article I posted and the one that exploded through the blogosphere the same day.

    It answers the question that a lot of people have in their lives and it’s helped so many people who’ve read it that I want to put it out there for those who haven’t got to chance to read it so they may benefit from it as well.

    It’s entitled:

    How to Find What You Love to Do

    http://briankim.net/blog/2006/07/how-to-find-what-you-love-to-do/

    It still remains one of the top links that I get traffic from, has the most comments, and I still get emails down to this very day from people who’ve read it, thanking me for it because it helped them find that direction we’re all so desperately seeking for when it comes to the work we want to do.

    Thanks again for the invite and for this project. I think I speak for all bloggers when we say we really appreciate it!

    Brian

    Reply

  79. CK Reyes says

    Happy Birthday Melissa, I never knew bloggers could have so much fun. I might just consider calling myself one…

    My most successful post is titled “What does being naked in a sauna have to do with manifesting your purpose.” For me this is a personal success because my writing came after a trip to the sauna and an insight on my work in the world and how not everyone wants what I have to give. It’s more of the rush I felt when writing something that was so clear to me in my own heart.
    http://tinyurl.com/6mvtw5
    I’m excited to read all these posts!

    Reply

  85. ME Liz Strauss says

    #71
    Hi Marianne,
    This is our third one together isn’t it? How cool is that? Thank you for being here through all of the growing pains.

    What definition of success to bring a description of your mother. It’s an honor to add that to the list.

    xxoo to you too.

    Reply

  90. Katie Baird says

    Feliz Cumpleaños, Liz!

    First, eats: here is a link to that unique-to-Chicago dessert, the Atomic Cake. (Just scroll down a little ways to see it and grab a slice.)

    Liz, besides your ability to both nurture and inspire the blogging community, you are so polite and gracious. I mean, in an old-school, bygone era style. This is one of your most outstanding qualities.

    Courtesy is one of the things that is easy to learn but yet is absent from many human interactions.

    I first thought I would bring one of my resources posts to the party.

    However, out of deference to the birthday blogger, instead I am sharing one related to courtesy.

    This is a post about written expressions of gratitude: Thank You Notes: Do you or don’t you?.

    I am NOT an etiquette expert, and courtesy isn’t one of my blog’s categories. Yet, I have been amazed at the continuing interest in this topic.

    Reply

  95. Giovanna Garcia says

    #91 Lori

    To see good role model like Liz and seeing how she is a success, and Know that we all can be successful-blogger like her. And in my own blog, when I see that my message touch them, and they took an action becasue of it
    🙂 that bring me great joy.

    Giovanna Garcia

    Reply

  99. SpaceAgeSage -- Lori says

    Liz,
    Yes, it would be cool to meet my online friends for some face time!

    Giovanna,
    Role model is an apt description!
    I agree — when people are moved to act because of a post of mine, it warms my heart, too.

    Reply

  101. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hello PC!
    It’s my pleasure to see you here! I’ve watch you grow right alongside me. I feel like we’re in the same generation. I remember that post and I smile to think that’s the one that you choose.

    Reply

  103. Amy Derby says

    Sorry, I got stuck in the moonbounce. 😀

    *smacks self in head to stop the bouncing*

    You want links, do you? 😮

    Ok, um, well, my “nice” posts are never very successful. 😉

    This one isn’t my most commented or viewed, but I like it — and it’s appropriate for my day today — so I’m saying that makes it successful:

    Sucking the Suck Out of Corporate Presentations (or, Conversations With Monkeys)

    This one has gotten me the most invitations for coffee:

    Netiquette Rant #409 (or, Introducing the Cut-the-Crap-o-Matic)

    Funny how we all judge success differently, eh?

    P.S. You should know that the cartoon you on the cartoon couch inside my computer is wearing a party hat and eating pizza. Really, she is. 🙂

    Reply

  104. Karin H. says

    Happy birthday, to all SOB’s too of course

    Been so very busy today I only managed to ‘land’ here just a few minutes before I go home – and I wish all of you a very pleasant party (sure it will go on until the late hours ;-))

    Brought a link – my latest post even, but think it does explain my kiss2 blog best: how to keep things simple but effective in business:
    “Why don’t I hear from them?”

    Karin H. (Keep It Simple Sweetheart, specially in business)

    Reply

  105. --Deb says

    Happy birthday, blog! Liz takes such good care of you, isn’t this a nice party she threw for you?

    Now, about social media and networking and all that? Let me introduce you to the world of knitters-who-blog. I went to the NY Sheep and Wool festival in Rhinebeck a week or so ago and saw not one, not ten, but thousands of knitters, many of whom were running around, happily introducing themselves to other knitters whose blogs they read. It’s like a high school reunion where you like EVERYBODY, even the people you’ve never, technically, met before.

    Here’s a link to my blog post:
    http://chappysmom.com/2008/10/18/br-r-r-rhinebeck/

    It took me longer to put in all the links to people’s blogs than it did to actually WRITE the post.

    Reply

  106. Anita Bruzzese says

    Liz,
    You are truly one of a kind, and I’m grateful for all your generosity in introducing me to so many great blogs, and bloggers. I’m including a link to a post that I wrote in about 10 minutes — but had an absolute blast doing. It was a chance to let people know that even though times are tough, we should still remember to laugh a bit. It’s called “10 Signs to Know You’ve Gone Off the Stress Meter at Work”

    http://www.45things.com/2008/10/10-signs-to-know-youve-gone-off-stress.php

    Happy birthday. Here’s to many more.

    Reply

  108. Robert Hruzek says

    Liz, the truth is, the Middle Zone just wouldn’t have been the same without you and your community at Successful Blog! You guys inspired me to be what I’ve become – uh, whatever THAT is! 😀

    Cheers, and many happy returns, y’all!

    Reply

  109. DaveOlson says

    Hey Liz,

    Happy Birthday… You deserve the bestest, most fantasitic, awesomenest, celebration ever. You are an inspiration!!

    I’m so excited I can’t spell.

    Can’t stay but wanted to say happy birthday!

    Reply

  110. emdoozie | Michael Anderson says

    Hey Liz, I’m 4 going on 5 months into blogging with doozieUp and I am enjoying every minute of it. It gets hard sometimes trying to manage the blog full time work and family life simultaneously. What would you as a 3 year veteran say is the most important aspect to growing a blog? What was the biggest challenge you have faced over the 3 years?

    Thanks,

    -doozieUp!

    Reply

  111. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hey Amy,
    Those posts truly represent you and your blog. I think they’re hilarious . . . most invitations for coffee huh? You should write a successful post about your successful post.

    And tell the cartoon version of me to quit slacking. . . . 🙂

    Reply

  114. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi Karin!
    So glad you made it by and I love the choice that you made. The title alone is a great addition to the list. Don’t we all want to know the answer to that question?

    xx

    Reply

  115. ME Liz Strauss says

    –Deb,
    Wow that must have been on heck of an amazing experience! I bet you’ll be building a lifetime of new experiences from that one day alone. And to think it all started with a blog. 🙂

    Reply

  121. Robert A. Henru says

    Hi Liz, got to re-submit this comment, as the one earlier is missing in the space.

    First, would like to thank you for including me in this party. And of course, a very happy birthday for you.

    If you ask me my most successful post, then here is the one. A post that is very close to my previous tag-line: “Turning limitation into advantages”. Whatever it is, we can have a new perspective about our limitation. And here is the post I’m talking about: The five steps to win with your limitation

    Now, I expanded my blog to write about my 4 perspectives in life journey. It’s the blogger, engineer, leader, and human. And it’s all about the “Happiness in success journey”, my second most-commented article.

    Thanks, and wish you and all the SOBs, happiness in our success journey, as all of us are successful and outstanding bloggers.

    All the best,
    Robert

    Reply

  124. Vicky H says

    Hi Liz and all my friends who’ve already left their links. Happy Birthday Liz and to all the SOB’s I hope to be one of you one day.

    My most popular post is definately the first post I wrote called “Who Taught My Kid That Four Letter Word “http://remarkableparents.com/who-taught-my-kid-that-four-letter-word/ and was about my 16yo and a life lesson for us both.

    Reply

  127. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi Vicky,
    That’s a great post to be sending this way as an example of success.

    I’m thinking of how fast we grow. Your blog wasn’t even born when we met. It was just getting ready. Now look at you. Look at it. Send me the email nominating yourself.

    Liz

    Reply

  128. Joe says

    Hey Liz,
    Happy Blog B-day to you
    Happy Blog B-day to you
    Happy Blog B-day Successful Blog
    Happy Blog B-day to yoooouuuuu!!!

    And many mooooorrrrre…

    Sorry, I’m late, got Skyped first thing this morning & have been playing catch up ever since.

    I’ll be in & out for a while, but I’ll Be Baack. 😉

    Reply

  130. Grandy says

    Wow! 3 years! I’ve been peaking in on your blog since Amy Derby wrote a review of your e-book.

    Congratulations on 3 years of success!!

    My blog just passed it’s first year milestone. I don’t have nearly the following you have…but perhaps one day. 😉

    One of my more “successful” posts was this:
    http://functionalshmunctional.blogspot.com/2007/11/dont-tell-anyone.html

    My readers (and my friends in real life) have the most fun when they’re laughing at my expense. It didn’t get many comments at first, but I had a re-post and it sure made a lot of new friends. 🙂

    Congratulations again on your BLOGVERSARY!!

    Reply

  132. Mother Earth aka Karen Hanrahan says

    Hey YOU, birthday blogett-er – OH Very Happy 3rd!!

    My share today has to be the burger post.

    Not because I was brilliant to post it, but because of how it showed me how VIRAL the internet can be…even if it was about McD’s

    http://bestwellnessconsultant.com/2008/09/23/1996-mcdonalds-hamburger-karen-hanrahan-best-of-mother-earth.aspx

    This post on it’s first day was stumbled, dugg and landed in reddit’s WTF section ending as the #4 post of the day. Commenters had a field day with it – the devotion to a burger to this day astounds me.

    102,000 hits that day, a month later it reached over a half million hits in 195 countries. Over 1000 comments on that post blog, mostly icky pro-burger. Someone said that is called trolling?

    Wired, boing-boing, nat’l post and a whole hosts of others picked up on it, A portugese news magazine will air an additional interview later this week, another spoke to a mcdonalds rep who said I am nothing but an urban legend

    Calls from Berlin, the UK, Spain, and all over the US, and Canada. Thank goodness the folks who called were more kind than the ones who left comments.

    My current daily traffic – a month later is quadrupled. How’s that for an organic non-monetized blog author ?

    Reply

  133. LaurenMarie - Creative Curio says

    Happy bloggy birthday, Liz! Boy has it been a while since I’ve been here (and posting has dropped off on my own blog, too). I miss interacting with people. That’s my favorite part about blogging.

    My most successful post would have to be The Color Wheel and Color Theory. It was a last minute tag onto my Real World Design series where I walked through the elements of design, specific to graphic design. I did put effort into it, but I didn’t think it was a star post. When David Airey mentioned it in his list of exceptional color resources, someone picked up the Stumble button because it was visited and Stumbled so many times that, at it’s peak (a few weeks!), it had more visits than my home page. It nearly tripled my blog’s monthly views. That was back in June and I’m still getting a pretty good amount of Stumble traffic to that post.

    For me personally this post was successful because it showed me that I just have to share what I know and people will often appreciate it. I am by no means a color expert, but I wrote what I knew and illustrated it with examples and it struck a chord with many people! That’s pretty cool.

    Reply

  135. Bean says

    Oh No! Liz doesn’t have a party hat? Let me fix that crisis right now http://familycrafts.about.com/library/projects/blbdballnpartyht.htm
    I brought some tasty buffalo wings to the party for all to enjoy. It took me over an hour to read over the great posts submitted this morning. It was a very well spent hour in deed!

    Well on my teaching blog, the most popular post by far is the evaluation post I did last May. http://lvsonline.com/online-blogging-classes/evaluate_this_class/ It still averages 200 hits a day and has by far the most comments. It is a successful post in that it brings readers to the blog and generated a lot of dialog. I certainly wouldn’t call it my most interesting post!

    I think this post on preview and review will end up being successful, it is already getting some traffic http://lvsonline.com/online-blogging-classes/fear-not-the-publish-button-but-preview-and-review-first/

    Thank you for the party, I am looking forward to returning this afternoon for another delightful hour of reviewing posts. I already have a list of posts for my next batch of students to read 🙂

    Reply

  136. Amy Derby says

    re #113

    Liz, when I told the cartoon version of you to stop slacking, she giggled and ran off to play in the moonbounce… *shrug*

    re #115

    Giovanna, I like the one you posted today. Food groups for the soul. 🙂

    Reply

  137. Kathy says

    I’m late!!! Happy Blog Birthday Liz!!!

    I’m offering an 80% discount on my Fast Track to Blogging Success Using Keywords to celebrate YOUR blog birthday!

    If memory serves me, your blog is where I left my VERY FIRST blog comment. What a wild ride it’s been. Glad I’m still here to celebrate your third birthday with you!

    Reply

  138. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hey Lauren,
    Thanks for taking time to tell your story. Colors are such a big part of my life and yours. I feel the connect through the choice already. 🙂

    We’re all so busy these days, but that doesn’t mean we’re not still here for each other, you know.

    Reply

  139. Joanna Young says

    Hello Liz!

    Happy Birthday 🙂

    I thought I’d bring a link that was on the theme of gifts. It’s about the different gifts I received when I was in Chicago in May.

    What I Learned From the Gifts I Received at SobCon

    Re-reading it just now made me feel quite choked. This to me is what social media is all about. The unique gift that each and every one of us brings to the party.

    I’m looking forward to seeing what else is going on in this crazy comment box!

    Joanna

    Reply

  142. Rick Cockrum says

    Happy Birthday, Successful Blog!

    And congratulations to you, Liz. Without you, the blogging world wouldn’t be what it is. You were one of the first to make me, as with so many others, feel welcome in this world. Shards wears it’s SOB button with pride and gratitude for having earned it.

    One of my favorite posts is Your Life, Your Greatest Work Of Art, something you’ve help show us all put into practice.

    Thank you, and here’s to many more years of Successful Blogging.

    Reply

  143. Crissy | IndieBizChicks.com says

    Happy Birthday, Liz! And thank you for all of your hard work!

    I’d like to share a special report with everyone.

    It’s called “Meet The Press” and it will walk you through the process of writing and sending press releases (both online and offline).

    Download it for free here: http://www.indiebizchicks.com/extras/meet-the-press.pdf

    Again – happy birthday!
    Crissy
    —
    Crissy Herron
    Founder, http://www.IndieBizChicks.com
    “For Women Who’d Rather Work For Themselves, Than Work For The Man.”

    Reply

  147. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi Joanna!
    What you got here is a reflection of who you are. We were responding to all you already gave before you came.

    Thanks for the choice of what you brought. It’s perfect!

    Reply

  153. ME Liz Strauss says

    #131
    Hiya Grandy!
    I met you over at Amy’s blog, did I?
    Thank you for joining the party here. Finishing your first blogging year is the biggest milestone.

    That post you brought looks like such a fun read.

    You’re not a stranger anymore. 🙂

    Reply

  154. Bean says

    Woohoo the party hat and wings worked at least ;-P

    My most “successful” post was a class evaluation back in May, http://lvsonline.com/online-blogging-classes/evaluate_this_class/ It still gets up to 200 hits a day and has a fair number of comments.

    I don’t usually define success by the number of hits or even comments. I like to define it by the quality of content and the conversation and action that ensues. I think this post on previewing and reviewing posts, http://lvsonline.com/online-blogging-classes/fear-not-the-publish-button-but-preview-and-review-first/ will be a success. It is new but already has some dialog going.

    Thanks for the party. I have a new list of “must read” posts for my students now 🙂

    Reply

  155. Franke James says

    Hi Liz,

    Happy Birthday to Successful Blog!! I brought my Paradise Unpaved visual essay link:
    http://www.frankejames.com/debate/?p=98

    So the great news to share about my blog is that I’m having five my visual essays (including Paradise Unpaved) published this spring! The book is called “Bothered by My Green Conscience.”

    If I hadn’t created the blog it never would have happened! Thanks to you Liz for all your encouragement and support!

    Franke

    Reply

  156. Joe says

    Hey guys,
    It’s snowing here right now, and we have to finish the World Series here tonight?
    I heard of the boys of October, but this is crazy… :-0

    Reply

  157. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi Karen,
    I’m sure people are astounded when you share the prop that post is about. I would definitely say that one is your most successful. Any of us would have a hard time coming up with something nearly so strong!

    Congratulations on a winner!

    Reply

  159. ME Liz Strauss says

    #135 Hi Huub!
    What a creative idea for a great blog post. I’m sure your community paid off with some answers worth talking about. Can’t wait to read it.

    Thank you for this gift that already has me smiling just imagining what it’s about.

    Reply

  160. Suzie Cheel says

    Happy Birthday Liz. and SOB

    I’m heading over with a great bottle of Aussie Red to share and we’ll throw a few prawns on the barbie before we get clarity about where we are heading

    My link was inspired by you and is about to become a free article
    Getting Clear to get Clarity

    Celebrate well and give yourself a big pat on the back for all the wonderful good you do for all of us bloggers and now to go and walk on the beach and listen to the sea

    Have a wonderful day

    Suzie

    Attract Abundance Today

    Reply

  161. ME Liz Strauss says

    #136
    Bean!
    You’re finally out and where everyone can see all that you brought! Sorry I left you stuck!

    I’m grateful for your patience and your enthusiasm. We need more teachers and guides like you in the world.

    You’re welcome here anytime. 🙂

    Reply

  162. ME Liz Strauss says

    #144
    Hi Crissy,
    That’s a nice thing to bring for a bunch of bloggers. I’m sure they’ll find it a gift they want to read and make use of. How thought to choose something every blogger needs to know.

    Welcome and stay for a while if you can. 🙂

    Reply

  167. Mother Earth aka Karen Hanrahan says

    It’s true Liz, the prop for my workshops serves me very well and usually horrifies… I can’t imagine having another post that would have that much traffic! Today’s/Tonight’s a work night and usually can’t make open mic night. I hope you are enjoying this terrific day!! Sure are alot of great folks here.

    Reply

  168. Eric Peterson says

    Hi Liz and the rest of the community! I’m just heading home here and thought I’d drop off a couple cases of Fat Tire and my very own special “hot wings”. I hope you all enjoy them!

    Have a great evening!

    Reply

  170. --Deb says

    Liz, knit-bloggers know how to party, too … but my birthday posts never draw THIS kind of crowd. It’s what makes you a star! I hope you’re enjoying your party!

    Reply

  172. Joel says

    Hey Liz! Happy birthday to you! How exciting. 🙂

    I wanted to let you know that I am starting my second annual Reader Appreciation Month coming up in November. I’m really excited about what I learn as a result of polling my readers and asking them for their thoughts and ideas.

    This year, I’m asking them to share their top 10 things they wish they knew as a first year teacher. Thanks for your inspiration and reminders to always keep the readers in the forefront of my mind when I come up with topics conversation!

    http://www.soyouwanttoteach.com/get-ready-for-reader-appreciation-month-2008/

    Reply

  175. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi Joel,
    Congratulations on your second annual Reader Appreciation Month this November. It’s a great idea and exciting for so many reasons. Teachers “get” community.

    Thanks for bringing that thought over today. I’m smiling about it.

    Reply

  178. Cath Lawson says

    Happy Blog Birthday Liz. I hope your going to have one of those icecreams with root beer. Three years is fab. I’m not a SOB yet as I wasn’t sure if my blog was worthy of being on the list. I still struggle with getting it right sometimes. But I will apply eventually.

    Reply

  180. Mike Figliuolo says

    Happy Birthday!

    My favorite link is one of the first posts I wrote on my blog about my own set of leadership principles. It’s some basic, earthy, and fun perspectives on things that I’ve found to be very effective leadership tips. The link is http://thoughtleadersllc.blogspot.com/2007/12/leadership-principles-overview.html.

    Again, happy birthday and congratulations on such a wonderful milestone! Maybe one day I’ll be an SOB in your context rather than just in the traditional context 😉

    Reply

  181. Scott says

    Happy Blirthday!

    I’m sitting here, a mere one month old, looking excitedly up at my peer(s), who is 3, and saying to myself…I wish I was 3….

    Not really. I’m having a blast as I’m sure you are as well. It is very inspiring to see such closeness and support here. I’m going to have to come back for a visit.

    Thanks!
    -Scott

    PS. You can say a big ol’ thanks to Dr. Bob!

    Reply

  182. Dina Lynch Eisenberg says

    Gosh, Liz, I’m a new friend, but couldn’t miss the chance to say you don’t look a day over 2.5!

    Oh, and congrats on being named one of the 50 most Influential Powerful women in Social Media by Ron Hudson over at Immediate Influence Blog. Must be a nice b-day present!

    There are so many interesting things about marriage but two of my favorite (and perhaps my best) posts are about renewable marriages and whether you can you can describe your relationship in a six word sentence.

    I’m the curious sort who likes to look under the rug (metaphorically speaking).

    Many happy posts!
    Dina

    Reply

  183. Mike Ramm says

    Hi Liz! Happy birthday to your blog! I was really inspired by you to start blogging last year and now I am one of the most popular bloggers in Bulgaria.

    I would like to point to a post in my management blog called “Who does money really motivate?”. There I proposed a “theory” that there are people who seek tranquility and security and who cannot be motivated by money to work more or better. So if you works with such people you have to find another way to motivate them.

    It is not quite “genius” discovery but it is just my contribution to the management of humans. The post became one of my most popular posts and I am proud of that.

    Reply

  184. isabella mori says

    well, HELLO everyone! look at all these people! and the balloons and the party hats and the BAND! where did you get that band, liz? and i LOVE your dress. you look even better than last time i saw you, how do you do that?

    Reply

  185. Mary-Lynn & George says

    Happy Birthday! We cannot tell you how honored we are to have an SOB badge. You do amazing things over here and its a joy to read your posts while also learning the art of conversation.

    One of our most popular shows on Bigg Success this year has been “Why Work Life Balance Doesn’t Work.” We did this topic because we really struggle with balance, which tends to tilt more on the work side! This show offers an alternative to trying to balance it all.

    http://biggsuccess.com/2008/05/31/work-life-balance-doesnt-work/

    Reply

  186. Sheila Scarborough says

    Hi Liz!

    Thanks so much for your blog, your friendship, your guidance and of course SOBCon; you know how much they have all meant to me these last few years.

    One of my most popular posts on Family Travel is High above Paris: a meal in the Eiffel Tower.

    What’s ironic is that we had no idea that there were restaurants in the Eiffel Tower when we visited. We were wandering around admiring the view, the kids announced that they were hungry (of course!) and we walked past the entrance to a Tower restaurant and saw that there was no wait.

    Some of my best travel experiences have been because I plan the hell out of most of my trips, and some of my best experiences are also because I’m willing to chuck plans out of the window and grab serendipity.

    Kinda like life, isn’t it?

    Happy birthday, Successful Blog….

    Reply

  187. Joe says

    I’m seeing a lot of new faces around here tonight, so I would like to offer everyone a Klondike bar.
    We can’t have a birthday party for Successful Blog without Klondikes! 🙂
    Dig In!

    Reply

  188. ME Liz Strauss says

    #180
    Hi Cath,
    Here’s your rootbeer with ice cream. You are so successful and outstanding that I thought you were already on the list. OMG! Email me if you don’t see yourself there in the next week or so. What have I been doing?

    Thanks for coming. I’m thrilled to see you here!

    Reply

  190. ME Liz Strauss says

    #188
    Hi isabella,
    Yeah, the beauty is that with a click we don’t have to stay anywhere. So when we do we’re likely to participate if the atmosphere and the conversation is just the right amount of friendly and intriguing.

    Sounds like you had both and some lasting connections were made. I remember when you were first on the blog. This is a special thing to hear about. 🙂

    Reply

  191. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hey Sheila,
    Open comment night and the story of SOBCon wouldn’t be complete with out a mention of you. You are a long-distance neighbor, a friend, and someone to care about. Can’t lose track of where you or what you’re doing.

    Kinda like friends huh?

    Reply

  193. Kiwiwriter says

    Hi Liz, Happy 3rd birthday for the Successful blog. Have been enjoying your posts and abilities to get people to communicate for the past year or so and have learn and laughed a lot.

    I’m including my first ever post called In the Beginning that I wrote Halloween night just two years ago. I’ve included it because it was the start of an amazing journey for me – a discovery that I am not only capable of writing but that I can also get paid to write. And along the way, I’ve discovered numerous people around the world, such as yourself, who are supportive, encouraging, fun, and who I now consider my ‘cyberfriends’…

    thank you and here’s to many, many more Successful blog birthday parties…

    Reply

  194. Kimberlee says

    Happy Blog Birthday! Saw it on twitter and had to congratulate you on all your success!

    Here’s a link to my Blog Action Day Post: Poverty in America. It’s #3 on my most viewed posts, but it holds a lot more meaning than that. Poverty is a very close subject for me (as you’ll see when you read it) and it’s a post I’ve wanted to write for a long time.

    http://freedomwriting.wordpress.com/2008/10/15/poverty-in-america/

    Again, thanks for all you do in the blogging community Liz, see you around Twitter!

    Kimberlee

    Reply

  196. ME Liz Strauss says

    #182
    Hi Mike!
    It was to meet you on Twitter and now here. I like the post you’re referring to that Mike wrote. I also have an affinity for your blog.

    Thanks for coming and leaving a post. 🙂

    Reply

  197. ME Liz Strauss says

    #183
    Hey Scott,
    Welcome,
    If you hang here, you’ll a wealth of incredible and intelligent people who like to help. Every one of us were you earlier.

    Thanks for coming and thank to Dr. Bob!

    Reply

  199. ME Liz Strauss says

    #184,
    Hey Dina!
    Great to meet you! I’ve found some great blogs on that list too. It’s a pleasure to have you here. Thanks for bringing some of your best to share with everyone.

    You’re not a stranger anymore!

    Reply

  200. ME Liz Strauss says

    #185
    Hi Mike!
    I think it is genius to understand and keep hold of the idea that people are people with their own motivations. I’m thrilled to hear that your blog is doing so well. Keep the lines open you’re making a difference.
    I was sure you would. 🙂

    Reply

  203. ME Liz Strauss says

    HI Mary-Lynn & George
    I should have guess that post would be your BIGG success. You could almost say, it might have changed your life. I thank the day that a certain friend send you my way. I feel a special connection to you both. 🙂

    Reply

  204. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hey Kiwiwriter,
    Thank you for that comment. You say so much, so well, in so few words. It doesn’t surprise me at all that you’re paid to write.

    I’m proud that you include me as one of your cyberfriends. Thank you.

    Reply

  207. isabella mori says

    liz, you’re so sweet. and someone gave you a badge for being among the 50 most influential bloggers? great! but you know, i would put you among the FIVE most influential bloggers! and all that in three years. amazing.

    listen, since you invited me over on alphablogs, too (it’s another site where i blog), i was wondering if it’s ok if i mention a post from there, too?

    it’s one of our canada 9-5 posts, where we showcase canadians who use blogs to talk about their work and public engagement. this one has a focus on creatives (yup, there is even an accountant!)

    this has been great, i met a whole bunch of interesting people, and already made a new twitter friend through you.

    happy birthday to your blog once again, liz. you are absofrigginlutely awesome!

    Reply

  209. Lillie Ammann says

    Happy birthday, Liz! You are the premier relationship-builder blogger on the Internet as is evidenced by all your blogging friends celebrating with you today.

    I was so excited when you recognized me as an SOB blogger, and I’m still as proud of that recognition today as when I received it a year and a half ago.

    My most successful post was How to Write an Interview-Winning Resume. It has produced far more traffic than any other post on my blog as well as the among the highest number of comments. All I can figure is that a lot of people are looking for jobs!

    And here’s one more link just for fun: a page of free stories for your reading pleasure.

    Wishing you many more years of brightening lives on the Internet. Liz!

    Reply

  211. Mike Figliuolo says

    Liz,

    Great party! Met Isabella here and now we’re connected on twitter and she’s started reading my blog. Lotsa fun. Thanks for creating a forum that enables others to connect with new and interesting people. You have some wonderful readers. If Nike gets into creating blog themes, maybe their tag line could be “Be Like Liz!”

    Reply

  212. Brad Shorr says

    Hi Liz, Again, Happy, Happy Birthday! My most successful post, or at least the one I’m especially proud of right now, is http://tinyurl.com/6j89hj. It was the most research I’ve ever put into a post in 550+ tries, and maybe one of my most helpful. It also spawned some good conversation on English grammar and usage, which was a pleasant surprise.

    Reply

  214. Michael Carnell says

    Sorry I am late to the party! Happy Birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Bllllooogggggggg…. Happy birthday to you.

    Not easy keeping a blog going for that length of time. My congratulations to you.

    Reply

  216. Geoffrey Moffett says

    Hello Guys.
    I was just invited by Joe there and wish the blog a happy birthday and every success in the future. I am just starting out in business so I hope to learn new things from you guys in the future. From blogging etc…..
    Geoffrey!

    Reply

  217. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi Aruni!
    I was just thinking of your first email. You caught me that day. Wow! Now you’re so busy and doing so well!

    Yeah! Thanks for taking a minute to drop off some of your wisdom. Everyone who reads will be glad you did.

    Reply

  218. isabella mori says

    this is great. i’ve already met someone new – mike – and went over to his site. very interesting article!

    a post from my blog that i’d like to share is how to deal with the swear jar what i like about this post is that it shows social media at its best. i put out the question about what to do with the money in our swear jar. it was great to hear different ideas and points of view, things i had never thought about. the people who answered were other bloggers, people from twitter – and all of this also turned into an offline conversation.

    Reply

  223. Jessica Doyle says

    Happy 3rd Birthday Successful Blog!

    I’ll share my most popular piece of whimsical art these days as my link.

    It is called the Sassy Sea Urchin and can be seen here on my blog.

    And I’ll be right back… need to go get a drink.

    How are you these days Liz? =]

    Reply

  224. Joe says

    Liz and everyone, let me introduce you to a new online friend I met on CrossLoop.
    Jeff, meet Liz and everyone, Liz, everyone, meet Jeff.
    He’s not a blogger yet, but I think he will be after meeting you guys. 😉

    Reply

  226. Geoffrey Moffett says

    Yes Joe! I am here to learn new things! I am into all aspects of computing repair and maintainance etc but want to learn how to get out there on the net and market etc. I currently have just made my first website http://www.faultydesktop.com and want to expand it more so if anyone has ideas please do not hesiate to email me at mail@faultydesktop.com
    So anyway Joe has reccomneded blogging etc so Liz its a pleasure you letting me attend this and I am gifted to be here. I congraduate you on you success in blogging etc. I do not know much about you but I hope to get a one to one chat with you at some point in due course and maybe you could give me a few pointers etc.
    Kind Regards

    Reply

  228. ME Liz Strauss says

    #212
    Lillie,
    What’s fun about a day like this is — when folks get to be SOBs, we’ve usually just met. Then when a party comes, we got some history. It’s the history that makes relationships.

    Thank you for coming and sharing this.

    Reply

  234. Drew McLellan says

    Hey Liz,

    Happy birthday! Your voice is clear and consistent — that’s a huge part of your success. As you and I have discussed before, you can’t fake it long term. People will see the real deal sooner rather than later!

    The fact that you’ve had 200+ comments today says that people have experienced the real you. Thanks for sharing yourself with all of us.

    Speaking of sharing…I’ve just added a freebies page to my blog, where people can find the various e-books, tools, tip sheets etc. that I’ve done over the past couple years. I’m happy to share the page and the resources with your readers.

    http://www.drewsmarketingminute.com/free-stuff.html

    Happy birthday!

    Drew

    Reply

  238. Benjamin says

    Happy 3rd birthday! Actually, I’m being just a little cheeky, since I am 5 minutes in to tomorrow, but that’s the joys of living in England – where I am currently watching the snow falling at five minutes past midnight (for anyone missing London, here is a picture I took of St. Paul’s in London at Night)

    If we could have predicted the current events three years ago, we’d be pretty successful wouldn’t we? I’ve been thinking about how social media can help us predict the future, and reflecting on the joy of having a successful blog: “You can predict the future too”.

    Keep on blogging to good stuff!

    Reply

  241. Geoffrey Moffett says

    Liz and Guys I am really sorry but I have to head on to bed here as I live in Northern Ireland and it is 00.16. Liz I hope you get in contact with me as my mail is at the top somewhere.

    Guys hope to catch yous all around soon!

    Take Care
    God Bless

    Reply

  242. ME Liz Strauss says

    #237
    Hey Drew,
    The real deal, you would know about that. I don’t many who can even come close to you. Thank you for all you’ve contributed to what I try, to what you do, to what the blogosphere is and what we’ll all become in the coming years.

    I’m still going to do something with that publication. I mean it. 🙂

    Reply

  245. ME Liz Strauss says

    Benjamin,
    It hasn’t been a year yet since we had breakfast with Ann on Earl’s Court Road. Amazing how a breakfast and blog and suddenly it seems I know you.

    That’s some photo!

    Reply

  250. Joe says

    This for Amy…
    Oh, no please don’t go
    Just arrived from the snow (it was snowing in Philly earlier)
    Stay a while with your friends
    On all of which you can depend.

    Reply

  255. Amy Derby says

    Thanks Joe. You rock. Sorry about your snow. Please don’t send it to Chicago eh? 🙂

    Liz, two downtown plus coffee with an old friend. Was home for an hour. Then dr out my way. Now I’m grocery shopping.I have new rule after today : no more waking before dawn 🙂

    How are you still up?? And still so nice?!?!

    Reply

  256. Timothy Johnson says

    Amy! You’re just now going to bed? Geez… it really is like marriage… they just put on their flannels and go to bed early.

    Next thing you know, it’ll be separate blogs. 🙂

    Reply

  262. Terry Starbucker says

    Happy Birthday Liz! (you knew I wouldn’t forget!)

    I wish I could have visited the party more today, but that darn day job keeps getting in the way. 🙁

    Nonetheless, I really look forward to our Chicago meetup on November 10 (hint hint to everyone in the Chicago area – join us!), and all my very best to you, my dear friend.

    Oh, and here is my most viewed post (thank you Brian Clark):

    http://www.terrystarbucker.com/2007/05/24/slaying-the-posting-dragon-or-how-i-deal-with-writers-block/

    Terry

    Reply

  264. Amy Derby says

    Woohoo. Got my laptop back. Best thing about not driving? I can type while someone else drives. 🙂

    Wow Liz, I just scrolled through and saw all these cool links. I’m always looking for stuff to read during my late night insomnia moments, so this will be a lot of fun!!

    Terry, I hope I’m still on your list of folks to notify about your meetup. I did watch Field of Dreams on your recommendation, btw. 🙂

    Reply

  265. Joe says

    Hey Terry,
    Bout time you showed up. 😉
    If I knew we were looking for most viewed or most commented, I would have probably picked one of my old entries to one of the Problogger writing projects.
    I thought we were talking about successful, like, as in, accomplishing something for the betterment of (wo)mankind. 🙂 See #132

    Reply

  268. Erica Ross-Krieger says

    Howdy and Happy Birthday Successful and Outstanding Liz!

    What an amazing collection of presents there are! I’ve been unwrapping, opening and reading them and having such fun!

    I brought this link to share:
    http://www.wellnesscoach.com/coping-with-change-and-transition-whats-an-entepreneur-to-do-8.html

    My blog just passed its 1-year anniversary and what makes this post the one I choose has nothing to do with the number of comments or readers…I chose it because it was my first post and is a symbol of me stepping out into the blog world, which in itself was a success…and it turns out it is about change and transition which seems relevant right now.

    Thanks for inviting me to the party. I’m late, but sticking around now. I’ll just head to the sidebar to get Klondikes and cake:)

    Reply

  271. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi Erica,
    Ever since I recently read your book again. I keep picturing a leaf whenever I see your name around here. Now that it’s fall, it’s especially so. What a lovely thing to remember you by. 🙂

    Reply

  273. Patricia says

    Happy Birthday Liz and blog!…I would love to get on an chat, but #1 I don’t seem to know how and #2 I am deep into editing my post for tomorrow which is way to long and about my life with cancer and fear…rather hard to switch gears I am afraid.
    Thank you for your great comments and replies

    Reply

  274. Erica Ross-Krieger says

    Hi Liz, and now I will think of you when I see them too. This year, those on our Chinese Tallow tree are especially brilliant – perhaps those should be the Liz leaves, if that isn’t too mushy:)

    Reply

  276. AmyL says

    Happy birthday Successful Blog! You’re looking wonderful today…you haven’t aged a bit! Oh, is that popcorn? Thanks!! I love popcorn. Don’t mind if I do! A Klondike would be just perfect later.

    I brought a post to share. My older twins played football for the first time this year and it definitely had an impact on them.
    http://www.earnestparenting.com/2008/10/18/thanks-coach/

    Liz, thanks for everything you do around here. You are much appreciated and your guidance and leadership is priceless. Happy birthday!!

    Reply

  283. Erica Ross-Krieger says

    ahhh. a post by Liz about the ever evasive “tomorrow”. I can just see it now:)

    G’nite Liz, Amy, and whoever else is still around. I’m off to eat yummy leftovers of home made stew with butternut squash. See you all soon. Thanks for the party favors:)

    Reply

  290. Scot Herrick says

    Hi Liz,

    Been in meetings all day and working like crazy. Wanted to stop by, though, and wish you and Successful Blog a wonderful, happy birthday.

    Just think how much you have changed the world one conversation at a time. All of us have that to thank you for. What a great perspective.

    All the best and all success to you!

    Reply

  291. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi Scot,
    Thank you for finding the time to come here. We’re all so exhausted and involved it’s amazing we can talk. Thank you for every minute.

    Because for every minute I gave I got lots of yours. 🙂

    Reply

  293. Joe says

    Everyone brought a present tonight
    Links, successful to everyones delight

    The good will and best wishes did flow
    You could see Liz’s face was all aglow

    New friends and old gathered tonight
    To thank Liz for a friendship so tight

    We all hope that there are many more years
    Of Blogs Successful, Liz leading, smiling, no tears.

    Burma Shave

    Nite Liz
    Nite All

    Reply

  296. Karen Swim says

    My eyes are so heavy but I don’t want to leave! Amy, ice cream? Yummy! Is it soy? Tell me it’s soy, yay! Liz, you throw one heck of a party. Great guests, food, and music. Can I call in sick tomorrow? 🙂

    Reply

  298. Des Walsh says

    “Puffs to catch breath” – Whew! Just made it.

    Happy Birthday Successful Blog and Hip Hip Hooray for Liz!

    Thanks for your relentless (in a nice way :)) support for all of us SOBs and those whose moment is yet to come.

    My link – to SOB Thinking Home Business – is for the post 5 Ways Twitter Helps Me in Business http://tinyurl.com/5twitpoints – judging by the comments, some people have found it helpful.

    Des

    Reply

  299. Rick Wolff says

    Liz, no need to tell you how much of a help you’ve been. Of all the “new media” choices I faced, one of the reasons I went with a blog as a backbone to my “media empire” is your support and encouragement. I already find myself pitching in when a question is asked on Twitter about … well, darn near anything. Can’t help but pass on the helpfulness. This being about the third week of DutchNewYork, I realize I’m impatient for results. I can picture you telling me how on-track I actually am. (I am on track, right?)

    Reply

  302. mike says

    Happy Birthday Liz!

    Although I seem to remember you liveblogging the first showing of the “Great Pumpkin”, which seems a bit more than three years ago…

    Mike

    Reply

  303. Patricia says

    do I just stay on the comments section and keep flipping back to my email to read what comes in next? is that how I am here?

    I love popcorn and klondike bars yum too bad I am already in my pjs

    Reply

  304. Becky McCray says

    I raise my glass in happy birthday toast to Liz and the SOB’s!

    So many terrific links in today’s list! My own contribution is the Checklist for starting your first business: http://www.smallbizsurvival.com/2008/03/checklists-for-starting-your-first.html
    or http://is.gd/2ff

    It was a collaboration. My friend Chris asked me some questions about starting a business. When I deluged him with information, he finally asked, “Is there a checklist for all this?” That’s where it started, and it has kicked off a whole series of great things for me.

    Reply

  305. Bean says

    Whew! Made it back to the party in time for the desserts 🙂
    Its great to see the blogging community come together like this. You have been a great catalyst Liz. Kudos to you for starting SOB as a resource, support and source of inspiration

    Reply

  310. ME Liz Strauss says

    Rick
    Of course you’re on track. Don’t you know someone — some one of us — would come along, and well, let you know if you were messing up. I’m delighted that you feel like passing it on.

    Reply

  313. jon says

    Liz, I wasn’t selling myself short. I know, by now, thanks in part to you, that I have plenty of words, some of which are helpful and inspiring. However, there are days when the point isn’t the words. It’s the lives and hugs and smiles and greetings. It is the relationships.

    I was writing about age of conversation 2 tonight and realizing now much that list overlaps with your SOB list. Many of us have met here, or through here, and now there, and still are rooted well in our communities.

    So happy birthday. And thanks. And I hope it’s okay to comment twice. (and of course, I know it is).

    Reply

  321. Shirley Buxton says

    Sorry I’m so late–almost missed the party. Terrible internet connectivity problems.

    Congratulations on your third birthday. I send balloons, I’m wearing a party hat, anticipate a bite of cake, and I have a wonderful present for you.

    –

    A few weeks ago, on my blog, I posed this question: Should children be forced to take piano lessons? Prompting the post was my grandson Nathaniel who is exceptionally musically talented, but who was dragging his heels at studying the piano. I received many interesting comments, but one in particular has seemingly changed Nathaniel’s overall view of his talent and the work that is before him.

    A stranger named Rob of Gallup wrote extensively and inspirationally of the significance of such a musical gift. Rob’s passion for music, his excellent writing, his concern for an eleven-year-old boy who he did not know, and who he probably will never meet touched me deeply, as I believe it did all who read the exchange. Nathaniel’s computer has been down, and although at once I read Rob’s stunning message over the phone to his mother, Rebecca, it was weeks before she could sit with Nathaniel and read Rob’s words on the computer screen. Now the computer is repaired, and yesterday, on my blog, Rebecca communicated with Rob. Today Rob responded.

    My present: I’m sending a link to my original post, where among the comments are Rob’s stirring words. A second present is here: Crestline Happenings
    Thankful and gracious words from Rebecca to Rob, and Rob’s beautiful
    message he sent only today. Their comments begin around comment 9, I
    believe.

    It’s a troubled and ugly world in which we live, we all know that. During such days, it is especially beautiful and encouraging to stumble across someone with such a magnificent spirit as has Rob from Gallup, whom I have never met, and whose face I probably will never see. He, though, is my present to you.

    Sincerely, Liz, I wish you well, and many happy birthdays.

    Shirley Buxton

    Reply

  324. Luke Gedeon says

    Happy Birthday!

    Stats said my top post was Sunday Snippets 2008-03-30 so I checked out, and discovered why it was so popular. It has a bunch of hilarious quotes from friends and family.

    I had completely forgotten about the post and with the boring title I am surprised it did as well as it did. Thanks for tricking me into going back and discovering it.

    Reply

  328. Martin Neumann says

    Hey, am I the lucky Martin at comment #43 – WooHoo 🙂

    It’s my pleasure to accept your prize.

    DING! Thank You!
    DING! Appropriate book, like attracts like
    DING! Now Gimmie, Gimmie, Gimmie 🙂

    Reply

  329. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi Luke!
    Sorry I deleted two duplicate comments so you’re not on your birthday, but you were and I know that. 🙂

    Thank you for coming any friend of my Stetson wearing friend, Dr. Bob has to be the best kind of friend to welcome here.

    I’m delighted you joined us and even more excited that you brought your family stories in the form of that link. 🙂

    Reply

  331. Jenny Mannion says

    Hi Liz,
    Happy belated 3rd! I left a comment yesterday that seems to have vanished into the blogosphere. 😉 I wanted to include a post of a poem I wrote about self/talk and gardening: http://jennymannion.com/healpain/2008/07/weeding-my-thoughts-to-plant-new-seeds/
    It was the first time I shared a poem of such a personal nature on my blog and I was very grateful for the response I received.

    I am so happy for your success — this blog inspires so many (me included) and has a group atmosphere like no others I know. Thank you for your example and passion. I am so excited to check out the SOB blogs and will bookmark the list so I can return again and again!

    Thanks Liz for all you do!
    Gratefully,
    Jenny

    Reply

  333. mark_hayward says

    Hey Liz – happy — HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! Congratulations on all of your well deserved success. 🙂

    My most popular post to date, which is fitting for the occasion, was written a couple of days before my 40th birthday:
    “39 Things I Have Learned As I Prepare to Turn 40” – http://tinyurl.com/5ffasb

    Reply

  334. Danielle says

    Hi Liz, thanks for naming me an SOB and happy birthday!! I can’t think of a specific post that was “successful”, but I’m happy to be here nonetheless!

    Reply

  335. CV says

    Hi Liz- I’m so glad the party’s still going…it took me a long time to get here, but reading all the others gifts has been too fun to pass up.

    May I chime in with my most-significant-to-me post: www. AuthenticOrganizations.com. “Obamas Website Made Me Cry” … it was the first post that I felt confident enough about to send out to all of my professional friends. Hope you like it.
    Happy, happy birthday! cvh

    Reply

  336. Robyn McMaster says

    Liz, I’m a day late, but you are one of the people who encouraged me when I began to blog. That’s so important to a newbie. Since that time, I have passed that encouragement on to many. Thanks for all you do. Happy 3!

    Reply

  337. Scott says

    I’m a day late as well but just wanted to say thanks for all the encouragement and for making me an SOB. It’s good that there are people like you.

    Happy B-Day!

    Reply

  346. JD says

    Lizzie, you are the epitome of creative community building that has enabled many bridges of hope to be build. Hope that some day we can communicate a message as well as you. Thank you for highlighting blackinbusiness during this historic time in our history, A Blackman running for President at the same time as A White woman. Either way history will be difined by a change in the glass barrier at the top. In Feb, I felt Obama was to be our next president, here is a link to this post, http://www.blackinbusiness.org/2008/02/13/it-is-over-not-only-will-obama-be-the-democrat-choice-he-will-be-our-next-president/

    Reply

  348. ME Liz Strauss says

    Hi Jim,
    Thank you. You’re an inspiration in your field. I hold you high.

    Thank you for every minute we’ve had together and all that we will. You understand the power of connecting with head and heart together to make things have meaning. 🙂

    Reply

  349. Donna Jackson says

    Wow what a blog party! So happy to participate as a blog. I know how many comments there are on here because they all arrived in my mailbox via feed!
    Some great new blogs to discover too.
    All the very best Liz and here’s to 30 years of blogging!
    Donna Jackson

    Reply

  350. Monique Attinger says

    Happy Birthday, Liz! I’ve been so busy at nights – have been missing “Open Mic” night… But when I realized that you’ve been doing this for 3 years, I just had to drop by and say, “congrats!”

    Reply

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