Today, I added a Follow button onto this blog (which you can only see if you’re reading it on a computer, rather than a phone or tablet). As its name suggests, other WordPress users can click it if they want to follow the blog and be the first to see a new post when I upload one. Of course, I know and have been told that people both read and enjoy the posts here, meaning that I also know I have an audience, and one that I really enjoy writing for. I once told a friend that, having tried to keep a more conventional notebook diary before, I much prefer being aware that there are other people around to read what I write, who can respond to it in whatever way comes naturally. You either like something or you don’t, so it keeps things interesting not knowing what the reaction to something will be.

However, I can’t be blind to the fact that – as I’m sure I’ve said before – the creative juices occasionally stop flowing. Therefore, the Follow button becomes the titular Frenemy, as next to it you will find a number indicating how many followers the blog has. As I write this, there are 2 followers, Will and Louis (although, come to think of it, I’m pretty sure Will is the only one who reads this, so I effectively have only one). I suspect no blogger would deny wanting as many people as possible to see their writing, so I think that whenever I see that button, in the corner of my eye, it will stir me to make use of the slightest idea or the biggest emotions even when I may doubt them. It will be a motivator – but it will also taunt me, and quietly remind me that every day without material could lose me a reader. I sincerely hope that it has the intended, positive, effect, and that it proves to be a valuable addition to the blog.

Before I sign off, I’d just like to remind you that if there are any questions, compliments or complaints you may have regarding these posts, or any suggestions you would like to make, you can email me at thirdtimeenabled@gmail.com. There are posts carrying this address on my Facebook (Mason Hawker) and Twitter accounts (@HawkerMason) and, if you do decide to use it, I will do my very best to get back to you as soon as possible.

Mason