Thing # 2 - what makes a good blog?

What makes a good blog?
I must say that when I went to both blog sites, I quickly lost interest. My first thought is that most blogs are just a good way to waste a lot of time, and I don't usually just surf the web and areas looking for other peoples comments on something that I might be interested in. I can get the news I need and don't usually needs lots of other peoples comments and opinions.

However, as I thought about it more and the few blogs that I did subscribe to, I realize some very important things they offer. Pages such as Caring Bridge or Care Pages, for people dealing with serious illness/life issues, offer a lifesaving spot for people to post to and update a large number of people at once, along with getting much needed encouragement and feedback. I am thankful that these are available.

How do blogs enhance existing web sites? I also do appreciate people's comments and feedback on products when I am doing online shopping, however I notice that most people that post to these spots have only owned the item they are commenting on less than one month, and often haven't even figured them out yet, so I sometimes question how reliable they are. That, or they will post if/when they have had a very negative experience. It is nice to be able to see if there is a pattern with a certain item, however.

Are blogs an easier way for people to self-publish? I am sure blogs are a real easy way for people to self-publish. Are places like Xanga considered a blog? I know out-of-town family used to appreciate my children's updates on there, it made Grandma and Grandpa feel like a part of the happenings, and up to date. They weren't really happy when Facebook took over and they no longer could read posts. But again most people are not going to be interested in reading all of this. It is easy to self-publish; but you still need to make it relevant to get it read.

There are certain blogs I do enjoy, but again they must be REALLY relevant to me, I doubt I will use blogs much.