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Monday, May 13, 2013

Work The Room

Because my husband had a ball team, we were obligated to attend many parties. Calvin, the typical  Sagittarius, loved a social setting with a lot of sports people. He neither smoked nor drank but looked forward to gathering with the "guys" for rousing sports conversations and I was always left to seek my own party talk.

When we arrived at a party, Calvin would give me a little peck on the cheek (well, it was really along with a pat on the fanny) and say, "Go work the room." Very few women attended sports functions so I soon realized that it was to my advantage to learn how to talk sports with the "guys."  It soon became apparent that a wife could either enhance or hinder her husband's reputation and I chose the first. (A feminist, I am not)

Now I started equating  blogging to "Working the room." Successful bloggers really know how to "Work the room" with their varied gift of gab and the proof is in the blogs that sparkle. Within my  circle of bloggie friends, I'd like to mention some who really know how to "Work The Room."

                     
                            Work The Room Bloggers

The first blogger who comes to mind, and REALLY knows how to  "Work The Room," is Gary, who writes  KLAHANIE  and also posts for Penny, a terrier of modest internet stardom.  He writes meaningful comments to every blogger (not just the one-worders).
Gary can make you laugh, cry or put you in a world of fantasy.

Hilary from Positive Letters....inspirational stories could work 5 rooms with a different subject for each individual. She is a gracious lady who writes of life in UK, history, films, pubs or how to make a pond pudding. Her posts are sometimes spicy, sometimes melancholy, but always entertaining.

Terry who writes My Journey with Candida writes about natural health and any subject that happens to pop into her head. You never know what to expect with Terry but you always get a lively and positive post and she could work a whole bunch of rooms.

Murr writes  her blog, Murrmurrs with a subtle humor that I love. I read one of her sentences and stop for a moment before it hits me........ then I break into laughter and think, OMG, that is the funniest thing I've read. Talk about "Working a room."

The place where I spend most of my time when blog-reading is "It's Rhyme Time," authored by Pat Hatt, writer of children's books. But the blog is actually written by a Cat.  Pat has created a kind of sanctuary home-base, reminiscent of the old TV Cheer's bar, where everyone knows "your name." (As the song says)  Because it feels so much like home, there are conversations within conversations pertaining to Cat's rhymed post or the scramble for #1. Most of the comments are written in rhyme, although not obligatory, words just sorta start rhyming after you visit a few times. "Working a room" is Pat's middle name.

While lurking at Pats, I met some people who are pretty good room-workers in their own right.
Poke the rock tells it exactly like it is, minces no words and expects no less in return. She is also a talented artist who favors illustrating her point with stick people or finger puppets.

Another lurker that I met at Pats is Mail4Rosey. Rosey posts about the adventures of daily life. It's always fun to peep  into the lives of a family and get to know them. She would be a sparkling asset to any room working.

And there is John Debellis, a stand-up comic who writes Another 920 Spot. He writes his one-liners about controversial subjects that often lead to a lively conversation. (I think he likes that)   John would schmooze his way around a room with the best of em.

Then we have the two Susans. Susan Swiderski writes, "I think, therefore, I Yam"  
and her humor knocks my socks of (and my boots). And there is Susan Kane, writer of
"The contemplative cat," who posts illustrious flash fiction.  Put them in a room together.
WOW..... the room will be worked.

Mark Means is another blogger I'd put my money on to work a room and then do a repeat. Mark writes "Left and Write. adding a touch of spice and sparkle to his magnificent writing.

Robin writes "Your daily Dose."   Her blog smacks of humor in her writing of a personal experience, politics, films, songs, you name it.  Here is a Room Worker who will also hold your interest with a torch song as she sits poised upon the grand piano.

Arkansas Patti is author of "The New Sixty"  a blog of humorous stories and I relish every word.
A gal with a colorful past makes delightful reading. Patti would WOW the whole room.

There are many more but a dozen (The Dirty Dozen but I guess it's really a baker's dozen) will be enough room workers for now.  If you have time, I suggest you pay them a visit and watch
them weave their magic.








57 comments:

  1. Lurking at my bay
    At least you admit it with your display
    As the cat helps one and all
    Find others at his hall
    Many used me to search out another sea
    I should charge a fee
    After all Cheers made people pay
    Even if they knew their name on display
    And of course most of them I know
    As the cat hopes to many a show
    And the cat doesn't have a middle name
    Maybe he will add that to his fame
    Work a room
    And with one pass from his little rhyming ass can clear it and cause doom lol

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, I admit to lurking
      And I do a little smirking
      When I read your funny post
      You're the mostess with the most
      I really know you're not a fan
      All reality shows you'd ban
      No one will believe the fun
      At Pat's house, it's real as #1

      Delete
  2. Hahahahaa..... oh my gosh Manzi!! Thank you so much for mentioning me. I had no idea I could work a room. I bet you and I could really work a room together, along with Pat and Gary.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Terry,
      You are a better Room Worker than I. I had to work at learning how to WORK A ROOM.Does that make sense?

      Delete
    2. Manzi,
      I haven't been to a party in so long that I would probably now be the Wall Flower, or maybe the plant in the corner.

      Delete
  3. Thank you for this great post. Some of these bloggers are my friends and I will find the time to check the rest of them out. Looks like we like the same blogs so this should be really fun.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Inger
      There are so many others I would like to have included (you, being one) but I had to stop and begin moving stuff to the storage unit. I think the ranch is sold and I have to get everything out. Oh, dear.

      Delete
  4. I popped over to say good morning and was delighted at the sweet shout out! Many a thanks, and now I'm headed over to visit those I haven't seen before.

    Happy start of the week to you! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Rosey
      Good morning to you and you are welcome.
      Yes, another new week. Hope I get it right this time. LOL

      Delete
  5. Karen
    Thanks and great to see you again.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Hi Manzanita - many many thanks for the shout out - that's really kind ... and yes I probably can natter away about so many things in my British way!

    Really appreciate you including me with some other great bloggers, who I will be checking into ... Mail4Rosy just came past to say hello ..

    You've sold the barn and so are shifting and sorting - yugh - but what a relief when it's done ... good luck with the last of the 'stuff'! Cheers and relax at some stage .. Hilary

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Hilary
      One can store (hide) a lot of stuff in all the ranch buildings. What a job but it will be signed, sealed, delivered to another person come the middle of Jume. Yee Haw
      Hilary, you are wonderful and your posts can work any room. :)

      Delete
  7. Well Golly, what a neat surprise. Thank you so much for the shout out and wow factor. Praise from Caesar is praise indeed. Rats, now I have to try to live up to your review. I have all ready gotten some lovely visitors today. Your descriptions are so tantalizing that I will be doing a lot of visiting myself.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Patti
      Hahaha I didn't mean to put you on the spot. You're always right up there. I know others will appreciate you as I do.

      Delete
  8. awh that was so sweet! I am sure you worked the room!

    Thank you for mentioning me :) So you know while I am here, I had the same thought about poop and dogs as you. If i live in the country side i would get a big dog...they can poop any where they like "Let them poop freely!", city i would opt for a small poop-machine i reckon.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Poke the Roc
      I've said I don't want anything anymore that eats and poops. But, I still have these critters, so be it. Dang.
      Thanks....Kiddo.

      Delete
    2. awh but if they look at you with those puppy eyes, you forget about all the poop, well until ...

      Delete
  9. Wow, thank you very much. You've really paid me quite a compliment, lumping me in with such great folks as Gary, Robin, and Hilary (the folks I know).

    I'm always a bit surprised when someone says they enjoy what I'm doing at my blog, but I always appreciate it!

    Thanks again and glad we've had the chance to connect here in 'bloggyland' :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey Mark,
      You are the writer. I am just a "writer groupie" trying to keep my head above water so I can hang out with the big kids.
      Me too. Happy to be friends. :)

      Delete
  10. Thanks so much for the shout-out! Good golly, looks like I'm in extremely good company, too. (I'll have to pop in on the blogs that are new to me.) Yeah, you nailed it... I confess to being a life-long schmoozer. That, plus being "one of the guys" in most situations, usually smooths the way for having a good time.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Susan
      I've always suspected you would be the all time schmoozer. And when it comes to story telling, you are unstoppable. I can't wait for your book.

      Delete
  11. Some great ones there, especially that cat's

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Holy Ghost Writer
      You said it! It's a fun and comfortable place to hang out. Pat has such a talent.

      Delete
  12. That cracks me up--your husband patting you on the fanny and telling you to work the room! Most of us can get by with making a platter of deviled eggs. I am honored you think I'm a room-worker. I hope there's a pension and benefits. Now off to make some more devilment...salut!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Murr
      I knew what my life would be like when I married Mr. Baseball.....soooo I just enjoyed it.
      A platter of deviled eggs. See, you always manage to crack me up.
      Take care

      Delete
  13. There are a lot of interesting blogs out there to visit.

    I hear you on working a room. It's been part of my job, off and on, through the years. I can work a room with energy and fun but it's not without cost. I always have to take a breather and find a quiet spot to decompress or just break before returning to the room.

    Sia McKye OVER COFFEE

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sia McKye
      Hey, working a room isn't easy. I guess that is why it's called WORK (ing) a room. But I bet you always met some interesting people.

      Delete
  14. Wow, Bea Jay! I am so honored! Thanks for including me in that group of excellent bloggers.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Susan
      You are the writer. As I said to Mark, I'm just a writer groupie, hanging out with the big kids. Haha

      Delete
  15. Yay for such wonderful talented and super creative bloggers working the room!!! What a great expression too! take care
    x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Old Kitty
      They and that includes you, are truly talented and creative. I applaud all of you. :)

      Delete
  16. I will definitely have to pay these guys a visit. I awarded you the sunshine award on my blog.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Murees Dupe
      Thank you, Murees, nice to see you again. I'll have to visit you in a few minutes.

      Delete
  17. Hello! Very nice blog and interesting posts, great atmosphere.
      Have a nice day. :)
    Welcome to our blog about photography. +
    I hope you also enjoy it with us.

    Greetings!

    "Do what you love is not even that, but anyway"

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Patrycja Photography
      Thanks for visiting. You have a very classy looking blog.

      Delete
  18. Dear Manzanita,

    Wow and let's get the party started. My kind friend, your reflection back and your relating to so many folks who, "work the room", epitomises your generous spirit of sharing the wonders of the great blogging community. A community that is so much the better having you here with us in the amazing party.

    I'm most flattered that you would include Penny the Jack Russell dog and modest internet superstar and yes me, her human, amongst those notable people. I do know quite a few of them. The rest I shall go and check out.

    You are a marvel, Manzanita.

    Hugs from Penny and her human, Gary :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gary
      I know you would make a gathering more festive. You have a gift for making people feel comfortable. You and Penny.
      I always think of Mondays as the beginning of something new, a bright new week.
      Hugs back

      Delete
  19. Manazanita, that surely is an impressive list. There are a few on there I have visited before but have not been back in a while and this is a good reminder to pay them a visit. Nice kudos for your bakers dozen!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Chuck
      You must have many stories from your trip. Hope each day away was filled with delight.
      Take care.

      Delete
  20. Work the room?? I think I'll stay home thanks. Nothing worse than trying to make conversation with complete strangers.
    I'll check out those bloggers you've listed though, when I have time.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. River
      yeah, it's a lot of work to "work a room. Thanks for dropping by.

      Delete
  21. Nice shout out to some great bloggers and some new ones for me to check out! Love it!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jasmine
      Good morning as we are well into the 3rd day of this brand new week. Have fun....

      Delete
  22. I didn't realize how many similar blogging friends we have!! I recognized almost every single one of those. I love your rhyming comments over at Pat's haha.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Keith
      Yes, like seems to attract like and we form little communities.
      I like your rhymes too, in fact I sometimes do comment on yours as they seem to always tell the truth. :)

      Delete
  23. Thanks for the shout and Pat sure does have the hopping spot

    ReplyDelete
  24. I love this post because it is very very interesting.Thanks you very much for shearing this article

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for visiting. You have some lovely and interesting clothes on your blog.

      Delete
  25. Dear Manzanita, I already follow several of your "work-the-room" twelve bloggers. But I'm grateful to learn of those that I don't follow because I so enjoy your delight in others.

    Tonight we find out who's going home from the semi-finals of last night. Then next week will be the finals. I'm liking all the contestants and I don't know enough about dance to know which is the best among them. Any thoughts you'd like to share????? Peace.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dee
      Because DWTS is also part popularity in defining the winners the best dancer sometimes does not rise to the top. But that is why the program retains it's high ratings. The fans feel like they have a voice in choosing the winner.
      Both the 16 yr. old and that Kellie are excellent dancers. 16 yr. is still a little gangly and she is very tall and that should balance out in a few years. It is all very interesting.

      Delete
    2. Dear Manzanita, those were the two that I thought might be the best dancers. I so enjoyed the Argentine Flamenco that Kellie and Derek did this past Monday.Seeing the silhouette of them was intriguing. Peace.

      Delete
  26. Nice post! I like how you described Gary and Hilary.I should check the other bloggers, Manzanita. (One more thing: you can enhance your husband's reputation and still be a feminist, lol).

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Julia
      Thanks. In answer to your last sentence, regarding enhancing a husbands reputation and still being a feminist, I'll ask "how?"

      Delete
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    ReplyDelete
  28. Thank you for mentioning me. I have just now realized that you did (thanks to a mention in my comments on my last Thursday post). I left on vacation Monday and have been traveling. Not much Room Working to be done in the car... but I should have plenty of stories AFTER this is all over. You are tops Manzanita... and pretty awesome at Working The Room in person and right here!!!

    ReplyDelete
  29. Robin
    Car traveling can get weary so stop a bit and work a room. Haha Have a wonderful trip.

    ReplyDelete