Checking into the site this evening, I was delighted to see that £58216.39* has been pledged so far, almost one third of the target  required.  It's also great news that non EU blippers can now contribute and that lots of blippers (now that it looks as though it might just become a reality) are increasing their pledges.  We might just make it!  I see 'we' because this is a genuine attempt at community ownership and I feel very much part of it.

It's hard to explain to someone who does not blip just what this site means, and of course it means different things to different members.  For me, it's partly the discipline of journalling, partly keeping up with friends, both blip-discovered and others - but most of all it gives me wonderful connection with folks all over the world who have opened my eyes.  Where would I be without my daily doze of wild lupins from A Cycling Granny?  Or thought - provoking and beautiful wisdom from Kendall?  Or Admirer's appreciation of nature?  And I would be so, so benefit without Earthdreamer's solitary trees, without regularly scratching behind Gus's ears and viewing Freidaquilter's latest work and my vital daily doze of the Celtic twilight from FreeSpiral,  Wee Flecky, Treshnish...and so many more. Forgive me if I have not mentioned you...

Wrapping presents and making room in the attic for the Hornby while the wind howls outside.  I feel so fortunate in our warm, watertight home, when tonight so many are homeless,  dealing with flooding or living with hunger, disease and terror.  There is a song, a sigh of the weary...

* In the time it took to write this journal entry it had risen by £200!