The imminent end of the year provides the perfect opportunity to look back on the writing you’ve done in the last 12 months – not least if you’ve been writing and publishing on a blog.
If this year is anything like last there’ll no doubt be several round up, look back, and monthly highlights posts being published in the next week or so.
I thought I’d capitalise on this mood of looking back, reflecting, and celebrating what’s been good for a year-end group writing project: Simply The Best.
Here’s how it works:
1. Select the one post from your archive that you think is your best piece of 2008
2. Write a post about it, including the link. UPDATE: The post can be as long as you like.
3. Complete this sentence as part of the post. “This post is simply the best because…”
4. To make it more challenging, the explanation needs to be 30 words or less. [You don't need to count the words 'this post is simply the best because...']
5. When you’re done, link back to this post, and leave a comment please to be doubly sure I get it. [UPDATE: You need to write a post at your own blog to take part. Leave me a comment here to make sure I get it.]
6. Post your contribution by 24th December 2008 [UPDATE: I'll leave this open until the 28th in case any of you are still blogging over Christmas. I'll publish the results on the 30th.]
I’ll then do a round up piece some time before the New Year, including a) the link to your best piece b) the 30 word reason you chose it.
I’m hoping this will allow us to compile a list not just of some of the best articles published on the web in 2008, but an insight into how different bloggers define what is ‘the best’.
If you’ve any questions, please ask away.
UPDATE: Questions so far:
Do I write the post at my own site or share it in the comments?
Write the post at your site. Then tell me you’ve written it in the comments.
Do I need to keep the post to 30 words?
No, the post can be as long as you like. Just complete this sentence using no more than 30 words:
“This post is simply the best because…”
Otherwise, I look forward to reading your entries.
Joanna Young, The Confident Writing Coach
Because our words count
Enjoy plundering the archives…
@ Lori, I know it's a long…
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{ 89 comments… read them below or add one }
Joanna, to me, the challenge is to decide which one is the “best post”, not why I think it is the best, LOL.
pelfs last blog post..A photobook to “immortalize” my memories
Joanna, This contest speaks volumes about your generosity and thoughtfulness. You know why? Because it requires few words. In this busy holiday season, a short writing assignment is most welcome.
Brad Shorrs last blog post..Today Is Cell Abuse Blog Contest Deadline
Oh dear. What a tough question! Will love the challenge, though.
Cheers
It’s a very good contest, Joanna. I don’t know whether I qualify for this contest or not, as I’m not the famous nor top bloggers on internet…
wilsons last blog post..The Best Weight Loss Programs
Joanna, I have just one question. Would you please help me in making a decision on my best post??
Seriously, this looks like an interesting project and makes me think ….
Meghnas last blog post..The Blogging Idol Contest
I love this idea, mainly because it will be interesting to see what writers choose, and, more importantly, why.
As I’ve been thinking what I would choose and why, it has mostly to do with authenticity and voice – letting the real me peek through, taking risks.
I really can’t wait to see what other people post.
Thanks for an incredibly thought-provoking challenge!
I’m with Pelf – the biggest challenge is always picking just one! Usually, it’s “the one I just wrote”!
I’m in! And just so you know… this is a great lead-in to the next Big Event coming at the Middle Zone!
Robert Hruzeks last blog post..What I Learned From a Generous Heart
Oooh, this is TOUGH. Just ONE?? I’m just terrible at picking one favorite anything (author, song, blog post … it doesn’t matter). I’ll give it a try, though…
–Debs last blog post..Domain Question for You Experts
Wow, the 30 word limit challenges our ability to keep it short… Even shorter than we do on Twitter.
Robyn McMasters last blog post..What I Learned from Uncle Earl’s Generosity
Pelf, yep that’s going to be the hardest part for sure!
Brad, thank you so much for that! I was trying to find a project that was as accessible to as many people as possible. It’s not an easy one though…
Nadine, indeed
Look forward to seeing your entry
Wilson, you know I read and re-read the post and I just couldn’t see the bit that said you had to be a famous or top blogger to take part. Am I missing something ?! I look forward to reading your entry
Meghna, sorry girl you’re on your own with this one
I hope you find it an interesting challenge
Dawn, yes, it’s the reasons why that interest me the most too. And although it is hard, I think most of us ‘know’ which of our posts are the really good stuff, and as you point out, that’s often to do with digging deeper to say something important, or letting our real selves show. Thanks.
Robert, in your case I’d say the one you just wrote would be a pretty good contender
Of course people can post links of as many best posts as they like, but I’m only volunteering to share one… I’m glad to be teeing you up nicely for the next Big Thing at the Zone…
–Deb, I’m terrible at ‘best of’s too, mainly because I can never remember anything to choose from. At least with this one we’ve got lovely blog archives to browse…
Robyn, I think 30 words is enough to say something meaningful. It was partly because I didn’t want people who were a bit shy to feel they had to write screeds. Also, I imagine the post will speak for itself, and people can risk diminishing the impact by using too many words to describe it! (Yes, free lesson in simplicity thrown into the project…)
My first writing project Joanna, and what an exciting one! After reviewing my posts I’ve chosen my “very best” and blogged about it here:
http://online-business-woman.com/web-development/877/social-media-efforts-that-involve-readers-work-best/
[Hope you don't mind the site plug as part of the post
]
Roxanne Webers last blog post..Don’t Get Sucked into a Page Views Rut
Here’s mine. I think blogging is all about reader engagements. The more comments, the better the post.
http://www.head2head.ca/blog.php?pl=f95ceac78f0f5b5c0e1e71d8106dcef0
Joanna
A neat writing project… I like it, I’ll try to participate.
Cheers,
-Miguel
Miguel Wickerts last blog post..New Free Report: Roadmap to Become a Blogger
Roxanne, thanks for being the first to take part. I’m glad you decided to jump in to this project – they’re a good way to connect and engage readers (as you say in your post)
Sarah, thank you for jumping in so quickly. I’m interested in your comment about reader engagement and number of comments. I do highlight the most commented posts here, because I think they clearly say ’something’ that connects. But I wouldn’t personally describe them as my best. Will be interesting to see what others say about this point
Miguel, thanks, I hope you get the chance to take part.
Okay, Joanna, my “best of” post is up right here: http://punctualityrules.com/2008/12/07/best-2008/
–Debs last blog post..Domain Question for You Experts
I was halfway done with a comment when the internet gremlin navigated away from the page – grrr!
Joanna, thank you for this gracious project! Not only are you providing a platform for us to share our work with others but guiding us on a journey to celebrate how far we’ve come this year. As we open our archives I know that we will laugh, cringe and perhaps cry (joyfully or in utter horror) at the past year. Most importantly we will realize how much we’ve grown. Thank you Joanna, I look forward to participating!
Karen Swims last blog post..Is It Far Better to Give than Receive?
–Deb, that was quick! Thanks for sharing your best – and lots of other best too
Karen, that sounds like a horrible gremlin! Hope it wasn’t something that my site did…? I’m glad you think the project’s a good idea. I think I’ve read every post of yours in 2008, so I really don’t think there’ll be any cringing going on. Some tears and laughter maybe
Joanna, they were my definitely my gremlins!
Awww, thanks for those kind words! I can hardly believe we really are at year end, what a great year!
Karen Swims last blog post..Is It Far Better to Give than Receive?
Joanna, my entry for this is posted.
http://steves2cents.blogspot.com/2008/12/simply-best-of-2008.html
Thanks very much!
Steve Sherlocks last blog post..Another look at how to define your job
Steve, boy, you guys are all quick! Thanks for taking part – I’ll pop over and check it out later.
Here’s my take on the challenge! Interesting set of parameters you had us work with.
Jennifers last blog post..The Challenge: The Best Post of 2008
Jennifer, thanks for taking part. Great getting to know new blogs like this!
Thanks for the encouragement, Joanna.
However, I’ll only post the entry on this Dec, 19th. It is because that day is my blog’s 1st anniversary…
Hopefully, it can still be counted as one of the entries, Joanna!
wilsons last blog post..The Alternative Way to Reduce High Cholesterol Level!
Joanna,
What a fabulous way to cap 2008 and move into the new year on a positive note!
Now, if I can only find the time to participate! (Think I’ll have to make the time for this one!)
Jeanne
Wilson, that sounds like an excellent plan
Jeanne, I hope so. I figured most of us look back on what we’ve written at this time of year anyway, so it shouldn’t be too much extra work. That was my thinking anyway.
Well, I hate to speak too soon, because often I have every intention of participating and then don’t manage to get around to it. But, hopefully it will be different this time. This sounds like a great project!
Here’s my entry! I’m so excited that I did it-and waaaaay before 12/24!
http://www.writewellme.com/2008/12/simply-the-best-a-group-writing-project.html
Dawn, thank you so much for sharing this. I learn so much about people from these projects and this one is no exception. Your contribution moved me to tears, and it will have been worth running it for this entry alone.
I don’t even know what to say, Joanna. I’ve been holding on to this comment since you submitted it, not knowing how to respond.
I will say that *you’ve* moved *me* to tears, and I’m humbled by your words.
Thank you.
Joanna,
What a wonderful idea, particularly at this time of the year.
If it’s alright by you, I would really love to participate in this. I know I haven’t visited your blog anywhere near as much as I should, but this contest sounds like a lot of fun and I would be delighted to participate if that is Ok.
I will have a think about my entry in the next few days and get back to you with my entry.
Andrews last blog post..Must you pay on time when you’re short on cash?
Dawn, it’s okay, this is one time words aren’t needed.
Andrew, absolutely no problem, you’d be very welcome to participate and I’d be very interested to read what you come up with.
Thanks Joanna,
My entry is as follows:
http://www.goodhonestdollar.com/my-best-blog-post-of-2008
May I assume that its Ok to invite other bloggers to take part even though they are not regular readers of your blog?
Andrews last blog post..My best blog post of 2008
Andrew, thanks for joining in, and yes it’s fine to invite other bloggers. It’s one of the benefits of these projects – it’s a good way to find new blogs and get new readers
Joanna,
it seems that I missed a lot this week – but since friday things have become a lot better, so I really enjoy to join this contest. It will be very difficult for me to pick out “simply the best”, but I will try. And I look forward to read all the other entries. Thanks so much for organising that project!
Ulla Hennigs last blog post..The Gift of Time
Ulla, I’m glad your week picked up, and thaht you will have a bit more time now… including time to take part in this. I look forward to reading your entry.
Joanna,
I just finished the post. I am not quite sure about whether it is the best, but I like that post very much!
Ulla Hennigs last blog post..Simply the Best
Ulla, I doubt there’s any such thing as ‘the best’… a post you like very much is a good reason indeed, and I too greatly enjoyed the post you chose.
Hi Joanna,
I too am done with my submission.
http://meghnaspages.blogspot.com/2008/12/best-post-of-2008.html
Thank you!
Meghnas last blog post..Join – Tweet A Book!
Meghna, I got it, thanks!
Here is my contribution:
http://www.jhsiess.com/2008/12/18/simply-the-best-group-writing-project/
Happy Holidays!
JHSs last blog post..Simply the Best Group Writing Project
Whoops! Forget to leave a comment here. I think. Anyway, the link is at:
http://middlezonemusings.com/my-best-post-from-2008/
JHS, thank you, I’ll go and read it shortly
Robert, no worries, I’ve got yours… it’s a belt and braces job you know.
Joanna, I’ve written a post for this group writing project and here is the link for the post:
http://willyoumind.blogspot.com/2008/12/fast-recap-of-willyoumind-for-2008.html
PS: Today’s my blog first anniversary, Hooray! lol
wilsons last blog post..A Fast Recap Of WillYouMind For 2008!
Wilson, thanks so much for taking part. I enjoyed reading your post. Many many congratulations on your first anniversary!!!
Hi Joanna, this was a tough one but so enjoyable. I took the challenge and I even got it in before the deadline – whoo hoo!
Karen Swims last blog post..Simply the Best?
Hi Joanna,
Hey the post is up. I can’t wait to see what people are going to submit!
George
Tumblemooses last blog post..Simply the best writer’s voice
This post is simply the best because it brings to light an aspect of child abuse not previously known, at least to a large audience.
http://xrl.in/18zw
Graces last blog post..Child predators use double language to thwart "telling"
Karen, thanks for taking part and sharing your best post – I think people will enjoy discovering or re-finding that particular piece of writing.
George, thanks – good choice! I’m sure some visitors here will head over to your blog once they read the intro to your selection
Grace, thanks for the connection here and on Twitter. I have asked people to post their entry on their blogs rather than in comments or tweets… if you don’t manage to I’ll find some way to link to the post in the roundup – there are some other entries who have applied a creative approach to the project guidelines too…
Joanna, thank you for an irresistible challenge! It was good for me to reflect on my year of posts, as well as what worked best for readers. My entry is here: http://is.gd/cKbz
Becky McCrays last blog post..Our best article from 2008
Becky, thanks for joining in. I love your selection, and the explanation of how it came about (not to mention what happened next…)
I have just realized that I have not posted my entry! I saved the draft when I was done writing it because I had wanted to post another blog post that day.
pelfs last blog post..What do plastic bags do to our marine wildlife?
Glad you remembered it Pelf! Thanks for sharing the post, and an insight into such an exciting adventure this year.
Joanna,
This was quite a challenge, but I see you’re getting great response.
My post is up: http://lillieammann.com/2008/12/22/simply-the-best/
Lillie Ammanns last blog post..Simply the Best
Lillie, thanks. A wonderful selection!
Great idea Joanna. I occasionally run group writing projects for bloggers who write about sailing, and have stolen this theme for this month’s project.
My own entry is called Best of the Best (Modestly Speaking) and is at http://propercourse.blogspot.com/2008/12/best-of-best-modestly-speaking.html
tillermans last blog post..Simply The Best
Thanks for your contribution Tillerman – and good luck with your own project
Hi Joanna – here’s my best of 2008:
http://www.terrystarbucker.com/2008/12/22/simply-the-best-post-of-2008-why-i-blog/
Thank YOU so much for your friendship, your advice, your inspiration, and your open heart.
All the best!
Terry
Terry Starbuckers last blog post..What Was the Post That Inspired You? (A Starbucker Survey)
Terry, thanks for much for joining in. I loved your choice. And thank you for those words. I’ll treasure them.
Hi Joanna, I’m brand new to your blog – I recently followed you on Twitter. I enjoyed this exercise very much. Thank you!
http://gaiantarot.typepad.com/artists_journal/2008/12/reviewing-the-year-blog-post-by-blog-post.html
Thank you, friend. A good project.
http://levite.wordpress.com/2008/12/23/simply-the-best-simple-post/
jnswansons last blog post..simply the best simple post
Hello Joanna:
Got the idea to submit a post after I read Brad’s entry.
Thanks so much for putting this together – can’t wait to read the collection!
I chose one of my most recent posts, this one is about storytelling and marketing.
Two links:
post about project
http://barbararozgonyi-wiredprworks.com/2008/12/23/simply-the-best-group-writing-project/
best post
http://barbararozgonyi-wiredprworks.com/2008/12/19/storyteller-marketing-search-engine-strategies-coverage/
Barbara
@wiredprworks on twitter.com
Barbara Rozgonyis last blog post..Small Business Marketing – Online PR or PPC Ads
What a great group project. The hardest work wasn’t writing mine but going back through and trying to pick my favorite. I chose one called “Accept Everything” which is really something I have learned is valuable in my late 30’s. Here is my post for the project:
http://www.postcardsfromthefunnyfarm.com/my-1-post-here-in-2008/
Damien Rileys last blog post..You Can’t Shop for Unique Ideas
Hi Joanna,
here is my selection for this group writing project: My Mother’s Gift
thanks
Judy Haley
Judy Haleys last blog post..Simply the Best
Joanna, thank you Twitter! I’m so glad we connected and thanks for contributing your best post – I loved it
Jon, thank you for finding the time to take part given everything else that’s going on with you. I appreciate it.
Barbara, great! That’s one of the good things about these projects – people get the idea from reading other people’s entries. It’s an effective way for us all to meet new blogs and bloggers. I’ve discovered some real gems. Looking forward to reading yours.
Damien, that was indeed the challenge
Glad you were able to pick a best – I’ll pop over as soon as I can to read your selection
Judy, hello and welcome. Thanks so much for joining in. I look forward to reading your contribution.
I’m jumping on board, Joanna! Here is my post about my best post:
http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/Jimmie/636171/
You do a most excellent job of making every reader welcome — to participate, to comment, to lurk, to glean, to share. I really like that freedom.
Jimmies last blog post..My Best Post of 2008
Damien,
I really enjoyed your selection. I liked the storytelling aspect as well as the message. Very important, especially for those of us (ahem, me) who think we can control everything.
Dawn Goldbergs last blog post..Missing a Necessary Preposition, or Maybe It’s a German Thing
Here is my contribution Joanna:
I really liked saying why in 30 words –
http://bestwellnessconsultant.com/2008/12/24/simply-the-best-post-of-2008-joanna-young-confident-writing.aspx
Mother Earth aka Karen Hanrahans last blog post..Simply The Best Post of 2008
Jimmie, thanks for joining in, and thank you so much for your feedback on what I do here. Your words are a wonderful Christmas gift!
Dawn, you’re one ahead of us – thank you for taking the time to read and comment on other entries. What a group writing project star
Karen, I’m so glad you joined in. Your reasons for choosing and choice of post are both fascinating!
Here is mine: http://luke.gedeon.name/top-posts-of-2008.html
Luke Gedeons last blog post..WordPress Admin Menu on Right Plugin
Oops! I almost forgot to comment. Missed that little bit until my kind husband reminded me! Thanks for letting me participate!
http://tabetha.gedeon.name/favorite-post-of-2008.html
Tabethas last blog post..Unexpected Christmas Tree
Kia ora Joanna
I enter for your challenge, but not for the contest. Many of your participants have described what I found – that it was a difficult choice
Thanks for the opportunity to select from my year’s postings. It puts a focus on what writing is all about for me.
My choice is posted here.
Best wishes
from Middle-earth
Luke, Tabetha, thanks both of you for contributing and spreading the word. Much appreciated.
Ken, hello and thank you. There’s no contest as such – how could anyone possibly choose?! – but I think most of us have been feeling the challenge…
Joanna,
This is a wonderful thing you do. This is the first time I’ve been to your site and joined in. Thank you. Merry Christmas.
Joanna, I am pleased I found your site in time.
Shannon, thanks and hello. I enjoyed your contribution. Hope you’ll be back!
Shaun, hello, thank you. I’m glad you got here in time too. Thanks for contributing to the project.
Thank you so much for this challenge! It’s really made me assess what I’ve written so far!
My entry is here:
http://afterthefirecameagentlewhisper.blogspot.com/2008/12/best-post-of-2008.html
Shannon@After the Fires last blog post..Best Post of 2008
Hi, I’m new here and somehow stumbled across this project. Here’s my entry:
http://astoriedcareer.com/2008/12/simply-the-best-2008-entry-in.html
Here is my entry (barely in time as usual)
http://www.rarst.net/thoughts/best-post-2008/
Thanks for such a fitting for end of year group writing.
Rarsts last blog post..Looking inside media files with MediaInfo
Hi Joanna!
Hope I made it in time!
http://www.directortom.com/director-tom/2008/12/27/my-2008-simply-the-best-post.html
What a great opportunity this is as I was wondering how to wrap the year up.
You answered my question.
Have a great New Year!!
Shannon, I’m glad you found the challenge useful. Thanks for taking part.
Kathy, glad you found the blog and the challenge. I look forward to reading your contribution.
Rarst, beginning, end or bang in the middle… they all count. Thanks
Tom, yes, you made it in time! Thanks for joining in.
Joanna,
Here’s my last-minute entry. (Hopefully I’ve made it.)
Simply The Best Writer’s Notes Post of 2008
It was hard to pick, but I finally decided:
http://www.mixedmetaphor.net/2008/12/28/simply-the-best-2008/
Thanks for including my work in your project.
Jeanne, yes you made it
Jenn, hello, and thanks very much for taking part. I enjoyed getting to know your blog
Thanks everyone for your comments but more importantly for participating! I really enjoyed this project – tuning into your reasons for selecting ‘best posts’ and discovering a whole lot of great blogs to read in 2009.
Karen H – I loved the 30 word summaries too. Amazing how much of a clue those words give us about the writer and their choice
Andrew, you’re right, no prizes, the list is in order of date received. There’s no way anyone could have hoped to judge this kind of selection!
Patricia – maybe you’ll be able to get involved in a future project. I’m sure to be running something or other in 2009…
Jimmie, I didn’t find it first time, but I’ve fixed it now, thanks.
JD, yes, that is a good set of (non) instructions for blogging, isn’t it?
Karen (S), thank you
I’m still singing Tina with you.
Great idea! Although it’s far past the “due date,” I think I’ll have to try this one.
Sugar Jones´s last blog ..The Dish on Food, Inc.
Sugar, good luck with it – let me know when you’re done