2 years. That’s a mighty long time. On December 5, 2010, I wrote and published my very first blog post. Nobody knew, even well after it was posted. It was months before I told my EC, and a few friends, because I figured they would think I was stupid. (Add your own joke here.) One of my teenagers only found out about this last week. Mwa-ha-ha.
Here we are, 2 years and a lot of typing later. For those of you who care about these blog stats-type things, there are now over 600 people courageous enough to follow me publicly, and another 1,000 scaredy-cats who follow through Google Reader. The blog has had over 600K views on about 500 posts. All that is really amazing to me. I am grateful for all of you for your stubborn hope that it might, one day, become worth your while.
Here is the statistic that amazed me the most: 10,000 comments. 10K? There are only around 6,600 verses in the Book of Mormon! I have have read every single comment. And those that that posted made it through the rigorous screening process. OK, it isn’t that rigorous, because about 99.5% get though. (Some of my very favorite comments never see the light of day, but I will dangle that as fodder for a future post.) Some of the comments are full of wisdom, some full of snark, and other’s just plain confusing – but I enjoy them all. I also appreciate the occasional discussion that either gets very profound – or completely goes off the rails. You never know which way it will run.
When I started blogging, the goal was to entertain myself, and give me an outlet to write and or vent. I had no idea that an actual community of like-minded friends would join me in this nefarious plot to take over the world adventure. Who knew! While it is true that most of you don’t know who I am, I will confess that you know me better than you think you do.
I am mildly surprised that I have had 500 posts worth of stuff to write about – I am a man of many opinions and ideas. I only hope that at least 6% have been worth your time. What’s next? 7%? Where does MMM go from here? I have no idea! If you have any suggestions, let me know.
Thank you all for reading, and contributing, and for being my friends. You guys are the bestest readers a serious-minded anonymous middle-aged LDS blogger could ever hope for. I also love the fact that so many of you live in far-off lands. It reminds me that the Church is definitely world-wide.
This blog is a “happy place” for me, and I hope it is for you, too. Even you – “anonymous anti-Mormon grenade thrower” – especially you.
Leading to the…
As my tiny way of thanking you, I am giving away 5 copies of my new book. Failed Family Mottos.
What do you have to do? Not much. Just comment on today’s post. That’s it. I will randomly select 5 commenters at the end of the day and send them a book just for showing up. (Note: Just because I am not judging on quality does not give you license to comment with lame-o comments like “Comment” or “Pick Me.”) International readers are included.
Please use your comments wisely. Tell me what you like about the blog, what you dislike, what you think I shouldn’t do, what you think I should do next, how much you hate pictures with Santa and the manger, etc. (No profanity please.)
If you don’t win, you still have time to buy the book and get it before Christmas. Here is the link:
You can still get Reverence Plates in time, too. So much joy to spread around!
Good luck!
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Happy Birthday MMM from your non LDS follower. You have brightened my days, made me laugh and taught me many things. Long may you continue.
I love the blog, I look forward to your perspective! Congratulations on your anniversary!!!
Hey…two years is great!!! I found your blog because someone pinned it on pinterest and I found your post about the “table” and children who act up in church. My husband and I are trying to adopt ánd parenting tips are something we read avidly. My husband intends to follow your example when we are blessed. He also thinks that it is dads job to corral the kids during church!! We would greatly enjoy your book!!
Congratulations! And to think, I was there from (just about) day 1.I still remember you as a young sapling, asking questions about how to gain readers. Well looks like you made it, kid! I couldn’t be more proud. (Not sure what I mean by “made it”)
Some day I shall rejoin you in Blogdom. In the meantime, you can follow me on Twitter. Glad you are carrying the torch!
THE WINNERS HAVE BEEN SELECTED AND WILL BE ANNOUNCED TOMORROW.
Thank you for playing!
I really like the I didn’t (want to) know that posts. I think one about modesty would be good (your views as a previous bishop, a current father of daughter(s), a male, and the father of boys)
Hi MMM! I absolutely LOVE your blog! My husband is always asking me what I am laughing about when I am reading your blog! I love your sense of humor, and I love your thoughts and discussions of Gospel principles. It’s refreshing to find a blog that is both funny AND smart. After a long day of work I can sit back and enjoy reading a blog that lifts my spirits, makes me laugh, and encourages me to learn and grow. Thanks for the inspiration and entertainment!
OK, I’m a little envious. I’ve been blogging three times as long as you have: 1,181 posts; 60,169 visits; 71,756 page views; 8 followers, although 29 people visit on an average day, reading an average of 33 pages among them. (There are lies, d*** lies, and statistics, according to one of my professors, back in the day.) I found you through my friend Robi. I like the male, been-a-bishop, love-my-wife perspective. I love having things to “chew” on while I’m knitting or driving. Sometimes I discuss your posts with Beloved.
I will come out of the closet as one of the 1000 or so scaredy-cats who follow you on google reader. I’ve even facebook stalked you after convincing myself you were my institute teacher. But after realizing you live in Utah and the blog post about not marking your scriptures I quickly realized you are not (he repeatedly tells us that unmarked pages are a sign of non-insightful reading.)
I enjoy reading your blogs, usually. I’ll admit some blogs I skip over, like Stripped of Pride. Others like Custom Tinting, Uchdorf’s Hammer, The WofW, and I didn’t (want to) know that I log away so that I can refer back to them. Several of your blogs ad a refreshing insight into the gospel and I really appreciate that. The blogs that seriously discuss gospel topics are the reason I keep coming back. I feel like there is a lot I don’t know or understand but the gospel is designed so that when we are ready we learn. Reading your blog has helped inspire me to start my own. I hope it is a place where I can explore gospel topics and receive (or give) insight from others. I’m not ready to share it with the world quiet yet, so if you’ve gone looking for it you won’t find it… yet 😉
I don’t live in Utah…
Thanks!
Really?! … now I’m going to be up all night.
I love your blog. So many things to think about an act on. One of my favorite posts was Beyond the Crickets. I’m not a fan of ‘thank-a-monies’, but I love testimonies!
My smiling face is now public on your list. I’m pretty much a nobody, but if being there boosts your ego, I’m happy to oblige! I’ve been getting your posts via email for a few months now. They often brighten my day or send my mind down and unexplored path. Thanks!
My best Internet discovery of 2011–Middle-Aged Mormon Man! Thank you for your wit and wisdom.
I honestly can’t remember how I stumbled upon your blog because most of the blogs I follow are horse-related…go figure. However, finding a blog written by member of our church interested me. Yours is laugh-out-loud funny…and sometimes totally serious. I love the mix. I also love stories about your family. Please continue! (I also like the “where’s waldo” aspect of your header.
I love your blog because you are soo clever. I laugh out loud at times. Then in the same post there’s something that makes me,think differently about a topic. Loved the post about not drinking hot chocolate or about Friday night being prime rib night in the temple. So funny and so thoughtful!! Love it!!
“I love the church, I love buffalo wings. One matters.” I love how that pretty much sums up your blog and your thoughts. I can always count on a good conversation with my kids after one of your posts. We look forward to your perspective. Thank you for sharing them with us and for the time that you out into this hobby of yours.
I don’t know what I’m more excited about, the possibility of winning the book or hoping that if I win and you delievered it in person! I really love your blog. I’ve learned a lot and always look forward to your posts! Happy second birthday! You should call Ben and Jerry over to celebrate.
I love your sense of humor. I love that you love your wife, and talk about it. It is rare to hear/read that. I often tell my husband about the things you write about and have sent copies of some of your posts to my son on a mission. Keep the posts coming!
I found your blog when I googled “priesthood” to help my son with a talk and was taken to your blog about the dollar store Bible face cards. I’ve been reading every blog since, even though I’m not a registered “follower.” I even went back to read all the previous ones. Your blog and my niece’s are the two that I always read. Thank you for the pleasure.
I’d buy your book, but my husband hasn’t had a paycheck in over a year, and we don’t have money for extras. (Does that improve my chances?) 🙂
Does it cause anyone else concern that you can Google “Priesthood” and get my blog? SOmehow that worries me a little.
I like how blunt you are.
Congrats on the milestone…hope you keep the posts coming!
OOH, Larkin! Very Sneaky! Well Played! 🙂
Here’s to many more years.
I do love your blog, and there is very little I would change about it. The one thing that I think could make it even better would be even more personal stories! I love them, and you seem to have a very interesting life. 🙂
Well here I am, late as usual. Seriously, you already have 115 comments! Thats astounding but certainly not a surprise as the comments so aptly reveal. I couldn’t take your FB spots but your blog is a whole different animal…which reminds me, did you choose that unicorn because of the discovery the Chinese made?? Heartfelt Congratulations.
Facebook is recess. The blog is school.
Congratulations!
It took me a lot longer than 2 years to get to 500 posts and 10,000 comments.
What I love about your blog is your ability to blend humor with seriousness….is that a word? I’ve enjoyed your posts and don’t think you have to change–just keep in the way it is 🙂
The main thing is I really enjoy the man’s perspective on Gospel related subjects…and you are funny…that’s pretty much it… Your EC has to be an angel….:)
My EC, an angel? You have no idea….
I’m a relatively newer follower but have enjoyed your blog from the first read. Your post on anger really hit home for me. I must have glazed over or through the conference talks you posted (good chance to go re-read them!) because it wasn’t until your post that I got it. I’m the mom of 2 small kids with more to come and I found that I would get angry/yell more than I wanted and at the end of the day I’d realize how far I was from the calm mom I wanted to be. It was depressing because I felt there wasn’t anything I could do. Your post help me put it in perspective and although I’m far from perfect in this…I’m working my way there.
Happy Blog Birthday! Wow your two? I’m not exactly certain how long I’ve been following your blog, maybe about a year. For some reason I thought you’d been blogging longer. I appreciate your blog, it’s fun. Your face book page brings me back to Jr. High and I never in a million years would have imagined that something could do that, it is even complete with a “nemesis” for moi, a hater who hates for some reason unknown to me, just like in Jr. High! I think that your blog is awesome, you have interesting insights and your offering people a place to see the Gospel and Gospel principles through your eyes, it really is cool! So cheers to many more blog birthdays!
Ooo pick me!
Ha, ha. Just kidding (but not really, pick me). The first time I discovered your blog (off pinterest maybe?), I sat there and laughed at it all night. Finally, at midnight, when I accidentally started laughing out loud, my husband had to come check it out, as well. We love any of your altered art, so to say- failed family mottos, the nephi, etc.
I just want to say Thank You, for inspiring me, for making me think, for sharing thoughts I would otherwise never had had. Thank You for being serious about important things and for laughing at the world and poking fun at the stupid things. And Thank you most of all for making me laugh. Thank You for being a light in my life and giving hope to my heart. I know I can be a snarky grammar snob with the best of them (read: you & et al.) but really, truly, from the bottom of my heart, Thank You. I’m glad I found you. (Also, I hope Mrs. MMM is feeling happier and more hopeful today. She is so very loved by us, because of you. And we care deeply for you both (and your FOMLs).)
I think you just wanted to see how many comments you could get. BUT I do enjoy your witty posts and I love to see your interaction with Mike. I thought this blog was his when I first read it, now it’s just double the fun.
I will leave it up to Mike to interpret your comment as praise, or insult.
I like your posts because they poke fun at “Mormon Culture,” while actually spreading the Gospel. Thank you for that.
Sheesh, it took me like 5 whole minutes to scroll to the bottom so I could comment! Must be a give-away post.
I would like to read your thoughts on modesty in children. Or modesty in general.
5 minutes? You need a faster computer.
Too true. Care to chip in?
I love reading your plog posts. They are funny and insightful, sometimes both at the same time. I even changed my internet program so I could comment on your posts. Keep on blogging MMM, and we’ll keep on reading. Congrats on 2 years.
I was at a book group last week and one person said, “Have you ever heard of the Middle-Aged Mormon Man?” I went slightly hysterical with joy (might have frightened her). A likie-minded soul. 🙂
Thanks for the opportunity. I’m a new follower that enjoys your humor and yet your seriousness of sacred things. That’s a hard balance… probably a talent.
I’m fairly new to your blog, so I want to ask, have you ever done a post about non-scripture “scriptures” like “I never said it would be easy…” and “moderation in all things?”
Just want to know.
Now we know who is paying attention – or not.
http://middle-agedmormonman.blogspot.com/2011/03/misquoting-savior.html
Thanks!
I’m paying attention NOW, but I wasn’t in March 2011. I knew YOU would know if you had written on it or not.
As for moderation in all things: http://mormonmatters.org/2009/09/25/moderation-in-all-things-a-poll/
Oh, and congrats on your 2nd year, your gazillions of followers and bajillions of comments.
I’m commenting for the book; I admit it. Of course, I’ve already ordered one, so if I win, I can use one to prop up the coffee table… 😉
Happy Blogday? Something like that.
I have no idea how I stumbled on your blog, but I’m glad I did…it might have been around the time of the revernce posts.
We’ve got 5 HARD kids (all single births and all in less than 7 years) that came with excessive amounts of energy and a couple have chronic and ongoing mild developmental delays. It’s hard and exhausting. I hold firm to the notion that I was punk’d by the Young Women lessons that never mention kids come with kinks and problems even if you get married in the Temple and stay strong and make good choices; I’m especially irritated that those lessons never mentioned how cruelly other members of the church will judge your parenting of said kids. With that being said, we’re working really hard to raise kids with strong testimonies and to be full contributing members of society. I’d already taken all food out of church when I found the revernce posts and liked the idea of taking the rest away. We broke it to the kids and took the plunge. There has been TONS of reverent practice at home after church since then, but it’s decreasing. They now ask when it will be time for the Sacrament not when it will be time for the junk we brought along. The 2 year old is allowed one 4″ doll in her hand, nothing else comes along. They’re slowly coming around…we will triumph! The oldest actually asked a question about the talk being giving one Sunday…even more impressive if you knew the horrendous journey parenting that sweet one has been. Loading for church is SO muvh easier too…diapers, wipes, bottle for the baby, blanket for baby and done…seriously streamlined.
More recently I’ve enjoyed the posts on getting youth ready for missions at a younger age, our first 3 are boys. We’ve made a couple more changes since the age was lowered in an effort to make sure they’re ready.
Rather than a reverence plate we have a “striped plate” that can be earned for extra good behavior in addition to revernce. It works and was only a buck on clearance.
Love the posts…even when my sweet husband makes fun of me for reading strangers’ blogs. 🙂
Happy Blogiversary, MMM! Keep the posts coming. Honestly, your blog makes me think and has ultimately helped me be a better person. So I guess your blog has changed my life (and not like how my sweater changed Mike’s life). Oh, and my secret identity on your blog says “hi.” Does that count for 2 entries?
No.
I have enjoyed reading your blog for several months now. Your posts help me see life from a different perspective and usually brighten my day. I have even found myself laughing out loud (non lol) a few times. Thanks for the laughs and the insights!! Carry on carrying on!
I think I have been following you for about a year now. It has definitely been awhile. I think my favorite post that you have done was about the taking the gospel to the belly of the beast with how the church bought ad space in the Book of Mormon broadway play bill and you made up your own advertisements. I had to show my husband and we laughed for a long time.
Way to troll for comments! Holding a giveaway is almost as good as talking about David Archuleta.
Congratulations on the two-year anniversary! I’ve been reading since near the beginning, and I’m happy to see that you’ve managed to keep it funny, entertaining, thought-provoking, and relevant all this time.
(Breaks into a virtual rendition of “Thanks for the Memories”)
I’m looking forward to the next two years!
I like your blog the way it is because you don’t take yourself too seriously!
I am late on the commenting but I will anyway. I don’t really think there is anything you should or need to change about your blog. I am glad I found it and though I do delight in your humor I very much appreciate the spiritual insights you often share. They are always thought provoking for me and thinking of gospel things is definitely something I can stand to do more. Thank you for your blog and for sharing freely. That’s the great thing about a personal blog, you get to say what you want about what you want. It’s all yours and if someone doesn’t like it they don’t have to read it. Keep up the good work MMM. It’s nice to read good things and the humor is always a nice bonus!
I have been reading your blog ever since you mentioned my friend’s mom, Liz Owens on her birthday. I enjoy the insights, but really enjoy the humor. I also enjoy the fact that I may or may not eventually find out that I know you. I think I am one of your public and google reader followers too. If you know who I am, I hope you enjoy the fact that you have me, and the Owens family totally stumped. I have yet to launch an investigation, so I guess you’re safe for now. 🙂
After mocking my comment count, your odds are now much, much lower than 1:17.
My EC introduced me to your blog, and it’s been a great ride ever since. Congratulations on completing two years! I’ve had a lot of fun reading and learning from you, and sharing some snarky comments on the side. 🙂
Having followed your blog for a while and knowing how few comments you normally get, I thought my odds were pretty good to be picked as one of the 5. Then I scroll down and find there are 80 comments. Wow! So much for the odds being ever in my favor.
I totally want a book for my husband for Christmas. I love reading you, MMM, and my husband has recently discovered you as well. In fact, when he comes home, he asks me if I read MMM’s new post, and, of course, I have. We frequently quote your blog, although not quite as much as we quote Nacho Libre, but it’s getting there. Our favorite quote to throw around is “Repent you jerks.” I am super thankful that you write stuff, so that I can read it. Your reverence posts have changed my life, and you introduced me to the fluffernutter. For that I will be eternally grateful. I hope that, instead of picking randomly, you pick us, because my family would love a MMM book (that maybe said, “Jaren and Kristin, Repent you jerks. -MMM” as sort of a gentle reminder), but we can’t afford $8+shipping, because we’re poor. Thanks, MMM, for all you do!
P.S. Miracle whip and black licorice are disgusting.
That is some VERY effective begging!
Well, I’m a youngest child. What can I say? At least it’s sincere!
Did I mention that I quote you at church at least twice a month? Most recently the long-toed saints. I mean, come on people, how can I serve if you won’t let me? Pride, guys, pride.
P.S. You said “effective.” Does that mean you picked us?!
80 comments??? Seriously??? This must now be your most commented on post. You should give more stuff away!! (wink) I love your blog MMM. It is fun, witty, intelligent, spiritual (with some serious humor about our culture). I really, deeply appreciate how “on-it” you are in the doctrine department. I live in a non “on-it” doctrinal area. It is so refreshing to remember that the gospel is true, even though our ward/stake culture may struggle. It gives me hope for the future and the determination to keep afloat (and bailing, as may be necessary here). Thanks for the laughs, the thoughts, the encouragement. I only hope someday my readership will be similar to yours, though since I am not anonymous, and have to censer what I say, I seriously doubt I will get that big. I’ll just have to be content to blog in my own little sphere! Happy posting!
80? P-shaw. 80 is nothing. If I offend enough people, we immediately vault into the 100+ range.
Thanks for the middle-aged Mormon wisdom. Our family is much more reverent in Sacrament meeting because of your writing.
Seriously getting people to tell you how much they like you by bribing them with a book?? How shallow can you be? Ok I’m in. I really like your blog and the facebook discussions although I always think in the back of my mind that you are some weirdo who has amassed a huge following just to do us in.
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Your Blog was a gift from my Ex-wife, as she introduced me to you earlier this year. I truly wish I would have found it sooner. Thank you for your humor, your insight, and the light you bring. Your essay’s on anger touched me deeply, and were life changing. Thank you MMM.
I’m glad someone pinned one of your posts on Pinterest! I’ve enjoyed reading your posts and a lot of them have been very thought provoking! Thanks!
I’m glad I found your blog. It’s quite entertaining and often very profound. Keep up the good work!
Since you are calling two middle aged I have tried to find as much wit and wisdom in my two year old as I find in you. So far today his wisdom consists of many questions of “why” and his wit has announced that Santa only brings peaches and potatoes.
I’m sure there’s an inspiring post in his questioning why, not so much in the peaches and potatoes.
Since you are calling two middle aged I have tried to find as much wit and wisdom in my two year old as I find in you. So far today his wisdom consists of many questions of “why” and his wit has announced that Santa only brings peaches and potatoes.
I’m sure there’s an inspiring post in his questioning why, not so much in the peaches and potatoes.
Hello Mr MMM!
I found your blog about a month ago, or so, …ish, and have been a follower ever since. I regularly read your posts aloud to my husband, and appreciate your opinion, regardless if I agree, or not (although I tend to agree more often than not). You seem to have the ability to reach into my mind and drag out thoughts I wasn’t even sure I had yet. I’m your friend on FB and interact frequently and proudly. One thing I’ve taken from your blog is “Saying Grace” I felt the same way, “nourishandstrengthenourbodies” type word. Anyways. I just wanted to take the time to say “I value your opinion, appreciate your willingness, and ability, to put your feelings out here in the world of the internet, and thanks for all you do.
Congrats on the 2 year milestone, and here’s to many more MMM!
So I originally found your blog through a link in the LDS Employee Yammer feed about 6 months ago. Since then I’ve habitually shared most of your posts on FB and back into Yammer. “I killed Testimony Meeting!” was great, so was the “F and S word” and I’m sure *next* general conference you’ll be quoted…. more likely it will be words that you have used; though not in the order you used them. By the way, I’m also thankful I do not feel the need to prove why I am right and the church is wrong.
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This was a perfectly good comment, and I don’t know why it was removed by the author.
What originally brought me here was your posts on teaching young children to be reverent during sacrament meeting. Sure I don’t have an children yet, but I’ve noticed some very disruptive children and wanted to be prepared for my own. The thing that hooked me was the quote you used by President Packer saying that fathers should take the responsibility of taking their children out of sacrament meeting. I realized then that you had a foundation in the truth and you tried to build off that. I enjoy your many posts and hope that you keep it up!
I actually DON’T hate pictures of Santa at the manger. It’s a simple expression of how the priority at Christmas SHOULD be. Also, Saint Nick and I share the same birthday, so I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for him. So there. I don’t care if you don’t pick me for disagreeing with you either.
If you don’t care, then it’s no fun. Santa-freak.
Yup and proud of it! 🙂
OK, I’ve moved from the dark into the light…I thought I was “following” you by using Google Reader, but to no avail. I do enjoy your posts, though, and often send them on to my own EC and various of my five FOMLs (and their SOs). The conversations that follow are often humorous, occasionally profound, and always worthwhile. Thanks for that!
I don’t remember how I found your blog.
But I love reading it! You’re snarky, very straightforward, and funny, but you know when to be serious. In a lot of ways, we have very little in common, which I think is why I like to read your blog. Gives me alternate perspectives.
oh, I thought that book was a joke when you first posted about it. Never can tell with your humor.
and ‘scaredy-cat’ google reader follower? nope. just lazy. google reader is how I roll. at least I don’t comment anonymously.
Yeah – I don;t get why people would bother to put stuff on line if they don’t have the courage to reveal their real names. Cowards.
I am one of the Google Readers not because I wish to remain anonymously, but because I prefer to receive updates in my email.
FYI – I am now a public follow. I will shout it from the mountain. Love your thoughts. It is so refreshing to have the internet used for good! Keep being a voice for good. 🙂
Hello, I don’t “follow” I stalk. But not in a creepy way, I’m LDS and I think they frown on stalking in a creepy way. I love your blog. I love the fact that you counted down to the end of the plague!! I never saw one movie, or read one book. But I did judge and frown upon all the people who did. I (mostly) repented. The only thing I wish you would change is your opinion on facebook. Don’t hate, but I think it is an abomonation:) otherwise you are perfection. Hugs. Jess
Jess: You are obviously hanging around the wrong sort of Facebook friends. COme play with us.
What if nobody “likes” me. Laugh out loud.
Congrats! It has been so fun watching you grow and also your NUMBERS grow! That is some serious popularity, my friend. Glad I could be among those fans! Happy Birthday! If only I KNEW WHERE YOU LIVED, you know I would totally make a delish cake and bring it over – candles and all! 😉
That could be arranged.
Happy Anniversary! Now your blog is a toddler… greeeeaaaat. These next two years ought to be loads of fun. 😉
Snarky comment aside… I do want to say thank you, your blog is one of my favorites. 🙂
I do hate how Christmas means Santa and a tree and Jingle Bells and Deck the Halls on any tv show or network that dares even mention Christmas. It’s a religious Holiday! Not Thanksgiving or Veterans Day. And I don’t know of any Church of Santa.
Hater.
there is totally a church of Santa of course it is actually a Church building for the Greek orthodox church.
So glad I found your blog through a friend of mine. Thanks for making my day bright (most of the time). Maybe you should give your books to those outside the mountain west…like Oklahoma maybe?! 🙂
Isn’t that where the wind comes sweepin’ down the plain?
I follow you on FB and your blog. I’ve shared your wisdom and humor with my 18yos and we laugh together! Thanks for writing!
I found you last year via Jocelyn’s blog and I’ve been an avid reader ever since. My EC is now a fan of yours, too – he has taken some of your recent posts about preparing the youth to his stake YM meetings. I’ve printed & sent a few of your posts to my two missionary sons, as well. We’re all MMM fans around here! 😀 Thanks for the great perspectives and humor.
I eagerly await new posts on your blog. I am a follower and actively share your posts with others. I plan to use your post about the trust bank later this week in my seminary lesson. I think that particular post is one of my favorites and has been used in my family as well as my husband’s YM’s class. Keep up the great insights!
I follow you on FB and your blog. I’ve shared your wisdom and humor with my 18yos and we laugh together! Thanks for writing!
I’m amazed you have 30+ comments by 10AM EST. That’s the true miracle. That’s a good indicator of someone who engages with people’s minds. Anyone can write a blog, but to have so many comments, that is great. What can you do now? I think you should guest post on my blog. I might think of changing the name of my blog after you. Maybe something like, “Early Thirties Mormon Man”.
http://www.bensopinion.com
Hhhhappy Birthday (said in a Gus Gus voice). My dad led me to your blog. You should feel special because he reads your blog, but not mine 😛 I only have one reader anyway. Go me and I’ve been blogging a lot longer than you. I guess it’s because I’m not witty or funny enough.
Thanks for the laughs.
I found the blog probably in May, I don’t remember how I found it, but yours is the only one I follow now. Not sure what that says about me. Anyway, I think that you should continue with how things are going. Maybe the 5 lucky winners could get a pic of your face as well.
My birthday is next week–12/12/12 to be exact. I think that calls for being picked to get a free book.
So grateful you’re out there and can articulately, insightfully, and humorously express what so many of us think, but don’t say. It’s been fun to share posts and see some of my friends and relatives later commenting and liking – I’m a dealer, I guess. And a bishopric member recently handed out your post about talking with kids about what they learn at church in our “Come Follow Me” parent orientation.
I vividly remember the first time I read your blog. I thought it was so profound and witty… then the next I read I laughed hysterically. I hope I’ve contributed to your followers from my almost incessant reposting of your blog on facebook. Keep doing what you’re doing and I’ll still be around.
Real life experience, presented in a way we can all relate, that is what I like about your blog. You make me laugh!
Your blog is a “happy place” for me as well. Although I am a registered follower I will admit I fall closer to being a visitor, only because since the last two general conferences, I feel guilty spending so much time in front of these technical electronic devices. It’s a good thing you have such inspirational messages so I know I am not always wasting my time. My suggestion: keep on writing, just keep writing….
pick me Bishop
I am not a ‘follower’on your blog, nor do I use google reader (I don’t use any kind of reader) I just use the old fashioned way of going to your actual blog site every day to see what you have to say. I enjoy your blog. I enjoy the things you write about. You give me stuff to think about (and agree with). I like talking about your posts with my husband. I have shared posts with my own FOML’s. I didn’t find you at the very beginning, but I think I have been reading for most of these two years.
I do not have a picture (or figurine) of Santa and the manger in my home. Uggh.
I read your failed family mottos to my family so we can laugh together.
Thanks.
You’re Two! Congratulations! Love reading your blog and FB posts. They make me think and laugh. I always come away enjoying what I have read and energized for the day…along with my Dt. Mountain Dew.
Keep it coming!
December 21st is coming up. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the end of the world! Thanks for the fun and inspiring peak into your brain.
I started following you somewhere between 50-100 posts. I don’t follow many blogs regularly because I find what I need in yours. A gospel message, some humor but mostly a way to link the two that I never saw coming. Contgrats on the birthday, you don’t look a day over 1.
Linda: This specific comment is way more important to me than you think it is. Thank you.
I am one of those lurkers who reads and never posts. Why? because I read at work and don’t like to let people know that I do. I could not pass up on the opportunity to win though so here I post the much needed comment.
Random is what I am all about. So random drawings of names are good for me.
Congratulations (and I would follow publically but then I would just be that silly number 601)
If it helps, I’ve been blogging for six years and I don’t have anywhere NEAR the following you have. But that’s because your posts are good. The End.
Actually, it’s true that your blog is great. I agree with 99.9% of everything you write, and it’s usually only food choices I disagree with (ha!). But I am concerned about how much time you spend on Facebook. (Says the girl who spends too much time on Facebook…)
I employ a team of writers to manage my Facebook comments. No human could spend that much time on Facebook and still have a family and a career.
I wondered about that.
I have been reading your blog for a while now, thanks to a mutual friend who mentioned it. I LOVE it. I find myself agreeing with you the majority of the time, and you have a way of expressing how I feel so well. As a matter of fact, I have referred a few of my teenagers to your blog to get clarity on a few issues that I haven’t been able to get across. You are able to approach things without being a “stuffy parent”, as I was called yesterday. And it’s great for my children to see that it isn’t just me who feels this way, which makes me seem more legitimate. 🙂 Thanks for that!
Happy birthday, MMM! I honestly can’t remember how I found your blog but I’ve been a fan since that day. I love that you try to present a balanced (or in some posts, off-balanced) perspective of our faith and the world and include snark and Twilight bashing.
Tom, that shows up as a mobile… aren’t you supposed to be working? 😉
MMM-
I wanted to say that I stumbled upon you through my sister in law on Facebook. I read your blog, enjoyed your posts, got along fine sharing occasional thoughts with my husband until he got so intrigued he started posting comments with me typing and then started commenting all on his own… (all grown up and saving China… *sniff*)
Anyway, thank you for your thoughts as well as your snarkiness. Most of the time you remind us of, well, us.
Just a few years older.
Tabitha
Tom: Busted
Tabitha: Thanks!
http://m.youtube.com/#/watch?v=CIcHXgY0KKo
Sorry, couldn’t resist the temptation
Tom
MMM, you are awesomeness. I have been blogging for…well, more years than 2, but my best intentions of writing every day are at a mere 209 posts.
I sometimes wonder if some of your posts would be as bold if you weren’t anonymous (Twilight hater :)), but I like that your writings inspire me, make me laugh, and bring people together.
Congratulations on 2 years!
Nah. I’m equally bold in real life. Especially about particular vampire movies.
I appreciate your perspectives and thoughts. Hope you continue many more years.
I love your blog. I quote you to my husband, who says, “Is that your Mormon friend?” Guess we are friends!
I think you are Mike Henneke and like to think of witty retorts to your own witty retorts. Multiple personality disorder?? Maybe.
All kidding aside, thanks for making me think and for thinking a lot like I do.
If I were MIke Henneke, I would be shorter, and have less hair.
It’s not so bad being short. It helps Tom Cruise feel better about himself.
Actually I only appear to be short on Facebook. When in reality, I’m just decrepit.
I have been following you for probably about a year, and I have to say that your perspectives on things have really made me think about my own ideas. Your posts on some days have helped me just get through the day, and made me think outside the box that I put myself in. I have shared your site with my husband and my family and I know of a couple of people that enjoy your blog immensely. Thank your for taking time out of your day to post things that really matter.
Way to go MMM, and happy blogaversary!
When I first started reading your blog and became your Facebook Friend, I thought that perhaps I was you. You state so well my own thoughts, and those that were not mine became so with a little thought. There are a few differences: I have four children, I am not nearly as funny, I could not pick out a tune on a guitar, I’ve never tasted Mountain Dew. The differences did not bother me–Easy to chalk up to split personality. But then you wrote about speaking four languages. No way a split personality could do that, thus I am not you (which may be a relief for you). Happy Birthday. Thanks for helping us think about what we believe and very often laugh out loud.
Well, I was never one to turn down an opportunity to win some free stuff! And honestly, one of my comments was removed by you (on the post about Atticus Finch & To Kill A Mockingbird) and to this day I have no idea why. Oh well, at least it doesn’t keep me up at night. 😉
I don’t remember why if I deleted it or it was just a glitch. I’m sure if I deleted it, it was because it was wildly inappropriate for a family blog.
Congratulations on this great milestone! I’m trying to remember how long ago it was that I discovered your blog. It was a good find. 🙂 I hope you’re blogging 20 more years.
I’ve enjoyed many of your posts, scratched my head at others, and shrugged at a few. Thanks for opening yourself up to the world via your blog!
Aw I remember when you were just a little chubby baby in diapers! You’re a big boy now! I’m so proud of you, little buddy!!
Seriously, It’s been absolutely delightful! Well done, sir!
Soon I’ll be a chubby old man in diapers.
MMM, you brighten my days with insight and humor.
Happy birthday! I’ve got my mom and sisters hooked on MMM. And I’m always sending posts to my husband to read. Thanks!
I will admit I probably talk about your posts too much. My husband now says “Is that what your friend says”. I love it when you share your Words of wisdom (or not so wise ones too). Thanks you for sharing your thoughts.
It’s nice to know that you have a happy place! Obsessive playground bullying aside, I really do enjoy your blog (when I actually have to read it). You’ve had some very thought provoking moments! I loved the Girls Camp blog, and had a long talk with my YW Presidency about it. It has helped us with our focus. So glad that you are one of the very few blogs I read!
Happy Birthday! I’m so glad that a middle aged man, is now two. I love this blog. I love that your posts are usually thought provoking, and when they’re not, I find myself laughing out loud. I still love the “sightings” of Jesus.
I love all your posts. And I really do usually LOL. Honest. I have discovered the wonders of snark (hadn’t heard of it before I serendipitously stumbled across you) and have had to teach myself how to cross stuff out in a blog post because you use it to such excellent comic effect. I also love that you give a more normal and balanced view of the Church to my many non-LDS friends, who also like your posts. It enables me to say, “Look, some of us are normal.”
How refreshing to be referred to as “normal.” 🙂
I’m commenting. It’ doesn’t take a gift to make me do that but I’ll take it. And I agree. I have many more people read my blog than will admit to it by commenting or following. The stats say so. It’s maddening to me because I want to get to “know” everybody. Not fair to stay in the closet. Since I’ve just kinda ‘found’ you, I’m busy reading back post of the past two years. Keep doin’ what you’re doin’.
I think you are a gem that I am lucky enough to have stumbled on. And for the record, I keep my comments somewhere between snarky and confusing. It would be a mistake to ever confuse me with wisdom. (just keepin it real brothah)
The blogging world is a great one. I’ve “met” people that have added and enriched my life in a variety of ways. Meeting them in real life and “bloggy get togethers” has made it even more meaningful.
People aside, I know I can count on your blog for some spiritual enlightenment. Between you, me and Heaven – well know I NEED a lot more of that! : )
Carry on the wise writing my friend
Aw, I love pictures of Santa and the manger. Like a poke in the eye with a sharp stick.
I am a ‘follower,’ but I also read you through my Google Reader. What have you got against Google Reader?! It helps me stay organized. 🙂
The things I love most on your blog are your deep thoughts. For instance, your posts about anger really created a paradigm shift in me. I can no longer think of anger the same way and it has changed me as a person at a core level. I had a complete and utter ‘change of heart’ and have repented!
See what you’ve done. 😉
Glad to know you repented from your anger. Usually a cause people to need to repent from their anger – so this is plus.
Google Reader is just fine. I use it too. It just doesn’t have the same impact on my fragile ego as a smiling face on the homepage.
Thanks for reading!