First off, I have to apologize for not having a more in-depth post. Tomorrow, I make the big move from Germany to Chicago… things have been quite hectic between packing, tying up loose ends, and visiting with friends, writing a post about blogging didn’t seem to be at the top of my list of things to do. And sometimes that’s ok. It’s only this week… but spending all this time away from the computer has brought up some thoughts about how much time I spend blogging.
Bloggers naturally spend a lot of time at the computer, we share a lot of our lives and our thoughts online. Though lately, I’ve been wondering if it’s too much? Between Facebook and Twitter, and reading everyone’s blogs racking up hours in front of the computer can be quite easy, and that’s just the socializing part.
Offline time is important. Meeting friends in real life, taking a walk in the forest, drawing a picture, baking cookies, going to the zoo…. all things which may not directly affect your blog, but they do… they keep things fresh, they keep you more healthy in mind and in body.
It’s important not to let your offline life slip away.
What do you do when you’re not blogging?
Working, doing techie project management stuff
Or hiking / fellwalking. Or if in a creative mood, a bit of writing, painting or crafting 
.-= Sinta´s last blog ..Blogger Fashion Spotlight =-.
When I’m not blogging I go for morning jogs on the lake (I live in Chicago – welcome!), I hang out w/ my girls & spend time cooking at home!
.-= Aramide´s last blog ..Married to the MOB “Smells Like Teen Spirit” Fall 2009 Collection =-.
Mainly I’m working my full time job when I’m not blogging, on Twitter, Facebook, Tumbler or Flickr. In addition to that I am a Commissioner in my town and am running for Town Council. On a personal side, I’m spending time taking care of the house and all of our animals (dog, 4 cats, 2 chickens, 2 goats and a turkey) along with my husband. Then spending time with him going out to eat or watching movies, and if I have a spare moment, reading, sometimes crafting or writing letters.
Oh, yeah, sleeping is in there somewhere too.
.-= Princess Poochie´s last blog ..Featured Shoe: Lela Rose Ribbon Heel =-.
good luck with your trans-atlantic move!
i work full time for starters so that is a big chunk of time. but i love to hang out with friends, see movies, go shopping (duh), read, cook with my boyfriend, garden and sew/craft.
I work a full time job (that’s very boring) when I’m not blogging or on Twitter. I feel like a superhero a lot of times. I have my web persona (DWJ) and I have my real life (Dana) and sometimes I think my web life is a bit more fun and adventurous! LOL
.-= DWJ´s last blog ..Happy Birthday, Jess! =-.
Congrats on the move, you must be so excited (and I adore Chicago… lucky girl!). I am in the process of trying to find a job, so there’s a lot of hunting going on right now. I’m a big reader, and I spend a lot of time with my boyfriend. Pretty lame life, but I sounds cooler via blog.
.-= Jaime´s last blog ..Outfit: August 10, 2009 =-.
Well– moving to Chicago must be a huge deal! I hate moves in general, and have never had to organize an international move… Good luck with that!
What to do when I’m not blogging? Writing freelance fashion articles, actually, and working my dayjob (which is incredibly dry and boring work), watching movies with the husband, walking around and checking out new shops around town…. I’m actually not a huge extrovert, but my husband and friends love to socialize, so we check out events in town… We’re big into going out for yummy bites and drinks.
.-= dreamsequins´s last blog ..Behind the Blog: Modediktat =-.
Roller derby, sewing, working on the allotment, cooking, drinking gin and working full-time. I like all of these except one!
.-= Saved For Best´s last blog ..Day 7 =-.
There IS no world outside the computer!
.-= WendyB´s last blog ..This Drum Roll Has a Nice Ring to It =-.
Good luck on your move!
I dunno I spend very little time in front of my actual computer believe it or not. I usually tweet on the go {thanks to tweetdeck on my iphone}. I check my email from my iphone and occasionally monitor comments from it. But other than that I’m running my business, designing, meeting with clients etc. I spend far more time on the phone with Italy at 5am {est} than I do in front of the computer. I get out, live, have fun, get in trouble. I’m use to I guess blogging on the go, since I run through my passport like most run through their knickers. Drafting posts via iphone is a breeze, and publishing them from it is too lol, just keep your charger with you like you do your Amex! So I’m connected to the net, but not in front of a computer all day.
.-= ms. shoo´s last blog ..Summer Vintage Picks + Yoox Giveaway =-.
So many things… working, cooking, socializing, reading, chatting, walking, day dreaming, shopping.
http://sensofashion.com Share, shop and sell indie fashion
I also blog for other sites, but it’s important for me to connect with friends when I’m off the computer, or just take a long walk to the parks. It’s refreshing to be away from the computer!
.-= fête à fête´s last blog ..SF Chefs.Food.Wine. =-.
LOL @ WendyB and good luck on the move!
When I’m not blogging, I’m working full-time (and working to make blogging my full-time job). Spending time with the boy, watching movies, reading an actual book that doesn’t require scrolling. I try to spend time with my “real-life” friends and family (though I could be better at that) and generally relaxing. Oh yeah, I eat… A LOT.
.-= Fajr || Stylish Thought´s last blog ..Cats with Style: Boxing Kitten =-.
I’m working, but as a technical writer at a software company it involves spending tons of time in front of the computer as well. There’s no escaping the glow of the monitor!
Otherwise, I can be found hitting the dance floor on salsa nights, going for long walks, and hanging out with friends.
.-= lisa´s last blog ..Wise & Proper Delivers On Ladylike Clothes =-.
I was actually just talking to my friend about this today. I want to do something more hands on-as in, not online-that can still involve my blog. I was thinking about starting a small DIY zine, or something. I’ve done a few DIYs that have gotten a lot of comments.
But, I agree. I’ve noticed that between all the online social networks, there is hardly time for “real” life. Trying to figure a way to balance the two appropriately!
.-= Maverick´s last blog ..another delicious diy =-.
I wish there were more hours in the day. When I am not blogging I am working full-time as the Director of Recruiting for a financial firm, spending 2 hours in a commute, getting my sweat on for an hour at my CrossFit gym, and cooking and eating dinner with my honey. So, when all of that is done (usually at 9 p.m.) I work on my blog and I hit the sac at 11 p.m. I would love to become more involved in the blogging community and plan to, but my offline life is VERY important!
Maybe I can make it all work!
Sterling Style’s Last blog.. http://sterlingstyle.onsugar.com/3907271
oh my goodness… how fun! i really love seeing how everyone spends thier off hours… so cool.
Great post! When I’m not blogging, I mainly work at my full-time job and I’m in the process of applying for grad school and getting ready to take the GRE ::shudders:: On the more fun side, I love to read, go out and take in the city and shopping.
.-= Sheena´s last blog ..Interview: Patricia Valery of Evil Needles =-.
I hope the move goes as well as can be expected ^_^
I spend my days looking after MissIcy (MrIcy takes care of himself), reading, sewing, and playing games – on the computer. I don’t really seem to get away from it. Hmm, perhaps I need to try a few of the other ideas here…
.-= Icy @ Indivdiual Chic´s last blog ..Guys, all of the details are important =-.
Play guitar, rent ridiculous amounts of old movies, go to the beach!, read out by the ocean, bike ride, do yoga, call my friends and family back home, go to concerts, hug my hubby.
.-= eyeliah´s last blog ..What Make Up to Wear to a Wedding ~ Guest Post =-.
Work, but I’m a technical writer at a software company so that doesn’t necessarily help with how much time I spend in front of the computer. Otherwise I’m going out salsa dancing, watching movies, eating out at restaurants, taking long walks, shopping, reading, and travelling.
.-= lisa´s last blog ..Wise & Proper Delivers On Ladylike Clothes =-.
I realize this is going to sound lame, but after a long day at work, curling up for a nap with my cat is always fun. I spend way too much time watching horror movies, trying to get to the beach, and looking into interior design. I also like to cook and exercise, but don’t do those nearly enough.
.-= najeema´s last blog ..The Weekend… =-.
I’m a full time student so I’m always in a class. If I’m not in class I work part time as a bank teller (exciting, I know). But I do throw concerts on campus so I’m in charge of social life on campus. Let’s see…what else..I shop, Twitter, read and hang out with my friends.
Moving to Chicago..GOOD LUCK! I’ve never been there (I live in NYC) but I definitely want to visit.
ahh! What a great post! Good luck with your move. I’m personally looking forward to an overseas trip next month where my cell phone, laptop, and constant connections will be cut off. I like the idea of pushing the “mute” button for a day, a week or more. It’s amazing what can happen. M.E.
.-= M.E. Ster / ME & Blue´s last blog ..layering bracelets… studded, mixed metals, and more! =-.
If its not uni, its shopping, or drinks with friends, hitting the gym, walking the streets or catching a movie. You are so right Jennine, our eyes are ever so often glued to the computer screen. Its so important to look away sometimes and actually DO things in the real world
Thanks for the reminder!
Awesome post Xx
.-= Adeline´s last blog ..Tug Of War =-.
Oh my gosh, Jennine, I’ll be in Chicago next week! I’m assuming you’ll be busy busy busy, but on the off chance you’d have a free moment to meet for a cup of coffee, I’d love it!
Anyway, back to the subject at hand: When I’m not blogging, I’m writing for other projects, writing pitches to try to get hired to write other projects, shopping, snacking, playing with my friends, and watching repeat episodes of Reno 911.
Great question, J!
.-= Winona´s last blog ..New Sponsor: Love You Big! =-.
I am generally listing new things on my eBay store, watching endless episodes of Buffy, or attempting to find fun things to do that don’t cost any money!
.-= Retro Chick´s last blog ..Win Reese Witherspoon’s new In Bloom Fragrance for Avon =-.
You can find me reading, doing some sewing, attempting basic DIY, and dancing.
.-= Rosie Unknown´s last blog ..A Thistle and a Somewhat Sad Announcement =-.
Well until I start making a living blogging, I’m working other 3 part time jobs so I’m super busy. I do freelance graphic design, waitress and do art modeling. I can’t wait for the day where I can make a living just working on my blog! I’m pretty obsessed…
When I’m not working I’m hanging out with my boyfriend, going to the beach with friends or just chillin. I feel like I work all the time, so I like to take it easy when I can. But I have to say, I’m constantly coming up with new ideas or ways to make my blog better so many of the times when I should be relaxing, I’m working. Oh well, I love it!
.-= Kate´s last blog ..Street Styles of the Week =-.
I read other fashion blogs and educate myself on the latest fashion news.
.-= Kimberly´s last blog ..These shoes aren’t made for walking =-.
I spend so much time on the computer in general, whether I’m blogging or writing my column, it doesn’t really seem to end. I have managed to find a great balance though. I go fishing on my way home from or to work, and spend most evenings going out for drinks. I read my blogs and such in the morning with my tea, and I try to do post prep in advance so that I never feel rushed into posting or forced to sit in front of the computer.
I definitely agree with you though about the importance of having a real life to go hand in hand with your virtual life.
Good luck with your move!
I do spend a lot of time on the computer because of my blog and column, I’m always on here writing something. I think finding a balance is key. Everyone should make sure to have a real life to go hand in hand with their virtual life.
When I’m offline I’m probably fishing, at a football game, out for drinks or fika, or spending quality time with people who matter.
.-= Trish´s last blog ..CFW Recap: Batlak og Selvig =-.
Good point. I think balance is so important in life. Thus, I refuse to tweet. When I’m not blogging, I am trying to create a loving and fun home for my 5 year old son and hubby. We try to go to the beach every evening. I garden, work out, cook, entertain family and friends, clean, shop, and anything else I can fit into the day.
Good luck with the move!
.-= Fabulous Finds Gal´s last blog ..Geometry of Mind Editorial for Pastaiga Magazine by Photographer Nils Vilnis =-.
Thanks for the idea…I posted a blog today about hitting the mute button. So important.
.-= M.E. Ster / ME & Blue´s last blog ..When I’m not thinking about my boutique, I… =-.
http://www.afewgoodygumdrops.com/2009/08/lunching-with-ladies.html
Lunching with the ladies, dishing about the latest fashion trends, laughing…but most important…sharing one huge dessert with six spoons!!!!!!
I am usually on twitter, reading other blogs, out running errands, or doing my grad school homework. good luck!
.-= thefatandskinny´s last blog ..Pins and Needles =-.
When I’m not blogging you can find me doing a number of things:
1. Working-always on the plane-always traveling.
2. Running errands and paying bills.
3. Trying to finalize everything with my boutique.
4. Drinking Starbucks.
5. Shopping….
You know…just living the dream!
.-= Kristin Decker´s last blog ..The do’s & dont’s of looking glamorous =-.
When not in a full time job, reading, finding news, writing.
.-= Margherita ´s last blog ..I gioielli con Barbie sezionata di Margaux Lange =-.
I go to yoga, I cook, I watch old movies, throw a dinner party or two…
but my favorite thing to do when I am not blogging is meet other bloggers! It’s so much fun to meet people in person, and it makes me feel less guilty about not being in front of my computer. Plus, we can share ideas, dream up collaborations and just chat.
That’s why I decided to start a Meetup group, so if you’re in NYC, come and join us! Next Monday is our first Meetup and we’ll have margaritas!
http://www.meetup.com/mpmeetup/
I am a fashion designer, having my studio in Berlin but most of the blogging , office/paperwork, organization
I do in London because my boyfriend is living here.
Right now I am looking for a Businesspartner as well and searching for a good Agent.
So: I am designing dresses when I am not blogging, making sketches, seeing a lot of art and movies
for inspiration drinking loads of coffee…guess thats almost it.
.-= Liv Lundelius´s last blog ..smokin hot wedding =-.
I do fashion illustrations for clients… sometimes editorials but often work for fashion designers and private clients that work doesn’t get as much exposure.
This August I am getting out of the sticky city as much as I can! Going up north, helping my SO with his projects, visiting my parents and brother and baby niece. When I’m up there I help my mom with the canning. I love cooking and shopping for food, read as many library books as I can get away with, and like to keep the studio neat and tidy.
.-= Danielle´s last blog ..save the date – walk the walk =-.
Working part-time, going to college / fashion courses, shopping, hanging out with friends, researching for fashion news, writing articles, interning for a Bibi Magazine and StyleSalt… among other things.
.-= Elvia´s last blog ..Valentino on DVD =-.
Spending time with my children (usually at the park or in the garden), shopping – carboot sales and jumble sales, walking, days out and picnics, cooking, lunch with friends.
.-= Ceri´s last blog ..Alice through the looking Glass =-.
bahahaha when I’m not staring at my computer screen or when I’m not blogging? as much as I wouldn’t like to say it my life tends to revolve around the internet
especially since I’m a student and I’m always doing research online. anyway let’s see…when i’m not sitting in front of this thing, I eat out with friends (trying not to do it too often but it’s summer and I’ll soon be back in San Diego for school and away from home), do yoga with my younger cousin, play dollies with my younger cousins (they’re guys LOL), read lots and lots of magazines…haha not a very *active* life but I prefer quiet time 
.-= Lucy´s last blog ..Subscriber’s edition of Harper’s Bazaar is HERE =-.
Offline time is definitely important. What better way to spend non-blogging time by going out to see what the people are wearing? People watching gives me ideas on what to blog about, and you actually spot trends! Besides from that, shopping and Girlfriends time is a good way to go.
.-= stellabella´s last blog ..Independent Fashion Bloggers Unite! =-.
dont i do the things i blog later?
.-= marinka´s last blog ..gee, left ctrl hasnt worked proberly, neither the d. i took them… =-.
well at the moment, cramming for exams :s
.-= Shila´s last blog ..I like your style: Leighton Meester/ Blair Waldorf =-.
Thank you for this…great article!