Social networking

I'm back from Ireland and home on my hilltop in Vermont, missing my Irish rainbows but thoroughly enjoying the fall foliage, writing and figuring out this ever-changing world of "social networking." So, what do you think of social networking? Are you on Facebook and Twitter? Do you read a lot of different blogs? Do you do RSS feeds?
Then there's Linkedin and who-knows-what-else out there.
Hm.
For me, social networking is stimulating and loads of fun -- not that I know all the ins and outs! Publishers and writing groups are offering how-to workshops on Twitter, Facebook, blogs. E.g., should an author do a public page or a private page on Facebook? What about social networking etiquette? I love the argument over shorthand: Does shorthand like 'r' and 'u' annoy you on Twitter but not on text messages?
The world changed when Facebook went from a "private" network for college students to...well, everyone. Kids suddenly had their grandmothers "friending" them. Now that's a game-changer!
When I first got on Twitter, a friend described it as getting beamed into Grand Central Station at rush-hour, with snippets of conversations rushing past you. Just dive in, he said, and see what happens.
I enjoy social networking, whether I'm on the road with my iPhone or at home. It's fun, and it's a great way to stay in touch with close family and friends and to meet new people. It's not a substitute for face time with people. Last night Joe and I met friends at our local Irish pub. We had a great time, laughing, listening to music, telling stories.
What social networks are you on? Any favorites? Any advice or pet peeves you'd like to share with us?
Before I scoot, I want to be sure to tell you about my website drawing for COLD DAWN (on sale in paperback October 26). Enter for a chance to receive a signed copy of COLD PURSUIT and COLD RIVER, the first two books in my Black Falls series, plus a Vermont goody basket.
Twitter, Facebook, blogs...I'm looking forward to your comments.
Enjoy the day, and happy reading!
Carla