MappingTheWeb //

It’s official. MappingTheWeb has now been added to the Web++ category at 9rules. For those of you not familiar with the network, ‘Web++’ is just another way to say ‘Web 2.0′. I’m not sure why they use the ‘++’, but it’s their own way of branding the term.

I am very honoured to have my link situated beside such prestigious blogs as Mashable, SolutionWatch, and Postbubble. It is very encouraging. It is my hope that I can contribute a high level of quality to the network. With only 12 blogs in the entire Web++ category, I am extremely humbled by the admission. I will do my best to promote 9rules and spread the word about the network.

Furthermore, the front page of 9rules lists the latest posts via a site-wide RSS feed. Seeing an MTW post on the front page was a very inspiring sight. It’s great to know that MappingTheWeb has been so widely embraced and supported in such a short period of time.

Thanks again to all readers for your continued support and words of encouragement.

As many of you have noticed, I have recently added a new chat widget - some have already messaged me using the system. I am going to continue using this Plugoo widget, instead of the previous InCircles widget, as it is compatible with IM clients. In other words, I can chat with a blog visitor using my MSN Messenger client; I do not have to chat from within the blog. This was a downside of InCircles.

With Plugoo, I am able to connect with more readers and provide a more interactive experience. So please do not hesitate to drop me a message. If the chat box indicates that I am offline, you can still leave a message that I will receive when I sign on. Very cool.

Customization, cross-platform flexibility (across the different IM clients), and slick design all contribute to the overall appeal of the app.

The widget is still in BETA and only available via invite, but I signed up and received an invitation relatively quick.

I once again encourage everyone to join in on the discussion and express your views. I am always eager to hear other opinions. Blogging is all about discovering new perspectives and insights beyond your current realm of knowledge.

And as always, anyone can comment on any post… so let’s get chattin’.

Wow.

What can I say? This is an exciting time for the blog and myself.

After holding my breath for a few weeks, 9Rules began announcing new entrants a few days ago. But today was the day I was waiting for. MappingTheWeb officially joins the 9Rules network. I’m very stoked and I look forward to contributing to the network.

Time to celebrate. Raise your glass.

(I will send updates as I get more info from 9Rules.)

On February 23rd and 24th, Vancouver will be the host of Northern Voice 2007. This Canadian blogging conference first began in 2005 and has blossomed ever since. Big names who have attended in the past include Robert Scoble, Dave Sifry, and Tim Bray. The event will take place at the University of British Columbia. The registration fee is a meager $30 for one day, or $50 for both. Prices at the door are $40 and $60 respectively, so register online if you want to save a couple bucks. The event was sold out last year, so door registration wasn’t even available. So sign up soon to ensure your spot. T-shirts will also be available for purchase for $20.

I’ll post more info as it becomes available. See ya there…

In order for me to have closer communications with readers, I have added an embedded chat box in the right-hand column (just scroll down a bit and you will see it). In addition, it will also allows readers to interact and chat about new web trends, technologies, start-ups, or perhaps an MTW article.

The embedded chat widget is provided by InCircles, a cool new web app company. I highly suggest checking them out and embedding a chat box wherever you feel a stimulating chat may erupt.

I am going to leave the chat box on the site as long as it is being put to use and people are engaging in conversations. Expect to see me online often enough. Type me a message and I’ll do my best to reply.

Just type in your name followed by the “Enter” key and start chatting.

Talk to you all soon, literally.