Ermira Farida has a soft spot for fridge magnets. This lawyer has been collecting hundreds of these eye-catching items from all over the world since 1997. And what better way to share her hobby with others than to set up a blog, called MagneticMine at http://magneticmira.blogspot.com.

“The blog was a resolution I made on my 35th birthday, and in fond memory of one particular dice magnet that originated from Las Vegas which I lost last year,” she says.

According to Ermira, MagneticMine was initially part of the postings in her virtual diary, but she later decided to set up a separate blog for it to give each a focus.
Why fridge magnets? Ermira says fridge magnets are special in their own way.

“Like a picture that tells a thousand words, these magnets have a story to tell, too. By having a digital format of them online, their stories will live on for many, many years to come,” the mother of two says.

So, one can read about each magnet’s story in her blog.

“I talk about how and where I got the magnets. Some were bought while others were given by friends, relatives and of course, my No. 1 supporter, my husband. So, each is of sentimental value,” she says.

Digital passion
Ermira’s passion for blogging has much to do with her growing interest in digital photography. “I get a lot of thrill writing my blog
and posting pictures that I have taken myself,” she says.

Through blogging, Ermira says her skills in using technology and computer applications have improved over the past few years.

“Prior to this, my computer knowledge was limited to certain document applications like spreadsheet. But ever since I started blogging, I have learnt a lot more, all through self-learning and exploring the Web. This includes resizing, transferring and converting pictures, and making the most of the World Wide Web.”

Ermira also has managed to make new friends over the Web who share similar interests. “It’s interesting to know that people do view what you write and give feedback,” she says.

Ermira updates MagneticMine every three or four days.