When I first started blogging, I had a huge decision to make: Do I use my real name or do I use a fake one. I ultimately made the decision to use my own, along with the actual names of my husband and my kids. I had several reasons for why I chose to go that route.

• It was easier to go with real names, so I didn’t get confused on who I was talking about

• My family can be computer-stupid sometimes, and to make it easier on them real names were used.
• In case old friends whom I’ve lost track of wanted to find me, I didn’t want to make it impossible

It didn’t come with pitfalls though. My biological parent, whom I refuse all contact with, also found it easy to find me. There are a few people who say that I shouldn’t put up pictures of my kids or my family. Before I put up my children’s photos, I did discuss the idea with my husband. He was more than alright with it.

Other issues to take into account:

• Some family will not want their pictures shown. You have to respect that.

• In showing pictures online, you risk the chance of someone stealing those pictures and doing something to them, inappropriate or not.

• With using your real name and real location, you run the risk of a legitimate stalker or someone getting mad at you and contacting authorities under false pretenses.

I am not knocking anyone who says that they refuse to use their own children’s names, or their own. It’s a decision that each person must make on their own. Whether you make the decision to use real names or not, whether you discuss it or even realize it, it is a choice.

Photo by Sarah C. Burkett