If the blog is simply for keeping family and friends informed then why advertise it here? Surely the motive for doing so is at best self aggrandisement. Friends and family will be aware of the address.
The number of people repying to this thread who know exactly how many people have visited their blogs prove that they are interested in self publicity.
Personally I don't read blogs unless they are written by my family. I have visited blogs advertised here but I'd have to agree with Sebrof in that, to me, they are all boring.
I don't see how you can criticise those who advertise products on this board but support those who advertise their writings.
Perhaps those who want to adveertise their blogs should have a separate section.