A new breed of journalist - or you may say a mutation of the old one - is already here. They are more relaxed, accessible, fun to read and more human. More importantly, they are as free as birds. These are the bloggers.

The real boom in reporters' Web blogs may yet be to come, but if what is happening in our newsroom is any indication, it may not be far off.

After spending months preaching the merits and advantages of digital media and how journalists should prepare themselves for the next "tsunami of change" in technology and news consumers' habits, this company's executives may soon have to struggle to contain reporters' over-enthusiasm in establishing their own direct connections with readers.

Being a blogger is fascinating, simply because it liberates you. Our managing editor Thanong Khanthong can now broadcast stories on his lifelong passion - and unrivalled knowledge of - the kings of the Chakri Dynasty. (Fans of his writing are also welcome to watch a video clip showing an amazing joint musical performance between him and his daughter).

Assistant managing editor Jintana Panya-arvudh can, for a change, let go of politics and take a shot at writing travel stories or even touch upon life-and-death matters like how to find different dresses for weddings.

International affairs expert Jeerawat Na Thalang's personal account of interim Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont's "impressive" showing at the Apec meeting in Vietnam has drawn about 1,000 visitors to her blog.

The editorial room's man of few words, Avudh Pananonda, has also happily found a niche in cyberspace and is ready to share his expertise on military intrigue with the Web audience.

"Life" section editor Veena Thoopkrajae plans to discuss everything from coyote girls to her days as an anti-Thaksin "mobster".

The Nation's Business editor Achara Deeboonmee is inviting her blog's visitors to ask relevant legal questions, and she gives the promise of a legitimate answer.

Deputy political editor Somroutai Sapsomboon has used her blog to start a crusade against the nightmare of noise Suvarnabhumi Airport has unleashed on her neighbourhood.

Veteran news reporter Supalak Ganjanakhundee's blog adds value to coverage of the deep South and Hmong tribal issues.

Journalism will never be the same. Blogs allow reporters to mix business with pleasure, and the great accessibility and interaction can benefit them immensely. Many great news tips have been obtained through online connections. In fact, some worthy news stories have been the pure result of our Web operations, a phenomenon that is making the birth of so-called "citizen reporting" tantalisingly close.

Slowly but surely, digital journalists, their interactive readers and contributors are redefining "news".

A South Korean phenomenon, a highly popular "citizen reporters" Website, has uncovered many interesting facts. One of its biggest "star" reporters last year was a housewife who wrote gossip about her own husband and kids.

One of The Nation's most popular blogs belongs to a young Web technician who publishes food recipes and stories about shoes.

It's anyone's guess where all this will lead to. A You Tube version of a news Website is a possibility not too far-fetched.

For now, reporters who are tired of editors' dictatorial judgements can find comfort and a career, or just personal satisfaction, in their own Web blogs. They can build a name for themselves and can even dream of shared advertising revenue if their creation becomes popular enough.

One thing is certain: you can easily become part of this exciting evolution. Say goodbye to the old school of journalism and help create a new one that is fun, thought provoking, illuminating and equipped with greater checks and balances.

News as one-way traffic is a dying phenomenon. News is no longer what the editors tell you it is. In today's world, everyone is the reader, reporter, analyst and commentator - all in one.

How to get started? You already have, if you're reading this on the Web.

*Registration as a Nation blogger is easy and fast. Go to our blog homepage and do whatever they tell you to and it will take just a couple minutes.

Our Web editors constantly tour your spaces, and who knows, you may find your photos or your stories highlighted on our homepage or even in the printed version of The Nation.

Don't be shy; we don't expect you to imitate the Watergate reporters. Just express yourself, share with us whatever information you'd like to share, and simply have fun.

Tulsathit Taptim