Try http://www.pics4learning.com/ Students can find photos of objects, animals, etc that show their interests. Tell me more about blogging in the elementary school classroom.What do you use? I have students who are learning English and need an authentic audience for their writing.
I don't know if it's appropriate for 8-9 or not but you could try http://doppelme.com My gr.5-6 students have used them for Voicethread identities (and of course just for fun!). Good luck!