I don't know the old way LJ worked (been here only since the end of 2012) and I like it well enough to continue. I get email notifications if someone comments on my entry or replies to my comment. For the rest, I just check my "Friends" page as often as I have time. The number of new posts by friends is a bit uneven but I wouldn't be able to keep up with much more.
P.S My coffee is strong, milky and sweet. :-)