Greetings from the hot and humid zone! Actually, this might be the last day of this stuff. Tomorrow we have rain on the horizon and then the temps will drop to the eighties. Still hot, but not nearly as miserable as it is now. The skies have been a vivid blue, with big, fluffy clouds.
It’s just too hot to really enjoy it.
The phlox has really taken off. It smells heavenly around here.
The new rose bushes are blooming again.
The liatris is starting to bloom. See the bug flying in from the right?
He’s landed.
I’m going to extend the book giveaway one more day. If you didn’t read Monday’s book review, be sure to visit this post. I’m giving away a copy of The Branson Beauty, a really neat mystery I am sure you will enjoy. Leave a comment by the end of the day today and I’ll reveal the winner tomorrow.
A confession: As you know, I have a long association with BlogHer/SheKnows Media. Through this wonderful group that supports bloggers, I also have a couple of ads that run on this blog. Occasionally, I am chosen for a sponsored post. (I’m not in the young demographic, which means it has to be for a specific sort of product that works for my age group and this blog.) These posts are always for a product I support and believe in. Quite frankly, I wish I had these opportunities more often, but I am so grateful when they do occur because I get to share something I believe in with you and I get compensated for them.
I don’t want to go through the whole rigmarole again, but I will say, briefly, that without ads and the occasional sponsored post, I wouldn’t be able to maintain this blog. Period. It costs several hundred dollars a year to keep this little space of mine going and, since we freelance and never know how much money is coming in during any given month, the only way I can pay for it all is through ad income and sponsored posts.
However, if you knew how many requests I get on a daily basis to write sponsored posts for companies that I don’t know or have any connection with, to put sponsored links in a post, to let someone write a guest post – all of which I turn down – you’d be stunned. I don’t want this blog to become about that sort of thing. But the occasional sponsored post through BlogHer/SheKnows, a company with integrity that I believe in? Yes, I will certainly do that.
Yesterday, I had a comment on the post from a reader who wasn’t particularly happy with this kind of post. To be fair, she’s a newer reader, and since the last time I did a sponsored post was over a year ago, is most likely not used to seeing this sort of thing. She certainly has a right to respond to a post but I had to delete the comment because this kind of post, which has a giveaway that is connected to the number of responses to the question I ask at the end of the post and where I will eventually have to count those comments when the contest closes, can’t have comments in the mix that are unconnected to that question.
Here’s where I screwed up. It was a tough day for me yesterday for all sorts of reasons, and I wrote this reader to tell her why I deleted the comment. What I should have done was to take a big breath before I wrote her, because I responded in a defensive tone. To be honest, I was feeling defensive, wondering why I had to defend yet again a subject matter on my blog. My skin was a bit thin yesterday. And yes, it is my blog. But I most certainly could have handled it better than I did and when the reader wrote me back, I realized that, and I responded with an apology.
I’m only human. I spend hours and hours on this blog every day, seven days a week. I’m always thinking about what I can share with you. I’m taking pictures for a good portion of the day on an expensive (for me) camera that I bought just for this blog.
The fact is, it’s a part-time job for which I get no compensation. Nothing. Everything goes back into the blog. If I can get a little extra money for all my time, you can be damned sure (if it’s the right thing for this blog) I’m going to take advantage of it.
Keeping all of this in perspective, I’ve had exactly two sponsored posts in about 14 months. Given the fact that I write a post every day of the year, I think that’s just fine. And I hope to have more opportunities in the year ahead. But they might not come my way.
Anyway, I sincerely regret my tone, which was that of a reprimand, and therefore felt the need to explain, once again, this sort of thing to you. Here’s where I sigh. (I’m not exaggerating, I just sighed for the umpteenth time since yesterday.) If you have a problem with this sort of post, that’s fine; just click off the blog and come back the next day. The same thing goes for any post that doesn’t meet with your approval. I surely understand that not every post is a gem or is what you want to read on any given day. I’m not that interesting!
Anything else I could say would merely be a repeat of things I’ve said in the past.
You get to read this blog for free. But it isn’t free for me. It takes time and money.
I love you all and I usually meet this sort of thing with more grace than I did yesterday. For that, I apologize. I’ll do better next time.
Let’s close with this eastern swallowtail butterfly. He was hanging around the garden for a quite a while yesterday.
He’s looks a bit worse for wear. He’s lost part of his swallowtail. But it didn’t stop him.
He’s beautiful.
(I have a book review up on Just Let Me Finish This Page. Just click here.)
Happy Thursday.
Linda @ A La Carte says
Claudia, you are only human and I know it’s easy to get frustrated and feel like you have to defend yourself. The subject matter wasn’t to everyone’s taste I’m sure, but it was well written and a product you believe in and the need to make a little money to support this blog is no joke. I don’t know how you do it, write a post every day! I’m sure glad you do! This heat is enough to make me cranky but I hope there is some relief in sight! I saw a bird at my feeder today and that made me happy!
hugs,
Linda
Claudia says
You’re right – it isn’t a joke! Thanks for understanding, Linda. The heat is definitely making me cranky.
Yay for the bird at your feeder! xoxo
Roneta says
Thank you for being so kind and sensitive. You certainly don’t have to apologize — you should do whatever you need to do. It really doesn’t make sense to expect you to produce an amazing blog on a daily basis plus fund the whole thing! Your blog is my absolute favorite and I definitely appreciate all the hard work you do every day to share your world with us. Please know how much joy you bring to your readers. I always look forward to seeing what’s going on in Claudia’s world. Blessings to you and Don, friend.
Claudia says
Thank you so much, Roneta. Your support means a lot!
Shanna says
I completely understand and agree with your decision to post the occasional sponsored post—whatever sponsor, how ever often you’d like. It’s your blog and your voice and that’s why we love it! I hope my post wasn’t misconstrued as being critical of the content. It just sort of caught me in a bit of a giggly mood yesterday…not because I have none of the problems that come with being “of a certain age”, but because, lately, I’ve developed the humor of a sixth-grade boy where certain subjects are concerned, it seems. Sorry if I contributed to your umpteenth sigh. I’d never want to do that.
Claudia says
You did not contribute! Don’t worry for a second. It was another comment I was referring to. Go ahead…giggle! We need that right now! xoxoxo
Judy Ainsworth says
HI Claudia,I’m wondering on this Butterfly does this type always have a “fringe” around the wings, or is she that tattered? What amazing creatures,so delicate and yet some of them fly many miles!
I’m saying that the criticism you got must have come from a newer reader,because those of us who have been around (for Years) don’t think twice about it.just about everyone is struggling right now, everyone is suffering and if we can’t be a bit tolerant of each other? I am reallyscared.
I just don’t think a negative comment is the way to go, especiallyif you don’t know the whole story. I do hope your reader comes back because she/he will be missing out the very best blog,
Corny as it may be, I feel like a family,We laugh, and joke, and “Share one anothers burdens”!
Much Love to All! Judy A-
Claudia says
The butterfly has sort of scallops on the wings – this one is definitely tattered.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Judy. I feel like we’re a family, too.
Janie F. says
The sponsored post was quite helpful to me and very much appreciated. As a woman over sixty I appreciate any product that can help me with problems some of us face as we age. Thank you! The flower pictures on today’s post are just so pretty. All we have in our yard are our huge oaks that shade the whole yard and drop millions of leaves every year. The pictures of your flowers are like eye candy to me.
Claudia says
So glad you like the photos, Janie and I’m especially glad that the post was helpful for you!
Janie F. says
Claudia, my neighbor’s cat was stalking a bird in my backyard so I tapped on the window, the bird flew away. I saw a black snake out there a few days ago and it made me wonder. Do you ever see snakes on your property? In 26 years I’ve only seen three in our yard and that’s too many.
Claudia says
I’ve seen them occasionally. Sometimes down in the basement and occasionally on the lawn. I don’t mind them, but I’m always shocked when I see them. I found a dried out snake earlier this spring.
Doris says
Dear Claudia, I was not offended at all by your post yesterday. It is part of life that women go through and it was good information about a product. I also think your phlox is doing so well. Mine didn’t look as healthy or as many flowers. I just love that flower! Enjoy your day.
Claudia says
I love that flower, too! It’s so lovely and tall and smells so good!
Thank you for your supportive words, Doris!
KarenL says
Your blog is a joy to read which I look forward to – sometimes I have to catch up on several days because I can’t get here everyday, but I always read what I’ve missed. Thanks for keeping it real and I hope you get sponsor offers that appeal to you so you can keep this going without worrying about it.
Claudia says
Thank you so much, Karen.
Julie says
It amazes me that you write every. single. day.
This blog is your plot of land where you plant, nurture and share what you like. The fact that people complain about the content just floors me.
Claudia says
Thank you so much, Julie. I surely appreciate your support.
Do says
Oddly enough when I saw your post yesterday I quickly decided I was not interested and moved on to another blog! Never occurred to me to complain to you – seriously I am not a fan of Roseville either but still check in daily. These are not the differences of opinion we should be focusing on in these times! Keep on writing from your heart and mind.
Claudia says
Thank you, Do! Obviously, every post is not going to please everyone all of the time!
Julie says
Hey Claudia. I’m off to buy some tomorrow.! I’ve just written it on my shopping list. I appreciate your situation and I found the post helpful . Big love from Julie in Australia
Claudia says
Thank you so much, Julie! I appreciate your support.
Vera says
I’m with Shanna (giggling like a 12 year old boy) and with Do (who wasn’t interested and moved on). We share some interests Claudia, but some we don’t (I don’t collect pottery, don’t have a doll house). Bottom line, I enjoy so much the way you write and hearing about your life and what you and Don are up to on any given day. And (second bottom line), it is YOUR blog…not mine. If I don’t like what you write, I can move on…no one is forcing me to read your blog and I certainly don’t feel as though I have a right to tell you what to post, what to say, how to say it, etc. Oy vey! Some people simply amaze me. Hoping for some cooling breezes to come your way.
Claudia says
I was just outside watering and I’m so hoping those cool breezes come soon! Thanks for your support, Vera!
Carolyn Marie says
Claudia, I enjoy your blog and look forward to reading it each morning. Your blog brings me a little peace and beauty each day. I appreciate how much thought and energy you put into this lovely space. Do what you must.
Claudia says
Thank you Carolyn Marie! I appreciate it!
Laura C says
Do and Vera said everything that I was thinking. I just skipped reading the rest of that post. I don’t love Roseville (I do love McCoy), but I now know something about it. It’s all good.
Claudia says
Good to hear it’s all good, Laura! Thank you.
Susan says
Claudia,
I am not a blogger and can only imagine all of the time and effort you put into your blog. Not being part of the blogging community, I actually at times think it isn’t even my place to read them! I hope that is just crazy :). Anyway, we are experiencing the same weather in Pennsylvania and even though I’m hiding out in the air conditioning as much as possible, I find myself tired and a bit short. Please do not be too hard on yourself. I find you to be kind and very accepting of others.
Susan
Claudia says
Thank you, Susan. And please read blogs! We (the bloggers) need and appreciate you!
Mary says
Claudia, Your blog, you get to post what you want. If reader is not interested just move on. I do not collect Roseville but appreciate the look, now if you collected Quimper! You and I would be talking and exchanging photos. Back to more important matters…Rain we need rain, we do not water our grass just flowers and a few vegetables. I can hear the grass crackling under my feet when I walk. Please rain now…..
Claudia says
I know! PLEASE rain! Everyone is suffering this summer. Thanks so much for your support, Mary.
Noelle says
Claudia: love your blog please don’t let the negativity get to you but I’m sure it’s not easy to ignore. I think you have an awesome blog and we’re all human. I enjoy your honesty. Thanks always for your words.
Claudia says
Thank you, Noelle. I don’t believe in being anything but honest. I appreciate your support.
Regina Anne says
What the $#@%$@##@@@!!!!! You allow us to come into your world every day and sometimes you do sponsored posts – I do not understand any problem with thatl. If someone is upset with a post that they makes them uncomfortable or whatever – it is very simple – move on down the internet highway. I’m so very sorry that you had to deal with that yesterday and that it upset you. I can only speak for myself when I say that your blog is a daily read and I am honored that you invite your readers into your home. Thank you
PS I love your pics of butterflies, birds and other critters that visit your garden – they know they are safe and greatly admired by you & Don. Plus the landscape is filled with peace & beauty.
Claudia says
Thank you, Regina Anne. Everyone has a right to air their opinion. I know I’m opinionated! I so appreciate your support!
Melanie Gratton says
Out of the thousands of blogs out there, yours is the only one I have continued reading.I have often wondered how you manage to post every day, even when you are feeling ill or grieving. I love your honesty, and I share your love of books, of flowers, and many other things. There are always some people ready to criticize us, but I know you have a strong enough sense of self to trust your own judgements.
Claudia says
I do. Although, like anyone, I can be hurt by comments and/or feel insecure. I appreciate your support, Melanie.
Regina Anne says
Just read my comment – excuse all the typos please. Was so upset for you that I didn’t proof read it before hitting post !
Claudia says
Ha! I am know for typing comments so quickly that I make mistakes, so don’t worry!
Trina says
I agree with what the others say it is your blog. I don’t understand the blogging world and all that goes into it but I benefit from it none the less. Not only your blog educational example the Roseville pottery but beautiful too with the flowers. I find it interesting that you posted a picture of a butterfly. Right now I am making a small quilt with a butterfly on it. Seems I am into butterflies because both our bathrooms have butterfly shower curtains. It is hot here. I think we have about two more days of the heat index being over 100 plus degrees. All the curtains are closed to keep the sun out so dark in the house. We are suppose to get a storm tonight. Here is hoping. There are some clouds out there but they could be political clouds too. (Making promises and not keeping them.) Stay cool.
Trina says
I guess what I was trying to say is I enjoy reading your blog. There have been times I have gotten wound up about some of the issues especially current issues to the point I don’t get much done here at home. I don’t understand why there are some who would say something that could hurt. Or say what you shouldn’t post. To me that is like going to someone’s home and telling that person how to keep their house. The blog is kind of like your house.
Claudia says
I like that analogy, Trina. Thank you!
Claudia says
Thank you, Trina!
Nancy in PA says
Well, Claudia, when I saw your post yesterday, I started thinking about my list of people who will get a big fat check from me when I win the Powerball jackpot. Yes, you’re on that list, so you won’t have to do sponsored posts anymore, unless you feel like it. Not that you’re not good at writing sponsored posts, but I’ll bet you’d rather write about your own choice of topics. So sorry you had to deal with negativity and hope you didn’t let it ruin your day. Blogging is not for the thin-skinned, that’s for sure. I know I couldn’t do it. Too many meanies out there. Having said that, let’s move on: your photographs are lovely, as always, Claudia. Just look at the colors on that rose. It looks like a sunset in the form of a flower.
Love you and your blog.
Claudia says
Thank you, Nancy. I was rather thin-skinned yesterday and I regret the way I responded. Ah well, all I can do is apologize, which I have. I haven’t heard back from that person.
Janet in Rochester says
Hey, readers everywhere. For the next few months at least, we’re still a free country. So here’s how it’s done. When you open a blog and the subject is not of interest to you, just click and voila! You’re out of it. Yep, it’s that easy. No need for anything else [including snotty comments]. No one’s forcing anyone to read anything online that they don’t want to read.
Major sigh. SOME PEOPLE!! Moaning about something they get for free – just amazing. ☀️
Claudia says
You crack me up, Janet! I’m sure she didn’t mean to cause an uproar. She’s a nice lady and I’m sorry I was short with her.
Is it possible for me to write an Etiquette for Reading and Commenting on Blogs book?
Nancy in PA says
Of course it’s possible, but the ones who ought to read it, wouldn’t.
Maybe you could have a gentle manifesto prefacing your sponsored posts, to explain to readers who don’t understand the financial aspects of blogging.
Claudia says
I get tired just thinking about it!
Janet in Rochester says
Good idea. One line that simply states “Sponsored posts occasionally appear here…” Or something along those lines.
Claudia says
Hmmmm. I’m thinking.
Donnamae says
I simply don’t understand the criticism you received for yesterday’s post. I didn’t comment yesterday, because I had nothing to contribute to the discussion. We all know that ads and sponsored posts have become a standard for bloggers these days. Those ads, do not diminish the value of the content of blogs for me, whether it be yours or some one else’s. And bloggers are entitled to receive some compensation for all the work that you do. Quite frankly your pictures are too pretty to worry about ads! For what it’s worth….that’s my two cents! ;)
Claudia says
Thank you for your kind words, Donnamae!
Karen says
Yours is one of the few blogs that I read on a daily basis. I didn’t comment yesterday, but I’ve use those products and was glad to see that you promoted them and let others know that they’re out there. Women of ‘our age’ need to share stuff like this!
You are so gracious, Claudia, and while I don’t think you needed to apologize (that’s not for me to say), I do think that your post today is informative and helpful, especially to readers who don’t write blogs.
Claudia says
Thank you so much, Karen. I appreciate your support!
Mamey says
Hi there. I think you should do what you have to do to get compensated for your time and money running this DAILY, FABULOUS blog. If someone doesn’t like it, too bad. Simple as that.
Claudia says
Thank you, Mamey! Your support means a lot!
Vicki says
I feel strongly that it’s your blog and you can do what you want. People don’t have to visit; they can go somewhere else. I don’t mind your sponsored posts; you have few ads. I have stopped visiting blogs where I am so inundated with ads that I can’t scroll through the post or comments. Your blog is nothing like that. My hope is that you get as much satisfaction out of creating, maintaining and ‘filling’ your blog with interesting stuff as we do from reading it. I feel that your blog is very timely; current…echoing what’s going on in my own life, at this age, in these ‘senior’ years; how we’re all viewing the world from this latter chapter. If there was a paid subscription to your blog, I’d gladly pay. I get a lot from your posts, your replies and your reader comments; I learn a lot. I’m very appreciative that you post so frequently/daily; in blogs these days, that is RARE. Over years and so many/too many blogs I’ve read/visited, yours is among the best of the best. I really have pared down on my blog list, having sifted through them to reduce my time on the computer and keeps what’s worthwhile.
About these sponsored posts, you always disclose at the beginning what you’re doing. What I can’t stand is the blog owner who says nothing til the end. So, you’re reading on and on and can’t help but get the feeling you’re being snookered…somebody trying to sell you something; sneaking something in to their own advantage; when, if they’d just tell you upfront, you’d understand more clearly what’s going on. Anyway, if a little income helps you meet your blog expenses, how could any of us argue with that? We’re your fans, your readers; we’re loyal!
My opinion is that you’re doing nothing wrong but instead doing everything right, Claudia.
Claudia says
Yes, I think those disclosures should be at the top. BlogHer insists on that – otherwise we aren’t in compliance with FTC regulations.
Thank you, Vicki!
Vicki says
Forgot to say how intrigued I am with the liatris! I don’t think I’ve ever seen it before…
Claudia says
It’s pretty exotic looking, Vicki.
Teresa says
Hi Claudia! As always, I love your blog. When your blog focuses on something I am not that interested in I simply move on and check back the next day. Sometimes, when it is not something I am normally interested in I actually learn something. :-) I am close enough to the Soberanes Fire to think that people need to find real things to complain about. A friend not only lost all of her vineyards, but her home as well. That is a bigger thing to worry about than someone else’s blog content.
Once again, your pictures of bugs captivate me. The flowers are always beautiful, and cause me great envy, but the clarity of the bugs in the pictures hooks me every time. I think the entire country is hot (except SF, of course), but you have some rain to look forward to. If you do not want it please send it our way.
Claudia says
I am so, so sorry to hear about the devastating loss your friend has suffered, Teresa. I cannot even imagine how heartbreaking that is. Thank you so much for your support.
Debbie in Oregon says
It’s just SO EASY to “click and move on” … sheesh, in a world gone mad, what you write in your blog should be on the list of things we DON’T have to complain about! Please excuse me while I “laugh out loud”!! :) We love you Claudia, and Don too!
Claudia says
We love you right back, Debbie!
Dottie says
I am so thankful that you invite us into your life with your blog. Yours is one of the few that I read faithfully everyday. I comment occasionally, but I would never be unkind to you even if I disagreed with your view. We all have different opinions and thoughts. After all, how boring would it be if we were all the same. I LOVE your blog and appreciate all the hard work and time you surely put into it. Keep being yourself and do what you have to do.
Claudia says
Thank you, Dottie. I so appreciate your support!
Betsy says
Well gosh, now I need to go read yesterday’s post. I’ve been Internet-less for most of a week now since I’ve been at the lake and only came home for a doctors appointment. I don’t understand the need for people to criticize another person’s blog. It is yours. Mine is mine. We put what we want to on them. I enjoy and learn from your blog every time I read it Claudia. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to sharing with us.
Blessings,
Betsy
Claudia says
I know. Why readers feel they have to thumbs up or thumbs down a post, I don’t know. Thank you, Betsy!
Chris K in Wisconsin says
Oh, my word! There are days I’m frankly not interested in even what my husband is talking about…. so I pick up my book or go to another room. Same as with a blog. So, not interested?? Move on. Seriously…….
The heat (supposedly) broke here over night. But it is still SO humid. The sun isn’t out, so it isn’t as awful as the last several days, but the humidity isn’t going anywhere very quickly. By Tues of next week it is supposed to be in the upper 80’s and humid again. ugh. Hope your day is going well!! Smile!! 😬
Claudia says
We’re getting rain tonight and tomorrow, so the temps are going down, at least for a while! Thanks, Chris!
Cindy says
Claudia – I LOVE your blog just the way it is. It brings peace to my days. And you shouldn’t apologize to anyone about what you choose to put in the blog. It’s YOUR blog. I’m always so aware that I get to enjoy your writing and photography free of charge. I know I don’t reply often but every so often I like to express my gratitude to you for the enjoyment your blog brings. Thank you!! Love the picture of the bug about to land on the flower! Amazing!!
Claudia says
Thank you so much, Cindy, for your support. I’m glad you’re out there, reading the blog.
Barbara W. says
I think it’s great that your blog addresses so many different interests and concerns, sponsored post or not. I adore dollhouses and following politics, don’t read mystery novels or collect eggcups, but I certainly enjoy reading about all of these things. By the way, the crew here at work sends a hearty “thank you” for introducing us to Pepperidge Farm cookies in a past post. :D
Claudia says
Yay for Pepperidge Farm Cookies! I’m glad they like them! (That was a sponsored post!)
Thanks so much, Barbara. Trying to get motivated to work on the new project, but the heat is sapping my energy!
Amy at love made my home says
We all have our moments, don’t worry too much about it. You have apologised and I am sure that the person understands and accepts your apology. You are so right, blogging for those of us who blog every day or nearly every day is a job, more than just a part time one too! We don’t get paid, but we love it so we do it, but we can still have an off day, especially when we are feeling menopausal!! Try not to worry!
Claudia says
Thanks, Amy! I appreciate your positive input!
April Baldwin says
I enjoy reading your blog posts daily. For me your blog is very calming. I could not write about things on a daily basis like you do. Thank You for always being honest with your readers. You’re the best Claudia!! xo
Claudia says
Thank you, April. So glad you’re enjoying the blog!
Annie says
Love your blog. If there is something I don’t find that interesting I just move on. We all have different tastes and moods for what we want to consume that day. It’s hard not to be defensive when you put so much time into your blog. You are human. Ads are okay – you have very few. Enjoy the beauty of your world today. Be kind to yourself (not trying to be preachy).
Claudia says
Thank you so much, Annie. I appreciate your kind words.
Nancy Blue Moon says
That rose is just so perfect and the prettiest color…I love the liatris when it blooms and those are great pictures with the bug…and it’s always good to see a swallowtail missing his tail or not..I have no problem with you making money from YOUR blog…I also wish you could get more offers..
Claudia says
The liatris is so beautiful. I just wished it lasted longer! Thank you, Nancy.
Mary D. says
Dear Claudia,
I support whatever you need to do to keep your blog going. You have common sense and good judgement. Do expressed my sentiments exactly, except I like Roseville.
Claudia says
Oh, I’m glad you like Roseville, Mary! Thank you.
Kay says
It is your blog. Don’t be so hard on yourself. I appreciate all your time, effort and sacrifice. I don’t mind an ad. They are all over.
Claudia says
Thanks, my friend. You’re right – they’re everywhere. I suppose I still carry a certain amount of guilt that I have to run them.
Sylvia says
I need to chime in and say how happy I am that you are such a dedicated blogger. Thanks for all you do. And yes, even if I think I may not be “interested’ in a particular post, I read them all anyway – there’s always something to enjoy and/or learn.
Claudia says
Thank you so much, Sylvia. I appreciate your support!
Wendy T says
Claudia, I read a lot of craft-related blogs for inspiration…mostly quilting, needlework and blog is one of the few that I love just for the slice of life topics you so often write about. I appreciate what you go through, scratching your head thinking, writing, taking photos, just for us. I didn’t comment on yesterday’s post because it held little interest for me, as I neither need nor use those products. However, I appreciate your need to generate a bit of income for your blog. So, question, do more comments equate to a show of more traffic and therefore more income for you? If yes, I will add my comments to those sponsored blogs that crop up so infrequently on your blog.
Claudia says
No, don’t worry about the comments. The traffic comes when you click on my blog. The comments are not connected to that. Thank you so much for offering to comment on those posts, but you don’t need to.
Susan says
I enjoy your blog, Claudia, and read it almost every day, but don’t often comment. Love your garden photos and learning about what you and Don are doing. It is your blog and what you write or sponsor is totally up,to you. I agree that if it doesn’t interest some they should just move on. You have so few ads compared to some. The TSP reveal was fantastic and I am sorry I am just mentioning it. The summer has been keeping me busy and this heat is unrelenting here in Maine even. Keep on keeping on!
Claudia says
When the heat is unrelenting in Maine, you know we’re under the Heat Dome, as the weather people have dubbed it. Hang in there and keep cool and thank you.
Nancy K. says
Woo Hoo, Claudia, you go girl!
I have been reading your blog for a long time and I love it!
Boo Hoo to those who love to make comments, “hiding” behind these electronic devices…..
Claudia says
I’m actually pretty lucky in that regard. And it’s okay to complain but it means I have to explain the whole thing all over again and I hope that’s the last time I have to do it! Many thanks, Nancy.
Regula says
Hello Claudia, don’t feel too sorry. :-) There are so many posts that have “flowers” in the title. We all see it. All the best, Regula
Claudia says
Thanks so much, Regula! (Every year I wonder what I’m going to write about once the garden season is over!)
Valerie says
Oh good grief! I will never understand why people write and complain to a blogger about the content of the blog! Just close it and don’t read it if your not interested! It’s not rocket science…just move on! You write as many sponsored posts as you need, Claudia, to support this wonderful blog. If I’m not interested, I will close it and wait for tomorrow’s entry.
Claudia says
Thank you so much, Valerie! I appreciate your kind words.
Debbie says
I didn’t find anything offensive in the sponsored post yesterday, it was informative. Your phlox are so beautiful! My garden is just a big mess right now and I am waiting for a break in this oppressive heat & humidity to do some clean- up work.
Claudia says
Same here. I haven’t been able to do much out there because of the heat! Thanks so much, Debbie, for your support.
Debra says
Well, here’s how I look at the ad business. I pay for cable service (dearly in my opinion) and I still have to listen to commercials over and over and over. I read your blog for free, so a “commercial” every now and again is a small price to pay. It’s still the best deal in town!
Claudia says
Thank you, Debra! (Our cable bill is ridiculously high, so I understand!)
Sydney says
I am impressed by your pictures, have a special sensitivity and delicacy! I dare not to talk much, but gladly follow your post. Express a particular state of mind, kindness and attention to detail!
Susi says
Honestly, I can’t understand the reasoning behind the complaint, it is not like you force your blog on us. We, readers of your blog, should feel priviledged to read every single day great posts by you. It takes a lot of energy to keep up a blog, but only one click to close the window if you don’t like it, I don’t see where the problem is. Especially not when you’re giving us your honest review – and thank you for that! Your flowers are gorgeous!
Claudia says
Thank you for your support, Susi!