Every morning there is construction going on outside my window. Every morning. I’m not kidding. Saturday? Sure! Sunday? Absolutely. I can usually tune it out but I have to admit my annoyance with the whole thing has peaked this morning. And I thought the sound of traffic on our road back home was bad.
I’m ready to take prisoners.
And now, on to the meat of this post. There was an article in the New York Times a couple of weeks ago on blogging – specifically about the burnout that can happen to bloggers: When Blogging Becomes a Slog. Several bloggers were interviewed, but the article was inspired by John and Sherry Petersik’s decision to take a break from their amazingly popular blog, Young House Love. I am a faithful reader of that blog, in part because John and Sherry are so genuine, so transparent, and so honest about their projects and their lives. When readers commented about a sense they had that the quality of the blog posts had declined recently (John and Sherry just had their second child and their plate is full) those comments struck a chord with the Petersiks, who had been feeling much the same thing. So they wrote an articulate post about their dilemma and took a break.
Now, the Petersiks and others mentioned in the article are in an upper tier of decor/DIY bloggers who make their living by blogging. And I would assume that living is not just ‘scraping by’ but a very healthy one. They have created a space on the Web that draws millions of visitors. That’s a lot of ad income, my friends. What has generated that interest, that fan base, are lots and lots of projects and detailed tutorials. Lots of research. Lots of putting money back into the blog to generate more projects. And on and on it goes. But the same thing can be said not only for Big Bloggers but for all sorts of bloggers who work hard to generate fresh content and make an income through their work.
The reader is lucky. The reader gets it all for free. Just one click and there you go.
However, the blogger has created a business that must keep generating content. The pressure increases. There’s competition out there – a lot of it. New projects have to be created. New and fresh ideas – always a tough one, because there’s really nothing new under the sun – have to be designed, made, styled and photographed. And the business becomes a monster that must be fed constantly, or it will consume the blogger.
Add to that the constantly changing set of rules for bloggers. I’m not sure who decides these things and why everyone feels they need to follow them. You must pin a certain amount of pictures/posts a day on Pinterest. You must Tweet. You must link here. Or there. You have to use Google+. Oh and wait, now everyone has to use Stumble Upon…that’s the new thing. And on it goes. Someone says jump and everyone shouts, “How high?”
Soon, the blog is purely about business and for many bloggers that is just fine, it’s a very clear choice that they’ve made, and more power to them. I know bloggers who are making a very good income from making that decision and, truth be told, I’m a wee bit jealous! There’s nothing wrong with creating and designing a blog with business in mind.
But the Petersiks and others have spoken about an essential ingredient in the process that has disappeared lately: joy. The initial thing that drew us to this platform; the joy of blogging, the excitement of writing a post, the happiness that a well-written and crafted post can elicit, the connection to readers, the friends made…all of it can disappear before we’re even fully aware that it’s gone.
I’m just a teeny-tiny blogger in the grand scale of things. My page views aren’t that impressive. My ad income is minimal, just enough to keep this blog going, to pay for hosting and security, and to allow me to pay for a bill or two along the way. If you’ve read this blog for any length of time, you know I’ve wrestled with the whole enchilada: do I put ads on my blog, do I do this or that to generate income, do I start to craft posts specifically with page views in mind, do I pin, do I do what everyone else is doing? I’ll be honest with you – I’ve sometimes been jealous of all those niche blogs that seem to generate much more income than I will ever see. I’ve been a bit resentful.
But I’ve lately really come to terms with it all. I can be no other person than me. I started this blog as a sort of journal of my life. I started it because I love to write, in fact, I need to write and this new world of blogging gave me the perfect outlet for that need. That, along with my love for photography, sealed the deal. That’s what brings me joy. Writing, photographing, sharing – because I want to, not because I have to. That’s the joy. Meeting all of you – more of the joy.
So my coming to terms with it all means that I cannot and will not change the essential nature of this blog in order to make it a business because I can guarantee you that would be the moment when joy would begin to disappear. Are some days easier than others? Yes. Is every post a gem? Absolutely not. I post every day and, let’s face it, pearls of wisdom are not always flowing freely from my brain.
Some of this I’ve said before. But now, now it has gelled, solidified, for me. The pressure to have new content every day in order to generate income can lead a lot of bloggers to post photos from elsewhere on the web, to essentially lift content from other sources, to do more and more sponsored posts, to find something to fill the space because writing fresh content every post is tough. It’s a challenge. It’s just plain hard to think of something new every day, or three times a week.
My choice is to not do that, to not use content or photos from elsewhere. If I started doing that, the heart of the blog would change and it wouldn’t feel right. But that’s purely my choice – it’s what works for me after 6 years of blogging. The biggest change might be a choice in the future to blog six days a week instead of seven. But the jury’s still out on that. We’ll see. I’d even drop a lot of my ads if I could get by without them. I’m not crazy about their look on my site, but they are necessary.
Lucky for me, I don’t have to put all my eggs in one basket. I can’t expect this blog to remain true to my heartfelt vision and, at the same time, be the source of all my income. Never gonna happen. If I was a different kind of blogger, maybe. But even those bloggers like the Petersiks and others mentioned in the New York Times article have spoken about making changes. The Petersiks may look for another source of income, through a different kind of employment. Others have put the brakes on and are going back to their roots.
Even the book blog, my newest creation, was started to share my love of reading and books. I’d love it to eventually reach a wider audience, but if it doesn’t, that’s just fine. It brings me joy.
Blogging is fascinating, isn’t it? I’ve likened it to the Wild West before and I think that still holds true. There’s so much that’s changed since the early days of blogging, for better and worse. And it will continue to evolve. Let’s hope that none of us lose the initial joy that blogging brought to our lives and if we do, that we make whatever changes necessary to get it back again.
Happy Sunday.
Well said, Claudia. I have never blogged for business, so I haven’t felt pressured to jump through any of the hoops. I just do it to share with whoever wants to read it whatever is inspiring me or is on my mind to discuss. Sometimes I only get 5 comments and about 120 readers of the post. (if you can believe those figures). Years ago my blog had more followers, more commenters, more interest, but it has declined, and I’m perfectly OK with that. It’s still really my own journey documented on the blog, and someday my family and hopefully my very old self can look back on this life I’m living, these things I”m learning, the thoughts shared by others and smile. I did feel daily blogging sapped too much time away from more important parts of my life.. .like time spent outdoors, etc. So I no longer hold myself to the daily routine.
I think there are so many blogs now and readers feel torn – too much to read in too little time. You have to stay true to your beliefs, Karen, and you’ve done that very well. I may take a cue from you and eventually, blog a bit less than 7 days a week.
I so enjoy reading your blog each day. It is one of the first things I do each morning. Your writing and photos have a gentle calming effect which I look forward to, even on the days you don’t feel so calm! I appreciate the look into your life and the sharing of your thoughts. Just wanted you to know how much joy you bring to others!
Thank you so much, Barbara, for your very kind words.
Well said. I have a little pile of blogs that I read and yours and YHL are two of them. I did not notice a change in content although they certainly did seemed pulled in many directions. The remarks that started after they were unable to post one day were really mean spirited and unnessessary. I feel like people get addicted to a feeling of rightous indignation whether its is a strongly held personal belief or when someone doesn’t post their DYI blog on time. It’s crazy. I hope you are feeling better.
I agree. Some of them were very mean-spirited. Somehow, some readers think they have a right to dictate what they think a blog should be. Never mind that they are getting tons of valuable information for free! I think YHL handled it all with incredible grace.
Not having blogged with any income in mind, I can’t fully appreciate the angst a blogger can experience when deciding on the role that ads and demographics play (or don’t play) in the art of creating a post. You’ve given me a sense of what some consider to be critical factors. I admire how you choose to make your own voice and photos the focus of Mockingbird Hill Cottage.
Karen
Thank you, Karen. I, thankfully, never craft a post with demographics in mind. It would drive me crazy!
I “come to terms” frequently when it comes to my various blogs. I’ve found that comparison and competition are HUGE joy-stealers, and usually end up back where I started–for the JOY of it al!
They are absolutely joy stealers, Rebecca. You’re so right.
Well said. I only posted a handful of times in this past year; I just didn’t have the drive. But also, with my daughter Anne living “at home” again, I had someone else to talk to (does that sound silly?) and needed the blogging outlet less.
Because the blog has just been my own silliness and fun — no income — so no pressures other than those I put upon myself. I felt badly when I got emails from lovely people, asking if I was all right, where had I gone? So as the colder weather closes in, I’m back at the keyboard, and toting my camera again. And … Anne now lives in DC, so I AM talking to myself, or the dogs, during the day!
It’s hard for me to understand how people could be “mean” to bloggers who slow down, or take breaks — although there are all kinds of people out there. My favorite-ever comment from a reader ran along the lines of: “I am not going to read your blog anymore. It’s all about YOU.”
Have a great Sunday, get ear plugs!
Cass
I wear ear plugs every night, Cass, I just can’t do it during the day!
Love that comment. Are you kidding me? But I’ve learned that there is no pleasing everyone. You write your blog for yourself and if others like it, that’s the icing on the cake.
And yes, I totally understand having someone to talk to making a difference. Though Don is probably very happy indeed that I have all of you to talk to!
I missed you and your old house, Cass. Welcome back!
I am a long time reader of Young House Love, and have enjoyed it for all the reasons you mentioned. I understand the Petersik’s reason for stepping back, but a bit sad too. I think some of their readers were a very harsh. If they no longer felt the blog was meting their needs/expectations they were free to stop reading. Where is the compassion?……That said, I love your blog, and understand it is your personal journal. You are who you are and I wouldn’t change that for anything. Keep doing it your way!
I agree. Why not just move on if you don’t like the subject matter? I trust the Petersiks made their decision because they felt something missing, not because their readers felt something was missing.
I am so happy you are maintaining a joy of blogging! I so look forward to your daily posts for various reasons. The ads don’t bother me in the least….yours are so minimal compared to others. Occassional sponsored posts are a-okay too…but days in a row like some bloggers….that’s a turn-off. It really is too bad that blogging for many, comes down to social media, page views, and all other nonsense, because of the almighty dollar. If you need to increase your ads…go for it. You have original content…..and that trumps everything! ;)
Thank you, Donnamae. I don’t think I’ll increase my ads – if anything, maybe down the line, I’ll decrease them. We’ll see!
I long ago stopped checking my page views or stats. That kind of thing immediately decreases joy!
Claudia, My little blog is what it is…little. I remember I wrote you once thru your email just to leave a comment. Because I did not have a blog or any idea how to blog. I said I loved your glasses and you assured me that was a photo of you. I like lots of blogs, all types and subjects. I hope it doesn’t die out. Blessings, xoxo,Susie
Me too, Susie. I can’t imagine not blogging and not being able to read other blogs – though I seem to have very little time for that lately!
I’m so glad you started to blog!
I read that article about losing the Joy and I get it. Life changes and so you change and so does your blog. This last year has taken a huge toll on my blog and I’m at a crossroads…quit blogging or try to find the happiness it has brought me for almost 5 years. I’ve decided to keep blogging and try to find some balance with my much busier life. I really don’t know how you do it daily. I’m OK with my stats going down, since I really blog for me and also the handful of readers I call friends. I know I would miss it if I stopped. I gave it a lot of thought this weekend made a decision last night to not give it up. With that said, I think the stress of making it an income producing blog is tremendous and would never work for me. You know I love you and your blog. I look forward to my ‘fix’ each morning. I’m back to finding the JOY>
hugs,
Linda
So glad to hear you decided to keep blogging, Linda! But I know what a time drain it can be and how other things in our life have to take precedence at times. For me, the discipline of writing every morning really helps me start out my day. But, that being said, it can be difficult at times!
Perhaps your blog does cater to a particular demographic – readers who think you’re quite amazing! (My daughter said to add ‘and pretty cool’.)
I read through the list of Pulitzer Prize winners for fiction this summer in an effort to learn more about America. When I looked through some of your previous posts about historic towns, the lovely photos really resonated.
Keep doing what you do – you’re the best! :D
Barbara W.
(I tried to add an initial to my name in the ‘Reply’ box as I noticed an earlier comment from a reader with the same first name, but I’m fairly useless at tech stuff. )
Thank you, Barbara! I like my particular demographic and don’t know what I would do without all of you!
Good morning Claudia. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Your thoughts resonate with mine about blogging and the pressure of doing so. Funny, I have never heard of their blog. I will have to go and check it out.
Many posts back you shared your thoughts about whether or not to advertise. When you did, I thought maybe that would be something I should do – and then I didn’t. Recently I thought about it again – and again decided to not. It is wonderful for some, but I honestly don’t have the time to devote to posting every day. Working full time at my business just doesn’t afford me the extra time to “have to” post. And then there is the guilt that goes along with posting about not being able to respond to comments left. I try to answer back, but cannot get to everyone.
Blogging seems to have become a popularity contest. Kind of like being the cheerleader in high school who is surrounded by all of the best looking guys on campus. I’ve never been that person – now or then. I kind of like being in the background without having all of the demands of performance. Call me the wallflower, then and now.
You, my friend, have a gift and are richly blessed in so many ways. I think that we just have to step back and take a breath. We can take the high road or the low road, but the road we take is our choice..most times.
love you!
You have a full-time business and I think that, for you, taking on ads and the pressure to post wouldn’t be a good thing at all. When you can and do post, I’m right there, ready to read and look at your photos. Be true to you.
I must say I do not like the popularity contest aspect of blogging one bit. I didn’t like in high school and I still don’t like it.
I feel that same pressure to visit everyone and leave comments, but I fail at it most of the time. Between writing the two blogs, responding to all the comments, and the rest of my life, I often quickly read a post and depending on time, maybe leave a comment. Lately, I’ve been so busy that I haven’t had the time to read many blogs. I guess we all have to do this the best way we can.
xo
Claudia
I can’t even imagine leaving a negative comment about a blog post. If you can’t say something nice . . . I can tell you have to write Claudia, it’s a need I have also and I’m constantly amazed at the people in my life who think I’m weird because of it. Writing has always been a form of release for me. I love your blog because it’s real and I love that all of us have our own story to tell. I am a homebody and quite happily but I love reading about your and Don’s work and about your little corner of the world. The photos and stories about Scout are so precious. Hope you’re feeling better.
Writing is incredibly cathartic, isn’t it, Janie? It keeps me sane. Thank you for your kind words.
I have told you how much I enjoy your blog, and love that it is truly “in the moment”. You write your posts on that morning. There is some sort of “connect” there when bloggers do that, and they are far and few between. I, too, love YHL. I was sad when they stepped away, but totally understood. How many of us would do our jobs, remodel our homes, raise our families (letting us in on daily morning sickness updates of a pregnancy), and take us on shopping trips as well as weekend holiday and vacation get-aways ~ by posting about all of it on a daily basis….and then listen to people criticize about it in comments. If our bosses told us that was part of our job, not many would take it. I think about them and hope they are enjoying their little family and their home. I do miss them, and would miss you, too, if YOU stepped away, so I am glad you aren’t going anywhere! If we get one less day a week, that is totally understandable!! And, as others have said, your ads really don’t bother me at all as I hardly notice them.
Tomorrow you move, and hopefully there isn’t construction outside of the apartments. Being able to get some rest is so crucial when you aren’t feeling 100%. Hope you have a good day!
I agree. I like post written that day much more than pre-planned posts, which are fine, but not my favorite thing. As I said in an earlier reply, I think YHL handled all of that with incredible grace. I don’t know if I would have been quite so understanding about the snippy comments.
I am not a blogger. I am a retired person living out my dream with my husband and rescue dog in Arizona. Every morning I get up have a cup of coffee and read your blog. It brings me joy. I am faithful to only 2 blogs, yours and a certain someones sister. Why? Because they are both written from the heart with the intent of sharing lifes journey. I read about Scout and Don and the little cottage and on my other fave I read about little buddy. Just ordinary people doing ordinary things and sharing. Just love that. Thanks for not changing. Thanks for starting my days with joy. Cindy
Oh, that Little Buddy makes my heart sing. I love that boy. He is an angel and a teacher and a wise old soul. I’m so proud to be his Aunt, and Don, Don is beside himself with joy over that boy!
I totally agree with Cindy above. I am not a blogger either just a retired lady who sometimes skips through other blogs because they seem to me to be all about acquiring things. Don’t get me wrong, I get plenty of good ideas from them, but being on a limited income now, I cannot go out and just purchase things. I have to make do with what I have. I enjoy them, but your blog is the one that I always look forward to reading — and I never skip through — and commenting on your posts. Your blog is the only one I have commented on because you seem so real and down to earth. You tell it like it is, and for that I am thankful. I enjoy your writings every day even if it is just about simple things. I think the simple things are the best anyway. Thanks for being you. Get some rest and I hope you are feeling much better.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Dottie. I’ll keep on posting as I’ve always posted here on this blog.
Unfortunately, I woke up very early coughing and then Miss Scout had to take care of business and I have a run-through of Hamlet later this afternoon. Then I move tomorrow! Maybe rest will come later tomorrow.
I would suppose it is hard not to compare one’s own blog against another, to wish for mega ad income and a million followers.
Let me assure you Claudia your blog is a treasure in the blogging word because you write what is real and known to you, it is varied and personal. Your followers can feel these things through your words.
Keep on doing what you know best for yourself and your blog. Cheers to you with my morning cup of joe.
Aw thank you, Dianne. Your words mean a great deal to me!
Noise pollution is a terrible thing..There is a garage close to us and sometimes he will rev up an engine until I feel I would like to walk over there, get in that car and run over him with it..lol..not really but I can fantasize can’t I??..Hopefully when you move tomorrow the noise will be gone..Anybody who would criticize the Petersilks has a big problem..those two young people have practically given their whole lives and their time to make other people happy..I’d say they have gone above and beyond to make their blog one of the best..How dare anyone tell them they can’t now take time for themselves and their children..people are so spoiled and selfish sometimes..they demand things that they have no right to be demanding..Let these people have time for their own lives and their own happiness..Let me tell all you bloggers that I appreciate all the work that you do..I appreciate all that you share..and I would never ever be angry or nasty if you would need time for your own lives..in fact I would expect you all to need time for yourselves..as for the ads..no problem..If you are making a few bucks or making a living..I am glad that you have a way to do it..Thank you..
The Petersiks seem to me to be very down-to-earth and they’ve handled the whole thing with a great deal of grace. They made a point of asking readers not to blame those who left those comments because the comments echoed something they had been feeling for a while.
I love your blog because it is all you. Love your sharing and your photographs. I like the combination of what you share – your thoughts, your family (including furry family), your gardening, books, and your decorating! You give others joy!
Oh thank you, Liz!
I’m another non-blogger who appreciates your blog for it’s originality, photos and well-written text. I also love that your grammar and spelling is perfect! Take care, Jen
Not always, Jen. Sometimes I have to go back in and edit misspelled words!
Thank you for sharing your authentic life with us, Claudia~
You are very welcome, Susan.
You are so lucky that you still feel the passion of blogging and finding the joy. There are only so many blogs I can find time to read in a day and I always enjoy visiting yours. I’ve decided to just stay a little blogger, I can’t compete with all the other bloggers out there anyway and I have no desire to constantly create projects and vignettes. I live in an average size home with minimal decor, compared to many bloggers, so I just do simple things and that seems to be working for me. It should be enjoyable to blog and if it becomes a chore, why bother.
I was rather naive when I started blogging and even created an etsy shop, but I realized that selling things on there was not worth the effort and I received few visits. I might reopen it during holidays, but I also know that I don’t have the type of blog that will generate income. I’ve accepted that and I’m enjoying blogging more now.
Regardless of how often you post in the future, I will always stop by to get a glimpse into your daily life!
Meredith and I had an Etsy shop, too. But after a while, it took too much energy to keep it going!
I am a caregiver, 24/7, blogs have been my escape from the pressure. While I understand that some people need to make money from their blogs, it makes them less interesting to me. I want to see into lives or ideas that I will never be able to indulge. I miss some of my former favorites that now do not blog, but that is life. I say do what you like, it will always find an audience.
I think some bloggers just get tired of blogging, or decide to devote more time to family or work – there are a host of reasons why bloggers stop blogging, but it does help when the reader can at least say goodbye.
Dear Claudia, being the person you are, there is only one thing you can do. Stay true to yourself
I must confess, I have been a little lax at taking time to look and click on all your Ads .
I will start here and now too do just that . It is the least I can do after all the enjoyment I’ve gotten from reading your blog.
May the force be with you!
Judy A-
Oh, don’t worry about the ads, Judy! And yes, may the force be with me – maybe it will take away this cough!
I am not a blogger either. Quite frankly, even if I were to blog to share with family, half of them don’t have a computer and those that do, don’t have the internet. They live in small towns where all of the social media outlets are of very little interest to them. They’re aware they exist, but feel no need to utilize them. I, however, do enjoy reading several different blogs and your’s has been one of my top favorites. You are so down to earth and share your ups and downs which reassures me that I am not the only one with same or similar opinions or situations. I love to read about Scout and appreciate it when you share when there may be an acting job, where I may get to see Dons talents on the screen.
When I first started reading blogs I went a little crazy with all of the information out there. Too many blogs – not enough time. However, as I got more involved in the different posts that had been made, I realized that many of them really were not that interesting to me, after all. So now I follow fewer and enjoy them more and can relate to what is shared. And appreciate all of the photography, yours as well.
I think what is the hardest to understand is if a blogger just quits – no reason shared – I don’t know that they realize they may have had quite a large impact on someones life. I know there’s no obligation, but it is sad to see them go. it’s hard not to worry to some extent, that they’re o.k.
It’s clear to me that you have attracted a good size audience – and I think they feel the same as I do. You’re doing something right and we enjoy it and look forward to it every day. If you feel the need to limit your posts, I’m sure we would all understand and savor it all the more, when you do post.
Our dream is to move far enough away from civilization to hear natures noise and yet close enough to be able to access the big city, if needed. We live on a busy road and a few blocks away from the train tracks. Between police sirens and trains flying through, often blowing their horns (posted no horns) it can get quite crazy at times. We replaced all of our windows and patio door a few years ago, can’t imagine how much worse it must be for those who have original windows in their townhomes. Ugh!
Noise is always an issue, isn’t it? Here in the city and at home in the country. There’s always something.
Thanks so much for your kind words.
I think you hit the nail on the head when you said that blogging should bring you joy. I totally understand the Petersik’s decision. I can’t even begin to compare my blog to any Big Bloggers – it’s not even close. And that’s fine – it works for me. I like to write, I like to take pictures, and I like to share some of the delights in my life with whomever might care enough to read about them. That’s it. No frills on my blog, no ads, no sponsored posts. Again, only because that’s what works for me. I don’t begrudge anyone else who chooses to use these things on their blog. That said, there’s some blogs out there that are too heavy on the ads and that can get quite annoying with trying to read the blog itself and in how long it takes the page to load – so I choose to only look at those blogs once in awhile. Again, all a matter of individuality and choice. I also don’t blog on a schedule…only when the desire moves me. There’s just some days (or even weeks) where my heart isn’t into it. And other times where I feel like I could blog several times a day. Happy Sunday, my friend.
I think everyone has to blog in a way that fits for them. Some bloggers love the business aspect of it and are innovative and driven in the best sense of the word. Others, like me, don’t like that aspect at all.
I also sometimes feel I could blog several times a day – I have to stop myself!
Hi Claudia–
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this post. I love it when you share your heart.
You’ve hit on a few of things of interest to me.
1- I used to ‘lift’ content. Until I found out it’s just plain rude in the blog world. Now, if you see a picture on my blog that isn’t mine. I have an email saved in blog correspondence -with detailed permission from that blogger to use their photo. If I find it on Pinterest, I try to hunt down the original owner of the photo…otherwise, it’s marked Pinterest. It’s not hard to be a polite blogger.
2- The Joy in blogging begins to slip away when you are obligated. I try to blog without obligation. Only to myself. (hence…the 31 day writing challenge) Which brings me to #3
3- Linking up– Oh man! I appreciate the hosts and hostesses to the blog parties out there. That is obligatory blogging for sure. Some of us depend on those people to have those parties. I for one can’t obligate myself to host a party. And about what? There are so many– and some duplicates. I do miss your Favorite Thing Party. :) Again– be a polite blogger and let your hostess know you appreciate her effort!
4- Again– the 31 Day challenge to write only comes around once a year… THANK GOODNESS! because honestly, Claudia- I don’t know how you come up with content every single day. I just don’t think I could make it interesting enough to post everyday. I have seen the numbers– and well, I don’t know if people are turned off by the Challenge, or what. But my stats don’t just dip…the dive! Thankfully, I don’t put a whole lot of stock in stats.
5- lastly and most importantly– YOU ARE NOT A TEENY -TINY BLOGGER! You have clout in my book. :) I love reading what you have to say. I do enjoy your book blog– though I don’t comment much there; I feel a little intimidated for some reason. But, since you started that blog– you were a big part in my opening my camper blog back up and begin posting again. I love the campers– and camping things… and can’t wait to camp. It’s a joy blog. You get that, right?
Sorry for such a long comment… but I just wanted to give you some feedback, I love coming here to read and chat with you!
Pat
Great comment, Pat, and no, it’s not too long! I enjoyed reading your thoughts.
You’re absolutely right – when we start to feel obligated, we are in danger territory.
Claudia, I love your blog. I am not a blogger just a blog lurker! Truthfully, I can’t even remember how I found yours but I am so very glad I did! You are a “real” person who goes thru the same things most of us do but you write about it so beautifully. Your pictures are a pure pleasure for me as I love my little home and all of my plants—just like you do. When I read your posts I really feel that I am catching up with one of my friends because that is how I view you. Don’t worry about your posts being boring or the same thing over again—–I surely don’t feel that way about them. Keep up the good work and know that I love you being just the way you are!
That’s exactly what I want people to feel – that we’re chatting like friends do. Thank you so much for your kind words, Dorothy.
Claudia,
Your blog brings me joy. And, clearly, I am not the only one.
Aw, thanks so much, Nancy!
Such an interesting post, Claudia. Blogging really does keep evolving. I don’t put pressure on myself to blog, I would lose the enjoyment of it all. I just posted tonight after a week of no posting…and that’s ok. It’s fun to blog when I have something I want to share. I have always enjoyed the crafting of a post- the photography, the writing, and composition. Any income, which is small, has always been a welcome bonus, but never reliable. And for me, my blog is not big enough to make much from ads, income comes from the occasional sponsored post, magazine work, sponsored painting projects, and etsy. It’s been fun to have these opportunities, which I probably wouldn’t have had without blogging. It will be fun to see where blogging goes next!
I always enjoy visiting your blog, reading your thoughts, and seeing your beautiful photos!
I agree! We wouldn’t have these opportunities without blogging. So I am very grateful for them, indeed!
I began blogging before, during and after my trip to Japan after the big earthquake/tsunami. It told about the wonderful handmade things people donated for me to take to the shelters and chronicled my trip for the donors so they could be part of it. I never intended it to keep going….but then I met some wonderful people through that blog and I didn’t want to say goodbye. Here I am, several years later and have met many friends through that medium. Even several of them face to face. I count Metedith as a dear friend and I’ve never even met her! That being said, I don’t blog every day, only once or twice a week and it is about me and my life. I don’t follow any “rules”. I don’t even know what they are. :-) I did read the Petersik’s blog too, and will miss them, but don’t understand the people who thought they had a right to criticize their decisions. Hello? It’s their blog. They can choose to or not to post whenever they want. Okay. Off my soapbox now.
Blessings,
Betsy
I’m right with you on that soapbox, Betsy. Since when do readers determine content? It’s their blog! And the readers are getting all of their expertise for free!
Thanks so much for commenting. (I think my sister Meredith is pretty much the most wonderful sister and person ever, so I’m not at all surprised that you count her as a friend!) xo
My blog continues to be what it always was from the very beginning – a creative outlet now that I’m no longer working in the art/advertising world, a personal journal of my travels, garden, decorating projects etc., and a way to make wonderful friends along the way, be it in a quaint antique shop in town, or on an island in the middle of a vast ocean!
Now and then I have a day when I feel I cannot continue. I’m perhaps wasting too much time on the computer, that fewer comments now that there are so many blogs do not make it all worthwhile, but I keep going because I love to look back and see the places I’ve been, the people I’ve met and enjoyed along the way, and the photos I’ve taken of amazing places on all seven continents . Even if they don’t read my posts right now, I hope that my children and grandchildren will perhaps find it of interest when I’m gone! One family member had the audacity to tell me I needed to “get a life” when I asked why she didn’t ever read my blog . I think I’ve had an exceptional life, and I’m still planning a lot more of it!
With my blog I would never have met you sweet Claudia – what a huge loss that would be!
Let’s keep up the good work and keep on keeping on.
Hugs – Mary
There are fewer comments than there used to be. Sometimes I go back and look at posts that are a few years old and marvel at how many comments there were. But there are now so many blogs to read, therefore, less comments. Ah, well.
Get a life? Your family member actually said that? You have one of the richest, fullest lives I can imagine! (I think some people just don’t understand the concept of blogging and never will.)
Claudia, I’m not a blogger myself, but I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your blog! It is my favorite out of all of the blogs I read on a daily basis. I feel we have a lot in common. I do admire that you blog original content everyday, although if you need a day off you should take it! I also love hearing about Scout, as I’m a dog lover with 3 of my own. And I love your photography as well – I have so many of the same flowers in my cottage garden and my cottage home is similar in size to yours, so I relate very well to small space living. Again, I love your blog and sitting down with a cup of coffee to read it daily is a pleasure I really look forward to! Take care, Lily Rose
Thank you so very much for those kind words, Lily Rose. I’m so glad you’re a part of this MHC family!
Thanks for the NY Times article link. I will NEVER understand anyone who would leave a mean/negative blog comment! Clearly they are unhappy, and seem to take that opportunity to spread that unhappiness! I, too, look forward to reading your posts. Simply put, YOU are a treasure in the blogging world. You’re real, you share your thoughts/ideas on a variety of subjects, and you feel like a friend. I really appreciate all the time and effort that you put into both of your blogs.
Thank you so much, Debbie. I treasure each and every one of you.
I started blogging as a journal for my pictures. I love to take pictures. I rarely have anything exciting to say. I refuse to get in to the politics of blogging .If you like my blog,visit, leave a comment, and I generally will answer you. That’s it. No more no less.enjoy it and have met a lot of nice people along the way.that’s me plain and simple, no-frills. No axe to grind..have a happy day.
You blog the way you want to, Missy, and that’s the way it should be.