It’s almost Valentine’s Day. I don’t know about you, but I’m celebrating the end of all the heart-shaped jewelry commercials. Especially the one with a heart-shaped pendant in the middle of a box of chocolates; clearly targeting those guys out there who are overwhelmed with deciding what to buy.
We tend to be low-key on Valentine’s Day. Sometimes flowers are delivered, sometimes we exchange cards, sometimes not. We say I love you to each other several times a day, every day. Holidays with a commercial bent like Valentine’s Day, Sweetest Day, Mothers Day and Fathers Day sort of drive me up the wall. If you love someone, you should express that love every day, not because someone decided you have to on one ‘special’ day. I’d rather have an honest, spontaneous ‘I love you’ any day.
I tend to be that way. If I hear that everyone is doing it, or that I must do something a certain way because that’s what’s cool now, or that my blog should look a certain way because that’s what everyone is doing now, or that I must watch a certain movie or read a certain book because everyone is watching or reading it – well, for better or worse, I dig my heels in. I don’t like anyone telling me what I should do or like or read or watch. I would say that I’m stubborn, and I am, but it is really more about knowing myself. One of the perks of getting older is casting away all those ‘shoulds’ and embracing what works for me. “If everyone said to jump off the Brooklyn Bridge, would you do it?” Mom said that to me many times in my formative years, those years when being just like everyone else seemed to be so important. I guess it stuck. I’m not like everyone else. I’m me.
Believe me, I’ve been there – I made many decisions based on what I felt “others ‘ thought I should be doing. On on an image of myself that I wanted to create, but that wasn’t the real me. Those decisions never really felt right, deep within.
Though it seems like everyone is doing it, I don’t watch most reality television. First of all, it’s not reality. It’s manufactured and pumped-up by the creators to show the worst in people. It’s created to appeal to the voyeur in all of us. Why would I want to spend time with people that I don’t respect or like? It also takes work away from my husband and every actor trying to earn a living because it’s cheaper to produce.
I’ve often avoided movies that are supremely hyped because I get so sick of the constant advertisements and the “everyone is seeing it” blurbs. If everyone is…I probably will hold off for quite a while.
I’ve read several posts lately saying bloggers should have a white background. And sure enough, I’m seeing them everywhere. Or that a blog should consist of this, that or the other. Some of this advice is very helpful to a beginning blogger. However, a blog is a highly personal journal. I think white backgrounds are just fine and if you choose a white background because you genuinely like that look, great. But if you prefer something other than white, go for it. Your blog should reflect you. I can tell you with no hesitation whatsoever that I will not be following that trend.
Neither will I be going for the very popular white-on-white decorating look. It’s striking and I certainly love seeing it in the homes of many bloggers, but it isn’t for me. I like and need color.
And though it sometimes seems as if everyone is doing it, I also won’t be going on Twitter. Who needs to hear the minutia of my life? You probably get enough of that on this blog! I don’t think you really need to hear that I’m on my way to the gas station. Or that I just picked up 4 rolls of toilet paper.
I try to stay away from endless 24-hour political blather on television. I don’t like anyone telling me what to think or believe. I read, research and then make my decisions based on what I feel is right, fair and compassionate. I have my own mind, thank you. Someone saying something is true does not make it true.
This reads like a list of what I won’t do but it really is about a simple idea. “To thine own self be true.” Shakespeare again. That man was so wise. Celebrate because you want to, watch or read something because you want to, design your blog or decorate your home the way you want to, believe in something because you feel it is right, not because some talking head on television tells you to. It’s easy to do what everyone else is doing. It can seem harder to go your own way – but really, it’s quite simple.
And yes, I bought even more Perle cotton in NYC the other day – enough to make that pretty heart. And display in this glass jar.
Good Morning Claudia! Oh, I am so the same way. I hate it when someone tells me I HAVE to do something. No I don’t and I’ll suffer the consequences even when I know it’s something I should do. I really like the looks of a crisp white scheme in decorating whether it’s blogs or homes but it is not for me personally. I love color and I’ll use it with reckless abandon. But, I must admit, I DO watch some reality TV but only the ones that involve competition, not the ones that are mindless looks into someone’s everyday life: multiple kids, life along the shore etc, etc. Oh and I don’t tweet either, who the heck cares that I just left the bathroom and I’m getting ready to go shopping?! Have a wonderful Valentines Day with your honey, chocolates or not! xxoo Nan
Oh Claudia, this is an excellent post, well said, enough of the biggest loser or the smallest man or the survivor or the people with too much money…..agh!!!!
My previous life was all about submitting to my in laws and their rules. I had enough, now my family does what they want and we do what is best for all of us that love each other. You are so right to dig in your heels, that is what I would do…no more guilt trips and the pressure…even in blogging it is there.
If I can, I spend time with my husband, we love each other and never miss an opportunity to express it.
There are always books to read, things to knit, or art to do……bake something…
Have a happy heart day everyday with the one you love!
Hugs,
Margaret B
sing it sista.
i’m with you all the way. maybe it is an age thing. like who cares anymore what anyone thinks of me. i don’t watch tv, at all, don’t have a cell phone. can’t imagine tweeting anything. i do love white decor, always have always will but i love color in other people’s house (yours included) because it makes me happy. i do prefer reading blogs with lighter backgrounds. recently a fav blogger went with a deep gray and i can barely read what she writes now. but if it makes her happy, i’m all for it.
and i really hate blockbuster type movies. give me an independent films any day. have i covered it all?
happy valentines day to you and don!
xo
janet
Amen Sista! I actually feel sorry for men who fall victim of this made up holiday. Your right…A spontaneous “I love you” is wayyy
better than having to show it…just because.
tootles,
bunny
That is one yummy looking heart — maybe even better than chocolate!
Very well said Claudia. I think on these types of things more and more as time goes on.
Yes, I tried the white background nothing fancy on the sides blog theme, and every time I do..it lasts a day. I just need more. You’re so right that each blog is a real personal expression. My espressions change almost daily, and I can’t think of another way to be, because it wouldn’t be me.
Great post –
That does make for such a unique and colorful display! I love thread in all its variations and hues. Amen to this! I won’t ever be watching reality TV. I seldom even turn the TV on. I don’t go to movies. I don’t care what the color trends are. I will always have quilts decorating my house. That’s my expression. I don’t care what anyone else thinks or what the style is. Amen, sister!
Brenda
LOL, it struck me funny with the all white background. I’ve been seeing it quite a bit and figured it must be the “lastest thing” but had heard about it.
I never watch reality TV and I know I am in the minority but I have never watched any TV daytime talk shows like Oprah, never seen one single episode of hers. Of course I’m always working but I don’t tape it either.
I truly agree that our blogs should be a reflection of who we are and the things that make us happy!!
I can tell you that having a white decor in our house would NEVER work, we have dust, we have dirt, we have doggie hair . . I’m with you, it is a lovely look, but it’s not me.
And for awhile there I was feeling that my home was inadequte in looking at all these beautifully decorated homes (and may I tell you that yours is very lovely) but it dawned on me, it’s our home and it’s lived in and we’re happy with it and that’s what really matters!!
You go, girl, to yourself be true!!
As for heart day, we generally have a nice dinner, perhaps exchange a card, sometimes flowers, sometimes not. (LOL, how about those Christmas commercials where someone gets a car for a present)
I hope you have a lovely Valentine’s day!
xxoo
Eek, should have re-read it AGAIN, had NOT heard that blogs should have white backgrounds.
;-)….I feel a post comin’ on, sugar. :-) Amen to all you’ve said.
xoxo,
Connie
You’ve inspired me to figure out why I couldn’t change my background on blogger. It was nice to take a break with a white background, a clean slate so to speak, but I quickly tired of it. But, I couldn’t get the design feature to load up on blogger, and when I researched the problem I couldn’t understand what to do (no surprise.) So, I just sat my son down and he fixed the problem! Now, I’m off to find some color;0)
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Great post, Claudia! I agree completely. It is quite a pleasure to be yourself when the rest of the world seems to conform to (often low) standards.
We should treasure differences that make people unique and precious!
A white-on-white home? Fantastic… if featured in a book, as for me! I need color to feel alive!!!
Big hugs,
Monica x.
I absolutely love the way the floss looks in that jar, Claudia! It just so pretty!
We are supposed to hit 50 degrees later this week. Can you hear my squealing with delight?
Hope you have a wonderful week… Donna
Claudia, what a wonderful post, the older I get the more I do what I WANT to do. I have to live in my house and although they say less is more, I like all my things..yes they are just things but they are MY things!
And my blog is colorful. I MUST HAVE color!
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Barb
Claudia,
You are right–Valentines is about earning money,this one day –love is -hopefully– every day-year round….
We don`t do Valentines here,–and also in Denmark-only very few are on that –but shops all over ,tryes to sell items, weeks before 14/2…
I lost my sister ,3 years ago, on Valentines day– so I don`t celebrate– but I would not do it anyway…..
As you, I try hard, only doing what I feel is right for me…
Hugs,Dorthe
Yea, Claudia! You said it for many of us who are getting to the stage in life where the “shoulds” just aren’t very attractive anymore. I’ve been going through a lot of “don’t want tos” lately. I don’t want to go to the grocery store, cook dinner, clean house, help with the puppet team at church, read “that” book, watch “that” movie or tv show. I just want to sit and do MY thing, and that’s pretty much what I’ve been doing! Thanks for reiterating for me that this is OKAY.
Love your thread!
Oh yeah, and I like to change my blog background with my mood! The one about Mother is lavender because that was her favorite color. I love color, too, and I will have a colorful blog!!!
Oh, wise one…. I could not agree more. It took me so long to find my voice in life. Find what makes me different from all the rest. When I hear mentioned that “MUSIC” is a bad blog thing…well, you know from your visits that’s just part of G.B…if finding my song selection for each posting was too go away. What fun would it be to visit me. Don’t even get me started on removing color and going to just white. That my friend will not be happening here.
Thanks for getting me going and the blood pumping this comatose afternoon.
Being unique is the spice of life. Good for you! Blessings, Joanne
Hey Girlfriend,
Happy “friend” anniversary! There’s a reason you and I click……your blog is so totally me! I probably should say more like this, but to tell you the truth…..I’m too tired….LOL Besides theres awesome ladies like you “puttin’ it out there” for me. I heartily agree with everything you say. Have a wonderful week.
Love ya’
Meri
hi claudia,
i hear you all the way!
LOVE the top photo!!! Love!
happy valentine’s eve, sweets!
xo
elyse
Claudia, I DO like some reality shows, because they are so out of line with my life that I can’t help being fascinated in spite of myself – however, I am glad to say I do not have a white background and I like to stay true to me. I enjoy your blog because it takes me somewhere different than where I am, as do many others. I have to agree with your sentiment re these “greeting card” days. Although I will be giving my much deserving hubby some chocolate and some hugs tomorrow because he deserves them – and every day after. I am a green/yellow/blue girl. Happy Heart’s Day. Ann LOL
loving this post! do women really like getting heart shaped jewelry from mega chain jewelry stores??!! no thank you…not me. i do think the white on white decor is very pretty too, but i definitely need some color pops. have a happy low-key valentines day!
i am catching up on reading blogs tonight….and have to tell you
way.
to.
go.!!
you speak from your heart and i totally get everything! i don’t text, i don’t twitter….seldom facebook – and as of late, seem to find little time to do what i really like and that is blogging. time seems so short some days!
claudia, i love it that you are you. like you, i try to be true to myself and not get caught up in the “popular” thing to do at that moment. i do love white decorating, but only have it basically in a few rooms. for sure NOT the living room – not with messy dogs and men in my life. hahaha.
happy valentine’s day to you!
xxoo
becky
claudia…you make me laugh. i was fixin to write a blog post about blogs soon, but you have justified the diversity in all of us…SO THANKS!! i totally could not agree more that we should be true to ourselves. you awake the creative spirit just because you are awesome….trends or not! i love to come check out your blog because there is thought in it….love in it….and truth in it. thank you for that! i am so out of the blogging loop. i have no clue what is in or out or who has the most stars upon thars…none at all. even if i could know what the trends are, i just don’t have the energy to keep up!!
i blog because it is cheaper than therapy and more creative and i like to write. i’m not out to get the most comments or the most hits…blah, blah….i just like to journal and track some things in my life that i hope inspire a few people.
i don’t even facebook. how bad of me! am i the only one??? i go on facebook maybe once or twice a month! twitter??? that sounds obscene or painful….and the thought of watching more than 1 or 2 reality shows a week slows down the process in the craftroom.
i also can’t take another stupid heart commercial. i keep telling my husband if he spends any money at all on one of those jewelry pieces, i will trade it in for a big ole bag of vintage buttons and a towering pile of ripped doilies!
instead of jewelry…give me 20 minutes alone in the bathtub and make me a pot of coffee….i’m happy….and do it more than once a year for sure!!!!
here’s to another post that has made it possible for me to leave blog world and go to sleep. thanks for your honesty and comedy. love your yarn heart!!! it couldn’t be more you and it couldn’t look any more creative and sweet….even if it was on a white background!!! lol
take care and here’s to another box of chocolate hearts.
sue
In Japan women give chocolate to men for S. Valentine’s (and one month after they are supposed to get a white present back, hopefully, but usually is a hanky!). So to say that tradition or new inventions we all like to give …
I used to make my cards… somehow I don’t have the time now, and this year I took advantage of the fact that my husband was going to Japan, and I gave him some chocolates ;-).
Hi Claudia, I think there are more of us who feel the way you have so eloquently stated, than those who follow every trend and tweet and watch tv, but we just don’t make noise about it or get noticed by the media. It makes me happy when I remember that–more of a reassurance that the world is better than portrayed on the news. We don’t do the commercial holidays either, but live happily together everyday. One thing I do LOVE is that pearle cotton heart! Those colors are so tempting and I can’t wait to see your creations! Linda
Hi Claudia, it’s so good to be back visiting your blog – we’ve been away and I’ve been having a hard time lately organizing my life. You were/are the blogger that helped me understand that blogging shouldn’t be a competitive sport and that it is important that my blog represent the person I am – not what I think others think I should be. Nor should I try to imitate other blogs too closely for fear of misrepresenting my own day-to day life, interests and passions here at Frog Hollow Farm. Thanks for being so wise – and I love how you made the heart with all of your threads – very original as well as representative of you as a talented artist!! Ciao, bella!
Hello! Well that was a strong voice in your post. I am glad to know you will be following your own course in life, as you should. And yes I do have a white background, but he I love me some white :-)
Love that heart pic, that yarn looks so lovely. Seems almost a shame to start using it. Almost….
Have a wonderful week!
My sentiments exactly. Well said Claudia!!! Happy Valentine’s Day to you and yours and especially the pups!!
Lots of love,
Susan and Bentley
xxoo
I almost deleted my blog thinking about how I’m not much of a writer, my camera is old & takes fuzzy, dark pics and people are always ‘suggesting’ what I should post about next. More art. More pics of my house. More pics of Colorado. More of what they want.
Then I decided to just keep on keeping on. Do what I love. Share what I can when I can. Be me. If they don’t like it, they can always move on to the next blog.
So thanks for this post, Claudia! Inspiring!
Hugs,
Zuzu
Hi Claudia,
Happy Valentines Day, enjoy your day of love, hugs and cuddling. Valentines day is everyday when you love someone…
I also agree with you, be true to yourself…I have said that often to my girls and now my grand daughter..
I loved you post..
Have a sweet day and big hugs,
Elizabeth
HI CLAUDIA,
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY,
I LOVE A COLORFUL BLOG
BUT, TO EACH IS OWN…
I FEEL THAT WE SHOULD BE OURSELVES, AND DO WHAT WE LIKE. GREAT POST TODAY, YOU SAID IT ALL. (BRAVO)
RIZZI
PS… LOVE YOUR COLORFUL WREATH, ONE THING………..IT’S NOT FATTENING :)
I agree Claudia- and I have to say that you might be the only person in the world that would understand why I leave orange pumpkins out in my living room year long instead of just in the fall. They make me smile each and every time I see them- so out they stay! I don’t much see the point in Twitter either- I tried it for a week after pressure from my brother- and I thought…who has time for this??!! I could be doing something constructive in the time it takes me to “tweet” things. Of course- we are all different and that’s what makes us great, right? Have a wonderful day!!
I love your blog today. Be who you are, love yourself and don’t fall for what we are told to do by anyone. Love you a tone=. Happy Valentine’s Day to my dear sister.
Xo,
Mere
Well, I’m gonna wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day . . . and then duck and run! (only kidding)
Oh, yes…my dear you are so wise. I agree with you 100%. Valentine’s Day is at our house everyday in the form of genuine love for each other! It is not just one day of the year.
Hugs, Cory
Great post, Claudia…what a boring world it would be if we were all alike!
Hi Claudia,
I’ve had a bit of fun with Valentine’s Day this year by baking and decorating some brownies…which is totally unlike me these days. I guess I got adventurous and rebelled against all the ordinary food that I eat due to stomach issue..and it was fun sharing it for a bake-off or sorts.
I’ve been in this house almost two years and I’ve never had a “live feed” installed for Television. I have dvd sets of my favorite tv shows so I stay a season behind but it wonderful to watch WITHOUT the commercials…I think that’s the one thing I really don’t miss. I really wish the companies would let us order only the channels we are interested in because I do miss some of the creative channels.
So I listen to the radio and read the news that I care to on the internet…otherwise, I’m in a quiet existence.
Speaking of internet…I have a 3G wireless modem for my service since that’s my only choice other than dial-up..and my slower speed is why I use just solid color blog backgrounds {I use white for ease of incorporating images without having to layer another color behind them so they look decent}….definitely not doing it because someone said we should}, I don’t have a play list since it eats up my monthly usage and causes a slow down in downloading a blog..but I’m not sure I’d have one even if I was on fast unlimited service again…I find it intrusive and usually go turn them off so I can read the post.
Being your own person and reflecting your own personality is always the way to go. I was raised in a military family and my free spirit caused a lot of conflict growing up! :0) My dad somehow didn’t see the humor or necessity of a lot of stuff I did. So if living a military life didn’t change me… nothing will!
And last but definitely not least…I’m so happy you added to your pearle cotton stash!! Thread and yarn just make me feel happy! :0)
Have a wonderful day,
Stephanie ♥