This blog has become seriously lame. You hardly ever post and when you do, it's all a bunch of jibberish about the things you want, nothing about what you've actually done. Unfollowing.
Dear Anonymous,
Thank you for your feedback. While at first your comment stung quite a bit (and made me have a little tear) it also forced me to do some serious reflection about my blog. It also made me come to a few conclusions. Here are some things that I discovered.
- No, I do not post regularly. I don't have content at the ready to publish every day at 10 am. At that time during the week, I am working at my job - the one that generates an income and helps me provide for my family. This blog is a hobby. It's where I share progress on our slow renovations and even slower decorating. It will always come fourth or fifth or sixth depending on what else is going on in my life. That's a personal choice of mine and I am absolutely happy with it.
- Yes, I go through stages when I have writer's block. In fact, I've sat down every day this week to write a blog post and nothing would come out the way that I wanted it to. If you look in my 'Drafts' folder you will see at least a dozen half-written posts. There are so many eloquent bloggers/writers out there who have so much to say (in such an awesome way) that some days I feel inadequate. And so, I wait until I'm ready to write. Even if it's been days, weeks, or even months. I won't force myself to write a post or share progress on a project because I feel like I have to in order to keep readers interested. That just doesn't feel real to me.
- No, I will not have renovation or DIY projects to share everyday. I like my blog to be authentic and to reflect what my husband and I are realistically able to do in our spare time with a toddler, two dogs, family, friends, and other obligations. There are some amazing bloggers that are able to work full time, look after their family, AND blog regularly. They are superstars. I am not, and never will be one of those people.
- Yes, some days I feel like no-one is reading this blog and that writing it is pointless. Perhaps it is a vicious cycle and no-one is commenting because I am not providing much content to comment on. But every once in awhile I will get an email from a reader, or a sweet comment from a reader that reassures me that maybe there are people out there who enjoy or appreciate the content that I do provide - as sporadic as it may be.
- No, I do not have the budget to buy every single thing that I want so that I have fully decorated rooms and big, Pinterest-worthy room reveal posts. I have to take my time to save up for the things that I really want. And sometimes I have to wait a really, really long time.
- Yes, I do share a lot of wish list items on my blog. I actually really love getting the feedback from my readers and the blogging community. For example, if I share that I'm thinking of getting a particular mirror and I get ten comments saying "Awesome, mirror!" or "Do it, do it!" then I get the motivation I need to make the final decision. Yeah, so I'm indecisive. I'm working on that!
- No, I do not usually write sponsored posts and product reviews. Nor do I have advertisements or huge giveaways. While other blogs do a great job with all of that professional bloggy-type-stuff - it's just not for me. I tried it once and I was terrible at juggling it all. However, if anyone at Home Depot is reading this I could really try to change my ways, LOL.
- Yes, we have actually done things. I just finished sewing an adorable polka-dot cushion. We finished dry walling the basement and we've even painted the walls! I also found some really cool wall art for our bedroom. I just haven't had a chance to take some good photos of any of those projects yet.
I guess what I'm trying to say, Anonymous, is that I apologize for not being able to provide the type of content that you are looking for. If you choose to unfollow this blog because it is lame, then that is obviously your choice. There are some fantastic blogs out there (check out some of the ones in my sidebar) that provide a lot of great content, DIY projects, and inspiration. I hope you find what you are looking for. Thanks for giving me a chance, even if just for a little while.
Sincerely,
Sarah
Well, poo! I, for one, enjoy reading your blog, and never ever thought of it as lame. Instead, it seems honest. You make it real, so I don't feel TOO jealous when you share something beautiful because I know how hard you've worked to get there. Now, if only I could get the same results! Thanks for sharing your life with us. I'm sorry that that means you put yourself out there for all the disgruntled naysayers looking for the next blogger to line up in their sights. You deserve better. I'm sorry, too, that I'm one of those lurkers. You also deserve more pats on the back for all you accomplish, and I promise to try and do better! Keep on keeping on! :-)
ReplyDeleteI am a relatively recent reader and adore your blog, your style and wit. I have been "working" on getting a blog going for 3 years now. Still haven't gotten it off the ground yet. So keep doing what you're doing at your pace and know there are many of us that understand and will be excited to read when you are ready.
ReplyDeleteYou are too sweet! I have a three month old baby girl who I take care of while my boyfriend is at work and I work part-time in the afternoon Monday through Friday. I completely understand where you're coming from. And I'll still be here to read your sporadic posts. :)
ReplyDeleteOh Sarah, so sorry you shed a tear or eleven :) I LOVE the authenticity of real people/ bloggers and not just the Pinteresty perfect ones.
ReplyDeleteSorry she hurt your feelings but you carry on doing what you need to - you're right, a blog is about number 6 or lower on the list of priorities unless it is bringing home the bacon :)
xxx
I, for one, absolutely love your blog. I am soooo super sick of buying magazines and throwing them away because I am frustrated with the reasoning that we could never afford or have our house resemble those pictures. Your blog is real, and thats why I love it! Thank you for finding the time you do and taking your time to post your inspiring and amazing blogs. Please keep your blog going forever and ever and know that I enjoy every bit of it! I wish I could find the words that are swimmimg in my head but I have a problem sorting them out in there as well! Your friend and dedicated fan, Steph
ReplyDeleteOne of the reasons I really like your blog is that it IS real. I feel that I can achieve the kinds of things you are doing and enjoy seeing you save up and achieve things slowly. Please keep it up!
ReplyDeleteI am new to your blog Sarah...but all I can say is that your blog is just that 'YOURS'. I do not know how .com works but with blogger I have the anonymous comments turned off...meaning I never get them. Maybe you can try turn yours off too.
ReplyDeleteI rarely comment on a blog, so this is out of the ordinary for me....but your blog is just fine the way it is. I follow it on Bloglovin', so when you do post, I just click and see what you and your sweet family have been up to. You are doing just fine! Louise
ReplyDeleteI love your blog. Even if your posts are infrequent, I look forward to them and they make me happy. Please don't let one grouchy person ruin your enjoyment. It is, after all, YOUR blog. You're nice enough to let us peek in in your life, but I applaud you for making your family your first priority!
ReplyDeleteThe only one who is "lame" is the one that left the message. If you don't care for a blog don't follow it. Just move on till you find one that interests you. You have a sweet and honest blog...don't see who could ask for any more. Marlene
ReplyDeleteYou're so much sweeter than Anonymous than I would feel like being. :) Good for you, Sarah; you're a great example for us in many ways!
ReplyDeleteListen - I know bloggers are supposed to sort of care what their readers think, but this is going too far. You are not blogging just so some stranger can click and read post after post of fantastic content that satisfies THEIR needs. That is garbage. Blogging was never intended to be that. So ya - that guy/girl can unfollow. Don't let the door hit you in the as$ on the way out.
ReplyDeleteJeez - that sounds angry, but I don't think that readers should drive the bus on this. Especially readers who are totally in it for themselves (i.e "anonymous" who couldn't even log in and be a regular reader). If you had received a comment from a regular who said "hey - is everything okay? THings seem a bit slow/irregular and I was just checkin in" it would have been totally different.
If you were trying to make a living on the blog, you'd maybe have to take comments like that to heart. But dude - this is a hobby. It is personal. It is a way of connecting with people who are interested in you and vice versa. It doesn't have to be more than that. If it turns into a stress (omg I haven't posted in xxxx days) then what fun is that?!
All this to say that I'm still reading. I like you. I will not unfollow. :)
Seriously people if you don't like something move on. Why do you have to announce that you are unhappy with a blog? Stop reading and quietly disappear! You will not be missed with your hurtful comments. I don't get it. Sarah you never need to apologize for the content in YOUR blog. I love to see what you are up to and to see that sweet baby boy of yours. I enjoy very much what you post! Keep being yourself, that is why we read!
ReplyDeleteKelly
I LOVE your blog, Sarah! Everything about it is so real, and beautiful, and cozy :-) I will continue to read and enjoy, as much or as little as you have to post!
ReplyDelete~Ashley
PS
ReplyDeleteI like cake too!
Kelly :)
Sarah, I've read your blog for a long time though I have never commented before (sorry). One of the reasons I love your blog is because it is genuine. I recently went through my blog reader and deleted all the ones that had become just one big commercial trying to sell me something. I still look forward to yours. Keep posting when you have something to share and I will be here reading. (And try to ignore people who will insult you but are too cowardly to do it in their own name)
ReplyDeleteditto so many of these comments! i like you for being you and being authentic and true to yourself! keep it up!
ReplyDeleteI've been following you for a long time Sarah and have enjoyed every post you have published, I love your style of decorating and especially that sweet Cooper...I'm very happy with your blog so don't pay any attention to nay sayers they aren't usually happy people!
ReplyDeleteHi Sarah, don't change a thing to what you do everyday:-) I enjoy your blog and the real you, unlike the
ReplyDeleteother blogs that are snobs:-). Keep on posting as it is NOT lame:-)
It's your blog. You don't need to answer to anyone. Just be yourself and enjoy the journey!
ReplyDeleteLove your blog!!! I will never understand how people can go through life that way and feel the need to bring their negativity upon another person. I love reading your blog (I don't always comment but please know I read when you post) and do not change a thing!! Keep up the good work!:)
ReplyDeleteYou handle this so well! I've seen too many things happen like this to good bloggers. Sorry about that :(
ReplyDeleteLove your blog!
What is lame is people who have to leave a snippy comment instead of just keeping their mouths shut and moving on with their sad lives! Whoo, glad I got that out of my system!
ReplyDeleteYour blog is lovely and so are you! The #1 thing I have always loved about your blog is how authentic you are, #2 is a tie between that cute baby and your awesome sauce decorating skills!
I don't comment much, but I want to tell you that you are one of the blogs that I will click on first when I see a new post on Feedly! For me it's not so much about quantity, but quality. You keep it real here and that's what is so appealing. Plus, I like your style!! :) I hope you ever let this blog (or us) make you feel pressure to provide content. Please know that, for me and probably others, what you do here is just right!! :)
ReplyDeleteDitto to all the comments above! I have followed your blog for a long long time and I never post comments on any of the blogs I follow but I felt I had to on this post. I have a toddler and a 10 month old and I appreciate how REAL you are. I still do check in everyday to see if you have posted something new but I also read and reread old posts of yours!! I appreciate that you put your husband and son first and understand that you are juggling many hats!! I love your blog and love reading all of your posts....no matter how often you post something! I especially enjoy reading about you and your son and knowing I'm not the only mom trying to balance everything!! Its something only moms can understand! Forever a follower, Liz :)
ReplyDeleteNot nice and you should not have to respond. You summed up exactly how I have been feeling about blogging lately. No one should make you feel inadequate, we as bloggers are harder on ourselves than others I feel. If someone is going to leave a note like that they should have the guts to say their name. I enjoy stopping by to see your latest diy. Alaina
ReplyDeleteI love your blog, and your heart, and your home, and that you put your priorities in order!
ReplyDeleteThe verdict is you are great, the blog is great and there are a lot of people who love your efforts, reports and humor. Don't let a bad apple get this much of your blog time. A big fan, leslie
ReplyDeleteI very much always enjoy reading your blog. Your ideas and wit are very appreciated! Please know that even though I don't usually comment, do so feel happy when I see you have posted something new and look forward to reading it.
ReplyDeleteDear Anonymous,
ReplyDeleteIm so sorry to hear you are disappointed in your subscription. I am glad to refund your full purchase price. I hope some other blog can better meet your needs at no charge to you.
In all seriousness, don't let this kind of thing get you down. If someone doesn't like what you have to say, all they need to do is move on. The comment was mean and says far more about its anonymous writer than it does about you, your blog, or your other readers.
Ignore the critics! You have a great blog! I love your posts!
ReplyDeleteIgnore the critics. I like your blog!
ReplyDeleteHi Sarah,I too am guilty of not commenting but I do check your blog daily. Ignore the sour grapes person as she is not worth the effort.Love your blog and enjoy your posts.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy reading your posts and love your blog...I have been reading and following for some time now and will continue to do so.
ReplyDeleteYours is my favorite blog, and I look forward to your posts, but totally get that you are not married to this blog, or are you it's mother. So you obviously have a life/job/husband/kid/friends occupying your time. But I do look forward to your posts. You have a beautiful home and family!
ReplyDeleteOne of your biggest fans, Michelle
Love your blog and your style. Please don't change a thing! (hold your head high....who has time to cater to negative people who lack class).
ReplyDeleteLove your blog. I don't get to read blogs as much as I did in the past. I sometimes read and don't comment. It isn't because the content wasn't interesting but because I was in a hurry and quickly read the blog and ran out of time to comment. I always had good intentions to go back and comment but either I will forget or just get to o busy doing something else. Sorry. I have so much respect for young women who work, take care of their families, and do other activities including blogging! I started a blog to learn how to blog for fun in 2009. I still haven't done 100 posts. I had good intentions. Life sometimes speeds up and it is hard to find the time you once had except on random occasions. Keep blogging! I am. Just for me! Meanwhile, I'll still keep reading your blog. I hope I will try harder to comment so you know you have readers.
ReplyDelete****standing up fist pumping**** you go, girl! was just thinking the other day that I missed reading your posts. but i'm secretly selfishly glad that you are not a superstar (did that come out wrong?!) and are just a real person/mom and that makes me like you even better:) say hi to the coopster for us! happy easter if you celebrate:)
ReplyDeleteLove you blog!! Keep it just the same!
ReplyDeleteWe'll I'm sticking around! Keep on keeping on.
ReplyDeleteWell all I can say is Ditto to Lifebegins@thirty, it's your blog and you can write what you want, when you want and how you want. It's impossible to please all of the people all of the time.. so don't worry about it. Besides you can see now how many out there love your blog, including me! take care, Maryann
ReplyDeleteI'm so cut up by everyone's words, really. Bad, bad me.
ReplyDeleteSarah, your blog used to be fun and interesting but now, you post something dull about a stained floorboard or a paint colour and you make sure we all know how indecisive you are... and then you don't post about it again for weeks or months, just to prove your point.
Some people are just mean spirited, and cowardly too or they would sign their name to their comment rather than Anonymous.
ReplyDeleteI take my hat off to you - I started a blog but found that I couldn't find the time to commit to it. I work full time and have six animals and only a grown up daughter living at home but life still threw higher priorities at me so I let the blog go.
So you go, girl! Good on you for putting more important things ahead of your blog.
some people are ridiculous! why on earth keep coming to a blog you don't enjoy anymore??
ReplyDeleteyou don't need to apologise for anything!! this is your blog for you and your journey so keep it up until you don't want to anymore! much love xxxx
You may not post often but your posts always make me smile...keep them coming, whenever you get a chance!
ReplyDeleteI love your blog and have always enjoyed reading it. If a reader can't leave a comment under his/her own name, the word coward comes to mind. And really, in the end, that sort of snarky, mean-spirited comment is simply that. It's petty and not worth a second of your time. I'm sorry that you had to deal with that.
ReplyDeleteHurrah for an honest blogger - one who does not showcase a 'perfect' existence or a home filled with vignettes and perfectly arranged furniture that costs an arm and a leg. That's the reality for most of us out here in the blogging world. We do what we can when we can afford it. We have priorities; jobs, family, friends.
Good for you! And a pox on the snarky commenter.
lol!!! Seriously the "Anonymous" person comes back to comment on your blog!! Lol I guess you are doing something right because they can't stay away!! I love the outpour of positiveness! That right there is worth losing one sad/negative person! I love everything about this blog and how real it is. Don't change anything Sarah!
ReplyDeleteJeni xo
I love your blog-it is one of the first ones I started following when I first started reading blogs. I remember how excited I was for you when you posted about your pregnancy (I felt like I knew you, and was all excited telling my husband about it) You have a great sense of humor which comes through in your posts-and I always enjoy reading what you have to say! Hang in there-and have a great week! : )
ReplyDeleteI LOVE your blog. I appreciate the fact that you have a life (and absolutely gorgeous boy!) and only post when you have time. I am a DIYer and sometimes I gets lots of projects done and sometimes it's a long time between projects. I love the posts about what you would like to have and love it when you finally get something after waiting a looong time to decide and pay for it. You are more relateable to me then a lot of the bloggers out there Keep doing what you are doing, the readers that enjoy you for you will keep reading. I know I will.
ReplyDeleteHow horrible! The nerve of some people. I understand constructive advice but he/she were being mean. I'm sorry that so you and so many talented blogger's have to endure the negativity that some people seem to breed.
ReplyDeleteI find it humorous that he/she is upset about sporadic posts when I, as a reader of many blogs, appreciate a blogger who does NOT post every darn day! Waiting a week between posts gives life a better chance to be lived & enjoyed which will usually translate into a great story for readers to enjoy. Plus, it unclutters my blog feed! Ha!!
Just keep doin' what you're doin'. It works great for me!
ugh, that is so dumb. i don't see the difference between unfollowing and you not posting every day....so they're complaining that you hardly post (and believe me, my blog is the same way) and then they are choosing to opt out of seeing when you do post. this seems sort of redundant, no?
ReplyDeleteand then what sort of person has to tell you that they're doing that for those reasons. they stink.
personally, what keeps me from blogging, is the feeling that you do something really awesome, and then it doesn't seem that anyone else thought it was as awesome as you did. so then i think, well forget this stuff. lol.
I LOVE your blog!! Sure, you used to post more, but you're a busy woman!! Keep up the good work! Your place is looking great!
ReplyDeleteOMG what is wrong with people....I am getting a little better with mean comments,I even approve them sometimes, not that I get a lot of comments any more, and no I don't post a lot either oh well....what happened to the if you don't have any thing nice to say....oh yeah the internet happened....yuck
ReplyDeleteLove your blog and love that you post when there is progress to show! I have a blog that I don't post much to at all. I have good intentions, but like you said...with a job (outside of the home), kids, friends, family, and life...things just happen that are more important than updating your blog. Keep on doing what you are doing and remember: you can never please everyone! However, there are lots of people that you do! xoxo
ReplyDeleteKeep up the good work! There is more to life than blogging and I'm happy to hear that your life comes before your blog. I'm in the same boat as you and I blog when I can, when I have something to blog about, and when I am inspired to. Just know that we are reading what you are writing, and you are doing a great job.
ReplyDeleteWell, I like your blog. Thanks for doing it. And your little boy is a dear.
ReplyDeleteI like your blog just the way it is. Sure it would be great if you published more often. It would be great to have more sunshine & win the lotto too, but your blog is terrific . Especially as it has to be done after your family & job commitments are met. I have the same issues & could never find time to start a blog.
ReplyDeleteI love your blog! It's all about quality not quantity and I appreciate it that you keep it real. Finally I love your style more than any other person I've ever met on the internet ever. Seriously. So keep on blogging! (When you feel like it of course :)
ReplyDeleteIf a person doesn't enjoy someone's blog, why wouldn't they just unsubscribe and move on? Why purposely be rude and hurtful? Anyone who would hurt your feelings on purpose isn't the right audience for Cozy.Cottage.Cute. Perhaps you can consider them moving on a bit of needed spring cleaning.
ReplyDeleteI very much enjoy the pace of your blog. Because I'm too busy running a company, a non-profit, and a family to wade through a lot of other people's ideas, thoughts, and opinions, your blog is one of only two blogs to which I subscribe. Each is a breath of fresh air. If you posted something every day- which would require you to at least on some occasions create an entry just to keep on schedule, I would tire of it and probably unsubscribe. Your blog posts are more like newsy letters from a friend- and no one writes good letters like that every day. I enjoy each and every one, and look forward to updates on your progress. Your blog has the rythym of real life. That's what I like about it. Happy Spring!
Because your blog arrives via email and doesn't require signing in to read, the comment option doesn't appear at the end of the blog. I hope you will take heart in knowing that probably most of us read your blog via the email submission, and don't log in to your page. That's why we don't comment more. We're here. We read. We like. If we didn't, we'd leave.
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to let you know that I enjoy reading your blog!
ReplyDeleteYou're Canadian, you have a really cute kid, and you have a really well defined style. Extra points as it's not my style (I gravitate towards heavy wood and leather for my own home) but I like what you've done to your house and think it's beautiful.
Also, I've always loved dark hardwoods but when I saw the pics of what you did in the fixer upper, making it blond instead... Yeah, that won me over to the "light" side pretty quick.
Well said!
ReplyDeleteSarah,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Lola and I am Brazilian.
I always read your blog and love.
is the most amazing things you do in your home.
Do not worry about that kind of comment.
I think the same thing you wrote.
Thank you for sharing so many beautiful things.
I love your blog. I love the paced progress. I love the way you mull things over. I love seeing your little guy grow. I love your sense of style and how you are putting things together over time and I love a bunch of other stuff about it too! I have you marked in my favorites and it's always such a delightful treat when you have a new post, always something to look forward to! Dawne
ReplyDeleteYour blog is great! I always find it funny (and by funny, I mean not at all) how easy it is for some people to be rude and insensitive all while hiding behind the safety of their computers. Cowards. These are the same people who are so miserable in their own lives that they need to "anonymously" tear others down in order to make themselves feel bigger. Pisses me off. Keep writing - whenever you want to & about whatever you want to - because I'll be reading whenever you do :)
ReplyDeleteI found it hilarious that "Anonymous" just HAD to make a reappearance and leave another unkind comment, Sarah. Sounds like a bit of jealousy may be rearing it's ugly head??? lol Seriously, I am a happy follower of yours, and even though I don't always leave a comment, I truly enjoy everything you post about. You keep it real. You keep it fun. We get to know YOU through your lovely blog - and that's what blogging is all about. A simple, heartfelt journal shared with others. And we thank you for that! :) Keep your chin up and keep on keepin' on! :)
ReplyDeletexoxo laurie
You are so sweet and I too love your blog - it is such a treat when it comes and that makes it even more special I think than if if shows up every day. I always take the time to read your blog even when I'm busy. I love the look of your basement (and ok your whole house). The beach is my favourite place in the whole world and would love that look in my house as you have - aiming for one room at a time.
ReplyDeleteThank you and don't ever get discouraged by negative souls. Jenn
By looking at all the previous comments you probably don't need one more positive one. It looks like you have lots of fans, beside me, who love your blog just the way it is. I will add my two cents anyway. Everyday I check to see if you've posted something. Many times you haven't, but when you have it's always a happy surprise and always a pleasure to read. Thank you for giving me a peek into your life. And to Cooper - I wish the Easter Bunny came every day, too.
ReplyDeleteI agree with all of the nice people who have already commented. I enjoy reading your blog! In fact every time I get a notification in my email that you have written another post I get genuinely excited! I love that your posts are real. Real budgeting, real motherhood issues, real decorating "block." I enjoy reading those bloggers that have new projects and posts everyday but they also seem more un-relatable to me. I am one of those people that look at something for months before I buy it, or to save up the money to get it. I also love that you put your adorable son and family needs first. That's how it should be! Don't change a thing girly! :)
ReplyDeleteKatlyn
You go, Sarah!!! You said it sooo well!!:) I check your blog often too and when you haven't posted, I say to myself- she's got lots going on right now! I can't imagine working and taking care of a family and trying to keep up with a blog too. I totally understand and would never think to leave a negative remark like that. Like you said, it's a hobby and not first in your life. Keep up the great work and post whenever you can because I love seeing all that you share!!
ReplyDeleteAww what a shame. Perhaps it was just a spam comment? I get them twice a day on a blog I haven't posted on in years. Cheer up. Enjoy what you do, otherwise why bother. You know what they say "haters gotta hate". I have you in my reader along with many others. And I would rather read something you wanted to share, than you share everyday junk to fill up space. Cheers Frances
ReplyDeleteI rarely comment on blogs but I love reading your sporadic posts, so please keep going, you do have readers :)
ReplyDeleteSo, this is the first comment ever posted on a blog and I only read 4 regularly including yours. The reason yours made the cut is that it is REALISTIC. A house, outside job, family, kids, pets are a lot and you are showing that it can be done, slow and steady.
ReplyDeleteOk, so I'm coming out of the shadows, I feel like I need to apologize for being a Non-commentor as it were, lol. I love your blog. I don't read every day but when I get a chance to catch up on my favorite blogs I always enjoy yours. I love it when you mention something about being Canadian, I'm so envious of the "maternity leave" you were able to take. I'm Pennsylvanian so I have much to be envious of, just kidding. ;)
ReplyDeleteI love your perspective on priority and agree whole heartedly so ignore the meanies...
I love your blog just the way it is. ☺️ Let the haters hate. Who cares. Don't change a thing.
ReplyDeleteSarah, keep going at the pace you are going! Your blog is one of only a couple that I continue to receive emails for (recently thinned out the number of daily emails I was getting as a LOT of them I just deleted the second they hit my email inbox). Your blog is REAL. You do DIY projects as you have budget and time. I wish a lot of people would see how that really is! You are right... so many of the other bloggers out there probably have been saving up posts for a LONG time and make it look like they are far busier than they actually are (or are in a bigger financial crunch than they appear to be)! I realized that myself as I was thinking, "I love that project, but I seriously don't have time!" Keep on keepin' on! I love seeing the process of how you work through a project... and you are spot-on in your choices right down to the tiniest detail. I thank you for your indecisiveness..... I thank you for your cute photos of your darling little man.... I thank you for your slow pace.... I thank you for being YOU!!! Love your blog and as long as you write, I will follow.....
ReplyDeleteHi Sarah,
ReplyDeleteI've never commented on your blog, but I read it pretty regularly. Mostly because I am extremely jealous of your beautiful photography skills (I know you question your skills but I would would be thrilled to take the photos you do) and because I love the beautiful, classic, light color scheme of your home. Anyway, I just wanted to take a moment to say that this post was AWESOME. You go girl. I don't understand why "anonymous" would comment to diss your blog instead of just gracefully unfollow it if they weren't happy. Like a normal person.
Blogging is what you choose it to be. It is your hobby, not your full time job. So, good for you and thank you for providing me something to read and drool over while I am at work and need a break. I really only religiously check maybe 4 or 5 blogs, and yours is one of them. :)
So keep it up!
Boo to anonymous! I get giddy when I see that you have a new post. The fact that you're a fellow Canadian with a reasonable budget and aren't a full-time blogger makes your blog one of my must-reads. I love your decorating - and writing - styles. Thanks for not taking the silly commenter to heart, they're just jealous of your awesome blog.
ReplyDeleteHorse crap! I love reading your blog! Haters gonna hate! I recently had a hater from myregular What I Wore Wednesday post who really hurt my feelings too. She criticized everything! It hurt my feelings too. But I had to remind myself that I get lots of positive feedback about my style, and why should that one hater matter more to me than all of the positive feedback I get. My style is not for everyone. I work in a middle school, so I dress appropriate for the environment, and I hope to inspire others in my profession with outfit ideas that teachers can wear to look conservative and stylish at the same time. So, let the haters hate. But remember those that do love to read your blog.
ReplyDeleteI love your blog keep doing what you're doing. Thanks for sharing all your great ideas. How lucky are we to be able to read them. People who still Joy are sad. I had to come out of the wood work and let you know you are so fabulous.
ReplyDeleteLove you and adore your blog!
ReplyDeleteHow interesting. I feel that our blogs are our personal outlet, and each blogger should be able to determine how much or how often they blog. I've made some very good friends in blogland, but I'm not one to push out a beautiful, well written blog post on a predetermined schedule. While I have nearly 200 followers, I typically get about 12-16 comments on a post, and I'm okay with that. If people such as your Anonymous want more than I have to give, then they should definitely go elsewhere. I enjoy reading your blog, and actually like the fact that you're 'real', not a SUPER PERSON! Keep on doing what you're doing.
ReplyDeleteYou can block anonymous comments can't you ? You shouldn't have to though. I agree with so many of the comments esp. Claudia. Hugs....keep on being you.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it crazy that out of hundreds of positive comments, it's the negative one that really sticks with you? You can't please everyone, and unfortunately, in the anonymous internet world, people can bash from the privacy of their own homes, without any recourse. I enjoy your blog and more importantly, your authenticity! Don't let the turkeys get you down. ;-)
ReplyDeleteDear Sweet Sarah, love the blog. I mean SERIOUSLY love it to bits. Love that the hubs lends his brawn. Love love love the Coop-a-loops. But how could you know....I mean really, just HOW could you because I've never commented. Or subscribed. Til now, because anonymous just made me mad. It's your blog, period. Those of us who love love love it will be here. Oh and I like cake too. Even though I'm a type 2 diabetic....I just like it in lesser portions :)
ReplyDeleteYou have absolutely nothing to apologize for! This is YOUR blog to post whenever about whatever you feel like. I'm sorry you felt the need to explain yourself. I wish that all bloggers could just delete and move on from people who choose to be nasty. You're doing a great job, please don't waste another minute thinking about that, and focus on all these wonderful people around the world who took the time to tell you how much they love your blog!
ReplyDeletelove your blog!!!!!! don't change a thing
ReplyDeleteThank you for the wonderful post. I feel the same way so much of the time. I started blogging because I loved the community of craft bloggers out there, and you are defiantly one of them. Don't let the haters get you down.
ReplyDeleteYour blog is wonderful just the way it is and don't let anyone ever make you feel differently. I will always be a loyal reader regardless of how often you post.
ReplyDeleteI'll never understand why "readers" think that bloggers have to "serve" them! I appreciate getting new ideas from bloggers and looking into people's lives to see how I can improve my own. I have no expectations, and I'm happy with whatever people put out there for me to read. I hope you know most of us aren't like anonymous! :-D
ReplyDeleteWell said.
DeleteYou are too nice! Do not apologize for anything. Your blog is adorable. And realistic. I would rather follow a blog that is more like real life in terms of lengthy DIY projects and purchases that have to be saved up for. Your family and personal obligations are far more important than fabricating content just for the sake of having something to post to keep faceless internet trolls entertained. Keep up the great work!
ReplyDeleteOh Goodness! I don't know why people don't keep comments like that to themselves. I have to tell you that I painted my living room Grey Owl, lightened by 50% :) I am in love. I am dreaming of painting my whole house that color. In fact, I dream of my little white farmhouse looking so similar to yours. Anyway, thanks for taking the time to blog and share a little bit of your life. You really have created such a wonderful space!!
ReplyDeleteSarah-
ReplyDeleteI love reading your blog! I love seeing your progress and knowing sometimes its slow- thats real life and makes me feel normal! lol And I love all of the pictures of Cooper. I think you blog and well rounded and even though you dont post "regularly" I still get excited to see you have posted anytime and always love reading what you have to offer! So ingore the Debbie Downers in life! You have it going on friend!
Meggie
Sarah, Somehow I missed this post and had to go back and read it...I just want to tell you that when your post pops up in my e-mail, it is one of the first I read! I am a 60+ yr. old grandma with a totally different style, but I love to see what you are doing with your simple, clean decorating style. And of course, I love to see pictures of the Coopster...I am also a teacher, and I marvel at how you have time to do what you do while teaching! It is not a 9-5 job, for sure. I hope you keep sharing. You have voice in your writing, and it is YOUR voice, so don't ever think it's inadequate. If someone wants to unfollow you, that's fine. But they don't have to be a bully about it too. (Bullies are not just in 5th grade, as you know)
ReplyDeleteSo continue to be YOU because this blog brings a lot of joy to many of us that don't comment very often.
Hi Sarah, I thought this post was very well-written. I'm glad you took the time to respond to that unnecessary and rude comment, even if just for yourself. Like so many others have said, I really enjoy your content. I LOVE your decorating style. Although I am very limited as a renter right now, I hope to someday create a home as beautiful as yours. And as far as the frequency of the posts- I actually prefer and appreciate NOT being bombarded by daily posts. I often unfollow blogs, even ones I like, that fill up my inbox because I just don't have time to read them every day. And goodness gracious, if I don't have time just to READ it, I can certainly understand not having time to WRITE it every day. So keep on doing what you're doing. I commend you for keeping your priorities straight. God bless you.
ReplyDeleteSarah - don't dare listen to that BULLSH@T. You have a lovely blog. I almost never comment and I don't read every day but every week or two, I dip into your blog like meeting an old friend for a cup of coffee. Catching up on the news, seeing the latest pic of the Coopster and I always leave saying a silent thank you. You lighten my day and you are so undemanding. You have pretty, quiet, friendly content that doesn't bombard me with colourful ads and commercials and offers.
ReplyDeleteI feel exactly the same about my blog. It's a hobby and not even at the top of the hobby list. I have a life; a very full one and the blog always comes second to living. If people choose to read it - great...if not - oh well.
You don't need to change ANYTHING, you are perfect...exactly the way you are. xo J
Great comments and I find your posts to be a refreshing bit of reality in home ownership balanced with the desire to have that perfect model home. When I look at other home bloggers I often wonder as to their unlimited pocketbooks to get everything done so quickly (thinking they have serious debt or they spend every cent of income). My husband and I have been remodeling our house for 13 years (and this included a major addition) and though we have an adequate income we also save for our retirement, children's educations, family vacations, emergency funds, and a few more important things that take up a big chunk of the take-home pay each month. This poor commenter would be very disappointed at our snail’s pace of remodel indeed! The reality of it is we choose not to go into debt to get it done immediately, have saved for specific changes, did it ourselves (sometimes twice if we did it wrong the first time), and thus learned to be very patient along the way which is wonderfully rewarding. Personally I would rather read a “real story” than a fairy tale, so I appreciate your keeping it real. Cheers to you!
ReplyDeleteI love your blog! The lists most of all. Keep it up and ignore the negative.
ReplyDeleteI agree with everyone else - I love your blog and it's always the first one I look at hoping for a new post, but when there isn't one, it's okay with me - I know you're busy, we all are! One of the things (among many) that I like about your blog is that it's not all commercialized the way many, many others are now. I don't need to keep seeing all the freebies the bloggers are getting, in return for giving a great review after using it in their home. I've been deleting some long-time faves because I feel they are no longer genuine. You have great style, both in decorating and writing, and I'll keep coming back and my day will always be brighter when I see a new post. Keep up the great work!
ReplyDeleteI love your blog! In fact, I started my blog (http://threesafamilyadventures.blogspot.com/) after reading... well really just yorus! Your style of sharing your whole life and the "scattered-thought" writing is so refreshing, because it's like I'm in your head. And I have that style of writing, too (or maybe I kind of borrowed the idea from you:) ). Keep on keepin' on!
ReplyDeleteYour blog is my fave place on the web and you are an inspiration!
ReplyDeleteYou said some of the things that I feel about my blog! I don't post every day and sometimes I ask for opinions on things and then I still don't make a decision for months and months. Sometimes I even state that I am going to do something just because I think if I publicly state it, I will follow though...not always the case! I love your blog! Keep doing what you are doing and be yourself!
ReplyDelete-Shelley
I love your blog….always have! I don't visit and/or comment as much as I used to, but that's not because I think your blog is "lame." It's mainly because I just don't have the time that I used to have! Like you, I have a husband, kids, job, and a LIFE outside of the blogosphere! Keep on keepin' on girl! You have many readers who LOVE your blog for what it is. Who cares about one stinkin' "ANONYMOUS"
ReplyDeleteI don't comment too much lately but I read. every. post. Your writing style and subjects totally appeal to me and apply to my life.
ReplyDeleteUsually criticism is useful, at least parts of it, to help get some feedback and balance into our work. But on the internet, sometimes it's a little too harsh, you know? People can hide behind pseudonyms and never have to look you in the eye. Just take anything you can use from it and chalk the rest up to a long day at the office and a rough commute on the commentor's part. We all have bad days and unfortunately, most of us share the joy. lol.
Hang in there. Your work is good. Your work is appreciated. And most of us know you're human and don't live on this page alone. Have a great spring, Sarah.
I want you to know that it's because of the shutters that you guys made for your house that my husband and I made shutters for our house and I LOVE them. I am inspired when I see creative people make wonderful things, and it gets me motivated to do the same. Our house looks so much better with them and I really appreciate you sharing the post with us. :)
ReplyDeleteJust found your blog by way of The Lettered Cottage. Loved your blog immediately. Found this post just after "immediately" and already I'm on my soapbox! Really? I can't stand people who think they were put on this earth to judge others. And quite frankly, if you're going to do it, keep it to yourself and just don't come back to the blog!
ReplyDeletePersonally, I'm hooked and I can't wait until I have an afternoon to go back in time and catch up. In the meantime, you're added to my blog feed!
Way to tell em! While doing it in a totally classy way, I might add. :)
ReplyDeleteI wish if people had negative opinions, they would just keep them to themselves. Why be so cruel? I'm glad that you don't post every day, and that you have put your family at top priority over DIY, decorating, blogging, etc. You just keep on doing what your doing, and enjoy LIFE.