I am totally loving these leggings from Chicnova. I pretty much live in leggings whenever possible, so the fact that these are stylish and hip and can be worn out has got me totally won over. (Although note to self: wear a longer blouse with these leggings! My thighs ain't what they used to be!) The blouse is perfect when I want to feel a little bit dressed up, but not over the top. And because chicnova is totally awesome and my readers are totally awesome, they are giving one of you a $30 gift certificate to the store. Enter at the bottom of the post if you know what's good for you.
Also, while we're on the topic can I talk about how much I DON'T like taking pictures of myself on the deck in the backyard? I suppose it's time to invest in a tripod? And then will I feel more or less stupid taking pictures of myself by myself? I will once again ask the age old question... how do fashion bloggers do it?!?
Today I am feeling a bit frustrated with blogging if you want to know the truth. Elisabeth was "attending" Alt for Everyone this weekend, but couldn't make it to one class Friday afternoon. (And when I say "make it" we all understand that this is a live online class where class participants watch from the comforts of their own couch, right? Just to make sure we're all clear). I said I'd go to a class she couldn't attend, since she was offering the free ticket, which is how I found myself buried in my down comforter staring at my computer at 5 pm on Friday afternoon. The class was a Q&A on using social media to promote your blog.
I know those classes are supposed to inspire you and make you excited to take your blog to the next level and all that jazz. Which is why it was kind of weird that the class mostly just made me want to quit blogging all together. The ladies basically said that you can't make it in blogging unless you have a totally new and original idea to bring to the table. If it's been done before, no one is going to want to listen. They stressed the crap out of pinterest which overwhelmed me because pinterest overwhelms me. They told us how careful we need to be about our boards and the image we are putting out. Given that my pinterest boards are titled things like "Blogging crapola" and "Sometimes a woman is forced to clean" I'm pretty sure I know nothing about putting out the right image.
Furthermore, they said we should be pinning every single post that we do and that pinterest should be one of our top referral sites if not the number one referral site. I never get traffic from pinterest. Ever. I don't craft, I don't cook, I don't dress cute. Does pinterest serve any other functions? They also said that there are "professional pinners" out there, and if we can't dedicate the time to pinterest that we need to then we should hire somebody to do it for us.
Well I certainly ain't gonna hire nobody to pin for me.
And how would I pin every post even if I wanted to? Let's see... I suppose this post would go on the "People getting frustrated" board and my Saturday post would go on the "hanging out with friends" board?
What frustrated me the most, though, had nothing to do with pinterest or even social media. One of the girls teaching the class said that a key mistake many bloggers make is writing too much on their blogs. She claims we lose our audience if we write too much and the best blog posts are succinct in writing. This set me over the edge. Isn't this totally contradictory to the basics of blogging? In its first days and months and years, wasn't blogging about writing? Blogging was originally a medium to tell story. The primary purpose of my blog is to tell my story and to me that is the beauty of blogging. Storytelling. To hear someone else's story, to connect on a human level, to have a story resonate inside of you. The selling clothes and the blogging classes and the sponsorship crap... that's all secondary, right? Right?!? (Please, tell me I'm right!) Isn't the most basic purpose of blogging to tell our life stories? And I suppose if I'm mistaken in this, I don't want to be much a part of blogging...
This is in no way an "I'm quitting" declaration. Just a frustration. Blogging has evolved so much, and I know that I must expect it to continue to do so. But I hope that in this blogging era it is still possible for a gal to have "blogging success" the old fashioned way... by telling some darn good stories. No professional pinners necessary.
Chicnova giveaway entries below.
Aren't I a weird one, claiming blogging pureness in one breath
and giving you free stuff in the next?
Not even I understand myself, people.
In may case blogging has taken off and I'm lagging behind not quite sure if I want to catch up! I think it's important to really think about what your definition of a successful blog is. Whatever that means to you dictates your direction.
ReplyDeleteIf I win this giveaway I'm getting a really great cotton T or tank. So many cool ones to choose from.
Totally agree on this! I suppose everyone's definition of success is quite different.
DeleteSilly them, I read for your hilarious stories, not because you pinned some adorable outfit or enticing meal. And anyways, if blogging is supposed to be something unique and new, why does every blogger need to follow their pinterest-full, non-wordy format! Do your own thing, it's working!
ReplyDeleteYou mean I don't have adorable outfits or enticing meals?!? ;)
DeleteFirst, I like you. Second, my name is Bonnie...so we're pretty cool. I know what you mean about fashion bloggers photographs! For real, I don't know how to get a decent picture of myself cooking without another person. Even then, my hubs doesn't really know what he's doing behind the camera. And I agree with you. It's all about the story. I do think pinterest can play a huge role in blogging, but there's lots of different blogs out there that all don't need pinterest. And P.S. The length of your shirt looks great with the pants!
ReplyDeleteYes! Bonnies unite! I guess my frustration is just in that I don't know HOW to use pinterest in blogging, although I know it can play a huge role. But for writing based blogs, is it even possible?
DeleteThey seriously suggested that bloggers shouldn't write as much?? And that we should utilize Pinterest more? At least with Facebook and Twitter you're engaging in a conversation with people. Pinterest is just instant gratification, it seems like. I'm kinda shocked these people were getting paid to talk gibberish. I recently did a travel post and included what I thought was very little text. I'm usually very "wordy," so when people commented that they liked how much I wrote to go along with the post, I was kinda shocked. Do most people just post photos and no words? How sad!
ReplyDeleteso here's the thing. i'm not going to stop writing in my blog to please the masses. the masses are not what i created a blog for in the first place. is it awesome to know that people enjoy reading my blog? yes. is it awesome meeting new people through blogging? yes. do i enter/host giveaways? yes. but do i cater my blog to anyone or any group? no. every single time i click on the 'new post' link in blogger, i do so with the intention to write a little piece of my life. sometimes it's a "here's what happened this weekend" kind of post. sometimes it's a deep, thoughtful or reflective post. sometimes it's just stupid crap that makes me laugh. the fact is, it's all mine. and i love sharing it with other people. but my life is mine and i want to remember it exactly as i live it, exactly as i feel it, exactly as it is. not in 100 words or less. and what the hail? professional pinners? who are these people and what kind of drugs are they slipping into people's drinks to convince them to be HIRED for pinning crap?!
ReplyDeleteI believe in individuality, period.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.chicnova.com/black-white-colour-block-chiffon-anklet-skirt-in-exaggerated-draped.html
That blouse and your hair are amazing! I have been trying to work up the courage to chop mine. I think I am about ready...maybe. :)
ReplyDeletechop it! I LOVE having short hair... it is so amazing and so easy to do.
DeleteI hear ya! I have to say though it's comforting to know that you have these frustrations too. I thought I was the only one who gets frustrated and overwhelmed when it comes to the supposed "do's & don'ts" of blogging. I really miss the days when blogging was a lot more simplistic. When we were more focused on sharing our lives and connecting with others...instead of trying to "build our brand". Thanks for sharing! And girl, don't change a thing about the way you blog! You keep doing your thing and I'll keep reading! :)
ReplyDeleteOh girl, you are not alone. The dos and don'ts of blogging and the building your brand thing is enough to drive a woman INSANE.
DeleteI feel the same way. I started my blog to tell my story and one day when I have no readers left except my mother I'll still write it just for her. Sometimes I write a little, sometimes a lot. I can't write for the masses, only for me.
ReplyDeleteAin't that the truth! I think my mom is the only person who has read every single thing I ever posted.
DeleteOh, and I love this pink chiffon dress! http://www.chicnova.com/pink-sleeveless-chiffon-dress-with-cross-v-neckline-and-asymmetric-hem.html
ReplyDeleteTo echo Sue and Kate- I blog mainly for myself! I LOVE (I know this is sad) scrolling through old posts just like I love looking at old diaries/ photo albums. It's nice to know somebody might be reading to offer focus but I think the advice you were given maybe applies to all the blog hop/ you follow me and I'll follow you bloggers who care more about the number of 'readers' than whether or not any of those 'readers' are actually reading!Rx
ReplyDeletehttp://sandersonsmithstory.blogspot.co.uk/
Rachael you are so great! I always appreciate your thoughtful comments on this blog. And I think the "you follow me and I'll follow you" shenanigan is the worst thing in the blogging world!
DeleteRIGHT!
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you on the whole less writing/more pinning bullshit. I don't even have a Pinterest for my new blog and I don't think I'm going to bother. I know this is sacrilegious to say in the blogging world, but I'm sort of over Pinterest.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I have those shoes and love them! Wear them way too often.
YES on the shoes... I wear them probably five times a week.
DeleteAnd I think I was over pinterest before it ever started...
Golly me those class ladies sound intense! My blog is my 'profession' and pinterest isn't my top referral site, nor do I pin every single post, nor is my blog a totally new idea.
ReplyDeleteSo have faith, it can be done and if you have the passion for it, you'll do it :)
Louise xxx
sprinkleofglitter.blogspot.co.uk
So great to hear that from someone who is able to make a living off of blogging! Maybe you will have to share your *real* blogging secrets with us!
DeleteTOTALLY with you there. I just started my blog, and i'm going to write as much as I want because it's my slice of internet and i'll do with it as I please.
ReplyDeleteAnd to be honest, blog posts with loads of pictures and little to no writing bore me silly and I rarely, if ever comment on them. I like hearing about peoples lives and fun things they've done, and although pictures are good, they quite often look too perfect.
Just stumbled across your blog from Sprinkle of Glitter, and I love it, follow!
Rachel xx
http://theinelegantwench.blogspot.co.uk
I hear you on the pictures looking too perfect. I want pictures of the real lives of people... even the outtakes!
DeletePlease keep being you! Your blot is the first one I read everyday (while drying my hair), and it's your sincerity and content that keeps me coming back. This has been the key to their success but it doesn't have to be the same for you.
ReplyDeleteI am a 4th grade teacher, and I get caught up in strategies and philosophies that I don't believe. I feel I need to change who I am to fit in someone else's mold. So we need to remember that we don't have to follow and be what everyone else is... be you :)
Jessica thank you so much for this sweet comment! What an honor to think that I can join you for your morning hair dry! :)
DeleteAnd fourth grade?!? Oh my goodness, you must have many a tale to tell!
I can't tell you how refreshing it is that you don't clog up my pinterest feed with three different pins from your post everyday. I appreciate that you don't write gimmicky posts. Ever. I appreciate that you consistently write great posts that showcase your personality and talk about what is actually going on in your life, instead of a whole lot of fluff, so that by the end I'm wondering why I even bothered to read. I like that your blog is your business, but that you don't sacrifice quality writing and content for the sake of promoting that business. You are smart. You write well. You're hilarious. You're genuine. That's what I want to read. That's why I'll keep reading.
ReplyDeleteDella what sweet things to say! Your words mean more than you know. And even if I wanted to "clog up" your pinterest feed, I wouldn't have a clue in the world how! ;)
DeleteDude. I would give up a year's worth of blog swag for a comment like Della's on my blog. Seriously.
DeleteHonestly? The bloggers that do 'what you're supposed to', ie, pin every photo from every post to pinterest, tweet it & post on it fb in about 6 different ways? I have found I don't visit their blogs anymore - no need to. And at least some I've stopped following on social media because well, it's the same thing over & over, everywhere you look.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I have a board on pinterest entitled 'in case I get bored & decide to clean'. I also don't always post a picture with my blog posts. And I never photoshop my food pictures. I post some of the worst food pictures on the internets. And I still had a woman walk up to me Saturday morning at the farmer's market to tell me how much she loved my strawberry pickle posts last week.
Rules were made to be broken.
How flattered you must have been to have a stranger approach you and say they enjoyed a post! And Becky I do appreciate your constant comments. You are so great to always give encouragement!
DeleteI love the Light Grey Cotton Vest Dress in high low style-->so much cute stuff to choose from.
ReplyDeleteOn the topic of Pinterest: I despise it. I feel that a lot of bloggers use it as a crutch when they have nothing to write about. I can tell you now, if I see the blog title "Pins I love" or "Pinterst Monday, Tuesday, whatever" I immediately click the READ button. I don't care to see what anyone likes on Pinterest. If I want to see a bunch of pins, I'll go to the site myself and search for what I want...
And for that matter, I really don't care to read about Pinterest projects gone good OR bad.
I could go on and on, but to make a long story short, I think Pinterest is for the lazy blogger!
I hear you on the crutch thing! I guess it's to each his own, and I get that sometimes you are just fresh out of ideas, but sometimes those pinterest posts can just drive me up the wall!
DeleteFirst, for the giveaway, I love so much of their random shiz, but my fave for the sake of this comment is that silly Pink "What" shirt.
ReplyDeleteSecond, about the rest of your post. I feel THE EXACT SAME WAY. I get so discouraged every time I come upon these blogger summits, blogger classes, blogger e-books. My favorite bloggers who have gained income and lots of followers did so just through chance. Nat the fat rat writes her heart out. She doesn't pin every single post, she doesn't edit herself, she isn't contrived and she has over 5,000 followers and tons of sponsors. Gaining tons of followers isn't the point of blogging, just love what you're writing and have fun. Don't get wrapped up in the "business of blogging" shit. That'll drive you crazy! BUT this is coming from someone with like only a 100 followers so.... :)
val
www.daily-distraction.com
Amen sister! I would love to know Nat's recipe for success because she does write her little heart out. And it is GOOD writing too! Of course, it helps that her kid is adorable and she lives in NYC... but she's brilliant even without all that!
DeleteI agree. I blog for me. It is fun to do and If the only people who read it are my mother, my sister and daughters, that's a-ok. I haven't really gotten into Pinterest all that much yet. I love to read other people's blogs, yours included. The blogs that are windows into people's lives are the best and most interesting. I actually DON'T like it when there are super long stretches between posts.
ReplyDeletesarah
I love that top! Also, I feel you about blogging pressures. But the truth is, there is a place for all of us. It's your blog and you'll write long posts if you want to!
ReplyDeleteThose leggings are too dang awesome!!!! And they look super flattering too :)
ReplyDeleteI love the fact that you tell stories and write on your blog. Don't change to fit the mold!
ReplyDeleteI COMPLETELY agree with you! As a brand new blogger, all the hoops you're supposed to jump through to "make it" in the blogging world seem absolutely ridiculous to me. I get so tired of the "pin this, wear that, say this other thing or you won't be popular" crap flying around. At the end of the day, you should be blogging because you want to, not because you're trying to win a popularity contest. I'm glad you're still one of the old-fashioned bloggers! And girl, those leggings are fierce!
ReplyDeleteBAHAHA! Fierce huh? Haven't been called that since... well... ever! You made my day Laura!
DeleteHave you ever watched Adaptation? It's hilarious and it sounds like what you're going through. Except I haven't read anywhere that you steal flowers. Anyway, Nic Cage plays twin brothers Charlie and Donald Kaufman who want to be writers (also, while we're on the subject you should watch every Charlie Kaufman movie ever made). Donald goes to this class and basically says the same thing those blogging women said to you "you have to follow this formula...blah blah blah..." Charlie's all "that's BS, writing should be organic and flow from the heart and you should do it because you love doing it."
ReplyDeleteOk, this went on long enough. Just watch the movie. It'll make you feel better. As for the blogging teachers...screw them. People read your blog because you're funny and you're a great story teller. When you start writing for other people you'll be miserable and no one will want to read you. So just write for yourself.
I haven't ever seen that movie, but it sounds fantastic! I will have to watch it for sure. Except for I normally hate Nicolas Cage... do you think that will be much of a deterrant for me?
DeleteKeep your stories coming!!
ReplyDeleteI don't need pins or schnazzy goods like that to keep coming to your blog!!
My pinterest board (which I basically never use) is connected to my facebook aka my real name. So no, I don't pin posts. I have yet to start a facebook page for my blog. I do tweet all the time, though, and I tweet links to blog posts almost every day. But I'm mostly tweeting about work, my friends, my boyfriend, and links to other people's stuff...
ReplyDeleteDo I want more followers? Of course! More traffic? Always! Am I going to stop writing massive amounts of text in all my blog posts and start doing fluffy stuff that's totally inconsequential and has nothing to do with me? Um, no.
I love the text you write, and TBH, I skim your pictures really fast, except your fashion pics (because they're on a budget!) and your school pics (because they're usually hilarious). This has nothing to do with you and everything to do with me. If I wanted to see pretty pictures, I would go to National Geographic or Vogue or even the aforementioned neglected pinterest. But I want to read about people's lives, so I go to blogs.
Belle you are the best! You always say the most profound things. And what does TBH mean?!? I have tried and tried to figure it out!
DeleteIt is very sad that blogging has become another form of advertising. Really that is why I don't even bother with opting in for the prizes anymore. My mailbox is already full with more advertising junk mail than I can handle.
ReplyDeleteI only come to your blog for the stories. Not the pins, not the giveaways. I like a good laugh or a thought provoking idea. I may be old fashioned but that is still why I come to your blog.
bisous
Suzanne
I agree! I think it is fine that advertising is a PART of blogging, but I feel like it is way more a part of it than other mediums... like television or magazines for example. The majority of your stuff is still content, not just advertising whereas with blogging I feel like the majority of the stuff is advertising and content comes second.
DeleteI would get the Paris sweatshirt if I won! I love that you write so much and totally agree blogs should be primarily about blogging. :)
ReplyDeleteUm....I love your blog and it is my absolute favorite. Please don't ever stop writing and telling stories. And girl...if I had your thighs I would be mighty pleased.
ReplyDeleteLove the outfit you put together even if you are a somewhat awkward pseudo fashion blogger.
i seriously agree with you. i can get long winded at times, and i could even write more but im afraid people wont be interested in it. who cares what they think. i started this blog for me and for a journaling of my life type of purpose and i still blog for that reason. and a professional pinterester? what a waste of money. haha
ReplyDeleteThere are professional pinners?! I would rock the heck out of a job like that! I personally enjoy the weirdly named boards so I think your names work :)
ReplyDeleteGood to know! If I ever find myself in the pinning market you will be the first one I look up! :)
DeleteI just wanted to let you know that I love your blog. First and foremost, I love that it tells the story of your life. So many blogs are cooking, fashion, crafty, and there doesn't seem to be as many just about life! I would love to have the perfectly decorated house with the most wonderful nutritious food, and be wearing the perfect outfit - but that isn't reality! Too many times people get caught up in how things look, and not the experience of things. I, for one, do not have a blog. But i appreciate those that DO have a blog. Thanks so much for everything that you do!
ReplyDeleteAndrea thank you so much! You are so sweet! And I think I would share cooking and crafty stuff if I had a clue... but I don't. So you just get me talking about me! :)
DeleteMaybe these people have fashion or design blogs? I can see those being pinned often and less wordy (because how much does a person want to hear about wallpaper?) But I couldn't pin my posts if I wanted to, because like you they just aren't pinnable topics. Whatever. I think you're doing great! Telling your stories and starting a discussion is what people are looking for.
ReplyDeleteLOL on the wallpaper comment! Yes... might not be the most interesting topic! :)
DeleteHow dare you write on something that was originally intended for writing! Clearly your 3000+ followers kind of like that you write a lot...weird! ;) I like what you're doing, and I don't think you should feel like you're not doing it "right."
ReplyDeleteI read your blog because of the stories. And blogs that pin every post - no thank you! Stay true to yourself!
ReplyDeleteMost of the blogs I follow are Fashion blogs but there are a couple that I can't wait to READ and yours is one of them! Luv ya
ReplyDeleteNadine
I feel honored to be included in the "non fashion" blogs!
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI recently started following your blog and I love it just as it it! I took a blogging hiatus for about a year and when I returned a couple months ago it was like all of a sudden every blog I loved went pro and it stopped being so much about blogging and real life and more about the business of the blog. People who used to comment regularly on my blog and pay attention now are too busy and (at least it seems) don't even pay attention to my blog anymore. I miss when people just blogged about life without sponsors and blow-out give-aways etc. It seems those days are gone!
ReplyDeleteThank you! (And saucymix! What a saucy name!) I agree... it does seem like some who you make connections with via blogging now don't have time for you when they get "big." It's such a weird world.
DeleteI think there is a difference between a blogger, and a writer who uses blogging as a platform to share their thoughts and ideas. I think you are the latter. I also think that many of those tips must have been directed towards all different kinds of bloggers, because rarely do I have posts that are worth pinning on Pinterest. Freak, I hardly even include pictures with every post.
ReplyDeleteI think that those guys were onto something when they say sometimes bloggers write too much. For bloggers, I think that's true. When I open a fashion blog, I am not going to read walls of text. I'm there for the pretty pictures. However, when I read blogs like yours, and writing-type blogs are more my cup of tea anyway, I enjoy reading about your thoughts and experiences.
Interesting way to look at it, Jennie. I suppose you're right with the fashion blogs... I do usually skip the text and just scan the photos.
DeleteAnd I'm honored that you include me in the "writing" group. It's a constant effort!
See you around? (And by around I mean in Target?!?)
Obviously you are doing something right because you are pretty popular among the bloggers! =) i love coming to your blog because I know that I will usually get to hear genuine thoughts and probably get in a good laugh or two!
ReplyDeleteI read this on my phone and couldn't comment, but I couldn't wait to get to a desktop. I read your blog specifically because you write. I think you're funny and insightful and I enjoy seeing what you have to say. Blogs with pretty pictures and easy pinnable content are a dime a dozen, and really who has time to go through all those boards. I check my pinterest maybe once a week if I have time to remember. When I look through my stats at my posts that have the most views it is almost always without fail, my wordiest posts. People like to see what I'M thinking. way back in the xanga days of blogging and live journal and all of those our words were all we had.
ReplyDeleteAnyway....see I'm always verbose, even in my comments. I love your blog just the way it is. Don't worry about the 'rules' because I've learned that in blogging there are none!
Interesting that your wordiest posts get the most comments! I suppose I should pay more attention... but it does seem that some of the "deeper" posts are the most popular.
DeleteI'm not going to obey the rules here and tell you what I'd like if I won. I just want to say that its YOUR blog, write what you want, how you want, when you want and take whatever damn pictures you want! You are a great blogger/writer! I think some of the best bloggers are those that don't follow the "blog rules" wouldn't you agree? Yay for being yourself! :)
ReplyDeletexo Amber
LOL at this comment! You tell it like it is and I love that!
DeleteI didn't take the time to read all of the comments, but I read enough to see a common thread: blog for you and (hopefully) the masses will follow. For me, I don't care a bit about any blog rules or suggestions. I'm not trying to win a popularity contest. I have two blogs (one done for a year for a particular purpose), and one that's almost five years old, and I am astounded at how many people Google my different topics and subjects from years past. So I figure, best to make my blog entries something that will be interesting in years and months to come, not something that is only valuable for a single day or week (a la contests, giveaways, promotions). To me, successful means INTERESTING and VALUABLE in a human-interest, visual kind of way. So I'm sure all of the blog experts don't have that same vision. Your blog is awesome, but I will admit, on your giveaway/ contest days, I don't usually read or engage. Just not my thing.
ReplyDeleteI feel you. I don't engage in others' giveaways either :)
DeleteFirst, those are the sassiest pants I've ever seen - loving them.
ReplyDeleteSecond...these blogging class ladies have totally missed the point. You're on the right track, and I love it.
Seriously? I read your blog because it's fun and funny! All those "expert tips" are crap. Sorry,professional bloggers" and while I do like to zone out on Pintrest, I don't go looking for bloggers...sorry, "pro bloggers" ...but maybe they're not as pro as they ake themselves out to be ;)
ReplyDelete-dot
I've thought sometimes about "taking my blog to the next level" and trying to get sponsors and all that kind of stuff. And even though it sometimes seems tempting (like for when I'll one day be a SAHM hopefully), I finally decided something a few months ago:
ReplyDeleteIn the end, if people want to read my blog, great. If people want to comment on my blog, great. If people want to follow my blog, great. But in the end, even if they don't, I'm still going to keep blogging because I've finally learned to do it for me instead of feeling like I have to sell my soul or something to get more followers (which is basically what that social media class you were talking about kinda would feel like to me).
In the end, the people who love your blog will love it and read it. And I personally love the fact that you write so much (a woman after my own heart!), and I'll still be a loyal follower even if you never pin a single thing.
Just some thoughts I had.
Man, I comment a ton on your blog :-P
Love these thoughts! And I love how much you comment! You are so full of insight and thought provoking ideas that it would be a waste not to comment!
DeleteI would definitely get some heels.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I agree that that class has lost the point of blogging. That is the hardest thing. I feel a little frustrated, too. I feel like a little fish in a big sea when it comes to HTML, giveaways, followers, traffic, social media, etc. I started blogging as a way to journal my thoughts, feelings, etc and be creative. There are times that I tend to lose sight of that and get caught up on the corporate blogging fad...don't lose sight of who you are Bon! I read the entirety of all your posts, no matter how long they are. They are you and I enjoy reading you!
morrellfairytale.blogspot.com
I agree Tayler! It's hard NOT to get caught up in the corporate part of blogging. It is such a tricky business and easy to get swept up in.
DeleteI think you look fantastic in your leggings & I love reading your blog and I have no idea how to use Pinterest ;)! Keep on doing what you're doing!
ReplyDeleteI also love the White Loose Fit T-shirt with Flower Trim and Stud Embellishment - I need some cooler casual clothes.
How did you get your blog so successful, Bonnie? You break all the blogging "rules" yet you stick to what blogging is all about-- writing and sharing about our lives.
ReplyDelete:) Thanks, Bailey.
DeleteSomeone recently commented on one of my posts that they're long but they read them anyway. I hope so, I'm telling you a story some days! I keep it to list form other days, because while I think in stories, I also think in lists. I just thought it was funny because to me blogging is supposed to be focused on your writing.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree! I think that's why for me, as a former blogger and current blog lover, Facebook seemed so superficial and fickle. I love how you can really get to know people's experiences from blogs. I have learned so much about motherhood and living around the world from blogs. I think the Pinterest comment was silly. I cannot get into Pinterest either. I love how you have those names for your pins and I love to hear about your adventures. Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteI agree... facebook seems much too fickle. As well as pinterest.
DeleteI would TOTALLY buy the tie-dyed leggings. I think that would be the coolest thing ever!
ReplyDeleteI love your blog. Don't change it. All the crapola that they're tell you is just that, crap. Blogging is about words and stories. Stick it to the man.
ReplyDeleteAs a blog reader who loves to read blogs first and foremost, let me just put in my two cents. I have never found a blog through pinterest and never bother to check out any blog's pinterest. Twitter--yes. Instagram--yes. Pinterest? Only when they link directly to it in a blog (like if they are showing their wedding planning inspiration or something).
ReplyDeleteBah. I am on your side lady. I never find blogs through Pinterest and that's not why I'm on Pinterest. If I need to be so careful about my "image" I might as well not blog. I don't think I have an image and if someone doesn't like that I don't really care. I say stick to what feels right and you can't go wrong. Us cool kids do what we want!
ReplyDeleteI love your blog. You have my favorite blog on the web, it makes my day better waking up and seeing that you have posted and that I get to read such great and interesting writing! I have never followed a blog through pinterest...And I would get the letter print leggings if I won the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for saying that! You are so sweet and it blows my mind that people actually care when I do or do not post.
DeleteI've been told that I write too much, but I agree with you that the blog is for writing! There are so many opinions about how we should blog. I say do what you feel is best for you and your blog!
ReplyDeleteKatie! So glad to see you commenting here and that the blog meanies of the universe didn't chase you off. We can be in the "Write too much" club together, okay?
Deleteermahgawd. That thing sounds freakin' awful and I'm sorry that you had to sit and listen to it.
ReplyDeleteI love your blog. I love that you write and write so well. I love that you're emphatic and passionate through writing. Your voice is clear in your words and if you were brief, you wouldn't be you.
I love reading your posts and I think you do a great job. And even though I did find your blog through pinterest (how about that!) I definitely cosign that Pinterest shouldn't overwhelm your blog. It's obvious that you write for you and for the entertainment of those interested and that's important.
Don't let those people stress you. I mean, where's their uber successful blog? Oh, they don't have one? Screw that.
Keep being awesome.
Ace
www.eatpraywod.blogspot.com
WOW! You found my blog through pinterest?!? That truly is a shock! I don't even know how that could be possible!
DeleteAnd thank you for your sincere compliments. That means so much to me! :)
I'd get a tank top! Or three.
ReplyDeleteI think the blogging world has lost itself in getting followers and it is losing content. It should be about writing, I agree.
Damn you look good...............and you know I think you are a bloody awesome blogger
ReplyDeleteUgh... I've been feeling this same way! I love blogging but recently have been in the "what am I doing this for again?" rut and I need to get out of it! I see so many beauty blogs that have gorgeous pictures of products but then throw in 3 sentences about the product and call it a review. And they're not even substantial... they're more like "You NEED this product because it's the perfect shade of pink." Um, what? How are people going to know about the product if you hardly post anything about it? But then sometimes I think my blog will never "cross over" into being successful because I type too much.
ReplyDeleteDilemmas, dilemmas. Sorry to unload my rant on your blog, haha.
Casey
Beauty 101
Hey lady,
ReplyDeleteThis is my first comment on a blog! Ever! I never do it even though you're "supposed to" because, well, I don't want it to ever feel forced. But I have something to say to you, which is that I love your blog specifically because it is all about your writing. Some blogs are more about pics and food and yadda yadda (and those are great, too!) but a solid piece of writing is a wonderful thing. It can put you in a flow just reading it, you know?
So please, keep writing. Pictures are nice, but your stories what make your blog. :)
Abby
www.blueeyesmessyhair.com
These are my all-time faves on Chicnova http://www.chicnova.com/dip-dye-mid-rise-jeans.html OK I know they are easy to DIY but sometimes I get so tired of it all that I just want an easy-peasy-to-craft-thing to be bought! ps: have been craving for this sequined collar shirt for quite a time! And as summer's approaching you are getting hotter and hotter!
ReplyDeleteLove
Alena
I just started reading your blog 3-4 months ago and have found it so refreshing that you post real stories, with REAL dialogue about your life, your frustrations, your ups and your downs - While I do enjoy fashion blogs as much as the next style maven, when I am sipping my morning cuppa yours is the one I like to read -- Keep on keeping it real!
ReplyDeleteSarah in Ontario, Canada
I rolled my eyes at almost every one of their suggestions. I can see for cooking, crafting, and fashion blogging why they would say some of those things - BUT NOT EVERYONE IS LIKE THAT! Ugh. I love that you write a lot. I love your blog. People are dumb.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you Bonnie! I struggle with finding a good balance on my blog. I love doing promos and freebies but that isn't why I started my blog. I have to remember that all the time!
ReplyDeleteI hear ya on the social media frustrations! I actually get annoyed at seeing everyone I follow pin their own blog posts because it clogs up my feed!
ReplyDeleteMy favorite item is http://www.chicnova.com/sleeveless-chiffon-dress-with-doodle-print.html
I blog for myself. And for the people who read my blog despite me breaking all the proper rules of blogging. And you should too. I love your blog!
ReplyDeleteLove your stories so please keep them coming!!! After starting my blog it is hard for me keep following fashion bloggers. I like reading, and the few words on were to buy a outfit that I could never afford has become very discouraging. I scroll Pinterest for many reasons but it's not an occupation. What we do is (teaching)!!! My blog has no direction just stories or recipes or DIY stuff. If it is a new day it is a new post. Keep up the writing and funny stories.
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Andi
alookatlifefromadifferentangle.blogspot.com
Well I totally love the leggings with letter print but the t-shirts and tanktops are really cool also!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.chicnova.com/white-leather-peep-toe-flatform-sandals.html
ReplyDeletedidenzjrdp@yahoo.com
Thank you so much, dear! ^_____^
Nothing frustrates me more than inane twaddle about nothing. I am with you. I started this years blog idea thinking I would just post pictures and it would be quick and easy, but it turned out to be about the joy of writing. I also, at the beginning of the year didn't realise blogging was an industry. It's quite mad. Classes??? Why can't things ever stay away from ultimately being a pursuit of dollars. Sad. One a positive note, don't give up, even though you're not going to. You are a joy to read!
ReplyDeleteI'm just here for your entertaining writing style.
ReplyDeleteI'd get: The Essential Chiffon Tank Dress with Metal Rivets Embellishment
ReplyDeleteThose 'courses' are for craft/DIY/maybe fashion & food bloggers looking to profit from brand marketing opportunities. I hear DIY/craft bloggers complain all the time about not being able to come up w/300 words to fill a post & I cringe. Seriously?? Blogging should be about writing & sharing not just snapping pics & linking up to parties for pageviews. But most bloggers do what brings the $ {have you seen the modern day infomercial that is Twitter??} regardless. You just do you because that's obviously working in terms of readership. As far as $ goes....there's no shame in a real J.O.B. ;)
ReplyDeleteI love this one http://www.chicnova.com/pinafore-denim-dress-in-vintage-blue-wash.html
ReplyDeleteMy fave item : http://www.chicnova.com/skater-dress-in-stripe-design.html
ReplyDeleteemail: tricialadiana@yahoo.com
http://www.chicnova.com/lace-denim-shorts-with-raw-cuffs.html
ReplyDeleteana,atcag@gmail.com
I really love the leggings. I can't believe that they told you that you should write too much. That's crazy. It's your blog.
ReplyDeleteoh wow, there are so many cute tanks! i love tons of them, esp http://www.chicnova.com/racer-back-tanks-in-red-floral-print.html
ReplyDeletethedreamtreeblog at yahoo .com
Blech. That would be super frustrating. I've always heard the - even if someone else is doing something, you can find a way to make it your own, and everybody's story is a little bit different and there's a place for you in the blogging world - which has been one of my FAVORITE parts about this place because it's just so gosh darn welcoming no matter who you are or where you're coming from. So that would have SUPER disappointed me. But, I'm glad you're sticking around for a bit. And that short post thing - damn. I have a few next week that are going to piss a few people off.... oh well :)
ReplyDeleteI know you wrote this post forever ago, sorry, I have been super busy with work and I'm just now getting caught up on some blogs. However I wanted to let you know that I saved up money, and waited years to go to alt summit. Well it was obviously a great experience, but it was not worth the money to me. I felt like I didn't really learn anything new, and some of the things I heard I didn't necessarily agree with. For example that exact idea that you can write too much on a post. I about fell out of my chair. Honestly what I think they meant to say, is that sometimes people wont read your blog if there sent a lot of pictures. At the end of the day, you need to blog however you want to. Just because there has been a formula that someone is come up with to be successful, doesn't mean that there can't be a new formula created individually for your talents and your clients. You rock chica, keep it up!
ReplyDeletePS I got the same shirt ;)
ReplyDelete