Where on earth do people disappear to? UPDATE ALERT MESSAGE NOW
Well I heard from ONE of the gals. Her name is Melissa and her blog name was Keep calm and decorate. She said her blog was removed by google without warning, just GONE! She is very very upset right now and hoping someone out here can steer her in the right direction. HELP anyone??? Now I wonder about my other friend LEANN...her blog was Vintage Sassy. Anyone know?????
Now you can read my story below:
OK seriously, twice in one week. Two of my favorite blogging friends have removed their blogs. Just up and left. You know when something like this happens, and I know it happens, I feel sadness. I think about it and wonder. Now that sounds dumb right? I do not even know you people, you don't know me. But in a virtual kind of way we have all connected and visit and talk to each other sometimes more than we speak to our own families and friends? RIGHT or WRONG? I am going to say right. One of my friends who left actually posted and said she was thinking about it. WHY, she never said, but after uplifting words she seemed to stick around for a while, and continued wonderful posts, that I so enjoyed. Now the other friend, there was no sign or red light of any sort. Just GONE!
I do believe If I where to remove my blog I would give an indication. I feel that I would have that obligation to my readers and visitors to at least say SEE YA! That is just me. I do not know their circumstances and it could be serious. There have been women who do come back and then pour their hearts out as to why they left in the first place.
What is it with blogging? Why do so many of us feel so compassionate about it? Why do others become withdrawn? I am a woman of many questions here. I would love your insight. AND to my blogging friends that left...You know who you are, I miss ya! I really do. Even if I did not visit you every day, or every other day, I know I got over at least once a week. From what I see, we are all very kind and considerate to one another. Have you seen different?
Well I guess I have bad PMS this month, because I am feeling the need to get this out there and talk about it. That is the emotional part of me this month. Is blogging competitive in your opinion? Are there jealousies amongst us, that go unspoken? What do you all see, that perhaps others do not? Do you get annoyed if you comment continuously on someones blog and they never come over to yours? Do you love comments, or can do without? Do you get annoyed at a host who never comments on your blog, YET she goes over to a lot of others? I am going to answer that right here and NOW YES I do, it's rude! OK....that is my input for the day.
ALSO one more thing. I think we should all turn OFF word verification. IT Is NOT necessary. It is annoying, it takes extra time, I always make typos and can't stand it! NUFF said!!~
Labels: blogging manners, Open Forum
posted by Debbiedoos @ 10:56 PM
78 Comments:
Blogging certainly is addictive :)
It's sad when people get up and leave, but maybe it's taking up too much of their time, maybe it's making them feel things that they don't like (like jealousy).
Because I work full time, I don't often get the time to comment on everything I see. If something really inspires me, I will comment. For that reason, I don't sweat it (much) when people don't comment on my stuff. I just put on my big girl pants and carry on. I try to keep things in perspective and it's a treat when other's take the time to comment. I bet there isn't a person out there that doesn't like a pat on the back for a job well done.
And yeah, please take off the verification wordy thing, how annoying. I won't attempt to post twice if I screw up the first time
Debbie,
Do you think it was a mix up with google or do you think they really removed themselves. I know google has had problems with followers at times. I am sorry that you've been hurt by someone you felt was a friend here in blogland.
Wendy
A agree completely and I too have found 2 past bloggers disappear off my list, one did post that in 2 hours they would no longer be on, so a brief warning, but I too am left wondering why! :)
Liesl :)
Bless your heart...you are really passionate about this! I am still relatively new to blogging but have come to love it and actually have come to feel somewhat close to a few bloggers out there. One of my favorites has gone all of a sudden also and I must say it worries me. Are they sick? Did someone die? Are they upset or in trouble? I would really like to know rather than be left wondering. If I decide to discontinue mine at some point I am sure I will at least tell everyone. So if I'm not here for awhile you can probably surmise that something is wrong! Sometimes I get a little envious that some blogs have so many followers and I don't but mostly I just figure they've got more interesting things to share than I do. I have friends who read my blog but never comment but they tell me they enjoy it so I let that be enough. My son has gotten very disheartened that he doesn't get many comments but I tell him it's probably cause he's a guy:) I enjoyed this post and appreciate your feelings. I agree about that word verification thing!!!!
hmmm, I think some people just get overwhelmed. I do think there is competition. I get torn myself in the why I blog....I love it, it is a creative outlet. But...where do I draw the line on fun and expression or necessity..follower driven...competitive. I wish I was a blog rock star and had many followers and could just post what ever and when ever....Prideful.
I love every follower I have and am very honored every time they leave a comment. Life is busy...the fact that anyone cares at all what I made for dessert...what I bought at a sale or what my feelings are at this present time is amazing. I have met some lovely ladies I feel as if I actually kind of know now. I really care about them. If I ever dropped off the radar..I would miss them and I hope one or two might miss me. That is a blessing in itself.
We blog....for some its fun for others a burden....day by day we may switch!
ps yes.....please remove word verification!
I'm with you. I don't like it when a blog totally disappears without warning. I worry about what happened. Comments - I've been really bad lately on commenting. I just got way behind though.
I, too, wonder where people disappear to and if everything is ok with them. I know it's weird, but I guess we get attached to some people through their blogs without ever meeting them.
Could it be that life just gets too busy or that blogging becomes time consuming for them? I don't know. It is sad though.
I have thought about taking my blog down too, mainly because I'm back to work on Tuesday & I know that I'll no longer have the time to devote to it. Also I sometimes wonder, does anyone really read this or even care what I have to say?
If it makes you feel better, I turned off word verification about a month ago. lol
I think you started blogging a little before me. Really I thought it was just going to be a family journal for me. I had no idea of how addicting it can be. I guess some people just get overwhelmed and quit cold turkey. I guess consider it a friend moves away, we say we'll stay in touch and don't. Anyway I have started limiting my time at the computer. But about once a month I do go over my blog list that I follow and have left a few that do not comment ever.
We do kind of live for comments. We do all hate word verification. I think some people may not know they have it or how to change it. I was afraid of the anonymous comments, but really have not had a lot since I dropped it, about a month after blogging.
Anyway... blog on, until we can't anymore!
I wouldn't have know how many uses there are for spray paint if I hadn't found your site.
You go Debbiedoo!
Debbie I know how I have connected with some bloggers more then others and if they just disappeared I would be worried!! I would not do that without a post if I could help it. That said I do think 'blogging' can be competitive. I am doing this for me and yet I want to make all of 'you' happy. Can I do both? I hope so. I do not like it when you faithfully participate in someones meme and they never comment on your post. I agree that is just rude. I try to comment on as many blogs as I can and also respond to comments if the person has email. It isn't always possible but I try. I care that people read and comment on my blog. So that is my 2 cents worth!
Oh and I agree with word verification. I stopped using it and I do not get spam at all.
well some things are best kept private and maybe these bloggers felt that even though you all feel like a family to some extent its still not like real family.....money...loss of job marriage these are all very much problems out there some of us have faced or will face i just hope with time away they can *fix* the problem and come back to the other family they have.
I am SOOOO with you - - - I GRIEVE for my blogs that suddenly disappear.
About word veri - - - it REALLY isn't necessary now that blogger has the new "spam" control feature.
I agree, it makes me sad I followed someone who was on their quest for adoption, was getting a child then...nothing I wish she would've said why she left, I was so bummed out. I agree abt the word verification I went to blog approval and it works the best
Yes - Please take off the "word verification" thingy. You can use "Comment moderation" and be able to eliminate any "undesirable" stuff.
One particular blogger I followed - She had 2 blogs. Loved seeing her beautiful photos, much of which I am familiar with, as she is from the same area I am. Then she just stopped posting on both blogs almost 2 yrs. ago. I would check back on occasion for a new post, but nothing. The last time I checked, her main blog was deleted with no explanation and still no update on the other one. I know we "owe" no one in blogland an explanation for what we do or do not do. Just hope she is ok.
As far as those that don't respond, answer a simple question about a product, etc., - I won't even go there! :)
Hope you are enjoying your weekend.
You know, sometimes blogging just gets too be too time consuming. I think people get started and then get overwhelmed and really there is still some anonymity in the whole thing that people forget that people, *real* people are actually reading what they write. I know I have thought many times, is this what I want to be doing with my time? Am I getting out of it what I put in?
Oh, and word verification does suck. One of my blogging pet peeves!
Debbie I do understand. I have seen several blog friends leave quickly and I'm left wondering if they are okay. I've also had a few that will pop back into blog land unexpectedly and that is just great as well.
No jealousy here. I've never understood that being said by others about blogging. Really? Competition over what? The number of posts, followers, blog hits? That is just plain silly if you ask me.
Have a wonderful labor day! What a great post sweet friend. It's always nice to *chat*.
Blessings, ~Melissa :)
hahaha! Love the penny for your thoughts picture at the end! Too cute! And yes I agree, if you are a host, comment on everyones blog, not just your "click" no pun intended! I wish everyone would make their blog/email available so when I get a comment I can click to go to their blog or at least email them back a thank you! Oh well, just my penny for ya!
Uggh! I hate word verification SO much!!!! I agree with you on that one. I haven't lost any of my favorite bloggers yet but I'm sure I'd feel the same way that you do about it.
As for comments, I always enjoy them and try to comment back when I can.
Debbie,
I am sorry you have lost touch with your 2 bloggers. Yes, I would have to say I was leaving, if that were the case. I have met sooooo many nice people, that I would feel that I owed them at the least, a goodbye from the blogging world.
Ok, I hate word verification. And if they have to have word verification why can't you see that before you type in your info and hit "publish your comment". After each comment I make I have to see if a word verification will pop up and then if it does I have to then see if it says my comment was posted (because I probably typed in the word verification word wrong). Way too many steps.
Ok now that that is off my chest, a person that I followed and thought I had a bond with recently quit blogging. And she deleted all previous posts which I thought was strange.
I know that when you first start a blog you have no idea of the amount of time you are going to spend on it. I love it and I have the time for it, but I can see if you have never been on the computer for any length of time that your hubby might be upset of the time you're spending or maybe you feel that you are taking time away from the kids???
IDK, it was upsetting to me that this person quit blogging because she had a very unique decorating style, but maybe she'll be back one day.
LOL-Well, I just joined your blog as a follower today. Being as I am new...do you think I could have a nickel for my thoughts instead of a penny?
I am pretty new yet-I started blogging sometime after the first of the year just for my own family, etc. Didn't even realize there were all these blogs out here...WOW...just started following others several weeks ago. Anyway...I find that I am following people that are honest...that aren't perfect....that have love in their hearts for friends and family. I feel connected to several people I have "met" via blogging and would be heartsick if some of them disappeared.
As far as jealousies..I think there are probably those out there that are jealous...that don't feel they have the perfect lives that some others seem to live. and rather than deal with the reality of fessing up to being real- POOF-like magic..their imagined "world" disappears~ and them along with it.
I have found that MOST bloggers are wonderfully warm and caring people...more than willing to share their talents and hints and suggestions and sources. Who knew there were such wonderful women out here? Not me! I woulda been here years ago-lol
I hate that stinking word verification thingy. I have enough trouble just getting my thoughts down and posted and I go to click out and realize "OH Crap"...that word thingy popped up and now I missed it and my post is gone. Once in a while I go back...not often.
I work and so I find that on days I don't have time to tell one of my wonderful tales ;>) I have a little "gig" that I am up to. I found some old photos (Mother's) & we have NO idea who the people in the photos are so I post one with a comment on those hectic busy days...like now...I stay connected and people can get a smile or bypass it...doesn't matter.
Geez-Okay..I'm thinking maybe I gave you a dime's worth here. Check or cash is fine~
oh-yeah...one more thing...that word verify thing? I don't have it and I have never had one weird/bad/stupid/mean post!
Glad to be a follower here-I promise not to disappear~ Diana
LOL-Well, I just joined your blog as a follower today. Being as I am new...do you think I could have a nickel for my thoughts instead of a penny?
I am pretty new yet-I started blogging sometime after the first of the year just for my own family, etc. Didn't even realize there were all these blogs out here...WOW...just started following others several weeks ago. Anyway...I find that I am following people that are honest...that aren't perfect....that have love in their hearts for friends and family. I feel connected to several people I have "met" via blogging and would be heartsick if some of them disappeared.
As far as jealousies..I think there are probably those out there that are jealous...that don't feel they have the perfect lives that some others seem to live. and rather than deal with the reality of fessing up to being real- POOF-like magic..their imagined "world" disappears~ and them along with it.
I have found that MOST bloggers are wonderfully warm and caring people...more than willing to share their talents and hints and suggestions and sources. Who knew there were such wonderful women out here? Not me! I woulda been here years ago-lol
I hate that stinking word verification thingy. I have enough trouble just getting my thoughts down and posted and I go to click out and realize "OH Crap"...that word thingy popped up and now I missed it and my post is gone. Once in a while I go back...not often.
I work and so I find that on days I don't have time to tell one of my wonderful tales ;>) I have a little "gig" that I am up to. I found some old photos (Mother's) & we have NO idea who the people in the photos are so I post one with a comment on those hectic busy days...like now...I stay connected and people can get a smile or bypass it...doesn't matter.
Geez-Okay..I'm thinking maybe I gave you a dime's worth here. Check or cash is fine~
oh-yeah...one more thing...that word verify thing? I don't have it and I have never had one weird/bad/stupid/mean post!
Glad to be a follower here-I promise not to disappear~ Diana
Hey Debbie...
I know it's been awhile. It is sad when you see someone is gone. For me, right now I am back to work and don't have much time to spend in blogland, but it also is that most of the time, I don't feel that what I have to say is very important to anyone.There are just so many things that factor into why you stay or why you leave.
To know someone is out there, even if it's just to stop by and say "hi" can make a big difference.
There has been several times that I have thought about deleating my blog. The olny thing that has kept me from doing so is there are so many blogs that I enjoy reading, even if it is every 2 weeks or so. And the warning thing... not sure I would give it. If someone said not to go, I would feel bad about leaving... but then if no one commented on it...well... that would be negative too.
I miss Leanne too! She did have one final post saying that she had an "addictive personality" and that blogging and reading blogs was taking too much time from her real life...basically that was it. She said she thought long and hard about it, but just decided to not have a blog anymore. I loved her blog and always looked forward to seeing the cool things she found on her thrift adventures...and the way she moved things around in her house all the time tickled me.
I just read another blog right before yours where the girl was getting perplexed in blogland for several different reasons...I hear and understand all that you are saying, you have to be the kindest, sweetest person out here....so know that in the big scheme of life....what is important? A friend took a class about giving speeches to large crowds and the best advice she got from that teacher was....how important is this speech on a scale of 1 to 10 at the end of your life? It didn't even rate on the scale right? Meaning don't get upset about things period...what are the real important things in life...I don't mean to sound all stuffy here but the older you get the more you realize don't sweat the small stuff and it's all small stuff...(stole that one) but you get my point....you are too sweet to be upset about anything...everytime I click on your blog and those lemons come up I just smile and can almost smell them...
Debbie so sorry that you've lost your friends...maybe they just needed some downtime and didnt they could get the word out.
As far as competiton.....I literally just did a post on a similar subject (unfortunately had to do it twice.lol) But I dont think there should be jealousy or competition because we are allover the U.S. the crafters market is so huge for those of us selling and for those of us just sharing then it shouldnt really matter. My pet peeve is with charging for help, or workshops or consultations. Im not really sure Im on-board with that but thats just my opinion.
Have a great holiday!
Blogging is Time consuming. If we didn't know that with the first post, we figured it out by the second one:) I have found sharing and caring in Blogsville to be the norm. I love how creative bloggers are so willing to share! For those of us who are "at home" it is a great outlet with ADuLTs!! That being said, there is also a "real" world we have to live in and cope with. We may never know why some leave. It makes us appreciate those who stay even more! As for the verification---I HATE IT! It makes me crazy!!
Have an AWWWsome Labor Day:)
Hi Debbie - this was a great post. I am new to blogging and the best part about it for me - has been meeting some wonderful people that share the same passions and interests that I do. It's like a modern day pen pal program.
I actually found your blog from Vintage Sassy. I was sorry to see her blog disappear as I did enjoy it...but I do remember seeing a post from LeAnn saying she was taking her blog down. I thought that was nice of her to explain why....I miss her blog.
I do not find it competitive - but then, I am blogging strictly for enjoyment and as a creative outlet. I don't know how long it will last - but for now - I am enjoying the ride!!
Well dear friend Debbie, I can SO relate to you with this post! I too have "lost" what I thought were very dear friends in Blogland after getting to know them including the girl that started me blogging. She never ever commented nor became a follower on mine blog, just ignored me.
Many bloggers have even gone so far as to say "someday we will meet" which in reality will not ever happen.
I too have been very frustrated at host bloggers never leaving a comment and/or becoming a follower which in my opinion is just down right rude! Especially some of the "bigger bloggers" out there that have 3000+ followers. They do not comment [on my comments] or even take the time out to read your post on their hosted site! Rude and selfish on their part, shame on them!
So in a nutshell, I know how you feel but after the first time it happened my reality check was; "there are bloggers out there that just don't want to blog anymore and it is their loss.
On the other hand I wonder how long I can keep this up but I have people like my MIL that wait for my posts' because it makes her day.
OK so enuf rant, I'll end with
I AGREE TURN OFF THE STINKING WORD VERIFICATION! WE DON'T NEED IT AND IT'S ANNOYING!
Jeepers I feel so much better now, thanks for letting me vent too!:)
Terry
PS I'll let everyone know when and if I ever decide to stop blogging, its only the right thing to do:)
T.
PSS...hugs sweetie!
Hi Debbie---I agree with your post today, and am glad someone said it. I do believe that just as in life, some like to make the blog thing competitive. I really don't think it has to be. There are hundreds of wonderful blogs out there with 20 followers or less and they just keep blogging away. That tells me something about them: they are probably great people, trying new ideas on their own, willing to share secrets, enjoying what they are doing. Some of the bigger blogs do tend to get caught up in their own success at times. But the great part about blogging, just like with TV, if we don't like it, we don't have to visit them! I TOTALLY agree about the hosting part. I actually even wrote that to Gollum one time. I told her that I had been a weekly participant in several blogs and she was the only one that ever took the time to write to me. And, it was just like you said, the host managed to write to a lot of other people. But then again, if I don't like it I can always find another blog to join. It's all a matter of choice. I work full time, and sometimes I find it hard to get around to all the blogs I want to read. I imagine a lot of women find that. I did get an email from LeAnn after she quit and she said she is much happier now not blogging. She hated everything we have just talked about and did not like how much time it took each day. I guess to each her own. All the blogging etiquette is still so new. We are the pioneers as we set the way! Enjoy your weekend. Lori L
Hey, I am still out here....just super busy becuz I got a teaching job this year two days before school started. I have still been looking a blogs but not posting or commenting becuz of lack of time. I do miss it though. Hopefully, when I get caught up at school and at home, I will get back to it. :) I think blogging is sooo additive and even though we dont personal know each other....we do become virtual friends!!!! I have noticed that some bloggers will comment on some blogs all the time and never on mine even after I have commented on theirs....whats up with that. I agree with you.....it is RUDE!!!! I always try to visit people's blogs after they have taken time to comment on mine!
Thanks for sharing and have a great Labor Day weekend!!!
I miss leann too. She did leave a post saying goodbye. I hope Melissa from Keep Calm and decorate comes back! I love her.
Yelp! I hate word verification too.
I'm just me and that's it. Either you like me or not no biggie!
I love you Deb and your hot feet too!
Love,
Jennifer :)
I made it back! My blog was hacked by spammers!!!
LeAnn said good bye and I do miss her. Hate word verification, too.
Yes, I get annoyed when people don't comment back on my blog, but go everywhere else. I have thought of all possible explanations, in vain. Every time I visit, I have a nagging URGE to question them, but I don't. Phew!
I'm trying really hard to STOP wanting more comments. I even prayed I'd get none, yesterday. It's a double edged sword, that! I'm trying really hard to now make my blog about "me". And you, Deb, sincerely inspire me to do that.
p.s. I'm so sorry your friends disappeared. That is very sad. :(
I just saw that one of your friends returned!! Yay!!!!!
After reading all that I'm going to work on getting word verification taken off my blog. Vintage Sassy said an abrupt good bye. It bothered me too,only because I really liked her blog. I totally get what your saying. I needed a connection at the time I started blogging. I was so desperately unhappy in my job I needed to feel like I belonged somewhere. I found you all and it made a big difference in my life. I won't forget that and every time I come and read posts like this it hits me just how much alike we really are. We are a compassionate caring bunch so it only makes sense that we hurt when one leaves.
I only had one blog friend leave blogging, and she gave warning, but it was still sad. I still see her on facebook, but it's not the same.
I know what you mean. I've had several that are just gone now without any warning.
I enjoy blogging and don't plan to stop, but if I ever do, I'll let you know!
I've met so many nice people through it...people I would have never met otherwise. :)
I do agree that blogging can be addictive. I think some people do get overwhelmed, but it would be nice to give some sort of warning or just a note explaining their being absent. I've considered stopping when life was too busy, but instead decided to concentrate on a few memes here and there that I enjoy participating in until I have more time to post. I do try and comment as often as possible. But my reading list has gotten so large that it's nearly impossible to comment on every blog and still work full time (and DH and I are trying to get a business up and running too - are we nuts?) I love receiving comments, but that's not the main reason I blog, so it's not a huge deal to me. Although I do wonder why some posts receive tons of comments and others, that I consider a better post, receive so few? As for word verification, I DETEST IT!
I agree 100% on word verification! I hate it, and i have removed it from mine.
Keep calm and Decorate!!! COME BACK!!! I miss you!!!!!!!
Hi Debbie
Upon your suggestion, I removed word verification from my blog!:) I know that I've heard others say what a pain it is, but I thought if I didn't have it, I'd get all kinds of spam or other crazy unwanted things! After reading some of the comments on your post, sounds like I shouldn't worry! And yes, I would feel bad/worry if some of my bloggy friends just disappeared. As for blogger envy, I do admit that sometimes I feel a bit of it when I see gorgeous, magazine worthy rooms on some of the blogs out there. But then I realize I love my home, and seeing what someone else has created should not take away from my happiness! While my little blog doesn't have nearly the number of followers as lots of blogs out there do, I truly value each and every person who takes the time to check out what I have to say, and leaves me a comment! It makes my day, and I am not in it for the numbers!!
I totally agree with you about hosts who never leave comments when someone continually comments on there posts! I think it is rude, too! I know we are all busy, but just to get a "thanks for visiting, love your blog" would be nice once & awhile. Also, I love linky parties, and there are some I participate in where I have Never heard from the host! I don't expect to each time (after all, if they get hundreds of people joining their party, who could expect them to comment on each & every one?). But I am impressed that every time I have linked to one of your parties, you have taken the time to leave me a comment, and that means so much! So thank you! And thanks for reading this very long comment of mine, I've never left one this long before! :)
Hi Deb,
I must say whenever I join your parties I can count on you commenting on my blog and I so appreciate that, I've been blogging since 08 and when I left the 1st blog I wrote a post telling why and invited them to stop by my new one. Some still do and leave a comment others I see just stop by and that's okay! Blogging isn't a contest or a popularity contest it's finding some that connect with you on what you are doing, right now I'm changing over to a different style so all I'm doing is painting furniture and I sometimes wonder how interesting my posts are but for now this is what my blog is about because it's what's going on in my life right now.
I did remove the verification to make it easier to comment I must be weird because it never bothered me to do it.LOL
I miss LeAnn's blog but she said she had an addictive nature so I can understand why she stopped but I do miss her decorating so much.
I also understand that working full time is hard, I work part time and I know how it is to post and paint...but I keep on because I love blogging and the people in the blogging world.
Thanks Debbie for posting about this, I hope people read it and if we ever stop blogging we give fair warning when we do!
Hi Debbie,
I am new to your blog and just started blogging myself in May. I have found it to be very addicting, but that's because I find such interesting, like-minded people, projects and houses!!
I love to write and have attempted to write in many different journals over the course of the last GASP! 35 years, but this Blogging journal that I started in May is the longest one that I have kept, and I don't see myself stopping any time soon!! I love the fact that I can pour my heart out and post pics, share stories and aspirations, exchange ideas and recipes and link to other peoples blogs and websites. AND win giveaways!!! I think this Blogland is the best of "chainletters, recipe swaps, penpals and show and tell rolled all into one!
I understand that peoples lives have ups and downs and maybe the people who have abruptly left their blogging were just so overwhelmed with one of life's deep wells or pitfalls that they needed to "hide" from life and everyone for a while. I bet they are still reading blogs, just not participating. That's ok by me, 'cuz, I was once there.
This was a good topic to post and invite responses! Thanks for letting me participate.
Drop into my blog for some furniture revamping I have been working on.
Warm hugs, Laura.
P.S. I am know following you. L.
I have also missed LeAnn at Vintage Sassy! I enjoyed her style. She inspired me to take a new look at what I had stored out in the shed and re-thinking my own style. :) I had to chuckle at the "penny for your thoughts" ending to this post. Yesterday our pastor handed out 2 pennies to everyone on our way into church. His message was on forgivness, old hurts and remembering to pray for those that have hurt you. His suggestion was to put the pennies somewhere you would notice them and use them as a reminder to pray. A different scenario for sure but your penny made me think perhaps I should be saying a prayer for LeAnn. She seemed to be having a hard time and don't we all need more prayers? Thanks for making me think......
Debbie, I try to return comments although sometimes they may fall through the cracks and I miss somebody. I figure, if somebody takes the time to read a post and comment on it, they deserve a return visit. Sometimes, we may discover that we don't have much in common with that person, but courtesy is courtesy!
If someone signs up to follow me, I don't feel the obligation to return the favor if that person's blog doesn't interest me. I really don't like it when someone tells me that they have signed up as a follower and then they ask me to do the same. I believe in free choice! LOL
People should not feel slighted if someone doesn't choose to follow. It's not a competition to me, although I know some bloggers do not feel validated unless they show big numbers for both comments AND followers. I'm here to have a little fun, share knowledge, and to meet some great people. We all want validation of some kind, but counting numbers is not big in my book, by any means!
I had word verification as a new blogger and didn't even know it. Some kind person came around and told me about it, said it was annoying, so I took it off.
ok, I spouted enough....
hugs to ya, girl! Sue
Hi Debbie, I would certainly write a post saying goodbye to all of you my friends if that ever happened. Blogging is a huge commitment. Who knows what happened? Could have been a number of things. The persona on line of a person could be different in the real world. That could create pressure...never know. Venting is could for you says this psych nurse! hugs♥olive
I left a comment and came back to correct something and my comment is gone.
Debbie
Great post Debbie!!
I have had one blog that sat dorment for months and I, like you, just kept wondering what happened to her, was she ok, etc. She came back recently, did a couple posts, then disapperated again. I've made the assumption life has gotten busy for her.
Blogging is defintely time consuming!!
I absoltely know I would put up a post addressing my lack in posts or if I was going away all together. But that's how I am.
I've gotten upset when I post regularly to a certain blog and never get a response...I wonder does that person even read the responses. I can't imagine not reading and responding to the people that take the time to read my silly little projects and thoughts. :)
This message was from MOSAICMAGPIE, it disappeared and I copied and pasted it from my inbox
Oh, I have to agree about the word verification thing. What I really have is the word verification that shows up after you click to add the comment. Then they have comment moderation on. Could they not moderate only, that's what I do no problems at all. I did once get a comment that was all about their blog and had nothing to do with my post, I hit delete and it was gone. Having the word verification does nothing to stop someone like that.
On the topic of blogs disappearing, things do happen and maybe it was a life emergency and they will come back to say goodbye soon.
On the topic of commenting and never getting a response or visit. I took a workshop from a girl, commented all the time on her blog and never got a reply or a visit from her. I have still visited her blog, because I do like her work, but I don't leave comments anymore, what's the use. Now everyone does not need to reply every single time although I try to but come on months of commenting and no reply??
Debbie
Ugh. I hear ya, lady. I agree with everything you said. My concern is if Google erases a blog...where does it go and can you get it back. If so...I would like to preserve mine. Scary. And I do read almost all of your posts, but don't comment on every one of them. I love ya! Always! You are a great lady!
I've been so blog lazy the past couple of weeks. Partly cuz our computer is getting old and has become so slow that putting up a post can be frustrating. And partly cuz I just run out of stuff to blog about! I get blogging brain block!
I never feel jealous of others blogs because I'm not a high achiever nor am I competitive. I enjoy others blogs more than I enjoy blogging but I like being a part of it:)
I'm sorry some of your bloggy friends went MIA but you never know what's going on in people's "real" lives ya know? But, I think if someone is going to completely disappear from blogging it's common courtesy to say something! There was one blogger who died in a car accident and her hubby did a really touching post a couple of days later. Otherwise nobody would've known!
But I can totally understand if someone's going thru something really personal they may not want to announce it in a blog, especially if family members read it. When push comes to shove I think most of us would definitely put our family first before blogging.
About the follower thing, a lot of those blogs have been around for years. It took them a very long time to build up that following. I think yours was one that built very quickly so you panicked a bit maybe??? I would hate the pressure of that many followers!!!
Anywho, happy Labor Day! Oh, and I hate word verification too!!!
Hi Debbie,
I am so sorry that you didn't read my post that said I was leaving. I sure didn't mean to hurt or upset you. Shoot me an email anytime my friend...walhunt923@yahoo.com.
xo
LeAnn
Lately I have no time for blogging since I'm going back to school, but there is no way I'm quitting my blog! It may get neglected for awhile, but oh well :)
I hear you about the word verification. I took it off a long time ago but lately I've been getting horrible spam messages - very inappropriate. I just turned on comment moderation for older posts and that seems to keep them from getting published.
Ok girl,,here I go. Ready?
Is blogging competitive in your opinion?....I struggle with this. I DON'T want to be competitive or have that 'comparsion' struggle. That said, I DO struggle with those feelings but I'm wrestling them out of me because you know what...I LOVE sharing my life, I LOVE the people that I have connected with and I truly believe my life is richer because of them. So I WILL continue to fight that competition and comparison 'trap' and just keep loving! Are there jealousies amongst us, that go unspoken?....I have thought about that myself. With some comments that have been left at my blog, I see that, and than it makes me sad because I question myself..like have I made that person feel 'less'..when that was never my intention...As for myself being jealous..well of course I have to deal with that when let's say, I see your beautiful home and than look at my snot green,dog pee smelling rec room carpet, OR ,,,girl,,your on a commerical..you KNOW I'm a wanna be actress girl..lol... What do you all see, that perhaps others do not?....I see a lot but keep it to myself actually. Work it out in my mind. Do you get annoyed if you comment continuously on someones blog and they never come over to yours?....DON'T EVEN GET ME STARTED! I'm serious!! That is one of things from the above statement you wrote about seeing stuff that others may not see. I've been dealing with this for about a month now. Struggling if I should continue to participate EVEN though I'm being TOTALLY ignored by some. Do you love comments, or can do without?...ummmmmmmmm...YAAAAAA!! LOL. There are days that some of the comments touch my heart so much that I end up crying because I feel SO loved...... Do you get annoyed at a host who never comments on your blog, YET she goes over to a lot of others? ...Again, DON'T GET ME STARTED...this has been something I've been dealing with for about a month now...not only does the host not come, but many of the participants don't come, BUT they go to everyone elses...I think I've been snubbed.
Ok,,,I've rambled on long enough..oh girl, sorry about adding a post to your post.LOL.
I read your other post above and wanted to share that is why I LOVE you SOOOOOOOOO much. You rock girl!!!
Hey Debbie, hope you're having a good weekend! Thanks for telling everyone again to turn off their word verification! I hate it too! Regarding blogging...I love blogging and visiting other blogs, but some days there isn't enough time to visit and comment. I post to my blog when I have time or something to share. I don't feel compelled to blog once a day...it's not a job. I don't expect blogs with a large following to send a comment back... I think it's unrealistic.
As far as jealousy - that's sad. There are sooo many bloggers that are so talented and we can all learn from each other. I enjoy everyone's style, even though mine might be different.
It is sad when bloggers go away. I wish they would just leave us a message and come back to visit and post when they can.
I'm still fairly new to blogging and just figuring out that there are a whole lot of rules out there that never crossed my mind. I turned off my word verification, thanks for putting that out there!!! I'm so new to all this a little guidance is always appreciated. I love your blog and have really enjoyed it.
Just saw your most recent post (where you turned off comments!) and just wanted to say... you were the first blogger to reach out to me when I started my new spot this summer, and your comment made me feel like a million bucks! Like I had made the right decision to 'do this thing'. I appreciate you so much for that, and I am sure I am not the only one. I totally see what you mean about the addiction, and wanting to please. Because as type-A females (at least I am) if I am going to do something, I want to do it well!!
I miss blogs too, but understand that there is usually something in their hearts that cause them to stop blogging... we may never know the reason, but God does!
Thanks so much!
kathie
Yep, yep, and yep. You know I shut down my blog while I "reevaluated" my blogging. I had to come to terms with Hobby vs. Obsession and TG Hobby won. I love blogging, and almost quit, then realized that I could have my blog and love it too. When the line crossed over from loving it to feeling chained to it, it was time to circle the wagons and figure out what was best for me and my time.
Almost all bloggers I have come in contact with have been Wonderful, Awesome people. Blogging today is like the kitchen table of the 50's. We connect via our blogs instead of via aprons, a cup of coffee and a recipe.
Jealousy, no, I hope not. Life is too short to be jealous.
I rarely follow the mega blogs. There is no personal touch there any longer, maybe there used to be but that's all long gone and honestly, I can get wonderful posts from smaller, more personal blogs.
You, Debbie, are very much like me. You wear your heart on your sleeve. The older I get the more I realize that's a good thing, an asset, not a liability like it seemed to be when I was younger. Debbie, you rock and keep it real. Hugs, Marla
One of my fave blogs shut down for a couple of weeks, I was heart broken. I worried about her...but then, she reopened her blog! She'd taken time off because there were wonderful things going on in her blog/life and she was very busy and involved in that...So I know I'd feel bad if someone I felt I'd made a connection with, was just 'Poof' gone!
I have to admit, I don't blog like I'd like too, I think I'd have more followers if I did, but sometimes life just gets in the way! ... I have no idea if I have word verification on or not...yikes, I'll go check! I looove your passion! Big Hugs, (another) Debbie @ Cottage Hann~Me~Downs
I agree with all you said!!
A friend recommended I read this post after she read what I posted on same subject yesterday! You are invited to read it!
Katherine
Wow! I am gone for a few days and miss the big topics! Very interesting post. I haven't lost any blogger friends that I know of, but I do think I would be sad. I do have this crazy connection with you guys and feel like I know the bloggers I am close to.
I used to get sort of jealous as a "why don't I get off my butt and do some more projects" feeling, but I get over it. I play with Jemma because the day will come that she won't be here with me and I am trying to eat up all the time I can with her! I am a haphazard blogger as I do it for a journal. Like you, I am going to print it at the end of the year and have a journal of sorts.
I have gotten a bit frustrated that I have asked three different photographer bloggers questions and not a one of them has ever answered back. I do think that is a bit rude!
Blogging is addictive and I am trying to cut my time down some to make sure I am with Jemma and not with my Mac!
Great post girl! Hope you had a great Labor Day weekend! We went to Tennessee to the fair and had the best time!
Go ahead try to turn off comments! We'll just go to the previous post. Now, that said do not return this post with a comment. See your off the hook. I just came here from Leannes blog....I was like what! She was such a staple. I have noticed that you are now just blogging when you like and are not at such a frantic pace. I only blog about once a week, it seems to work out, no one has said "Where are you"? because that is all I have ever blogged, I think some people set up their own expectations. Those that blog everyday, are expected to blog everyday. I have learned so much, so many tips and tricks. The real reason i enjoy it is because of the like minded people. The people in my real life do not get or appreciate what I do. I was so excited to get in Romantic Homes and no one had ever heard of the Magazine so they could have cared less, no one besides my Mom even went to get the magazine!. fellow bloggers are the only people that love what I love. Ok when you get a chance I elect you to write some cute little post about word verification that all of us can do a simultaneous post on the same day, something like stamp out word verification day and explain to people why it is not necessary and how to turn it off. We could have a stamp out word verification day!! It would be fun, we could encourage all of our readers to put it on their blogs!
Blah Blah Blah...See who else would listen to me!!!
Carol
Hi Debbie, I do agree with you about word verification. About your friends who left, I just hope they are ok. About comments, I do love comments but I try not to let it bother me when people do not comment back. But I know what you mean though, to me it feels kinda like a rejection. I try to comment a few more times to the same person that I enjoy reading their blogs but never comments back, but after a while that they do not respond, I just quit commenting on theirs too. I even quit visiting them no matter how much I love their blogs. I just figured my time is more valuable than spending it on people who obviously do not care....Christine
YOU HIT 1000!!!! Congrats girl, I am not surprised...very cool, time to Party, hope you enjoyed your long weekend with the family
I can definitely see how that would be very hard. I have been blogging for just a short time and already I feel like I have a few friends in the blogging community and would hate to see them leave. I just had to comment about your post after this one ( I know, I am breaking the rules). But I needed to hear that so bad! Being new, I feel alot of pressure. Trying to get followers, finding things to post about, and just seeing if I am going to be accepted into the blogging world. Your post really made me realize that I just need to relax and enjoy it.
See, there you go again speaking directly to me:) I agree that blogging can be addictive and it can cause issues because it is that way. Personally, I don't expect someone to leave me feedback if I leave them feedback. I leave them some, because I was somehow touched or just plain liked what they posted. I read a lot of blogs, but don't always comment, because of various reasons(mostly the two mentioned). I do like when people leave me comments, but I guess because I have so few followers, I know that these people are leaving them because they want to, which is really nice:) I have stepped away from blogging for a while. I love to decorate, but sometimes I feel like decorating is all about stuff(yes, I know, it is), but I am not a person that places importance on stuff, quite the opposite. Do I have stuff, yes, will I keep occassionally buying stuff, maybe, but what I am getting at is this, I love that you do your garage salen, it says a lot about you. You can take something cheaply bought and make it look great. But other blogs sometimes just make me feel like, it is about the stuff, and the constant need for change...Like people aren't happy with somethings in their lives(not you Debbie, I think that you are a very happy person, but you like change... And you are so happy with your life, I know that as much as I know my own kids), and not everyone, but it's the vibes that some people cast off, I am sensitive to that and it can be depressing. Blogging for me is to share what I don't share with others(you are right, I talk to you more than my family), and to know there is a group of people that have similar interests to mine. I guess what I am saying is this, I don't get caught up in blogging, I wish only the best for everyone, if I leave a comment, it is said with sincerity and honesty, not cause I want someone to comment back. I do think other people may blog just for the recognition, but for the most part, it seems that we all just kind of want to meet new people and learn new things. Too, I don't bring my personal issues that are really heavy to the page, I might share something deep or funny about myself and my family, but I am not telling the really bad things for everyone else to worry about, I have dropped from following blogs where the author just can't seem to get over themselves. Ok, now that I have taken up a whole page, I will go turn off my word verification :p
This comment has been removed by the author.
Hi Debbie, I've been gone for a while but I'm still here. Blogging is VERY time consuming as well as Facebook is too. Just wanted to say Hello again...I'll for sure be back:)
Just catching up on blogs as I was away for the weekend. I just want to say thank you to you for always taking the time to comment on your parties. I know it can be a hard thing to do. I too have lost a blog friend and I'm not sure why. Wondering if she will ever come back. Also agree with word verification removal!!
I could not agree more! You said it all so well AND I HATE word verification...and I'm not usually that dramatic! xo rachel
You know how to get people talking.
I love blogging...although lately there has not been much of it on my end.
It is competitive...yes. Do I try not to get caught up in it...yes...doe sit always work no! I took down blog rankings and such and it helps. I have nto been active lately and lose about 5 followers a day...so sad...too bad, I guess.
I think some people just find it easier to make a break. There is one or two that keep leaving and then coming back- who knows.
I firmly believe the thing that make blogs different and more fun that a website is the interaction - I have seen numerous "big" bloggers comment all over the place and I was a part of the same linky/meme/etc. - yes rude!
I think if you are truthful when you blog the friendship can be real. I've met a blog friend (and several I met through forums). And the connection is there in real life too.
I started my blog in 06 (I think and I am to lazy to go check). Last year I took a year off my posting dwindled and I did mention I was busy. I didn't remove my blog I just didn't post for a year.
I went back to my poetry forum, I FB'd, I did other things. I needed the break but I missed my blog friends. I think a permanent break that involves removing your blog should give warning if possible. But like you said, we don't know their situation and I can imagine situations where the best thing to do is simply remove it.
"Do you get annoyed if you comment continuously on someones blog and they never come over to yours? Do you love comments, or can do without? Do you get annoyed at a host who never comments on your blog, YET she goes over to a lot of others? I am going to answer that right here and NOW YES I do, it's rude! OK....that is my input for the day." I agree but the funny thing is there are some blogs I still comment on despite the rudeness of the author. Others I drop. I am not sure why that is.
You are definitely PM'sing your comment about word verification is a hoot. :)
I'm "newer" to blogging & sometimes find the competitive aspect of blogging off-putting. I regularly read a couple blogs where I think they are manufacturing life experiences just to have good content. (probably not a popular observation). It is compelling though, 'cause I keep going back!
You have been great from the get-go, welcoming me & I appreciate it! BTW: I tried several times to link up to last Friday's party & it would not work-I'll try again this week.
This comment has been removed by the author.
This was very well spoken, I meant to comment last week! I have no method to my visiting other peoples blogs, so my random visits or comments are just that. I'm sure there are "cliques" amongst the bloggers, just ignore and do your thing! Obviously with 1000 followers you are providing something interesting! You are talented and enthusiastic about what you do, that's why people like you! Keep it coming!
Well, put my friend. I too, had a blogger disappear this week, just out of the blue. She left one posting, but then gone. Oh, well.... I try to not take all this too seriously, but my heart does get involved on those days. We've all had our moments, we walking way might sound good. But, then I ask myself, Why do you blog? Why do you visit certain blogs? Why do you comment on some and not others? How can I be more original with my postings? The anwswer to these is easie-peasie for me. THERAPY, it's my THERAPY... Where I do be just me...the G.B.
Blog on my friend and thanks for keeping our minds a think'n....
Oh, one more thing... I do not like that sillie Word Verification. If they want to get in they will... that will not stop anyone...
When I started blogging, I had no idea how addicting and time consuming it would be. I think most people soon realize the same. And the bigger you get, and the more people you connect with, the more time you have to invest in it. When I was a nobody here (well, I still am), and only knew a few people, I had the time to read and comment on every single post of every blog I followed. Now, I'm lucky to get to some of them some of the time. After all, I do have a life and responsibilities outside of blogland.
I hate the word verification. I can't tell you how many times I have mis-typed the word. It is very annoying to say the least.
And yes, it does bother me when someone who I loyally read and comment for, rarely or never visits me. Sure, I understand that they are in the same boat as me and the rest of us, that they don't necessarily have the time to come by all the time. But how about once and a while, especially when I see them consistently commenting on other blogs. Yes, yes...I know that we all have our favorite blogs and we go to them first before anyone else, but some of these people just never visit me, when they used to in the past. I don't get it.
Post a Comment
Subscribe to Post Comments [Atom]
<< Home