Update: We hoped to have a Thursday post for you guys but this week didn’t go as planned. So sorry!
Update #2: We’d love your thoughts on this thread that popped up on this post. What are your opinions about smaller posts when we can’t write something juicy? Skip them and just own that we can’t post that day with a little update like this one, or would you rather see something small instead of nothing (like a quick organizing update, a Reader Redesign, a dilemma we’re debating, etc)? Thanks for the feedback!
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magda says
I have been reading your blog for several years now and have recommended it to countless friends. After reading this thread I have to agree with Luke, things have really gone technical and have lost their spark. I hope you are able to return to the “good ol’ days” of yhl and add some more fun and varied posts. On a side note, I think your choice of family balance over blog is awesome!!!
Margaret R says
In terms of small posts…well I miss the dailies, but I understand completely the reasoning. So on a selfish level yes I would rather see you more often, but would understand if that is not possible. So I guess what I am saying is yes to small updates!
Michela says
For the people saying “ignore everyone’s opinions, this is your blog”, I would bear in mind that because this blog is your business, the readers’ opinions are actually of the utmost importance; saying “screw the haters, do what you want” isn’t productive and doesn’t help you figure out how to make this business lucrative for you AND enjoyable for us. This thread is coming about because many of us feel like the latter is lacking, and that’s why you’re receiving such an outpouring of feedback- because we love you guys.
With that being said, I think scaling back is great. What I miss are all the little posts about hemming curtains and saving money and cloth diapering and pantry organizing and fertilizing the lawn. And that’s an opinion coming from a 25-year old, single, female, renter! Almost none of those things apply to me, but I still love to read about them because I love you guys and that makes you real.
For example, I don’t like the giveaway posts because, again, as a renter many of them don’t apply to me so I just skip the post the day; I imagine that’s what readers who don’t like filler posts do, too. But for those of us who have been reading for years and visit YHL every.single.day it’s far more disappointing to find nothing than it is disappointing for those who only want nitty gritty to find a filler post. This is how “normal” jobs operate, too; many of us balance large and small projects simultaneously, so why can’t YHL, a job for both of you, operate the same way with filler and nitty gritty balanced better?
Another argument against those who dislike filler posts is this: if I wanted to see how to decorate a fall table, yes, I could look on Pinterest. But I want to see how SHERRY decorates a fall table. I want to read about how she got leaves from the backyard or used what she had, all while simultaneously making puns about gourds and turkeys. I want to read about how John decided whether or not to buy all this new equipment you guys have been purchasing, with his fair/practical/funny writing-voice dipped in it. I want YOUR opinion, not some glossy photo on Pinterest. Filler is important to your readers just like it’s important to send your boss a “hey thanks for your help” email- the little stuff matters.
So this is stupid long now so let me summarize: I think we’d all be a lot happier if we heard from you more often, even if hearing from you more often comes in the form of stockpiled, quick posts about how you oiled up a sticky door or where you bought your lightbulbs. Your readers, your customers, US, are the reason you’re able to do all these cool side projects, so please don’t make us feel jilted and neglected. After all, it’s really hard sharing you guys. You’re awesome.
Much much because how many more times can I say it-)love,
Michela
Jenny S says
I just had to reply to this comment because I think it hits the nail on the head – I think many people (myself included) love your blog and read it every day because of YOU rather than the actual projects. Just like Michela, I also want “to see how SHERRY decorates a fall table. I want to read about how she got leaves from the backyard or used what she had, all while simultaneously making puns about gourds and turkeys.”
Never underestimate the power of puns.
I’ve been reading since you were ThisYoungHouse because of YOU and YOUR voices. I can get tutorials and pretty before and after photos anywhere – I come here because I like you. Keep up the phenomenal work.
Rebby says
This response says it all for me!!!
Laura says
Very well said!
Aimee says
BINGO!!!
We miss all that is YOU!
Anna says
Hi,
In response to your ‘update #2’ above…I would love little random updates when you can’t post something “Juicy”. I totally understand about your cutting back and having more family time (that is the most important), but when you can fit in the little things I love to read them. :) It has been fun to see how all your houses have transformed, and your ideas inspire me to think differently about my house. Thanks for letting us into your home :)
Toria Davis says
First off: I LOVE your blog! It is one of, if not the first, the first sites I pull up when I get to work in the morning. I can understand where some people’s frustration comes from but personally don’t agree with it. Your adventures and projects in your new home are authentic and what you are experiencing in life. There is nothing wrong with sharing those with readers because that is why most of us visit your site. As for “filler” content or smaller posts I think that those would be well received. You never know what “filler” post will help or spark an idea in a reader.
Thank you for all that you share with us and I look forward to your posts everyday.
Katie says
842 Comments!! I don’t know how y’all have time for that. But since you asked for feedback I will give my 2 cents. I love y’all. I feel awful anytime people give you a hard time or a harsh criticism. I hope you take it with a grain of salt. Or maybe sit back with a glass of wine and make fun of the jerks who are mean!!:) On the busy days where you don’t have time for lengthy post I would love a short little post or even a photo with a caption. The lengthy posts are great, but sometimes they are a little…well, lengthy! We like short and sweet too. Keep up the hard work. Haters gonna hate, y’all just keep shake, shake, shakin’! :)
Camille says
I agree with Katie! An occasional picture with just a few lines would be fun and keep the blog fresh. Like instagram, maybe a sentence or two meatier.
Kay says
Sorry Katie but I disagree. Those “jerks” are the fans that J&S have been cultivating for years now. Clicks generate ad revenue which pays for the blog and materials and the lifestyle. So more than ever you have to serve the audience you have or sure, decide it’s not worth it for your family and move on.
It’s not rude or mean or jerky to give the honest feedback about why someone isn’t reading or supporting a blog anymore.
Faith says
Hi John and Sherry,
I too am in the would like more posts again club. Totally respect the decision to scale back for your family, but I miss the blog that was at the same time. I would love to see more reader redesigns, house crashing, and small projects to fill the gaps. Also, I really miss your blogroll. If i visited and you didn’t have a new post, I could quickly navigate to somewhere else and check out what was going on there. There were so many times I would think “what was that blog again” and look in your blogroll and find it. I’m sure that you have seen a small dip in traffic (or if you didn’t have a dip, you are missing some potential extra clicks/views/revenue) from removing it. It seems like y’all are still doing well financially of course, but as some of my favorite bloggers, I don’t want y’all to miss out on potential college fund/renovation budget/date night/whatever money that could be easily coming in through the blog.
Brandi says
Just keep doing what works for you! Post what’s really going on. If you’re going through an organizing/decorating phase- blog about it. If you’re undertaking a HUGE DIY project (laundry room) – blog about it. Some readers are awfully picky! Sheesh! I really enjoy a furniture makeover and I also enjoy learning how to lay hardwood. And it’s only natural that your blog would evolve over the years… But some of these folks sure have some crazy expectations! Like the person who claims “you guys are making big bucks off of this blog, it’s your job” UGH BARF! One of my biggest pet peeves is someone who has expectations of you based on some imaginary salary they made up in their heads. What you make is none of anyone’s business (okay, rant over). So with that, do what feels good to you! I’ll still be reading ;)
Allison says
I love your blog and check it daily but I would have to agree that lately I am sad when I come to the page and it is either a really long post about something really technically or a list recapping what has been done and what is left to do but lets be honest…I will take what I can get, I still read every word. I like the idea of short posts, even if it is something you did two months ago and started to write on and didn’t finish just a quick ending to it with an update would be great.
alice says
As much as i miss the everyday post i love the reason you scaled back. I check in every week day. A little bummed when nothing new. But when you put a little note/update at the top, i promise to come back everyday because I know you didnt abandon the blog (like if really lol, but i have seen it happen at other blogs, things dwindle and then poof monhs before an update)) life happens, we all get that. The bottom line though is you have to do what is right for you guys and how you want your business to work for you.Cheers!
Em says
Absolutely prefer smaller posts to no posts! I appreciate the technical posts are there to refer to, but, I do just skim them because I will never have time to install a door, let almond build a laundry room. But don’t get rid of technical posts- I am about to replace a ceiling fan with a light fixture and I’ll definitely refer to your related posts.
Btw, I am sure you put a lot of work into the give away posts, but to me they don’t really count as content. I don’t really read them, and I don’t usually enter. I very much prefer a post about decoupaging with Clara or how save money on groceries- something where your voice comes through. Oh, and I like reader redesigns or reader questions too- I like seeing what other folks are up to.
But, no matter what, I’ll keep checking every day at 10 a.m!
Kathy says
My gosh, I need a dog bed sooo badly for my baby boy . I guess he’s a middle aged furry teenager now . :) haha curtains in the dining room and living room would be nice too.
cali says
Hi!
I do have to agree that things have changed and I check back here less and less due to the type of posts. I still ADORE your family and am so so glad you took well deserved family time and cut back on blogging. Would love to see smaller posts about fun little things, redesigns, house-crashing, family posts etc..
I loved younghouselife so seeing more of that stuff along with little DIY adventures would be awesome :)
keep on keeping on (i think thats the first time Ive ever said that..and maybe the last)
Em says
Oh, but I, too, am so grateful for the lack of sponsored posts!
Jenny S says
YES, this!
Christina says
Me too! It would be easy for you to bang out quick sponsored posts here and there, and I appreciate that you two avoid them. Good on you.
Cindy says
Hi YHL-
Thanks for opening this question to your readers. Here are my two cents.
I love the idea of finding a balance. On the one hand, we need those technical posts: I have found them to be an invaluable resource. For example, when you were painting your kitchen cabinets, I was not super interested. But when it came time for me to paint *my* kitchen cabinets, you better believe I reread every single post and watched Sherri’s video, like, 20 times. And my cabinets turned out great! So when I see those kind of posts, I think of them not as, “This is interesting reading today,” but more as, “I will search for this post when it comes time for me to tackle something like this in my house.”
But lighter posts have their place, too. I like Reader Redesigns. But what about regular posts that feature stuff you’re just thinking about and trying to troubleshoot? We all deal with that in home improvement. Hearing your thought-process would be really helpful. Pose questions to your readers! You have built a great community on this site: for the most part, it’s snark-free, honest, creative, and supportive. (I think Kristi at Addicted2Decorating is actually one of the best at this, to give one example.)
That’s what I think. I’m not going anywhere, whatever you decide.
Erica says
Wow! We sure have a lot to say. :) You are a special breed of bloggers and have always done a great job of sharing the nitty gritty details of DIY and sharing light and fun projects, all the while being real and transparent in your daily life. It is a joy to read your blog. I’ve read it for years and check daily for posts. You have to do what is best for your family and I appreciate your family first mentality. Your kiddos and marriage should be your greatest treasures. Cultivate those. All that to say… I would love to see some reader redesigns, those were great and inspiring. Totally cool to see creative problem solving in other homes. And the Friday posts of Teddy’s weekly pictures would be pretty sweet too. :) Thank you for all you do to contribute beauty and love into the blogosphere!
LMG says
I also have been reading since I was looking for cheap wedding ideas and read that post. So, a LOONNNGGG time! Like many others have said, I like the balance you’re trying to strike with your busy lives. However, even well before Teddy, I, too, noticed a huge slowdown in the little posts which I desperately miss.
One of the things that made your DIY blog unique was having the long, technical posts (I ADORE these! Whenever I have to tackle a task, I read your blog first to see if you’ve done it before–you are my DIY dictionary! I also love seeing your skillsets grow over time!) but you also had a lot of little projects that I could actually do. Or posts about your life–coupons, your car decisions, your baby items list. I used so many of these to think about my way of doing things.
I also have a baby (now a toddler) and you’ve given me hope that I can still “do” things while having a busy life with a toddler. Because of your blog, even if I couldn’t tackle large projects, I made three pieces of art for my daughter’s room the first year she was born. When I would get on myself for not doing enough (ha ha…), I could look at those little projects and realize I made some awesome stuff for her. Remember the painted crayon truck? The LOVE cutout project you framed? That kind of thing…you may call it “filler,” I call it the lifeblood of your blog.
Please…for those of us who have busy, kid- and work-filled lives everywhere…please give us more nuggets on how you guys are scratchin’ and survivin’–even if it’s only 200 words. :)
–A loyal reader through thick and thin :)
Eryka says
I agree with ALL of the posts that vote for MORE and for VARIED and that vote for MORE PERSONAL. Things like “one bedroom house” mentioned and more family-life/random posts.
I LOVE the DIY/decorating posts and don’t mind the technical posts…but it has seemed dry lately.
I’m a long time reader and love you guys…but thanks for the opportunity to voice an opinion that has been growing for a while!
Hannah says
I have to say, Sherry, I’m very disappointed you deleted my comment. That says a lot about you and your interesting approach towards moderating this blog I guess, but obviously you only want reader feedback that fits what you want to hear. I wonder how many comments you’re refusing to post, seems contradictory to your comment policy, no?
YoungHouseLove says
Sorry that you couldn’t find your comment Hannah! Here’s the link for you: https://www.younghouselove.com/2014/09/fab-freebie-its-curtains-for-you/comment-page-2/#comment-5081009
xo
s
Amber says
And THIS is why I love you, Sherry! :) There were so many things you could have said to Hannah, but you stayed sweet, as always.
(Hannah, seriously, what the heck? Have you read any of the 1100+ comments? It’s pretty clear they are not only filtering through what they “want to hear.”)
Stacy says
I have to agree – I loved checking in, the bi-monthly crafts, clara conversations.
I love what your doing. You should step back and enjoy your life. But the moments that made you so special in my morning are lacking.
Jessica says
Hi S&J!
I want to chime in to say a couple things about your recent posts:
1. I don’t mind the more technical posts. There are so many things about DIY home improvement that are scary/confusing and I think you guys make it seem more accessable and attainable. I appreciate that since my husband and I plan to do every bit of home improvement on our newly bought apartment (yay!) to save cash.
2. I have a 16 month old daughter, and also work from home a couple days per week. It was my choice, and my husband is home with her those days too so it’s not like I’m chasing aroudn while trying to accomplish work related tasks. However, it’s still very challenging to WFH, especially now that she doesn’t forget that Mommy’s locked in the bedroom working. I imagine having 2 kids and working from home is similar to my experience times 10!! Add nursing a newborn to that and things can get hectic quickly.
This is my way of saying, I think you guys are doing a great job maintaining a blog and bringing us along your journey as you experience it. From my POV I see you guys in a technical stage of your DIY life so that’s what you’ve been posting. I think it’s important for us all to remember that you guys are human and given the huge life change of bringing a new baby into your family, I think you’re exceeding the expectations you originally set, and made us aware of, right after you brought Teddy home.
Anyway… hope you’re having a lovely day and, as always, looking forward to seeing what updates you’re making next!
xo
mili says
Reader Re-Design is a great idea!
Patti says
OMG I just killed about 2 hours reading some of these comments! The amount of feedback here just goes to show how much your readers love you guys. I can’t help but hear a little jealousy in the comments that start complaining about “this is your full time job… blah blah blah” as if they know what goes on in your day to day life. Anyhow, on days you can’t do a large post, would love to see a short informative or interesting or funny post about something… like something that currently interests you, a product you love, a beautiful landscape…it could be as simple as an instagram shot with a short paragraph. You guys are naturally witty and smart so this would be a no-brainer. I also hope you continue to scale down on posts about the kids only because they are too precious and the internet is not. Having said all that, I trust you guys to get it right, you always do!
Sharon says
Hi guys, I love your blog and I understand some weeks throw curve balls because they happen to us all.
My only small suggestion could be a guess where we are photo or caption this photo. That isn’t much but it could lighten up a persons day to read crazy funny captions to your beautiful photos. Just an idea.
Thanks and have a great day!
Lisa says
To your question from Thursday, I would MUCH rather see new content, in the form of anything, versus none. Personally, I don’t see quick updates as filler either. In fact, sometimes they are more enjoyable to read than the highly technical “how-to” posts. I don’t really do DIY myself, so while I appreciate those posts for the people who do it, and looking down the road in case I ever need a tutorial, I find the decorating and other types of content much more interesting and entertaining. Thanks for asking!!
Marilu says
Sherry and John, anytime you want to post something is fine with me. I just love to hear about the things that you and your family are doing. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your daily experiences. Any news on what you guys are up to is truly welcomed at any time in any amount.
Lo says
A few thoughts: I used to start my day at work each day by reading the blog. It’s so fun and I enjoyed all the silly stories. Now I check about once or twice a week and have to admit that I get disappointed by only seeing 2-3 posts with good content. What I miss: daily posts (big or small), reader redesigns, smaller projects. However, I also completely respect that you all are trying to find that “perfect” work-life balance. It’s hard, we all struggle with it, and ultimately, you have to do what’s best for you all!! The best measurement of success: making ends meet (financially) and having the time you want with your kids. If you are making those goals, then the rest of us have to just deal with whatever/how many posts you all put up. :-)
Cassie says
I also would love the idea of a smaller, quick little update rather than not getting a post at all. I love your house project stuff, but I also love seeing little things about the kids, family, whatever!
You guys rock though and I totally understand and applaud prioritizing your family above your blog!
Addie Klein says
I’ll join the fray! I so admire that you guys are scaling down for Teddy and Clara, and I think you should do whatever works for you. But personally, I read your blog because 1) I like your writing style and your sense of humor, 2) I like your budget friendly decorating style, 3) you give me confidence that I can take on more DIY stuff than I might think–I’ve used a few of your tutorials over the years, and 4) b/c Clara is so gosh-darn cute.
Most of the technical hanging of doors stuff is way over my head, but I love that you do it. I never sign up for the giveaways and usually don’t read them, but I imagine they help fund the blog and get traffic. I do like the family posts (Clara Conversations!), organizing posts and budgeting/being minimalist in certain areas posts.
Best of luck figuring out what you want your mix of posts to be for the next year or so. Work-life balance is SOOOOO hard!
xo,
Addie
Ellen says
I also miss the quantity of posts but certainly understand why you are scaling back.
I enjoy Reader Redesigns as it sometimes leads me to a new blog.
I like the giveaways, even though I’ve yet to win one :)
And I really enjoy posts like the Thriftshop Challenge, Pintrest Challenge, etc.
Overall, I still enjoy your blog and come to it first every day in hopes of seeing something new.
Jennifer I says
You are never going to be able to satisfy everyone, and you are a blogger. It costs me nothing to view your page, so I never feel like I can dictate what a blogger posts about. You do what you need to do, I will support it. That being said, I like your little project posts, too, and family life tid bits. I read because I like read about the Petersiks and the diy stuff. A mix is good. :) And you said this was going to happen, so I’m not getting the whining…
Angie says
I have to say I enjoy both the technical and light posts and would love to see the smaller posts on days when you are unable to do more! We all understand the sometimes life just happens!
Jenny S says
I’ve been reading since you were thisyounghouse, so this here is the opinion of a YHL devotee!
It’s your blog, so do what fits your family and makes you happy, but I do miss the lighter fare (i.e. budget blooms, holiday crafts, and small tweaks) peppered in with the larger projects.
Ellen says
And also, yes, I strongly dislike sponsored posts on other sites (hard to believe all bloggers really think the thing they are talking about is all that when it is sponsored), so kudos to you for not going there!
Elaine says
Hi Guys
Love everything you post – big, long and complicated – or short and sweet. I check in on a daily basis from ‘over the pond’ and you feel like friends x
I have followed back on the archives from time to time and like many people enjoy seeing how life has changed for you, both in terms of houses and family. I was so thankful on your behalf that you had the wisdom to scale back and focus on family, not that I didn’t appreciate all your posts – I really did, but as a mum I applauded both your choices and your honesty.
I like the mix and match approach you often have, even if it’s just an updated photo feed for that day I feel like I am still in touch with your world – I hope you feel that sharing is a joy and not a burden when you post, so like many would love little tweeks, photos, random musings and off topic thoughts as well as the big technical ‘how to’ posts.
Sending many cyber hugs from my little corner of the West Country to you all for keeping it real. That’s what I love most…
E x
Elaine says
Reading ‘up the list…’ – yes please, more younghouselove style posts and less give-always. They’re not the important thing, or why we all check in – you are x
TRICIA says
Well, I have to agree with Luke. It almost feels like when your friend gets a part time job and doesn’t have time for you anymore!! lol. I know that sounds goofy, but I’ve been reading your blog religiously for 6 years now and you guys have become part of my daily routine. It is quite disappointing to open your blog nowadays and see the content isn’t what it once was. I used to look forward to it every day, but now i find myself looking for other blogs to occupy my time. Blogs that are similar to what yours once was!! I also understand your side of it that having another baby along with Clara to wrangle and the book and the other commitments you have take up lots of time! I often wondered how you fit in so much stuff in one day! Ultimately you have to make the choice that is right for your family, even if it leaves your readers a little broken in the heart. :( I will still check every day for now because it makes my day when I get to read a juicy post!!
Crystal says
I would much prefer a small post as opposed to no post at all. I also miss the young house life blog and although you said you would be combining the two I haven’t seen much of it. I wouldn’t think those quick posts would take much time to write in comparison to the picture heavy long worded posts (which I love btw) you usually put up on Mon, Tue, & Thu. Maybe you could put up a Clara conversation, monthly photo project, this is what we did last weekend, etc. post on Fridays or even every other friday would be great! I have to agree the blog doesn’t have the same feel as it used to have and although things naturally change and move forward I don’t think anything had changed for the better. I think most of the readers would rather have the old blog back before book deals and secret projects because it feels like the blog has taken a backseat and isn’t something you love to do anymore. I would LOVE to read a day in the life post now that you’ve added Teddy to your family and a question and answer video would be great as well, those are both really fun to read/watch. I don’t enjoy the fab freebie posts at all now that they have replaced a regular posting day but I do realize by doing it it allows you to post something without having to write and edit a regular post. Now that I feel like a terrible person for giving you my opinion I want to say that your blog is still my favorite and I check multiple times a day in the off chance you might post more than once or on a day that isn’t a regular posting day, I also will continue to support your efforts by buying your books and products which are great.
beth says
since you asked….
First…I went to a 4 day week with my first child. The first year back was not great. Second kid came along…same thing. It takes time to get your bearings etc. Also just enjoy most of us take a 3 month leave from work! It will all work out in the end…..
I am ok with the content. I am not a huge do-it-yourself for sizable projects but I still enjoy the tile choices…laundry room mood board etc.
Ideas –
1) I would love to see more reader questions/dilemas and reader house tours. Invite people to submit…you don’t need to visit. I always get some idea from these postings.
2) I always love the short craft and other such posts such as your party pictures, small changes to tablescapes etc.
3) Consider adding a single picture to Wednesday posts. To copy others…wordless Wednesdays. Nothing like a cute kid post or a sneak peak for a project. Or Clara’s quote of the week. I wish I had a list of all the great quotes my kids have had over the years. I think it will satisfy your readers that miss the frequent posts.
4) Leverage others! Consider requesting guest posts for the next 6 months while to adjust to two kids. The guest gets free “press” while the reader of your blog will get some great ideas. It is okay to use your success to support you during this time!
5) Admit you are tired. A post about the lack of sleep or Clara’s increased need for attention is a topic all of us parents understand. I always appreciate kids ideas like the best kid lunches or snackes; shopping deals; and other ideas. Take it easy on yourself.
6) I really do miss your thrift shop posts.
Please stress less about the posting. Give yourself a break … a typo when you have not slept is not the end of the world. Enjoy soon your kids will grow up and roll there eyes at you…instead of begging for a cuddle.
Good luck…as you know it does get much easier! Sorry this is so long!!!
Blake says
I am a loyal reader … have been checking the site on my lunch break every day during the week since before you had Clara. I definitely miss the frequency of posts and would LOVE to see more smaller updates or reader redesigns, or quick family items like you used to have on Young House Life … really, any kind of content would do.
The only exception is giveaways, which are a bummer because there’s not much to read.
Love your blog either way, though!
Susan B says
As a longtime reader, I have to say I’m a bit relieved that others have been disappointed lately the same way that I have. I love hearing your voices in your writing and lately I feel like the posts have been impersonal.
I think things I’d like to see in shorter posts could be more visual- a group of images that you’re inspired by lately, guest posts by other bloggers, links to what you’re reading/watching/etc, or even finding great posts from the past that could be brought back (seasonal decorating, house tours, etc). Maybe challenges to readers too to get us involved in the blog– what can you do with XYZ supplies to make something amazing and then repost pictures, reader tips on challenging ideas, etc.
Stephanie says
Just wanted to chime in. I know there’s a LOT of feedback here. Personally, I miss the old “little” posts when your blog first started. And please don’t take that as criticism. I really loved the budget blooms, thrift store finds, and little tweaks. I’m not someone who has a big budget and big renovations aren’t in the cards for me right now. So I love the little posts about organizing, making a fall wreath, celebrating holidays, saving money, living a simple life, etc. Those are the ones I miss! Those are the ones that are most applicable to me and my everyday life, and those are the things I think you guys have such a great knack for.
Tina says
Put me in the camp of wanting more content, period, from you guys. Part of the reason I liked your blog (I’ve been following since Clara was born) was because you guys had a very regular posting schedule and lots of content. You had both meaty posts and lighter stuff thrown in. I loved the reader redesigns and pinterest challenges. I think those should go back into rotation. I also liked what you did recently with the reader design challenges. I don’t even think you guys should do a mock-up or Photoshop of your suggestions for those. Just show the pictures and explain what the issues are. It was great to see reader comments and mock-ups for those and it gave me good ideas for weird design problems in my house.
Leah says
John and Sherry,
Thanks for asking for feedback! I love you technical posts as much as the next reader but on the days you aren’t able to post about the big stuff I would LOVE more of the little things you mentioned. Personally, I love reader redesigns and smaller projects. Even family stuff would be great to read. Stuff about the kids or just some more on you two as a DIY team.
Keep up the great work :)
Jessie says
I’m a long time reader. The thing that drew me in was that there was a post every day, even if it was a smallish post. I enjoyed house 1’s transformation very much. Then house 2 came along. I was very interested to see it. Again, I checked in every day, sometimes twice. I began to lose interest, partly because of the attention being steered away from the blog and towards the book, and because I didn’t feel that you gave it the same love, attention, and $$$ that you gave to house 1. I was able to tell that this was not a forever house. So when house 3 came along, I was excited. I thought maybe you would course-correct, and spend the money to make your forever home. Again, I’m disappointed in many of the design choices (Ikea shelves, random lighting in the kitchen, etc.) I finally lost interest entirely when you decided to scale back, and when it became a blog about Teddy and Clara. I like kids just fine, but I have 5 of my own and I really am interested in home reno, not other people’s children. I stopped reading entirely when you posted about being ok with losing your readership. I didn’t feel valued at all as a reader, so I found other blogs to follow instead. I’ve recently come back to see the laundry room, which has been nice. But I always wonder what you guys do with your time? As full-time bloggers, you don’t work outside the home. This is your job. So I don’t understand being so busy that you don’t get anything done. My husband works full time, I home school five kids, maintain the house, and we still do more projects than you post. So I guess I don’t understand your need to scale back. It is certainly your right to do that, and if you think it’s best for your family, you should. But you will lose readers. I know you are ok with that, but I would hate for you to lose so many that you won’t be able to support your family. I say these things not to be cruel, just to let you know where some readers might be coming from, and to make sure that you have enough information to make good decisions for the future of both the direction your blog and your ability to support your family.
Carrie says
Young House Love continues to be my favorite blog even if you don’t post everyday. It would be great to see more smaller posts vs. a few longer ones, better for a short brain break at work anyway and keeps the habit of checking it every day alive.
Dana says
This giveaway is great! As a recent homeowner looking to revamp some of our current decor (coming from our rental home), I love the giveaways. I do miss the smaller posts about personal things and little projects, but they may not be as prevalent at this time because that’s not what you’re current renovation focus is. I still check your posts everyday!
Christi says
I think I miss the fun smaller posts; right now with the laundry room I feel like I am watching Bob Villa… You guys are awesome but I feel we need a better balance between John & Sherry (no offense John!)… Just my thoughts!
Sara says
Oh man, I hope you guys were ready for this. I miss the posts from the second house it was light, airy and we were tight friends. Now we feel like acquaintances. I don’t know what caused that. With that said I don’t want these heavy posts to stop. I moved into my house a month before you guys moved into the this house. We went through a good bit of your heavy posts and fixed our house up using your tutorials. I also like your tips on how to syle your house, live on a budget, live green, live with less, maintaining kid clutter. You guys created a huge readership. Everyone is in different places so what we need will be different. Maybe remind people to check back at the projects page. I visit weekly for inspiration!
I’d say if you can do anything be as personal as you used to be. I don’t even know what I mean by that. I just know that I used to feel like we were super close friends.
ps, Thanks for asking for feedback.. but don’t let it overwhelm you or ruin your weekend. We all keep coming back, don’t we?
hugs and love, old friends! ;)
Andrea says
This is 2 adults full time jobs and source of income, not some hobby or fun free, entertainment. If one or both of you don’t want to do this anymore, that’s fine. But you don’t need your reader’s permission to change. Just do it and own it. The slow decline of the blog (that like everyone else here, I used to love and check twice daily) is unfair to the readers. Including a “oops, can’t do my job today” posts. To me, worst of all is that you have couched the decline in the illustrious veil of “making family a priority.” I guarantee that every single one of your readers would say that their family is their priority. But the rest of us with ‘regular’ jobs can’t just tune out of our jobs and let our performance fall by the wayside to spend more time with our kids (or spend more time on other projects). We have to find ways to get our jobs done faster and smarter to do that. Otherwise we get fired.