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!
Curtains can make the room. And pillows, well, you can never have too many (at least according to my pillow obsessed wife). This week someone’s going to win $500 to spend at Martha & Ash, a family business that’s focused on fabric goods with quality and craftsmanship. You can splurge on pillows, dog beds, or score yourself some custom drapes, like a striped or two toned option in your choice of over 25+ colors.
Please use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter (it might take a second to load, but it should eventually pop up below this paragraph). This giveaway is available anywhere in the world!
priscilla says
Due to traveling, I have read EVERY comment here (took me 3 hours!). Here is a general recap of the things that are coming up the most:
1. Do quick, smaller posts about everyday home items; little updates, quick outings, family updates, budget blooms etc.
2. Sherry’s voice is what is missing. John, we love you, but 99% of us are women and we miss Sherry. In the past, Sherry did the writing about 75% of the time, at least, and we loved hearing John’s counterpoint. Now we are not hearing from Sherry, and we miss her terribly!
3. Most readers are happy that you are taking time for family; but if Sherry can’t write anymore, then it may be time to get a babysitter for maybe 2 hours a day. That wouldn’t cut into being a full time parent, but would possibly solve the issue of “Where’s Sherry”? The reality is you can’t be a full time Stay At Home mom and do this too without some help.
4. Reader Re-designs, guest bloggers, and followers sending re-dos are all good possibilities to add to the blog.
People want you to have the life you want and are carving out; they just want to either hear from Sherry again, or let us know you need to move on.
Hope this helps recap for you. I will always read, no matter what!
jeannette says
i concur. sherry’s energy is missing.
Darcy says
I read a fair deal of these comments and I can’t imagine how overwhelming it is to get all of this conflicting feedback. I was reading an Emily Henderson post recently about criticism where she quoted Bill Cosby: “I don’t know the secret to success, but I know the key to failure is trying to please everyone.” True story, bro. Long time readers especially are spoiled by the awesomeness that is the YHL blog, and we miss the reliable bit of happy in the feed reader. I see YHL like my other top favorite blog, Manhattan Nest. The posts may be quite a bit more infrequent then other blogs I follow but when the posts do show up, they are spot on fantastic– detailed, informative, funny, etc. You do you, boo. I’ll be here regardless.
Crystal says
I love the detailed/technical DIY posts by John because we have a house that needs renovating in every room. These posts are now, and will be in the future, invaluable to me when tackling big projects. Very few other blogs give the same level of detail. And I love John’s sense of humor.
I’ve read your blog for many years and will continue to read it as long as you post.
I do miss some of the family oriented posts. I know that some people may think you are exploiting your children for page views but in my opinion family posts do make you seem like friends.
melanie says
Hi John and Sherry-
Some of these comments are killing me. Especially the ones that are implying that you don’t work hard enough because the blog is your full time job.. I think it’s pretty clear that you work EEEExtremely hard. In fact, I think it’s crazy how hard you work. You even designed an entire house free of charge. Who does that!!! Give yourselves some time to catch your breath and get use to your life with two little instead of one. It’s a difficult change. Kudos to you two for being such kind, happy loving people. We can see and feel it through your blog.
P.L.P. says
Super-long-term reader here. I’ve been holding back my comments, but I guess I want to say something too. I have felt nearly like a crying Chris Crocker reading some of these comments the last two days. Ha. Goodness. I guess after so many years, you seem like part of our virtual family. That protective side has kicked in a time or two and I just want some of the harsher comments to stop. Oye. But you did ask for feedback, and so folks are being honest with their opinions. You are such a special family and I only want happy, wonderful, good things for you. I want to say thank you for sharing your homes and your family with us readers. I do agree that the blog has changed and so I do understand where a lot of this is coming from. The long, detailed posts have been a challenge to stick with. I always loved it when you “crashed” someone else’s house, did Pinterest challenges, made funny short videos to make us laugh, shared your friendship with Katy P, highlighted reader redesigns, told us about your shopping finds, etc. It does seem that your other projects have taken away your time. I so happy that you have book deals, product lines, etc. You worked so hard for it! But it would seem that those responsibilities have maybe taken some of the joy of blogging for you. I really appreciate how honest you guys have been about the need to scale-back. I couldn’t do a fraction if what you two do, let alone with two young kiddos. I hope you figure out a balance/direction that makes you happy. And I really hope that in between some of the hard words folks have shared that you know how appreciated you are. <3
emily says
I’d love to see small posts. I LOVE reader redesigns and photos of other peoples designs and ideas! I also love, love, love when you “take us shopping” with you at big box stores and point out the cool things that we (who live in cities that have IKEA, Target, World Market) can pick-up for ourselves. Inspiring! I’d also love to be able to ask you questions about readers’ own homes. A personal consult, if you will. The reader provides photos and ‘dilemma’ and you help with suggestions, including a mood board of things we can find online or at our local home stores. Have a great weekend!
cassidy says
I would love to see some smaller posts that are more just “fun” in addition to the major house projects. I like the technical posts – you give honest opinions of both products(I love that you don’t get freebies)and project duration/difficulty. With that said, I love reading the posts where Sherry re-arranges the dining room table, or organizes a closet or drawer. Variety is the spice of life. Sometimes I think the small posts show your personalities more, and we all think you’re pretty cool. With all that said, I think the smaller posts are good even when they’re not used in an emergency or a busy week. Sometimes they’re nice to read to break up the more technical posts. Whatever you decide to do, I like your blog and will still read, even if you have busy weeks and need to skip a day or two here and there.
Becca says
I agree that the posts have become kind of blah lately. I used to be so excited to have my coffee in the morning and catch up on the new days post, but I have to say I haven’t been feeling it lately. I skim through and sometimes don’t bother reading for weeks. :(
Julia says
Wow, so I read all the comments in the original thread (tho maybe more have come in since I’ve been writing this!) and a big chunk of the ones posted below that. And I’m with Catherine, above — in aggregate, it got a little upsetting, and I’m not even you guys. I’ve always admired that you seem to have a really healthy sense of personal boundaries (yes, even though you share your life on the internet!), so I’m really hoping you’ll be able to leave some of what’s posted in this comments section on the doorstep, so to speak. Thank you for everything you share, and for asking what we think. Opening yourself up to criticism this way — even though there’s been lots of constructive stuff, too — is very hard.
Reading all those opinions also makes it pretty darn clear there’s no pleasing everyone! (Beyond just designy/crafty stuff vs big DIY reno stuff, there’s also “I can’t relate when you spend $1200 on a couch” vs “I can’t relate when you buy IKEA cabinets instead of solid wood”, and “Posting less than twice a day is unprofessional and this is your job” vs “I feel like you don’t love the blog anymore and it’s just a job for you”). Whew. I’m with the contingent who says that you got here by being true to yourselves, and that’s probably the best path forward, even if that leads you in new directions and not everyone comes along.
On the question you actually asked, from this reader’s perspective, small little posts would be nice when there’s not time for something bigger, as opposed to nothing at all. But the thing I love most about you guys is your commitment to keeping it real and being honest and authentic, so I’m with those suggesting that those could be little day-in-the-life moments, rather than projects cooked up purely for blog fodder. Day-in-the-life of busy small business people is cool, too — I think you really won my heart back-when with your behind-the-scenes looks at what it took to produce the blog. And if there are challenges or frustrations you are comfortable sharing, that’s ok too — it doesn’t all have to be shiny happy success stories (the pressure of other people’s apparently perfect lives is something I try to avoid in reading blogs).
Maybe I’m an oddball, but before this thread started I’d been thinking you guys were really on a roll lately with the laundry room reno. I’m one of those who loves the detailed and honest DIY posts, since that’s the stuff I need the most inspiration and reassurance about tackling (I got the smaller crafty stuff down). And I actually **stopped** checking into the blog much in the days when you were posting All The Time here and at Young House Life, because it felt overwhelming to me. I like the reduced posting schedule, because it feels more healthy for me, too — I want to get out and do stuff in my life, not just read about other people on the internet (much though I love you guys!). I will admit that I had noticed the absence of Sherry’s voice recently, but my thought was mostly “I hope she’s okay and it’s not because there’s tough stuff happening privately”.
Anyway, sorry for the ramble — clearly you guys have passionate readers who care what you do, but you gotta chart your own course. I’m sure you’ll figure it out, and I totally support you making the choices you need to make. Thanks so much for the generous and open-hearted way you have let us into your lives!
kiwi says
I used to be a daily visitor, with your very understandable cut backs I visit once a week to catch up. If this changes how much you get from advertising then I would suggest increasing your posting schedule.
heyruthie says
I’ve been a reader for a loooong time (since before you changed your name!) and the only thing I wish I could do is to give you “permission” to still post short, less labor-intensive posts. I used to love those, and I still would. The “quality” is always there for me–you all have great taste, wonderful writing skills, a very approachable and relatable manner–so that’s all the “quality” I need, even if the post is one paragraph and one picture. I checked your archives and found this old post. I love it! These may seem “silly” now, or not “YHL worthy” but to me, they always are!
https://www.younghouselove.com/2009/02/steal-of-the-week-our-favorite-bar/
P.S. In all these years, I’ve never once entered a giveaway. Never once. They don’t interest me at all. And I love the reader redesigns and other posts that involve work that y’all don’t have to do yourselves, LOL!
Emily says
Hi guys!
I read a lot of the comments and have to say I was surprised with a lot of them. I love following your family and hearing about Clara and Teddy grow up but so many people are saying they like the posts about cloth diapers and your opinions on children products brands. I don’t have children so none of this applies to me and even though I value your opinions, I feel when I do have children I will take my friends and family advice about what products to use. As for the posts, my favorite posts are things that are done to improve your home, whether it be a super technical update or even just a little, fun one. I love the dude, get on that posts and the big checklists. The reader redesigns, giveaways, guest posts, etc, are nice..but I don’t necessarily get excited when I see them. I get most excited for when a room picture gets changed on the house tour page–it’s my favorite! Regardless, I will continue to read your blog everyday until you stop blogging because it’s my favorite :)
Rachael says
Gah, I LOVE Martha & Ash. I found them on Etsy when I needed someone to make custom curtains for us. We adore our curtains and they do a stunning job.
Oh, and I am happy with whatever you post, even if it’s a cute kid pic. I like a variety of posts, and they don’t all need to be long tutorials.
Jamie says
I only read the first dozen comments about you asking for feedback, but someone said it feels like you guys are friends and I realised that is so true for me too. It is just like checking in with friends, and I miss when I come to your page and there’s nothing there. I miss the posts about the little things too. I don’t follow any other blogs, and I Pinterest madly but it’s all strangers there. You are the guys who’s tastes I admire and projects I love to find out about. I understand when you need to put family time first and when you’re in a big project, but I hope you do manage to get a few more mini posts stored up for the future so we can keep getting our fix of YHL inspo! :) Thanks my friends.
Kelly says
Yowza. Reading some of these comments made me feel so bad. I thought a lot of it was totally unfair, like a few people said you have gotten lazy. Well FYI, I don’t think you’re lazy at all. I know you guys are still working hard on your house and your blog, despite having a newborn. What you’ve accomplished on the laundry room is amazing. I also just keep going “WHAT?!” when people say that the spark is gone, you don’t seem to have passion for this anymore, you’re complaining or seem like you hate your job now. Where the heck are they getting that from? When I read your posts I don’t get that at all. My impression is that you are having a lot of fun doing the laundry room and are super excited about it, maybe not each and every step, but that is the reality that anyone who’s ever done DIY knows is part of the process. So yeah. I just don’t get where the negativity is coming from. I still think your posts are great, and I’m happy to get them in whatever frequency you can do.
Jenny says
Hi John and Sherry!
I really enjoy your blog and have been reading for about 3 years now. I love the shorter, non-technical posts just as much as the more complicated step-by-step DIY posts. I do miss the family content that you used to include on a more regular basis. One of my favorite posts ever is the one that showed how you painted wooden treats for Clara’s tea party set out of craft store blocks (is that a weird favorite post?)! Teddy and Clara are the reasons you cut back a bit on blogging so feel free to share with us the activities that you’re enjoying with the extra free time. I think the post frequency is just fine. Four posts per week is plenty. I am happy for you that you’re able to take more time for family right now. It goes too fast – my boys are (almost) 10 and 4. It’s your lives so do what you need and want to do and enjoy!
Jenny
Paula M. says
LOVED those painted, wooden treats! :) If I didn’t own too many geegaws now, I’d want a set for myself! Honestly, that could be part of a new career for Sherry down the line, if they ever get tired of blogging. That and designing kids’ toys and furniture, maybe, as they mused about some time back (maybe after building Clara’s kitchen setup?) ….
Meghan says
Hey, I love your blog and have for a long time! I enjoy “filler” posts with something short or random, they are sometimes my favorites. That said I also enjoy that you do what works best for your family. :) I think most readers admire and respect that you put your family first.
Jess says
We all want more posts because we heart you and what you do, but seriously, why is everyone hating on the Fab Freebie so much!?? Do we not share in a deep desire to win free things?? Honestly, so many of the DIY/style/design blogs that I used to love are now completely dominated by this wretched advertorial content where the blogger writes about a brand/product/company in this horribly hollow, fake way… “And then my life got better when I started using a Kohler faucet from Home Depot.” If the full time blogging reality is that some advertising has to pay the bills, aren’t we happy that you are all doing that by providing us with the chance to win something, rather than by working the advertising into your writing in a totally phony way?? Geesh!
Paula M. says
Jess — I totally agree with what you posted! :) … I don’t know why people are knocking Fab Freebies – and I, too, loathe those phoney-baloney advertising tie-ins that some folks on other sites sneak into their posts. Nuts to those. Give me a big, blazing honest Fab Freebie post any day!
Jess says
Right?? We should clearly tie to win the next one Paula ;-)
Laurien says
Holy wow! That’s a lot of comments. I’ll be quick and say that, while I’m sad that there are fewer posts these days, I think you have your priorities straight and people should understand that. I tried to start a blog and it was sooooo time consuming. Love you guys and your awesome little family :D
Jess says
Also, I hope all these comments aren’t bumming you out… I am personally blown away by how polite and diplomatic your readers are! Some blogs have the meanest comments, but it feels pretty great being in the company of such nice readers here. I guess everyone loving you and simply wanting more isn’t the worst problem to have ;-)
Paula M. says
Interesting thread about YHL’s direction and types/frequency of posts.
My take on this:
— John and Sherry should feel totally OK with putting family first. (And I say this as a single woman with no kids, so that’s not just some semi-mythological Super-Mom talking.)
— I like the mix of long and technical with short and fun. Personally, I will never, ever build out a laundry room on my own, but I’m sure some folks will do that or something comparable, especially now that they’ve got the hugely helpful posts that YHL has put up, showing how to do it, the photos, the cost breakdown, etc. Also, a mix would have more appeal for a range of viewers, hard-core DIYers, outsourcers, men, women, etc.
— I love the giveaways (even though I’ve never won one, sniff). Please keep those.
— I’m all for you keeping Fridays off. As for other days “off,” how about something that’s not labor-intensive, like a photo of Teddy and/or Clara with an anecdote? (I feel as though we’re hardly seeing any kid pics, compared to when Clara was a baby.) Or a quick photo update of how the landscaping looks? Or something similar? (Granted, you can’t just keep doing those over and over, but once in a while is cool, especially when you’re in book project mode.)
— When you get more time, the return of house-crashing, mood boards, thrift shop re-stylings, etc., would be fun for lots of readers to see.
Thanks for listening to folks’ feedback. I’m one of those followers who’s been checking out your site on a daily basis through 3 homes (yours, not mine), and I continue to find it appealing.
Rebecca Mason says
I am pretty sure I am not alone when I say I am a YHL addict. :D
I love all of your posts – and even though I was sad when you cut your posts down – I respected your decision to spend more time with your family. Not enough of us are good at finding balance.
Your posts are amazing – from breaking down projects to inspirational ideas to regular life stuff.
So to quit being so long winded – I will always read your blog – fewer posts or not. I was fine getting an update saying you wouldn’t be posting anything – I also would love love the shorter posts. You both have unique voices that draw the reader in regardless of content.
Keep being true to yourselves – that is why you are successful. :)
Corie says
I think most long term readers, especially those who have been reading since TYH, like myself, have absolutely noticed a change. I don’t just mean the frequency in which you post, you were very upfront about the new plan and (aside from this Thursday), you’ve always delivered. I honestly cannot think of another time that you didn’t have a post when readers were expecting one. You both clearly had a strong work ethic and drive; it really showed. You didn’t miss a beat after Clara was born, your content was still great through the first book and then… It Happened.
You announced the purchase of your current house and how you’d had it for some time and it was like a light switch was flicked… I immediately saw you for what you were, which is a business. THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THAT, however, the quirky, “couple next door” vibe was completely lost on me, it was like your voice completely changed, and I felt fooled. And foolish for believing in something that wasn’t true, you’re not just DIY dorks or accidental authors, you’re savvy business people. The good news here is that there is no shame in that.
I can’t even imagine trying to find the line between being a “DIY couple we all know and love” and “successful business professionals”. You have people commenting that they want to see Clara’s closet so they can imagine her playing in there. Creepy! I want to see a closet that inspires me to create a special place for my own children, and I think that’s what you want to. I suggest keeping the kids away from this, it’s so unhealthy for them, and for creepy people who want to see them. They deserve their own corner of the internet in their own time.
If you decide that you want to continue this once in a lifetime opportunity of living a pretty cushy lifestyle of staying home with your family and working to make your house a home while getting paid for it, you can obviously do it. I don’t see this lasting much longer if you don’t put in the work, blogs just aren’t as lucrative anymore. You’ll generate revenue from past projects but the majority of your long term readers won’t continue to visit, you’ll sell less books and have less opportunities presented to continue to expand your brand if you continue to become less and less popular. Long term readers know this Thursday thing was a really uncommon event and will give it a pass, a regular boss won’t accept “so sorry” as an excuse. Harsh but true. I like you guys, I like your content (PROPS to John’s technical posts!!), but I can’t see many people like me continuing to follow whatever this is that you’ve got going on right now.
Good luck, much love.
christine says
This is spot-on. Some of your fans really creep me out! I agree that keeping the kids out of it is better for all parties involved.
I also have to disagree with the “it’s free content, who cares?” argument. It’s not free. Advertisers essentially pay bloggers for access to their readers. If you spend time reading YHL, you’re keeping the advertisers happy. As the quality of the content declines, readers go elsewhere and the advertisers become less interested. Your time is a blogger’s money.
YHL seems to have a lot of haters, but also a lot of stalker-ish readers who will tag along no matter what you do. The only way to maintain quality readers outside of these groups is to create quality content. Focus on those people.
beth says
Agree with this also. The whole “we only share 2% of the kids’ lives” seems lost on you, J&S. You’ve shared some pretty private moments for your kids, and even if only 2%, that’s an intimate 2%, and I can’t imagine doing so with my own kids. I’m sorry, but as the content has deteriorated, the kids have been included more and more. I know that many are comfortable with sharing to that degree on social media, but you have so many readers, and I can’t imagine not wanting to buffer your kids more, 2% of their lives or not. 2% that includes intimate moments, their birth stories, potty training,and illnesses publicly documented is too much.
Bub-z says
Hi
The blog is still one of my fav! Content is changed but hey your life has changed too.
I got onto your blog because of the baby, trial and error, nursery, diy not always perfect things you had going on when you were pregant with Clara.
I miss that side of it more family type content I.e. how you over come hurdles with two children how you involve Clara now she’s older and still use cloth nappies? Also diy stuff anyone can afford?
Good luck
Bub-z says
Also, I just wonder if all the decrease of the blog is a direct result of teddy
/family commitments or are you just keeping running out of obligation whilst you do other things? Just a though!
Thanks for all the content to date though, very inspiring!
Nora says
I wrote in earlier basically saying what many have said – you can’t please everyone. And boy ain’t that true. I am shocked at the meanness. I read a ton of blogs. Your blog is right up there with the best. Some don’t post for days and there is NO EXPLANATION. We don’t PAY for your blog posts. You make money indirectly but I don’t pay you a fee to read what you post. So, I GET WHAT I GET. I know it’s about the clicks but really expectations are all over the place. Some people are saying it’s lost it’s personal vibe, some not professional enough. Some say you’re lazy (wtf) and some say you need to hire staff. Some say your heart is not in it, some say they want less kid stuff. Some say they are offended you spent $3k on a new room and they can’t relate, some say enough of the cheap-o crafts you should be more high end. Some say they rent so the technical stuff is useless. Some say that your info helped them with renos all the time. So, what are you gonna do? I hope that some of the comments roll off your back and are not upsetting. I smell envy and it’s a stinker. Try to have a great weekend!
Kat says
Hi John & Sherry,
I will take whatever works best for you. As a wife, mother of three and business person I respect the choices you are making. If it means some days without a post, so be it. If you have a reader re-design please put it out there. If you have time for a quick post, go for it but don’t hold yourself to that if it doesn’t work for you. I love the DIY and all the details and wish I could tackle some of the jobs you do. You do motivate me to try things I may not have before! Please ignore the mean-spirited comments – they truly are not worth worrying about. You know in your heart what is right for you! I will keep reading!
Karen L. says
I am one of the older ones who follow YHL and have long recommended it to everyone I talk to about blogs. I have noticed a bit of a change but still love y’all. I love the fun jokey content as well as the more technical ones. Whatever you decide to do will be the right thing—you’re both such classy people and honest with us, too. Take care… from a loyal reader who’ll be here as long as you are!
beth says
I have been a long time reader, dating back to your old blog name and the first house. I found you inspiring, your projects seemed honest, and I really enjoyed seeing you take loving care of your modest rancher.
By house 2, I was confused. I know your style there just didn’t mesh with my personal style, but I have lots of blogs I read where I don’t mind that one bit. Things there just seemed cheap and scattered, and I couldn’t relate. I slowed down my reading, read a few times a week maybe, but not as much as I did with house 1.
By house 3, I had a little renewed enthusiasm, as I live in a circa late 80s rancher with some similar challenges. We removed wallpaper (no biggie), tried to decide what to do with our slate floor (identical to your foyer in house 3), and I thought it would be wonderful to maybe see things take a more traditional decorating turn. You mentioned being ready to invest in nicer furnishings, and I thought I would get a lot of inspiration as I deal with my own late 80s colonial. It wasn’t long into house 3 that I just started scratching my head, as I wasn’t seeing a long-term plan. While the “middle makes no sense” has been trotted out many times as a line, and sometimes accurately, I found that there just didn’t seem to be a lot of thought or planning. Some projects didn’t seem to be done very well (just being honest, we aren’t perfect, but my DH is reasonably handy and we’ve been working on our own homes for 12 years or so). Some aspects of the blog just made me scratch my head, like the wacky lights in the upstairs hallway that I don’t think any designer would recommend as a functional solution.
I hope you can find your voice again and find something that makes you happy.
beth says
typing in a hurry last night; I live in an 80’s faux colonial, not a rancher to be clear. So I was hoping to see you tackle some of the challenges we’ve faced, but other than spiffing up your grout and eliminating the blue trim, there isn’t much I’ve gleaned from your adventures in house 3. House 2’s projects were also not at all anything I could understand or be enthused about. And to be clear, it isn’t just a “style” thing, but just a lack of learning when to outsource, where to invest, etc. that have been tough for me to comprehend.
Megan says
Hey guys! I’ve been a long time reader of this blog and have always loved your content. I can only imagine how much time and energy goes into putting a blog like this together. I’m a homeschooling mom of 5 and I barely have time to read blogs, let alone write one. That being said, your blog used to be the very first one I visited as I drank my coffee every morning. Yesterday, I realized I hadn’t visited your blog in over a month. I was thinking about why that was and I realized that it feels as though the vibe of the blog has changed. It’s totally understandable that as you take on new challenges both in life and professionally, your blog will evolve. You can’t please everyone at all times and there are still many who love what this blog is offering- such as the really in depth diy posts. For me (a home renter without much time or permission to tackle big projects), I like the more fun design content- something I can read quickly at the beginning of the day and be inspired to do a little something to make life and my home more beautiful. I also know that a huge part of people feeling connected to bloggers is feeling as though they have a personal connection. Perhaps that is why people are missing the more family specific content too. All in all, I think you guys should do what you feel called to do and blog what you feel called to blog. It’s your life, after all, and there are many ardent YHL fans out there to back you up. It’s just always hard to deal with change!
Cara says
I have really, really loved the technical diy stuff. I can find plenty of other blogs with ideas about organizing and design, but your posts about the how to with your home are my favorite! It’s so inspiring to see you actually doing the work and showing how it’s done. I’ve bookmarked them all as I trust how thorough you are and believe that I can follow your explanations better than others. Please keep up the home repair and remodel posts! The quality and depth of these posts is so excellent and I’d far prefer it to the forced daily posting.
Sarah says
I say
1: stop reading and responding to reader comments. In fact, close comments section unless you specifically ask a question and want feedback. I imagine you waste a ton of time on this.
2: create a strict template for readers to submit a virtual house crash. Just read over the submission and post it. Don’t feel the need to add any content of your own. Do this 1-2x per week. It will help overcome the boredom of looking at the same house and projects.
3: more personal/family posts
Kari says
I think Sarah (9:10 pm) has some great points. And I’ll always read your blog no matter how often you post. But since this is your source of income, it might be smart to archive some posts of small stand alone projects, shopping trips, or reader redesigns that can immediately be posted when things don’t go as expected. If it were me, I’d build up a bank of 3 or 4 of such posts, add one to the bank each month, and post the oldest one in the bank at the end of the 4 week period if no emergency arises — this way nothing will get too stale.
karen says
-i’m not a fan of the scheduled posts..like Wednesdays are the giveaways…it doesn’t make it “fun” to come visit the blog.
-fridays could have some posts also.
-sherry’s presence is not as noticeable.
-if you need help..use it..there is nothing wrong with that.
-i’d like to see your funny side again..are you and kb still bff’s??
you guys are great and i hope you are happy in whatever it is you do.
Melissa says
I’ve noticed a change in content also, but I don’t mind it; we’re going to be doing some drywall installation in our house soon and I found the instructions and videos extremely helpful! If building a laundry room is consuming your life, then, obviously, that’s all your posts are going to be about, and people need to understand that. Yeah, the posts about building a room are different and “dull” to someone who’ll never build a room, but not to the rest of us. And who complains about a giveaway? *shrugs*
Amelia Wilbanks Self says
I thoroughly enjoy reading your blog no matter what material you put up. I look forward to being surprised and always learn something.
I have been a daily reader for years and feel enriched by the experience. You are both so talented and often make me laugh. Thank you.
Life is too short and days are long so continue however feels good to you and I am sure I will be here checking in.
I enjoyed seeing the show house in person, Whatever y’all share with us will be great with me! Thanks for all you do!
Marlee says
Hey YHL!
I agree with Luke. Although, I have followed the blog for several years now and will continue to do so 3-4 times per week I do feel like the content has shifted after the publication of your first book (which we all loved). I did enjoy the little posts, DIY projects, decorating ideas, etc. and also love to have a project evolve over time, like the laundry, but I do agree that a lot of times I leave the site disappointed in all that was published overall in the week. I love the things you post, I just wish we saw more of the DIY Sherry and John and less of the technical hodge podge. Best of luck to you!
Marlee
Kirsten says
I think you get the picture J+S…seems like most of us are a “thumbs up” to short and sweet posts. To be honest, those are the ones I actually have time to read. The longer ones, well, I scroll through the pictures but don’t really READ the content. Just like a lot of female authors write short stories because they don’t have time to write a novel….I think we are all “busy” with life/kids/works…but love being a part of your journey in any way we can be!
Allyson says
WOW! There are a lot of posted comments here for you to read! I hope you aren’t overwhelmed. I read about 40, and then scrolled down to write my own :)
First off, I hope that you realize that everyone has opinions, and they will fall all over the board. In the end, you have to do what is best for you!
I too, I have been a reader for years. To the point that I would check at 10 am every day, and typing in the letter “y” in my macbook would take me to your site instead of youtube! :) I don’t check in that often anymore because it seems like you are trying to come up with things to post about– many being very technical. Some people probably like this, I do not enjoy it as much.
I’d love to see more house crashing (could people email in stuff to you to post?), Clara conversations/family stuff (maybe since you have shifted to this, it would be neat to see the blog to have a family centred approach? Reader redesigns are great! Maybe even post pictures of cool things you have seen in stores (window shopping). I just miss you guys, that’s all :) I miss the funny anecdotal stuff and feeling like you are people that I know! All the best, and lots of love sent your way. Allyson
Leila says
I also loved the smaller project posts but I think you guys should do what works for you. I love your blog and I have been inspired by your efforts to create more balance in your lives. I usually only have time for smaller projects, so those are my favorite posts but I think no post at all is ok too! In my opinion, you should do what works for your family. I will keep reading! Those babies will grow up so fast and I think it’s wonderful that you are making quality time with them a priority!
briana rimkus says
I have always LOVED, LOVED, LOVED your style and I also love the fact that most things you do can be done by a “normal person” and you don’t have to have a big budget. I would love to see the smaller things in a quick post and reader redesigns. They are always so fun and give inspiration to a DIY gall like me!
Fiordaliza says
Very boooooring content. Smaller post, less giveaways…..more content and enjoyment, and possible reengineering should be done in this blog.
Aimee Feather says
I think maybe everyone needs to get a life here. This is a BLOG, not the New York Times. Geez. It’s time to enjoy the weekend. No one has any idea what John and Sherry’s every day life is like right now or how many jobs they are juggling (or how little sleep they are getting!) Maybe an official Poll is in order? The “extra” comments here seem a bit crazy. Passionate and crazy I suppose. Time to get out and enjoy life and the weekend. Find some balance. Thank you YHL for giving us a great place to visit every day. Whatever you decide to do with these comments, bless you.
Lauren says
I know right? Sherry and John ask a simple, thoughtful question about whether or not people want to see less frequent but longer posts vs. more frequently short and sweet posts, and suddenly everyone’s a design maven, business guru, and career coach who surprise surprise knows exactly how S&J run their business and precisely how they should improve it as well as their family life. Like seriously people, get your own life!
Sarah says
RE: update #2. I’m coming from a different viewpoint. I am currently redoing a portion of the house, including a laundry room, so I have been just loving the recent posts. It kind of cracked me up that we did a bit of the opposite. I did the framing, electrical, and plumbing (with help from my big brother) and hired the drywall. Anyway, I like that what you are sharing. I also like reader redesigns and reader dilemmas. I don’t mind brief updates, either. I think you guys should keep rocking it how you see fit and not try overly hard to please each person. Just my $0.02.
Catherine B. says
John & Sherry,
We love you guys! That’s why we’re here. In every job, some weeks are tick and some are thin. Don’t worry about it. See you next week–and the week after that and after that. <3 Catherine
Tarynkay says
I have been reading since 2008. I used to check your blog once a day. Now I might check it once a month. It seems like there just isn’t as much content, and the content that you do post is not as high quality. I know that you explained that you were scaling back, but this is a full time job for two people. You have mentioned working smarter, not harder before. I don’t think this is that.
It seems like things like responding to every comment takes up an enormous amount of time. I actually cannot fathom how much time that takes, If you dropped that and perhaps just hired someone to read them and tell you if there were updates that needed to be made to the post, that could free up a lot of time.
You could also do more Reader Redesigns or those house crashes where you guys don’t actually go to the house, somebody just sends you their photos. It doesn’t need to be knocking down walls every week. And it doesn’t need to be stuff like Shery styling the desk by placing a sweater on the back of the chair- I remember that one from the early days of this blog. But two adults working on this full time could probably muster up maybe a couple of substantial posts per week plus a few posts written by other people.
I want to say that I REALLY appreciate you cutting back on sharing photos of your children. And I love children! And you have very cute kids and I am sure they are the light of your lives. I have an almost three year old who is the most adorable kid ever. He says precious and hilarious things constantly. But I would not blog about him because he deserves his privacy. I really love seeing bloggers deciding to NOT share their kids with their Internet. I think Centsational Girl does a great job of this, for example.
I have to say, it does seem like you guys are over this whole blogging thing, Hey, I do not blame you. It is not a life I would choose. It is really okay to quit while you are ahead. You are still young, you’ve done well with your finances. This isn’t the only option for you,
Sarah says
AMEN to this. I have been reading you for YEARS, since before Clara was born, and loved your style, but your blog just hasn’t evolved over the years, and your enthusiasm and joy just isn’t there. I don’t blame you – things change, you have two kids, etc. So change the blog, or stop the blog, in accordance with how *YOU* feel. But this is your JOB – so either do it whole hog, as other blogs do, or don’t do it at all. (I also really appreciate the fewer posts of your children – so respectful of them and their lives.) Thanks for listening!
Jamie says
Yowza! You guys are shifting gears, tackling new things. That should always be the goal for our careers. It hopefully is not just a job but a career that evolves. As a working mom with 2 kids I get it. You have great taste and a fun vibe. You post way more consistently than other bloggers. Maybe a guest blogger or a round up of other bloggers to fill some space, maintain traffic and help create room for everyone to grow. Most importantly you guys!! professionally and personally.
Amanda says
Hi! Thanks for taking the time to ask us readers to respond to this thread! :) I prefer meatier posts and don’t love filler posts… Especially “styling” type posts. That said, there are some types of posts you could probably stockpile for light days that I would enjoy, like posts about either of your beautiful children, parenting philosophies or products that you like, etc. So, I’m torn. Some times I would rather see nothing than a filler post (budget blooms, table settings…) But there are some fillers that I would enjoy (family-related posts, parenting-related posts, etc.)
Grace says
While I do miss seeing you all with the same frequency, I completely understand and support your decision to be there for your family first. That is part of what attracted me to your blog in the first place, because you all seemed to have your priorities and hearts in the right place. I also always loved your style, because it was attainable and not so high end that the average person couldn’t apply it.
I did really love your old reader redesigns and house crashing posts, but fully support you all if even those take up too much time. Your loyal readers are going to be here whether you post 50 times a week or 3.
Sarah says
Have you thought about hiring someone? You should get someone to do some of the behind the scenes photo editing, etc so you guys can focus on what you do best- the DIYing and writing :)
Lana says
Of all the blogs I check regularly, yours is one of my favorites. I love your random pop culture references and I love your sense of style. I like hearing about the projects you are working on (like your Target line)and I enjoy hearing about your little family. My favorite posts are the ones where you share your process for styling a room (like Teddy’s nursery or the show house). I don’t relate as much to the posts that are really technical, but I still enjoy them. You guys do a great job!!
AS says
I appreciate you trying to get some feedback on what readers are thinking, however it almost feels like after the laundry room and taking reader feedback on deciding how to do that you’re almost asking your readers to figure out your content conundrum for you. You’re savvy business people, you should know by now that this is about what works for you as a business owner and whether the changes you make to your product (this blog) will work for the audience you have. Are you happy with what you’re doing at this point in time? If you are, it doesn’t really translate.