Young House Love

Home Decorating & DIY Tutorials

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Fab Freebie: It’s Curtains For You

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.

Martha Ash Giveaway

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!

Click to View The Rafflecopter Widget

Comments

  1. Alexis says

    Help! My new 100 year old house has full glass double front doors. I’m in desperate need for curtains to give my family some privacy.

    Reply

  6. Kristin says

    I LOVE Martha & Ash!!!! I had their drapes in my last house, and I am currently saving up to have them make me drapes for our new house – once you experience their quality, nothing else will do! Oh boy, do I hope I win :)

    Reply

  8. Luke says

    John, Sherry –

    I’ve been reading your site since Clara was a newborn in your first house. I enjoy seeing what’s going on with your family. However, the actual house content lately just seems dull. It’s lovely that you have great sponsors who fund plum giveaways, but I liked the little projects: styling a table, tweaking an arrangement of art. Lately, it feels like giveaways and a million overly technical posts on installing a door and nothing else. It kind of seems like your saving the smaller stuff which I find more interesting for your books. (I own and enjoyed the first one.) I used to check two or three times a week to see what you posted, but now I maybe check every other week and skim the content. I completely understood and applauded when you decreased the amount of content to give time to Teddy, but the show house and the book feel like you’re moving on to greener pastures than staying bloggers. I hope you understand that your readers may move on to greener pastures, too. Ok, this has gotten really long and neurotic, but it comes from a place of fondness for the people, and boredom with the site.

    Reply

    • YoungHouseLove says

      Hi Luke, sorry to hear you haven’t been enjoying the recent content. I agree the posts have been very DIY/technical heavy lately, but fortunately we’re coming to the end of that in the laundry room (something I’m excited about too!). Hopefully there will be something in the pipeline soon that catches your interest more. Thanks for the feedback!

      -John

    • Melissa says

      John, Sherry,

      Long time reader here. I am so glad you shifted priorities for Teddy and your family, it’s a wonderful choice to make and you are fortunate that you could make that choice.

      Now for my unsolicited feedback since you are by far my favorite blog, I agree with Luke.
      I have also noticed a shift in content, some postings seem rushed. It seems to have lost it’s spark, which I imagine is from the craziness of two kids, projects, blogging for so long. I wish you did less giveaways and more “fun” content like Luke mentioned.

    • Robin W says

      Chiming in to say that I disagree.

      I think you’ve found a nice balance between scaling back and still giving the readers good content. This blog naturally follows the pattern of your lives and when you’re doing a big construct/diy project like your awesome laundry room then of course your posts are going to be about that.

      You’ve always done a weekly giveaway and I think it’s great that you’re still able to line those up so often for us.

      thanks!

    • One bedroom house says

      Sadly, I have to agree. One post this week is kind of ridiculous (I’m assuming there won’t be a post Friday and I don’t participate in the giveaways). I am assuming y’all are really busy.

      Perhaps you should stock pile some simple posts for weeks like these. For example, reader redesigns that don’t make the book, window shopping (I think you used to do those), cleaning posts, organizing posts, ironing curtain posts, favorite books you read to your kids, favorite toys for kids, favorite clothes for kids, most used kitchen items in your kitchen, comparison of laundry rooms on pinterest, I’m obsessed with “insert whatever” posts, Organizing a car around kids, shopping with kids, being stay at home parents, typical working from home days, kitchen inspiration posts, using Ikea wisely posts, whats trending now posts, challenges of having 2 kids and a stay at home business, favorite double strollers, nice hanging height for frames, how you would decorate if budget wasn’t a concern…and on and on.

    • YoungHouseLove says

      Thanks OBH! Definitely love the sound of those! This week just threw us a curveball we weren’t ready for (we tried to warn you guys in Tuesday’s first paragraph that it would be a light week) – but I’d love to get back to the days of stockpiled posts! We had them for Book 1 and it was glorious!

      xo
      s

    • YoungHouseLove says

      Follow up question for you guys! We have a few Reader Redesigns half-written along with some other smaller posts that are half-drafted from waaay before Teddy (just sitting there getting dusty, haha) but we wondered if you would rather on a day like this for us to say “ack couldn’t post” as an update to the previous post like we did here, or if you’d rather see a smaller post like the ones I (or OBH) mentioned. Sometimes we get the “we’d rather not read these filler posts at all, just own that you couldn’t write a post and don’t post” feedback, and sometimes it sounds like people would rather have something small instead of nothing. Thoughts?

      xo
      s

    • Kelly says

      Two separate issues: the content, and the timing/number of posts. On the content, ok maybe the quality is slightly less than what it used to be, but I still enjoy it plenty enough to visit the site daily. Personally, I am super interested in heavy duty DIY projects like hanging doors, so perhaps that’s why I’ve been enthralled through the whole laundry room project more than someone would who is more into design/decorating and doesn’t see themselves doing construction type work on their house. On the timing/number of posts, I love that idea of having a small store of little posts you can use when you’re busy. I would rather see a short post, or even just a picture with a one sentence caption, than nothing at all on a day I expect to see a post. I still love the site regardless!

    • Liz H says

      I’ve been enjoying the laundry room posts, but I’d love to see shorter “fun” posts nestled in-between the mondo/DIY posts. At the same time, if you’re too busy with your family (which should come first) forced short posts won’t be any good, so then I would vote no. I hope you can find a balance!

      =Lz

    • Julie says

      I agree, it would be great to see more of the smaller posts like Reader Redesigns. I’d actually prefer that to large blog posts- they’re easier to read at work! :)

    • Danielle Purtle says

      Well I understand if you are too busy to do anything at all–ya gotta do what ya gotta do! Don’t feel guilty for trying to survive! :) But if you did have time to put out a pre-prepped mini-post on days like this, then that would be awesome too! I love any kind of before and afters…I don’t even need much writing content for those. I just love looking at some cool pictures. I also really miss Clara conversations and little family posts. Those would be good for these busy days! Or maybe I could just become Clara’s new pen pal?!

    • Megan says

      As someone who uses this as a procrastination tool at work, I personally appreciate more posts, more often regardless of the type of content (assuming it’s a variety, which you guys naturally do). Except for give aways- it only takes me a minute to enter those and then my break is over. ;)

    • Deb says

      I must disagree with Luke. My two cents:

      1 cent: With the heads up regarding a shift in priorities, I anticipated the decreased postings, and am cool with it. You always shared so much I wondered how you did it! (And worried for you.)

      2 cents: I, for one, am very much enjoying the inclusiveness of recent posts. My family and I recently moved into a fixer-upper, and your specificity in posting is EXTREMELY helpful to me. I TRUST that you have worked through it and are giving me the skinny…you are a trusted “brand” in large part because you don’t cut corners!

      It seems to me (as a new homeowner), that your postings will skew more to “tweaking” as you complete major structural renovations, right? In my Digg reader I SKIP all the posts that are strictly filler content in other blogs. I can spot them and I HATE FILLER!

      Okay, now I will go back to minding my own business. :) Kudos to your family, and congrats for all your success. Couldn’t happen to a nicer and more giving family.

    • Jenny says

      Since you’re asking…I miss posts about you guys! I think it would be a bummer to be checking for a post and just get a message saying there isnt anything for today. You mentioned you would be moving your family posts to the main blog but I havent really seen much in the way of that. Personally Im not a fan of the give aways at all or reader redesigns. Ive really just been scolling through the pictures of your most recent posts since they have been all laundry room for the last 3 weeks.

    • Carrie says

      Hey guys! I’ve been so happy that you have scaled back posts to take care of your family and completely understand that crazy weeks like this happen. Don’t sweat not being able to post all the time. That being said, I would LOVE to have more smaller posts (redesigns, random thoughts, etc) interspersed with these longer, intensive posts. I love that long form content and how much attention you put into it, but I think it would be a better balance for you and us to have smaller, off the cuff content mixed in.

      Thanks for listening to our feedback! xoxo

    • SusanM says

      As much as I hate to be a downer, I have to agree with Luke. It’s your blog, so of course it’s yours to post as you wish. But I find that I truly miss the blog the way it used to be. For example, I would rather read a fun post from Sherry than another Fab Freebie. I miss: quick decoratingideas. Thrift shop cruising. DIY crafts. Clara’s Convos. The list goes on. I hesitate writing ANYTHING negative because I admire you guys SO MUCH, and also because I didn’t want to start an avalanche of responses scolding me for my opinion. I guess it’s selfish on my part to want the “old” blog. All that being said, I do understand your wanting to cut back with a new baby. But, many readers are raising children while both parents are working full time jobs. So, I am thrilled for you, but also a little jealous, which creates some “distance” between us in terms of relatability. YoungHouseLove is by far my favorite blog though! I guess it’s just that I don’t like change!

    • jaclyn says

      In my opinion, the main reason I love YHL is exactly because of the DIY/technical posts. It’s sort of the whole reason you all started the blog so that’s what draws me in time and again.

      Anyone can skim through Pinterest to find out how to style a bookshelf or how to set a seasonal dinner table. Those posts are a dime a dozen on the internet and honestly, I think the two of you are above that at this point in the blogger-game.

      Also, I’m not sure the people complaining actually realize just how labor-intensive the technical posts are. I wrote a blog for a hot minute and I give you so much credit for doing such a good job breaking down each project.

      It seems like lots of people are putting the blame for recent blog content solely on the two-kiddo situation but that’s not how I’ve been seeing it. It has seemed to me that in the ebb and flow of home improvement you are just in a more technical phase of renovation.

      PS. You guys are doing it right and I am one who will NEVER move on to greener pastures.

    • Carrie says

      I would LOVE “little” posts like OBH suggested and/or older/unfinished posts like you mentioned and/or even revisited posts! Most of us like that you guys KISS and like what you guys say/how you say it/etc. even if it’s short, easy, unfinished, etc. Put it out there, baby! Speaking for myself, I also don’t really care about laundry rooms or fab freebies. I am just itching for good ol’ YHL new, old, little, etc. Lay a failed terranium or baby gear or tablescape post on us, baby! :)

    • Callie says

      I LOVE you guys. Have been reading for along time. Like first house, way before you did the scary wedding photo for Halloween. Loved that, by the way.

      I wouldn’t normally comment on this, but since you are openly asking for feedback, I feel it’s ok.

      I 100% understand and agree with you scaling back on posts to be with your family. Without a doubt, family is first. I love the technical posts and mentally file them away for later use. (I’ll be coming back for the door post for sure! It’s a great help! Thanks John!) But I miss you guys. I miss checking in after lunch and kickstarting my afternoon with something exciting from you guys to fire me up. I, personally, love your take and perspective on things. You are so great at sharing an unbiased and honest, but always kind opinion. I don’t have kids yet and won’t for a bit, but the cloth diapers posts and check ins are awesome. (Hope Teddy is loving them!) Again, filing these things away for later. I loved the budget blooms that you used to post. Inspires me (I know, I’m easy.) to go get some flowers, because, dammit, I love flowers!

      I think truth be told, I see you guys as friends. And when my friends aren’t around, I miss them. I don’t care in what form or fashion I get to “see” you guys, I’ll take it!

      I hope this is helpful. I have NO intentions being mean or hateful. Just feedback. No matter what, I’ll always be back to see what you have going on. Love you guys!

    • Sarah says

      Not sure if this will show up in the right place per John and Sherry’s request, but just wanted to chime in. I miss the short post content, especially the reader redesigns. I love before and afters, and your projects are a bit longer these days so the RR’s give us a quick fix. Other ideas like “One Bedroom House” mentioned sound like a lot of fun, and might actually ease up the blog workload for you if you stockpiled a bunch each time.

      As others have mentioned, I am so happy that you’re finding the right balance (family, blog, book, show house, secret projects (??)) but you’ve definitely shifted to much longer, picture heavy posts that actually seem like they may take more time. Just my two cents! I’ll keep reading no matter what.

    • Liane says

      I agree that the posts lately have been REALLY technical, and I’ve been skimming posts way more than I used to. I miss the smaller stuff, so I say bring out some old stuff when you’re feeling swamped! I totally get how kids and life get in the way of your job, but I do think the blog is suffering. I am completely on board with you cutting back on number of posts to spend more time with family, but I’d like to see you get back to the small, fun and easy updates and ideas. Just my two cents, I’ve been reading since before you all had Clara and I love your family!

    • Nicole D says

      I for one, definitely like the mix of big ongoing projects, giveaways, and smaller posts! OBH had some great ideas. If you’re feeling like you don’t have any ‘blog-worthy/ready’ posts, an update is fine; if you have some smaller posts (i.e. the craft posts Sherry used to do) all set then I’d love to see those :)

    • Christine says

      Hi John and Sherry! I have to agree with Luke as well. We are currently renting our house, but plan to buy in the next year or so. With that being said your content heavy stuff like the laundry room, sunroom, etc are great and I will be going back to them.

      But I LOVED reading your family blog as well! The Clara conversations were great and I miss those. I would love what some people call “filler” posts about small projects and your life”! Especially since I have an 18 month old who takes forever to nurse and I’m scrolling on my phone!

    • Hallie says

      I guess I’m on the side of a smaller/shorter post (or a reader redesign, etc.) instead of a nothing. Especially since we’re already missing you on Fridays.

      xo,
      Hallie.

    • Marie says

      You guys are so sweet for trying but you’re never going to please everyone. I say just do what works for you. If its not too much trouble, sure post a short little something about decorating a table or whatever…but unfortunately, I’m sure someone will complain about that too. Whether its a just a sentence or short post about something random I’ll be reading it like a happy camper. Giveaways are awesome and lame at the same time…if you wouldn’t mind rigging them so I win I’d think they were much cooler ;) I just started trying to blog and I’ve realized NOTHING is a short little something, so I have a whole new level of respect and buckets full of kisses for everything you guys manage to do!!! So imo, Just go with the flow…as soon as blogging becomes something you do for other people rather than something you enjoy you’ll loose your mojo and nobody wants you to loose your mojo f’reals.

    • Susan says

      Oh no! Don’t go changin’! If you start posting “tablescapes” or “five ways to style your foyer for fall” I will throw up in my mouth (and that ain’t pleasant)!

      Hang in there! You guys are not a company like a lot of the big blogs out there. Folks got spoiled at your flurry of posts, and now you have to find balance. When you start hiring staff, THEN complaints about frequency are warranted. Until then, you ask nothing of us (rafflecopter simplicity, yay) and are fair with us (no sponsored posts).

      What more could readers ask for? YOU GUYS ROCK, JOHN AND SHERRY! WE LOVE YOU!

    • avid follower says

      I would definitely rather the suggestions that obh said! Definitely understand that you guys are busier than ever but would love short posts about little things like they wrote.
      You guys are awesome!

    • Krista says

      I use your blog as a nice little scheduled break in my workday, so When you cut back clearly I understood but was devastated.

      I would LOVE to see more reader redesigns, little posts, or even a link to another blogger’s post that inspired you (with their permission of course… but what blogger wouldn’t be thrilled to be featured on YHL!)

      I hope whatever came up this week wasn’t serious and that all the fam jam is ok!

    • Srijata says

      Love the little posts! Much better to have a quick little read, and I used to really enjoy those quick posts of yours (some of which has been replaced by Instagram, I suppose).

    • Jenn says

      Hi! First off, I loooove your website. I’ve been following you guys for several years. I check your blog every day, M-Th, and look forward to when the posts go up in the morning. That being said, I sort of feel the same way – I would love to see some more of your smaller projects or just general discussions about how you manage your household if you need a break from the giant, technical projects. Some of my favorite posts (in addition to big reveals of course) have been the inspiration boards before/afters, hanging new light fixtures, and the one where you put your toilet paper rolls in the glass holder – I even did that for my own bathrooms! Thank you for all you guys do. I wish you all the best and I will keep checking back here four days a week! :)

    • Jennifer says

      First let me say, I’ve been a faithful follower through all three houses. To the point that your 10AM post time had turned into my 5 minute break to reset my brain in the mornings (same was true for your afternoon posts). However, I rarely click over anymore. Actually the reason I clicked over today was because I was killing time in the doctors office. I can appreciate your shift since baby #2 joined the picture, but as a reader it was a huge shift from where you had been. I appreciate posts and blogs in general that spark a little creative thinking. By showing different options you’ve considered and where you’ve ended up often helps me run across sources and ideas I may not have thought of or seen. The same is true when you showcase reader redesigns or house crashes. There seems like there would be a significant amount of content that could be generated for your readers. For example, I’ve redesigned probably 20ish rooms in the last 12 months for friends and family. A few I’m working with magazines to feature, but others I’d likely be willing to share. Simply because I appreciate it so much when others do. I would think there’s lots of others with great quality rooms that you could share to make some easier posts for yourself and help build relationships with your reader base. Since you’ve made the shift I haven’t seen a lot of posts that spark creativity on my end. Granted, I am a single female so the technical posts may spark more creativity for others. Ultimately, as I think about this, here’s a great example of the shift in mindset for me that your shift in blogging has created. When your last book was available I was in for pre-order early. Based on what I’ve seen lately, I’ll be waiting to check one out before I sign up to purchase. I’m betting I won’t be the only one and this truly concerns me for you guys. I’m sure a lot of the comments here are somewhat tough to hear and I can’t imagine trying to strike a balance if I were in your shoes. However, I think most of us who have read for as long as I have are somewhat invested in your family at this point, and I truly want to see you thrive and for us to be able to continue to follow along in your progress. My intent was just to share the shift that’s occurred for me as well as I’m sure many readers.

    • Azar says

      I would love to see the smaller updates. Really, I love reading pretty much anything you guys post, long or short, and any time there isn’t a new post I get all sadface (I mean that in a totally non-judgy way, I understand that juggling real life and two kids makes things crazy!). You guys write in such a genuine way, and even with the scaled-back posting, I still check your blog every weekday morning as part of my routine. :)

    • Lindsey Q says

      To answer your update question, I’d be up for shorter, smaller posts if you don’t have something big to share all the time. I visit this site several times a week because I love reading blogs and this is probably my favorite. I really don’t think a smaller post would necessarily mean a lower quality–I have a lot of confidence that anything you guys put out is of good quality. :)

      I’ll agree that I’m not as into the technical stuff, but I still skim through the pictures and mentally file it away as “I’ll come back to this if we need to do something similar” material. Remember, we may be reading this blog daily, but YHL is providing useful, VALUABLE information to people who are attempting similar DIY projects and looking for information at the time they work on the project. In fact, that’s one of the reasons we found this site: My husband and I googling board and batten alternatives. Imagine if John and Sherry hadn’t written that tutorial! Don’t stop the technical stuff even if we all aren’t super interested RIGHT NOW. This site is an incredible resource, not just a blog.

    • Jerrika says

      I would love to see more small posts! Reader dilemmas/your dilemmas, small updates, things you’ve been pondering about your house. I also miss house crashing posts!

    • Keeley says

      I admit that I skim your more technical posts because I don’t have the time/interest in doing structural renovations to our home. I do bookmark a few technical posts from the past (like how to install a toilet), but for the most part I am more attracted to short and sweet projects that are more accessible.

      I don’t mind the lower frequency of postings. I can’t imagine how difficult it was to keep up with your aggressive posting/writing schedule and I think it’s great that you’ve been able to scale back. I only write once a month on my own blog… so I guess I’m not even a blogger anymore!

      I still check your page from time to time (often as a result of a Facebook update). I hope you’re doing well. You can’t please everyone. You’ve been hugely successful. Enjoy your family and your success.

    • Grace C says

      I have been a faithful follower of your blog for years and was extremely excited to meet you in person during the book tour. I have to sadly agree that these days, I am not visiting your blog as I used to do every single day. Somehow, there is something missing. I feel that the blog is not an important part of your lives anymore. Of course, I understand family priorities as I have 2 very young children myself. But somehow I don’t get a blog feel anymore. I think if you want to post less, then it should be a more of a content site and not a blog site. Blogs are about what the writer feels, thinks, goes through that day. I as a reader get to live next to you during the time I read the blog. But more and more I am losing the connection. This comes from a very faithful reader.

    • Molly says

      I love any content above no content, especially since your writing style is so fun to read. I’d love to see the little things, even a problem you haven’t solved yet!

    • Kristin H. says

      I absolutely adore that you guys ask us what we think :) I have looooved the laundry room posts, but all in all I do feel like you guys may have lost your “spark” for blogging. I so hope that doesn’t come across as mean or rude because that truly is not my intention whatsoever. I’ve been an incredibly dedicated reader for probably 5+ years and I just love you guys. I will still come here daily until you completely throw in the towel (not that that’s a suggestion…please never leave me!!)

      Life gets crazy and I really don’t know how you even kept up with the amount you were blogging from after having Clara and up until Teddy was born. Felt like it was then that there was a shift, not so much in the amount or content, but I feel like it was in the tone. For my actual “vote”, I’d definitely vote that I’d love to have any post than none at all!!!! But I can only imagine how difficult it all becomes with two children and a book and probably many other things.. Something’s gotta give, and it’s okay if you can’t post like you used to. I just genuinely miss the John and Sherry that, at least I felt, really *loved* to blog. And if that love has shifted to the love of your family, that’s not a bad thing at all. In fact, it’s great. Really :) We have loved you guys for so long, I know that so many of us are thrilled you are happy and, I hope, have all that you’ve ever wanted. I guess it’s more of the personal/open/giddy/silly/excited/funny/don’t care what no one thinks side that I feel hasn’t been out there as much as it used to be. Please please don’t take this the wrong way.

    • Allison says

      Hey John and Sherri,
      I just thought I would pipe in here for a moment. I’m a LONG time reader, like back to when your blog had a different name :). I really like how the blog and the two of you have grown and evolved over the years and I just want to say thank you for, (well for one thing sharing your journey with the rest of us all these years!), also for your positivity throughout each post and your upbeat attitudes towards every project whether they were a success or not, and for opening up your home to this public eye. I think in doing so you can invite all kinds of criticism, constructive or otherwise. I believe that, just like any publication online or in print, it’s important to keep things fresh and interesting and I think that’s what the two of you continue to do, whether you are breaking down the process of a project around your home (which I am grateful for because I have learned so much and been so inspired by the two of you), showing us a mood board, providing a very generous giveaway or sharing a personal family moment or story. Most importantly, besides trying to please your readers, you must do what is best for you and your family and if you need to update us with a few words like you did this morning, then so be it. Life can get a little hectic at times and especially if you’re not expecting it, it helps that people understand. That’s basically what I wanted to tell you – I’m on board with a little sentence if that’s what works for you and I’m never bored. Many blessing to you and your family! XO ~ Allison

    • Suzanne says

      i’ve been following your blog for a really long time. I would rather see a small or simple post when you don’t have time for something longer. I enjoy those posts and enoy the topics you mentioned, organizing, reader redesign, styling, etc. I too can’t do the more labor intensive projects like the laundry room creation so the types of posts mentioned above very much appeal to me.

    • Rosie B says

      I’ve been reading since the birth of my first daughter, about three years. I do feel myself a little less connected with the posts recently, but I think it’s natural — and important — that the blog evolve as you do. I still check daily!

      As far as a we-can’t-post-today update vs. a smaller post, I vote for smaller posts. I used to teach high school and even if I couldn’t rely on a substitute to manage the same lesson plan I would have done if I were in the classroom, I felt it was important to leave some sort of meaningful activity for the day, even if not directly tied into the current unit of study. I kind of think of the little posts as the same sort of thing. Something that gives the readers something, if not quite what a regular day would hold. I think OBH had tons of fun ideas for posts I’d love to read.

    • Jess @ Crunchy Hot Mama says

      I’d like to chime in, too, being a tiny blogger.

      1st: While DIY is not really my forte…unless they’re super quick and easy, that’s what your blog is about.

      2nd: I miss the posts about the kids, how you handle this or that, what products you use, etc. I know it’s a DIY blog, but I have learned SO MUCH from ya’ll and your ‘green’ & thrifty practices while having a family. I guess at this point of my life (being a mom of 2) I’d love to see more real life stuff and how you balance (or don’t) it all.

      That being said, I know what goes into writing/editing a post and I can’t imagine how ya’ll do it! I do no editing to my photos (I honestly don’t know how) but it takes me at least 2 hours to write a post…so I can only imagine! It’s a good thing I’m not making $ cuz I’d get fired ;)

      I wonder if you could do a poll and see what your readers want. I’m sure there are the DIYers with no kids that could care less about CDing Teddy’s bum, but there are a lot of us that follow your blog more for the family aspect. It might be embarrassing if I actually admitted what I bought because I saw it here on your blog ;) You two have such an influence in several matters so it probably is hard to find the balance and make everyone happy. Not that that’s possible but I know ya’ll try.

      I will keep coming back even though I skim over the DIY posts…sometimes I’m just hoping to see your adorable little ones or an update on a ‘day in the life with dos bambinos.’ Here’s hoping you find a balance!

      xo,
      Jess

    • Mellissa says

      I love the way your blog changes to reflect your lives. Certainly, not all of your posts interest me/are relevant to me. But, I feel like you’ve created a beautiful archive of information that I can reference when the timing is right. I would rather you focused on quality over quantity. You’re doing good work and I just want you to know that I sincerely value it!

    • Hannah says

      J&S,
      I’ve been a long, long time reader. I was so excited for you guys as you built your family and then when you were able to turn this into an opportunity to work full time at home together. What a dream. For me, that’s where I get disillusioned with this. I work full time, teach yoga and dance on the side and I’m getting my masters full time as well…and I’m still able to tackle a lot at home. I know kids are time consuming (my bro and SIL have 3 under 2.5 so I get it), but it often irks me that we don’t get more from you guys. I know you have a ton of other things that we don’t see from our perspective but we also know that we should be getting more. I would love to see more posts like OBH mentioned…and it doesn’t need to be “filler.” It can be quality, engaging content that can just be posted anytime. You could do these when you have the time (i.e. NOT during a huge laundry reno) but it would keep the blog consistently engaging. And it would help during vacation, sick kiddo time, etc! And it would certainly make me feel a lot better about the support I and so many of us have given you to help this dream of yours come true. Just my two cents!

    • Maggie says

      I’m totally on board with smaller posts. I check in daily and often just when I have a moment of time in between kids and work and blah blah blah. I sometimes find myself wishing there were more regular shortish posts to fill those mini time-warps. You are people first and bloggers second; balance is vital and you guys need to do whatever you have to to find it. If that means more long door posts and fewer tidbits, we’ll live. :)

    • Pamela says

      I’ve not had time to read the other comments, but my 2 cents: I don’t mind the slower posts. I don’t mind the technical posts. I love the giveaways! I wouldn’t mind a guest post here or there, but I’m not a fan of a bunch of those. I tend to choose blogs based on the blog authors and I’m picky. When there’s too much content about spaces other than your’s…I get bored. It’s like a commercial in the middle of a movie. I’m following your lives and story…I don’t care much about guests or reader spaces, unless they are just really speaking to you guys or are something ground breaking. Every post doesn’t have to be something huge, I love the little updates as well, but I prefer the focus being on your house/family.

    • Amy says

      Hey, guys! Since you asked – I’d love a short-but-fun over a giveaway. Back when you did multiple posts per day, there were a lot of little things like that included. They seemed like those quick phone calls you get from friends…”hey, real quick, I had to tell you…..” They wouldn’t do if that was ALL you posted, but for days when life takes over? Yeah! Also, another commenter mentioned how no one can complain about “light” posts until you have a staff; have y’all thought of that? No clue what the financials are, but Joanna Goddard over at A Cup of Jo got herself a great assistant blogger when she had her second child. It really helped her content, and she says her quality of life is loads better. Something to ponder, maybe, even if it’s an intern or something. Love the blog!

    • Laura says

      I’d enjoy seeing more Young House Life style posts again. Loved seeing Clara grow and would love to see the same for Teddy- not just in weekly photos or on Instagram.

    • Lauren says

      I was really proud of your decision to step back and start posting less. As I was watching you take on more and more, I kept thinking, “They’re crazy! How do they do it all and not sacrifice quality family time.”

      That being said, what has made your blog my favorite is your voice, not necessarily the content, and I think the blog has recently lost a bit of that. I love Sherry’s wit and I love references to SNL and rap songs. My favorite posts have always been “Dude, Get on That,” “Clara Convos,” and I would love to see another Pinterest Challenge! I also love craft posts and even more so when Clara is involved.

      As a mother of two, with my son being just four months, I understand how hectic things are. I also understand, as a former blogger that just kind of gave up, how writing has its ebbs and flows. I think the feedback you’re getting here should serve as a sigh of relief, as I see most people telling you that they really like the simple posts and want to see more of that than a huge, long, technical post.

      As a result of your posting in the past, I have cloth diapered my babes in BumGenius dipes and have made a play kitchen for my first. I love being inspired here by simple ideas and by you sharing your day-to-day sometimes.

      Thanks for being so open to hearing from your readers! We all just want to be here with you for the long haul :)

    • Keri says

      J&S-

      I enjoy the technical posts. Sometimes posts like that don’t apply to my life (or projects) in the moment, but they are a great reference. Numerous times I have gone back and used a more technical post as a guide for a project. And they give me confidence that a “normal” person (although you guys are pros in my book!) could accomplish some of these larger tasks.

      Whenever you have content (whether once a week or 3 times) I will gladly read it. Prioritizing life and family is something we can all appreciate.

      tl;dr – keep on keepin’ on!

    • Carmen says

      I personally love the giveaways! How could you not like the opportunity for free stuff?!

      It didn’t bother me at all that you didn’t have a post today. It was kind of you to give an update. I can’t think of another blog that does that when they miss 1 day. Some of the blogs I read consistently like: LittleGreenNotebook and StylebyEmilyHenderson don’t always post daily and don’t give an update (which does not offend me AT ALL). I still check those blogs almost daily. I always figure if there’s not a new post they’re busy and when they can post it will be something I’m interested in. Besides… I really should be working anyways.

      For the record: I enjoy reader redesigns.

      If you guys endorse a product/method I’m excited to try it out because I trust your “brand”. If you decided to do sponsored posts about things you believed in I would like that too.

    • Jen says

      I’ve been reading since your original house and I still pop in every day at 10. I have a fixer upper so I love your technical posts. I also like your little projects, and you guys got me addicted to spray painting everything, haha… What I miss are your more family oriented posts, as I mom I really enjoy reading about that stuff. Like someone else said, I do not want to read, “Fall tablescapes” or whatever, as you would find on a million other blogs. I like that your projects are usually actually a part of your life, not just done to make a post. When google reader died I stopped reading every single blog… except for yours! No matter what you do someone will always be complaining, but I think you guys know what you are doing!

    • christie says

      Long time reader, daily checker – I love your blog and feel like I know you guys. Pretty much the whole laundry reno time my feeling has been ‘sigh, another laundry post.’ I am a renter, so I don’t read for the big projects, and have to say I often just skim the technical posts. There have been other projects I have skimmed,or said “doesn’t apply to me, I’ll check back tomorrow,” but this one has kind of taken over the blog. I miss the posts about you – family stuff, what you’re doing locally, baby gear recommendations, etc., what I guess others have mentioned as filler/fluff posts. I don’t mind fewer posts, I would just appreciate more variety. Especially with there being fewer posts, if Monday’s is laundry reno, it’d be nice if the next one could be something different for us minimal diy-ers who still love reading you! I will keep visiting your blog regardless, because I think you guys are awesome. But, just fyi, since you asked. :)

    • Shay says

      Since you asked; I love smaller posts mixed in with the big projects. It brings a nice balance to blogging.

    • Melissa says

      I am such a fan of your blog! I understand both sides of the spectrum, but I truly do like the little “filler” posts as well. I’ve never viewed your blog as a strictly DIY/this is how to do this/learn how to redo, etc… I’ve always always always LOVED the little bits of YOUR FAMILY thrown in. I actually think my very first experience with your blog was somehow stumbling upon your DIY wedding. And that lead me to your history, and then at the time, your current DIY projects. I understand you’ve come a long ways from those days (and I’ve been so super excited to read alllllllll about it along the way too!) but I do also miss the small projects (Dude! Get on that!) and the Clara-isms & the thrift store escapades. It was a nice breather in between learning how to make stuff. Anyways, those are my two (5?) cents lol. Thanks for asking your readers’ opinions! I appreciate that you care what I have to say. I hope your week ends smoother than it started and thank you for sharing your lives with us. :)

    • Hilary @ My So-Called Home says

      J+S:

      I as well am a long time reader of YHL, way back in the first-house-bathroom-reno days!, and since you asked I would love to see some smaller posts from you guys on days where you would otherwise insert a little update or no post at all. I know life is busy for you two (of course family comes first!) and if that would just be too much to do I think we ALL would understand. But if you have posts half-finished and easily dished out, I would eat em up :) I personally loved and found so much inspiration in your simple coffee table styling, cabinet rearranging, and seasonal decorating from your first home and to this day I enjoy going back and reading those old posts! Of course there’s always Pinterest for those but it’s the people behind the photo that most draw me in. Regardless of what you decide I love you guys and you will continue to be the only blog I check on the daily :)

    • Jennifer says

      I’ve been visiting your site for about 2 years and continue to visit it daily Monday through Thursday. I like the posts showing the progress of your projects. I like seeing how an older house can be fixed up. I think reader re-designs and family posts would be great if it makes life easier for you. But I’m with Jaclyn. I really don’t need to see things I can see 100x over on Pinterest.

      I guess since I’ve only been around here 2 years, I consider this first and foremost a home DIY blog. I’m into whatever you’re fixing up — even if I never plan to hang a door by myself.

      Just a side note: after recently painting our baby’s nursery, my husband and I vowed we would never paint again, for the sake of our marriage and sanity! All I could think was John and Sherry do this all the time and just rock at it. We had paint everywhere when we were done. Nothing like painting to make us feel like miserable failures. :)

      I’ll be back Monday to read some more. Have a good weekend!

    • EmmyA says

      I’m not sure if this will show up in the right place, but I was just reading through this thread. I have loved reading this blog. My friend and I talk about you guys like we know you. :) The thing that I have wondered is if you feel a lot of pressure to be doing big or at least semi-big projects all the time. That is how it has appeared, especially since you moved into this new house. Obviously this house had lots of projects to be done with all the wallpaper and blue trim, but it has seemed like one major project after another. I liked, especially when Clara was born, that you were like one of us normal, non-bloggers in that life was crazy with a baby, so we just do stuff that’s fun and “decorate-y” and inexpensive while we save for the big projects. You guys are go-getters and you’ve powered through a TON of projects since you moved into this house…plus you had a baby! Holy moly that’s a lot on your plate! I was actually a little relieved when you said you were cutting back on posts for your sakes (sad for me because I loved checking in, but happy for you to have some balance), but I would love to see some small or not-so-small posts about less intense things you’re doing. It makes you seem more real and less super-human. :) The giveaways are fun and the technical DIY stuff is good too, but I would hate for you to burn out or feel pressure to go all big, all the time. We like you guys and we like your blog and it’s fun to see what you do with a can of spray paint and a ceramic animal, or how you are trying something you’ve never done before on a craigslist find. I’m not going to own a wet saw or a nail gun, and my husband won’t be building us a desk no matter how much I tell him we can do it ourselves, but I may dye a slipcover or a refinish a dresser or sew a quilt for my daughter. I miss that kind of stuff thrown in.

    • Alicia says

      I love any post, small or large. Of course some I like better than others and I don’t expect each post to be better than the last. Here’s my idea…if you’re crunched for time why not say you’re crunched for time AND say that’s the reason for a little post? I think most of us readers understand you can’t churn out a huge post full of pictures and directions every day. I personally like having a mix of the two and it makes me sad when I click over here and don’t see something new just because I love seeing what y’all are up to so much! But, with all that being said, I totally understand that sometimes you need a to take a day (or more) off!

    • Jenna says

      Hi John and Sherry! I have been a faithful reader for a while, and since you asked…I wanted to give you my feedback. Ultimately you need to do what is best for your family, but I do miss the smaller posts, and would rather have those instead of nothing at all. I feel like there is a “human” element missing from your blog lately, and I miss reading about your lives! I will keep reading no matter what though, so keep on doing your thang!

    • Erin C. says

      I’ve been following for about 5 years now..wait is that right–5 years? Eep! Anyway- love you guys!!! My favorite posts are the decorating and small crafty ones (tablescaping comes to mind)..the sorts of things that were on your first book. Your first two homes were major inspiration for how I decorated my own home, which we had just moved into when I first started reading. I had no clue, and your affordable, beautiful taste really guided me. Lately, my eyes have been glazing over a bit with the big DIY projects. They would be nice for me to refer to if at some point we have the need, the money, and the time for a project like that, but right now I just can’t relate. I know others probably can, and I know the blog is ultimately about you and what you are doing with your home…but if there are little side projects or time for some mood boards, organizing tips, etc , that would be awesome!

    • Fran says

      John and Sherry,

      I’ve been a reader for five years, and when I saw the note this morning I was bummed, but my kneejerk reaction was that I was happy for you guys, owning your busy schedule and not being overly apologetic for it. Balance has always been something you’ve written about and I think we all struggle to find. I think a stock pile of posts is good for busy times, but I also think being realistic is good too. You’re human, and I think it’s easy to forget that when we only see words on a screen. Keep on keepin’ on.

    • Briana says

      I would enjoy smaller filler posts (dilemmas and reader redesigns) but I also love all the technical posts you are providing now. My husband isn’t a reader, but I am constantly sending him links to relevant posts whenever we are talking about dyi-ing a project.

    • Rachel says

      I do tend to agree on the site lacking a bit lately. Being a mom to two little ones myself, I understand why, but this used to be my favorite blog and it’s slipping down the list. I definitely don’t read it as much as I used to. I enjoyed when you posted real things that all of us could do – refinishing furniture or a quick makeover to a room – not just building a laundry room. I also loved when you posted things about your real life. What products you’re using with your kids, for example. Sorry, guys.

    • Natalie says

      I’m a long-time reader (holla back to your first house!); I don’t mind the decreased posting, and I don’t mind the long technical posts (I just moved into an older home so it’s nice to refer to). But I do miss some of the more design oriented content.

      I expected to see more picking paint colors and fabrics with the new house (and there was some of that–Teddy’s nursery was really great to watch unfold). So that’s what I miss most. I think some of that has gone away naturally, though. You know what you like more, and there’s a bit less experimentation.

      As for “filler content,” I think you guys have always had really high standards for that stuff, and I would trust your judgement on when something is ready to post. For my part, I love the reader redesigns and house calls because there is more design in that. I also like the family-oriented content. I think a lot of us used to feel like we were a part of your family because we got to watch you guy tackle the issues we were dealing with, too (I’m around the same age as you all).

      OK, I’m going to stop because this comment is turning into a book. In summation, you guys are great. I would like a little more design and family stuff, but I’m happy to keep reading whatever you post because you are still putting out great content.

    • Chelsea says

      I’m loving the technical aspect of everything, I find it much more interesting and gives me the confidence to do my own DIY work. I recently purchased a dated house, and the last thing I want to do is decorate when there are several major projects that need to be done first. The decorating comes after all the dust has settled, and I look forward to that just as much as the construction. Keep doing what you’re doing guys!

    • Rebecca says

      I would love to see more family posts as well, like what baby gear is still working with yall, how breastfeeding is going this time around, how cloth diapers are going this time around…I also loved seeing how you organized your craft closet. I still look back on posts from Clara’s nursery to see how you organized things.

      I have always appreciated the techinicality of your posts, just in case I ever get to renovate my laundry room or install tile floors. That’s one of my favorite parts of the blog.

      Just a simple blurb is all I personally need to let us know there won’t be a post, but a ‘small’ post would be bonus!

      Love you guys, and will always check here every morning, every weekday. :)

    • Debbie says

      Hi guys,
      I agree with those that say, if you can swing it, short and sweet posts are better than none at all! Those posts, interspersed with the more technical, helps keep me engaged and delighted by you and your sweet family. I so appreciate your blog’s ‘voice’ ,as it definitely is one of the only that gives me enough details to empower me to tackle some of my own projects and inspires me to try some realistic DIY! I hope that however things continue to evolve as your kidlets grow and your priorities continue to be directed toward their wellbeing, that the two of you do whatever brings you the most joy!

    • natalia says

      Thanks for asking! I’d love to see more content, even if it’s “filler posts”. The pre-Teddy editorial calendar was crazy! But I do feel that now it’s a bit light. I hope to see something in between. I’ll still be preordering the next book by the way. LOVE the first.

    • Alicia says

      I’m totally ok with you scaling back posts in general, but I would like to see some small posts in between some of the bigger stuff. Although I find all the big projects interesting, I am more likely to actually try to recreate some of the smaller tweaks you guys do. Plus, I just like having something fun to read to get me through my work day :) Thanks for all the work you guys do!

    • Jenn says

      I really like the idea of shorter posts in general, honestly! One big, meaty post (like the door install, or the drywall hanging) per week is really enough, and pairing it up with a couple smaller posts about lighter things seems to keep me most interested. Treating each week as a meal, with an appetizer, entree and dessert is a nice way to think about it. (I don’t mind the Wednesday Fab Freebies, personally.)

      The posts I always like most are the ones that discuss the decision making process for a project. I think that sometimes they tend to get saved up into one long post about a project, but a few short check-ins on what you’re thinking about X room or Y project today would suit me just fine!

      Anyhow, I’m still enjoying the blog the way it is. Things change and evolve, and I’m very aware that sometimes life doesn’t provide the content we expect it to! Thanks so much for inviting us to have a glimpse at your house and your lives!

    • Sarah says

      Agree with what Jenny (and others) said…it doesn’t seem like the “Young House Life” posts have moved over here…it seems like they’ve come to a complete stop. I feel like that would be a really easy solution…they’re usually short and simple and seem to come from moments that you’re photographing anyway.

      I totally want whatever you do to keep with your goal of more family time! I think it’s a real testament to how much your blog means to people that this many people are stopping to comment on this thread. This blog, for me, has gone from a once-in-a-while visit to a daily routine/break from work to a treasure trove of information for me as a (brand new) homeowner. This is probably (definitely) my favorite place on the internet. Thank you for your work and for your thoughtfulness for your readers! Lots of love!

    • Mere says

      I disagree with Luke. I’ve actually liked that you’ve gone back to more heavy duty diy. These are fantastic tutorials that always help me figure out what I feel I can handle in my own house. I also really appreciate how much you’ve scaled back on the kiddos presence on the blog. Don’t get me wrong, I loved Clara Convos and I think both your littles are adorable. But, privacy of your family is of the utmost importance, especially as Clara gets older. I admire the fact that you’ve refocused the attention from your family to true diy and I really hope it continues. I would rather see your blog be a true reflection of the changes and long term decorating in your home than “just for blog content” quickies/fluff that are never seen again.

    • Monica says

      Hi guys,
      Stay at home mom here! I have been reading your blog since I was pregnant with my oldest soalmost 6 years now! I love every bit of everything I read. I am a DIYer and love all the helpful tips I get from your post. I do miss the daily chime in’s even if they are just short little bits of information! Any post whether big or small gives me ideas on something I want to do in my house. :)

    • Jill says

      I don’t like filler posts. If you don’t have time to put together a really thoughtful project, then I fully support posting the work of others that did incorporate a lot of thought/effort/creativity. So I’d like reader redesigns and inspiration rooms and mood boards in a pinch. I would not like a 15-minute art project that you slapped together solely because the blog needed something or a note saying that you’re busy or that you sorted some pens and moved an ottoman.

      I feel like if you wouldn’t invite your mom over to take a look at it the product of your labor or wouldn’t email a picture/idea to your friend saying, “Hey, this is cool!,” then I wouldn’t be interested in seeing it either.

      Perhaps the better overall plan is to only take on outside projects than can be posted about. Like writing more books wouldn’t be a good plan, but the show house was fine and redoing the hospital waiting room was very cute and remaking your grandma’s bathroom was very cute.

    • Holly says

      I wanted to chime in and say that I love the idea of filling in with small posts! I know “filler” has a bad connotation, but for me and probably many of your adoring readers, anything from you guys is gold. You do everything with integrity, you have natural design talent, and you’re just super nice and relatable.

      I appreciate the technical posts you do, because I know that I can go back to them when/if I tackle a similar project down the line. But I really love the smaller posts too. Reader Redesigns, Clara Conversations, House Crashing–you can’t go wrong. Although I know even seemingly small posts require plenty of behind-the-scenes work for you guys, I actually love those more than the meatier posts. Even a picture with a little caption works–especially for the Luddites among us who aren’t on Instagram. :)

      And with all that said, I totally support your choice to step back a bit and put family first. I know you guys will find the right balance!

    • Alyssa says

      I would like to see smaller posts as well. Especially to break up a big project that a lot of people aren’t interested in/cannot do (due to renting, etc). It would be great to have some of those posts sprinkled in during bigger more technical projects. I also worry that you guys have lost your passion for blogging. Which is understandable, but I hope you guys aren’t doing it just for the sake of your readers/because you’ve always done it. Thanks!

    • Alyssa says

      Also, I miss weekly craftys :( You guys used to have such an organized posting schedule that I always knew what kind of post to expect. And I understand that might be difficult to go back to, but I do miss those regular sort of “series” like weekly crafty, pinterest challenge, ask the readers dilemmas, etc that just disappeared. I also think it would be fun to have some interactive posts where you ask us for our opinions on either your space or a reader’s space that is leaving you stumped – you did it a few times and it was super fun seeing everyone’s photoshop ideas. Plus, it would be less writing for you guys!

    • Meghan says

      Hi there,

      Popping in to say I also agree with Luke. Anything is better than nothing I think. Even those reader design dilemmas (I know I submitted one lol!) would be awesome! I miss those, trying to solve design questions and getting suggestions from everyone who reads your blog.

      Meghan

    • Flagless says

      I like reading all your design and DIY posts, whether big and technical or small and easy. I would be up for reader redesigns or virtual shopping tours, and I think some technical stuff about running a professional blog would also be interesting. The only posts I always skip are the giveaways (cause I don’t participate) and the family related things (like the ones about the birth of your children, or about your holidays) – nothing against you, or anything like that, I just find such personal content quite uncomfortable (probably because I don’t see bloggers as friends or people I know, but merely as online journalists whose work I like).

    • Lindsay says

      I agree with the general sentiments of fewer Fab Freebies, more short posts and more family updates! Been reading since your first house and I miss the lifestyle posts and variety the blog used to have.

    • Dianne says

      I always enjoy reading your posts – even the detailed DIY/techie ones. I do, however, miss the thrifting and shelf or counter styling – more simple posts – those that I can relate to.

    • Stacy says

      My 2 cents – I LOVE your blog. Yes, it’s changed. Yes, there aren’t as many posts. Yes, there are more technical posts. Yes, there are fewer family posts and filler posts. But, that said, do I really want to read a blog that has a ton of guest posts? No. Do I enjoy house crashing posts? No. Do I want to read a blog that has a ton of giveaways and filler posts? No. I think your blog has evolved a lot over the past few years. I have actually started reading your blog from the VERY beginning. On days you don’t post I tend to go back and start in your first house and go from there. I haven’t gotten super far yet. It sounds to me like your readers want different things. You have to do what’s right for you. You are NEVER going to make everyone happy. You are going to lose readers no matter what happens. Personally, I think you should just continue on. I understand that losing readers means a loss of income but I know you said you’re prepared for that. Good luck no matter what your decision.

    • wendy says

      I love your detailed DIY posts. They’re crazy informative, easy to follow and great references for future projects. I thoroughly enjoy watching you create something from start to finish… and do it so well. And I completely understand that your posts are driven by what’s currently happening in your lives/home. I also enjoy the smaller, lighter posts, so for a busy week, if you have them, post them. You guys are great, and I will continue to check in M-Th.

    • Gillian says

      I think you do what works for you and just as you evolve and change so will your readers, you’ll win some new ones and lose some old ones.
      For me, I’m staying…I still see the humor, mixed with relatable, manageable advice.
      I can only imagine the many other projects and prospects you have going on that have come from being genuine, straightforward bloggers. I wish you all the success in the world as you navigate this chapter in your lives :)

    • Kelly says

      Hi J&S,

      Another looooooong time reader here (TYH, holla!). I have to agree with what a few other have said. I think the blog has become a lot less personal in recent months, which has made me feel really disconnected as a reader. Let’s face it, lots of folks come here for the awesome DIY advice, but I’d venture to guess the MAIN draw has always been y’all- your voice, humor, personal insights, passions, and sharing of everyday life. While I can understand wanting to keep some things private, I kinda feel you’ve shut us out completely. And that’s fine! But I think a lot of us feel like we can learn how to install a door from a youtube tutorial and there needs to be something above and beyond that to keep us engaged and connected to your blog. That’s what keeps us clicking. Just my 0.02. Hope everything is well and good with your beautiful family :)

    • Emily says

      I’ve been a reader forever, but now…I’m going to be completely honest. I’m a bit bitter that the two of you have done two posts this week – I don’t count the giveaway – and you survive on that. While staying home. All day.

      I teach, put in long hours, come home, and am finishing a bathroom remodel. If I can find time while working over forty hours a week, I would expect some more content from people who consider it their job.

      Normally I wouldn’t say anything, and god, I really loved you all, but really?

    • A says

      Kudos to you for asking for feedback.I know that’s not easy.

      Funny to read through everyone’s responses because while a lot sounds the same (most people prefer a small post to nothing) SO MUCH of what people are saying is contradictory. Some people want more DIY some want more family. Some want little decorating posts and some want full on knock-the-walls-down reno. Obviously pleasing everyone is impossible so I can hardly give you advice besides to say, all of these people commenting, with all of the different ideas and lives and opinions – well they’re here. You have somehow thus far appealed to all of them enough that they are back for more and invested enough to give you their opinion.

      In my opinion, I like some of the changes on your blog lately. Where some people miss the goofiness & rap quotes, I have personally enjoyed feeling your writing style and blog “grow up” a little bit. I am your age-ish and I have kind of grown up myself with the blog. I like that ikea is slowly giving way to quality furniture pieces, and your writing style (and photography skills!) are making a similar transition. I still feel like your personality comes through – just a growing version of it.

      I also appreciate seeing your kids less. Your kids are SO FREAKING CUTE (Teddy’s photo project is my fave thing right now) and I am a mom myself so I even like posts about baby gear, kid gifts, etc. But as a mom in the age of the internet, I have slowly been pulling myself back from posting SO MANY photos and stories (even though I just post to friends and family on facebook, not to the world at large like you guys). I am starting to collect photos just for our personal collection, and I am allowing my son to create memories that are his alone. It was hard to do at first but it feels more respectful to him and as I get used to it, like a breath of fresh air to me. Its hard to know where the line is and I respect each parent to draw it for themselves. But I actually love that you are giving your kids more breathing room to live their lives out of the public eye.

      Lastly, more of this! More conversations with your readers! That’s what I would like to see. I think one of the best things that has happened on your blog in a long time was the feedback you got about your laundry room, and then watching it unfold. (I love the laundry room posts by the way – I love the big renos!)

    • Jess says

      I think real-time posting got you where you are, but now it’s killing you. The twice-daily “Hey, look, it’s Sherry and John!” was cute in your 2008 posts. But you’re older, your lives are very different now, and the increased demands on your time for your family and other projects demands a more disciplined, organized approach than just “Whoops! No post today because we’re in real time and something got away from us.” I think it’s possible for the content to feel spontaneous and quirky without it necessitating that you post what you did within 24 hours of doing it. And I would wager that despite that some people like thinking of you as friends (and those people being the ones who likely comment a lot because they do think of you as friends), a sizeable portion of your readership doesn’t care whether the post is anywhere near in real-time. They just want to see quality content. Sherry, you can make some Christmas decorations this Saturday, write 300 words about them, and put the post up in December…none of us will know. And it will provide a delightful, sweet surprise when it comes.

      The content can be fresh without actually needing to have happened recently. And if you want, I’m sure your readers are brimming with ideas for things you could do. Sure, some will be crazy and impossible, others will be things you don’t want to share yet, but some will give you a grab bag of stuff to go to (and maybe even pre-write) for the days that life throws you a curveball.

    • Rachel says

      Ok, this is probably totally creepy and fan-girly, but I feel like I miss you guys since you’ve been posting less. I know it’s crazy when a new baby comes home (new(ish) mom here (side: when do you stop calling yourself a new mom, and become just a mom??)). And I know you have other awesome moneymakers in the background to pay your bills and keep food on the table, but it kinda feels like you don’t like blogging any more. Or at least you’d rather do the other things. YHL is far and away my favorite blog, and I always look forward to new posts. I think my hubby may be getting sick of me using “the YHL people did it this way” as a reason for doing home improvement projects! I love that the blog allows us (your readers and fans) to see your process, and also to get to know you. Will I ever meet you? Probably not. Do I love you less for it? Nope. Your blog has influenced my style and various other aspects of my home life in many ways that no book or show house or anything short of maybe a reality TV show could do. There’s a thought, YHL on TLC! Haha anyway, I’d rather see itty bitty posts every day that super detailed ones once a week. Thanks for writing such an awesome blog!

    • Shana says

      I’m a long term reader – since house one/the name change. I found the site by googling how to paint kitchen cabinets. I meant to come to your Toronto book signing event at the West Elm but I got stuck at work and was devastated. I loved that you were enviro (I still get freaked out thinking about BPA in receipts!) and used your tips for saving money to help us buy our first home!

      Where to begin – well I kind of agree with Luke – I used to read daily and now I can visit once a week and get an overview. The lack of posting since baby #2 kinda sucks. Especially since the fab freebie posts are only even open to Canadians/International readers about half the time – so I mostly just skim those to see if we can even enter at all and if not I move on. So really we only get three posts a week.

      However, I have to say I don’t want a bunch of filler posts either – like others I’ll agree I don’t need to see a half-arsed fall fiesta table scape (I’ll go to Martha Stewart for that). And I think I’m likely in the minority here but I really do not want to see more posts about the kids – if related to home design/decor/reno of their room fine – I’ll skim but the Clara Convos and things just aren’t my jam.

      But also I have to point out – this is both your full time jobs. I know there are side projects but I have friends and family who both work full time, run side businesses, blog and raise 2 kids. I have to wonder why you don’t get some help? Daycare outside the home for Clara, a nanny or heck even an intern for YHL – blogging is Dooce’s full time job and she has staff. There is no shame in it – you are successful business people – it’s time.

      Maybe it’s not you – maybe it’s me. Maybe we’ve grown apart. Maybe we started to go our separate ways when you guys had kids (they just aren’t of interest to me or in the plans for me and my husband) or maybe it was as we’ve aged and moved from rentals to first to forever homes and I started investing in and replacing my ikea crap for good quality well crafted pieces and you didn’t grow along with me. I’d be more interested in seeing you guys deal with the fact that we’re all getting older – and man it’s rough – but it’s also nice not to be eating off a wiggly Lack table anymore and to have the money to buy those nicer items for our homes that will last instead of disposable decor.

      Audiences shift and change – and they grow – brands can either adapt and grow along with their audiences or try and find new customers every few years as their customers turn over and age out. I’ve found at my work it’s much more cost effective to retain audience members than acquire new ones.

      Anyway long way to say maybe I need to find a new read?

    • Becky says

      J&S,
      I’ve been a dedicated reader for what seems like for ever (before the bathroom reno in your first home). YHL is my go-to website after a long day at work, so I’m always disappointed when there isn’t a post. However, I completely understand and relate to the need to cut back and try to get balance in your life. While I like the technical posts, I also really like the short ones as well. You have a gift of welcoming a reader into your world and making them feel like your best friend. I think a mixture of long and shorter posts help keep that feel.

      With that said, I think you’re reaching a challenging point in your career. You have a lot of experience in DIY and have been able to do more challenging projects than the average person. You’ve also documented that growth, so there are really only so many posts you can do on installing tile. Plus with the new book, you naturally have to save some of your projects (and therefore life) for the book that can’t be shared on the blog. Have you ever thought of working on projects that wouldn’t translate to print well? Or working with your publisher on things you can/can’t share on the new book. Even something like a Throwback Thursday post or what would you do differently now from a project completed in your early days would be interesting and something I would prefer over another giveaway. Good luck in whatever you decide to do!

    • Kim says

      John, Sherry – at some point in the future, you will come to the realization that you can’t make anyone happy. Do what makes you happy and what works for your family. You’ll be proud of yourselves in the end for doing so.

      I had a longer comment but don’t want to provoke an argument with YHL commenters/blog patrons.

    • Abbey says

      I love you guys and your blog. It is nice of you guys to ask us what we want and I think that is part of why people love the blog. It is your life and your business and I think you guys have been handling it excellenty so far. I think it is rude of people to compare their hectic lives to yours.

    • Morgan says

      Perhaps you could prioritize writing the posts in lieu of screening and replying to comments…that has got to be very time consuming. I like short posts on decorating shelving, attainable DIY crafts for people without power tools, and I advocate for fewer giveaways…those are only fun for those who win! Comments about not being able to post are not good either…we are all busy, so either you’re all in or not! Good luck!

    • Trish says

      I agree with Luke. John’s posts are very well written and informative but as a mom, I often want to do quick updates to my home that don’t involve construction. I miss Sherry’s posts about styling tables, her art projects, organization tips, etc. I feel as though we are missing a lot of what is actually going on in the Petersik household. I understand your need for privacy but what I enjoyed most about the blog was the over sharing. :) I felt like we actually got a glimpse into your lives and now the blog has become less personal. I still LOVE it, have read the entire blog from start to finish, own the book, and will continue to be a loyal follower, checking the blog at least twice a week.

    • Lucy says

      I just miss you guys, so selfishly, I say more posts! It makes my morning to check in and see what’s going on with my favorite bloggers. Totally get the scaling back with a new baby at home, so I would be fine with some of the stock posts you mention.

    • Jessaca says

      Please don’t do filler content. As a magazine editor, people can spot that a mile away. Plan ahead and do an editorial calendar that will ease the burden of busy weeks. I don’t think every piece of content needs to be in real time or necessarily adds any value! You guys have built yourselves a respectable business off this blog. You’re no longer amateurs as evidenced by a NYT best seller. If this was a brick and mortar business you’d have to show up everyday. I think it’s great you guys are trying it put family first, but also keep in mind that your readers are what helped you get your lifestyle and they’re a loyal bunch with big hearts! As for other readers suggestions on more posts about Clare and Teddy, I struggle with thinking that maybe we’ve given up our kids privacy with social and online media. I think it’s good to draw the line at details that they might not enjoy being out there when they’re older. My three year old hates when I take his picture and I try to respect that! Also because readers are curious doesn’t mean you have to give more information than you’re comfortable with! I hope you can find a good balance between your readership, business, and family. Sounds like it’s time for a new mission statement?

    • Isabel says

      This is why I love this blog so much, despite the fact that you spend so much time and effort to offer us a post like the one about rerouting the HVAC vents, you still ask for our opinion on the blog’s direction and read every single comment. I’m a fairly new reader (a year and a half or so) but I did go back and read through your archives and I have to agree with some that the tone of the blog shifted somewhere in between the second and current house, maybe because so much was starting to happen, book, Target line, show house, etc., and you were trying to find a balance. Frankly, being a 30-something like yourselves, I think age/experience/life is part of it too and I don’t see it as a bad thing. I personally really enjoyed the reader redesign posts, the mood boards, the craft posts, the “fashion show” type posts, the family/personal posts, the budgeting posts, etc…. So I would definitely be in favor of bringing back some if not all of those type of posts. I think too that in the past when you’ve done something big, like your previous kitchen redo, you seemed to strike a nice balance between one or two technical kitchen posts and some lighter ones in the same week, so that could explain what people are reacting to when they say the blog is “dull”. Seems from the comments that what most people favor is a mixed bag but I totally get that a project like the laundry room completely takes over and it’s hard to do much else. At the end of the day, I respect, and in a good way, envy what you do so will continue to take this journey with you :)

    • Helene says

      Hi, I love your blog! Do the posts however you want to! It’s your site and your work! For me, if you can’t post, you just can’t post. It might be good if you set a private schedule for posting between the two of you, then your readers won’t “expect” the post. Ie. if you told me you’d post every day at ten and you didn’t …maybe I’d secretly feel like you owed me or were slipping up! But if you never said a word about the secret schedule, I would just hope you did by the time I came back to peek. It would be like a gift if you did and just a bummer if you missed it… I guess it would feel better to be expectant than feel cheated out of a good post.

      As far as the recent content: (I don’t know that this was part of the question, but it seems to be in a lot of the answers)

      I have been following since your first home, and while I admit you’re covering topics beyond what I can do presently, I still think it’s great! So what if the blog changes? I’m still seeing things I haven’t seen and didn’t know before and the detail you put into sharing your work is laudable. You’re getting more advanced and tackling big new things. If you move away from the blog and onto serial book writers, then good for you! If you stay with the blog until you’re both in your nineties, great for us. Maybe some people won’t immediately buy whatever you put in a new book bc they don’t like the content lately, but someone else will because they do. Keep up the great work as long as you love doing it! Thank you for all your time!

    • Maddy says

      Luke, thank you for saying what I have been feeling. I too have been checking in less and less ever since the “taking a step back” post. I thought it was natural to slow down and a simple explanation would do, but the tone of that post was very off putting, and almost defensive. Maybe it was burnout on your part, but with people struggling with serious job issues, the whole “we didn’t ask for or want this” was a cringe moment. Since then the content has slipped. I really enjoy the small posts, and the design posts, and would like to see more of them. I am glad you guys are brave enough to ask for constructive input, and as a long time reader, I hope some of the old favorite series, like reader redesigns, come back.

    • Louisa T. says

      Wow, so are you two feeling like you opened a can of worms about now? So many opinions (and now you know exactly how many different ways “long time reader” can be described!). Anywho, yes, your posts have changed. BUT, so have your lives. You guys have basically redone my entire house. I have now run out of house to redo. So, I find my needs have changed. What you guys have to figure out is what works for YOU. As previously stated you cannot please all of the people all of the time. This is YOUR blog, so YOU get to decide the how and when and where. My DH is in advertising and one of the most challenging parts of the job is trying to stay relevant in this ever-changing innerweb. Instagram and Facebook and all of the other “in the moment” social media makes the art of blogging much more difficult. We, as readers, have to accept that just as your children are growing and changing, so are you two as people. I will continue to read whatever y’all put out because I just plain like how you write and the wit that you put into it (and, yes, John, you have a sly little sense of humor just as much as Sherry). The only advice this 50 yo can give is stay true to yourselves. Don’t turn yourselves inside out just because someone else thinks you should. If you want to change the blog, do it. If you don’t, then don’t. That in and of itself is the true benefit of being your own boss!

    • Jennifer says

      Longtime daily reader here too, and I agree with so much that was said here: the spark is gone, the blog seems like an obligation for you instead of something you want to do (which makes me feel resented as a reader), and honestly it seems to be taking the backseat to all of your other projects, which in my view aren’t as important as the blog. I preordered your first book and went to two of the book signings in my state, but I only got halfway through the book and now it is collecting dust on a shelf (and not because it’s bad, it’s just not the reason I’m interested in yhl). Was excited for you guys with the Shades of Light line, but never did more than browse through when it came out. When your Target line came out, I was honestly so put off by the change of tone in the blog that I made a conscious decision not to buy anything, despite walking by it dozens of times (love me some Target!) But in all of this, I’ve still checked the blog daily. I keep hoping that we will make it over the hump and I’ll see the fun, friendly John and Sherry I adored, rather than more hollow, burnt out posts about how things are so busy and no time for the blog today. I wish you’d scale back on “secret projects” and focus on the blog again–the blog, after all is the reason we care and the reason we will (hopefully) continue to care. I would definitely rather see short posts (prepared ahead of time and stockpiled) rather than a “no post today” update, which just contributes to the burnt out tone so many have mentioned and makes me feel resentful (wish my husband and I could decide to do that on a whim with our jobs just because life is busy in other areas!)

    • Kelley says

      I love the direction the posts have gone; having followed since House 1, I think you guys rock it every time and I’m appreciative of the content, aesthetic, sincerity and goofiness. This sentiment isn’t original, but I think the posts are reflective of where you are in your lives (in both your home life and house life) which feels more authentic. My preference would be for substantive posts with great pictures and anecdotes from whatever your latest project is in the house even if my [sometimes irrational] need for instant gratification can’t be met. In essence, I like leaving with a little more knowledge on anything from a gentle reminder to be mindful of flooring transitions at the doorway to arranging the collage wall to managing hungry kiddos in the middle of a project.
      I still check in frequently during the week (to review new and old content) and appreciate the giveaways. We may not all be in the same phases of home and house life which can make it difficult to appreciate all of the posts, but I follow because I like the information and the personality. Thanks for that!

    • Todd says

      I guess my struggle stands in that fact that unlike most bloggers which is a hobby this is a job and if I told my boss I wanted to scale back for projects that many other bloggers (with babies) are able to knock out on the weekend it seems like you’re following down the path of dishonesty and lack of concern. My wife and I used to be dedicated readers but we haven’t been able to find the same excitement. I appreciate the detailed posts but some are redundant and can be covered in much less than what is currently being broken up into several posts.

    • Kate says

      Holy crud, am I missing something? It’s a free blog, people. If you don’t like it, move on. I can’t see the sense in complaining about something you’re not paying for.

      John and Sherry, from what you can see, you are not going to please everyone all the time. You do you. It’s been working very well for a long time and I think it’s clear to most of us who don’t live and die by whether you post or not (probably the majority) that you have other things going on and that your business is shifting in focus. Maybe some won’t agree, but you’re the ones you have to sleep with your decisions at night.

      I’m personally just thankful that you’ve provided so many years of (free!!!) entertainment to us readers. That’s been very wonderful of you. But I don’t grudge you your success and the shift in priorities or focus. Best of luck with all of this. I will continue to just happily read what you post, when you post it.

      And honestly. To the few of you who complained that they’re obviously not working enough and just sitting around all day…grow up. If you can’t pay attention to this blog long enough to realize YHL is a HIGHLY diversified small business, then please keep your ignorant talk off the comments.

    • Stacey says

      Hi John & Sherry. Since you asked for feedback this is the first time I’m commenting in months. . . I think it’s fantastic that you are reaping the rewards of your hard work over the past 7(?) years. You completely deserve to be able to scale back and enjoy your children and success. However, I have felt (and this is going to sound completely over-dramatic and self-involved) that you are neglecting your ‘roots’. Since I live in South Africa,giveaway posts are often non-posts for me – so I’m getting by on a +/- 3 post per week YHL addiction! I would far rather see a filler post/reader redesign/before and after than a red text update. For example; http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2014/09/quick-tip-labeled-butterfly-clip.html – a quick post with a pretty picture to enjoy while I drink my morning coffee. Of course, you cannot keep everyone happy – this blog has always been your space. Thank you for asking for your readers’ opinions while you try to find a new balance with Teddy in the mix. Lots of love to all of you.

    • Jen says

      I kind of feel like you guys can’t win for trying. Wasn’t it your readers who urged you to take on more of the hardcore DIY for the laundry room yourselves because they wanted to see more growth in your skills/posts? And I know I’ve read complaints in the past about the short “filler” content. As for all of those people telling you how they know people who work full time outside of the home, run side businesses, blog, raise kids, walk on water, whatever – please don’t take those comments to heart. Unfortunately we live in a culture where exhaustion is a badge of honor, and nothing is ever enough because there’s always someone doing more. You are entitled to have different values.

      I agree with those who have said that you can’t please everyone, and ultimately you have to do what you think is best for you. I certainly can’t tell you what the appropriate balance is between blogging (the anchor of your “brand”), side projects (diversifying is probably a necessary thing to do at this stage of your careers), and your family. I don’t know if you’ve made a conscious decision to share less of your family life on the blog for privacy (or other) reasons, or if the reduced posting schedule just means less space for that kind of stuff when there is a hardcore diy project going on. Maybe a reduced focus on the real time posting, as someone else suggested, is a good idea. Keep plugging away at the laundry room, but don’t feel bad about breaking up those posts with some smaller posts, even if that means the last laundry room post goes up well after it was actually completed?

      Anyways, sorry for the rambling comment, and good luck with sorting through all of this feedback.

    • Jackie says

      I like the DIY posts, and John’s detailed explanations. And of course, who doesn’t like the chance at winning a giveaway? I’m also glad to see that your blog is no longer the Clara show, because although people want to feel like she’s this cute kid we “know”, with the internet that’s just not safe.

      I would like to see more house crashing (maybe even of a variety of styles) and more short posts., while still including the DIY. In other words, a mix of things would be ideal.

      No ones ever going to like everything all of the time (or ever really) so you’ll drive yourself crazy if you aim for that. But let the things you love shine.

    • Ariane says

      We’ve been spoiled with great content at the end of house #2 and the slow down may have been a little frustrating for some of your readers.
      The balance between family/blog/reno and other stuff must be hard but since you’ve grown this blog in such a professional way, it may appear unprofessional to some people that you don’t post every day or so.
      I’ve always assumed that the fact you were posting less was not because of a lack of content but because of a lack of time to answer comments afterwards. Maybe you should imagine smaller posts where you close the comment section ? I know you like the interaction with readers but it could be a teaser for a bigger post where you’d be able to answer reader questions.
      Good luck with every thing !

    • Hannah says

      I barely check in to the blog now. I feel it’s become more about you sharing the kids lives (something I personally don’t agree with) than about renovating and DIY. You really don’t seem to feel the love for this house that you did for your first house and I feel like your projects are not of the calibre I would expect for a couple on their third home. I am a single parent to a baby and I am amazed at your constant references to now hard it is to get things done, despite the fact you’ve not got jobs outside the home, have two sets of hands to handle the kids and have Clara in kindy. This site is your job, and you are so incredibly privileged to devote quite little time to it (compared to the hours most parents work to support their families) and be able to live the life you do. Yes, I am envious, I don’t deny it. Perhaps if you spent less time monitoring comments, you’d have more time to write another post per week. Perhaps you could come up with a new angle to discussing diy. Maybe you should think about hiring an intern/assistant? It’s also getting annoying how long you stretch out projects on the blog. It feels like you’ve been renovating the laundry forever! I would rather a planning post, a progress post and a finished product post.

      I realise I’m rambling and quite incoherent but I guess my point is that as someone who has followed your blog for a long time, I feel like these days you are phoning it in somewhat and trying to stretch out projects for as long as possible rather than actively trying to come up with original content.

    • TJ says

      Hi Sherry and John,

      I am a long time reader and have been with you from almost the very beginning.

      Seeing as you asked for some feedback, here is mine…

      Firstly, I am appreciative for anything you post – I know you make money from blogging, but I still feel that it is so generous that you are willing to take the time and effort to do it. My husband and I do a lot of DIY so I know how long it takes, let alone having to stop to take photos, then write up such detailed posts, edit etc. so THANK YOU!

      I also understand how challenging it must be for you to fit everything in with a growing family, work commitments outside of the blog (book etc.), normal life etc., so when you said you were scaling back posts I was sad (and I still get the twinge of sadness when I stupidly still log on every Friday), but I get it – this is your own business, you have to get the balance right. You don’t want to end up not being good parents to Clara and Teddy or being so busy you end up hating it.

      With regards to the types of posts you are never going to make everyone happy, when I was renovating my house your super detailed posts were a godsend, now that I am renting obviously I have less interest in how to build a door jamb and more in design and decor. I don’t have kids so can’t always relate to the family posts, but I also enjoy reading them, it helps me to feel that you guys are real. I haven’t read every post here, but the ones I did all said something different and the reality is that you can’t cater to everyone.

      If I could have my pick, I would say during the week I would love to see 1 give away (international please ;o)), 1 reader redesign, 1 update on how you are going on a big project (with the technical break down) and two small posts. The two small posts could be some of the things others have posted, window shopping, a quick update, changing artwork around, doing the table/mantle set ups for different seasons, posts about how you save, posts about the products you use etc. I know that this is still a lot of work for you, but I think for window shopping in one day you could go to 3-5 shops and instead of giving it to us all in one post break it down into 3-5 posts etc. I also think there is nothing wrong with either having readers submit some things for inclusion in your small posts section – you could have it as a free-for-all where people send in their small updates and you turn them into posts or select a small team of like-minded readers to volunteer to write 1 post per month about updates they are doing. If you had 4-5 people it wouldn’t be a big time commitment on their behalf, but you would have some more content and it almost ready to post.

      Anyway, I hope this helps and I LOVE how you are so open to receiving feedback.

      No matter what you do I’m sure I will always be a loyal reader, so find what is right for you and your family first and foremost.

    • Nicole says

      I don’t think any of your readers would criticize the content of your laundry room posts, their detail is amazing and it’s clear that they must take a LOT of your time and effort to write. But yes, for me one post in a whole week does seem too little.

      I miss hearing about the small things that make you happy to be in your home. Sometimes it’s nice to hear, not about plans for the future or complex multi-step projects, but the little things that you’re enjoying right now. For example, the way the light falls in a particular room, or the pleasure of knowing your garden is thriving – such simple things take no planning and require little in the way of effort (maybe one photo?), but would be lovely to hear about. They might even be more enjoyable for you to write about. I’d even love a photo of your office, totally messy and chaotic, accompanied by just one paragraph of whatever’s on your mind!

      This is obviously a time of transition for you, and that means trying things out and seeing how well they work – so, good luck! I’ll still check in on you every day, no matter how often you’re able to post. Thanks for giving so much of yourselves to your readers all these years.

    • Ely B. says

      I like the DIY/Tech heavy posts but I do miss more posts. I miss checking in and seeing small projects or reader submits… honestly I only check every 2 weeks or so now so that theres actually something to read.

      And I agree the posts seem rushed lately. Makes me sad since this is one of the few blogs I actually read, heck even my kid likes to look with me. (She loves seeing Clara and Burger )

      Ah well I will still come and read, but I check less and less often now.

    • Brandy says

      I really appreciate that y’all provide all of this engaging content for free so I normally try to keep any negative opinions I have to myself, but since you asked for feedback –

      I love that you’ve scaled back how much of Clara and Teddy’s lives you share. I don’t have children of my own (so take anything I write here with a grain of salt, of course) but I’m sure it’s difficult to strike a balance between wanting to share every beautiful moment of their lives (especially with Instagram and Facebook making it so easy to quickly share) and trying to confine their “internet presence” to a level they’ll be comfortable with as they grow older and more aware of the significance. I have friends with children who share MUCH more than y’all did, but they also only have friends/family seeing those posts and not thousands of people daily. Don’t get me wrong – your children are adorable! I’ve been reading since before Clara was born so, in a way, I feel like I “know” them in the same (hopefully un-creepy) way that I “know” you guys. You have both always come across as fabulous, doting parents, but I am truly glad to see that it seems like you are giving more consideration to their privacy lately.

      As for the content – I’m on team big posts. I prefer to see the meatier stuff (maybe peppered with a few “filler” posts here and there) rather than things that seem obviously just meant to take up space on a slower week. Reader redesigns and budget blooms (just examples, not these types of posts specifically) can be fun in small doses for me, but when they become half the content every week I’d rather have y’all save the time you spend on them and use it working on more interesting things.

      That being said, like I already mentioned I’m just grateful for what we get so I’m not complaining either way! Do what works for your family! Thanks for everything!

      – B

    • Becky says

      I’d love to read more about things that used to be on the family blog, short little posts about things you did around town, Clara convo’s etc. I miss those!

    • T says

      My personal preferences/thoughts:
      – Short posts win over no posts
      – Short posts don’t have to be “filler” — they can just be something valuable that is shorter! I feel like a barometer for this is whether you think it’s valuable at all or not
      – Life posts are just as interesting as house renovation/ update posts
      – Giveaway posts always feel like a little bit of a letdown to me (“Oh, a new post!… wait, not really…”)
      – Thanks for writing! I agree with a lot of other commenters that your “voice” and learning about the thoughtful choices you make in living your lives and running your household are what make your blog. :)

    • Mallory says

      I have to agree with Luke, I have been a reader since you moved into H2, went back and read all the archives and have kept up with this blog for the past few years.
      I would love to see Reader ReDesigns, simply because while I don’t always find someone else’s style to be MY style, I still find inspiration. I’d actually like to recommend something that I haven’t seen recommended in these other comments. Have you ever read/visited the site http://www.iheartorgainzing.blogspot.com? It’s semi-decor and DIY but mostly geared towards organizing a home. What I most like about this website though: Jen, the blogger, has both regular fellow blogger contributors each week, as well as accepting reader submissions. This allows her to have a full and thriving site with lots of diversified content, while letting her own produced content be thoughtful and useful for her family.
      I had hoped that when you wrote of stepping back after having Teddy, this would be a direction you would go towards. It would require you to format the posts, yes, but the contributors do the photos and the writing while the readers get to see new styles, ideas and inspiration.
      Think about it. I believe it could be well received by both your readership and current or potential sponsors.

    • Annie says

      I’ve been reading since before you got pregnant with Clara.

      I’m surprised that despite living off the proceeds of your blog you decided to ramp it down. I know you only admitted to that recently, but it started when you started your first book. I’m surprised that books will bring in more income than the ads on a successful blog did.

      I read a lot of blogs. Everyone else but you has lots of pictures (I assume they have an assistant who manages links, organises giveaways and edits pics), everyone else but you has figured out was to keep content flowing once they run out of posts featuring buckets of lathe. Centsational Girl and I Heart Organising are two that spring to mind. If it takes five hours to prepare a reader redesign why not pay someone $100 to get it web-ready for you? Then you spend an hour writing comments which they edit and post. Your brand is you doing things and your writing. It’s not your dab hand with html or photoshop.

      It seems everyone like diffferent content, so why not have more sontent, and more random so that we still need to click (I don’t click on giveaway days, but if I didn’t know it would be a giveaway I’d have to click). I must admit I don’t often click any more at all.

      Also, as my own knowledge and skill base as grown it’s become apparent that your advice is often bad. To me this is inexcusable. We both have internet access, why am I getting better and finding things out, but you’re not? I can’t even write up the results of my research on mudding to earn money off it (the ends of full boards are intentionally tapered to allow room for tape and mud and still result in a flat wall, they’re not ‘often tapered’). And when someone points something out in the comments, you’re very defensive. When Daniel from Manhattan Nest mistakenly used GFCI receptacles on every outlet in his kitchen he was adorably sheepish about it

    • Keegan R says

      I’m with Luke on this. I loved the variety of posts that you had in the past. There was always something new and interesting, big stuff mixed with little stuff, DIY mixed with family life, but I have found that your blog has become a bit stale lately. Reading your blog was the highlight of my afternoon after coming home from work and I always read it last out of all the blogs I read (savour the best for last). That’s not the case now. You only post four days a week, which is completely understandable and wonderful with a new baby, but one of those posts is a giveaway and being an Australian reader means it’s often not applicable for me. I understand this week has been busy for a variety of reasons with book stuff and your public holiday (again, not applicable for me as Australian) and since you don’t post on Fridays, the only thing we have to read is how to hang a door. I get that this is your blog, your job, your life, but I still am disappointed just because I loved you and all your wonderful posts so much! Maybe Fridays could be Teddy’s photo update? (by the way, Teddy was born on my birthdate which was ridiculously exciting). I want the reader redesigns, little updates on rearranging shelves, family life, Burger related things… I don’t care how little or big, everything is an inspiration to me and if some people don’t like the little updates then they don’t have to read it. I only quickly skimmed the other comments but it does seem that most of your readers want all your other posts back. I do hope you guys bring back a little of your old school selves because that is what made me stick around for years on your blog like no other blog has!

    • Amanda B. says

      No time to read all the prior comments but I’ll add my two cents anyway. I like the smaller posts! If “Reader Redesign” is a weekly feature it won’t feel (to me) like “filler.” I think of it this way… What’s the unique thing about you that your readers love? Are you the only people who know how to install tile or refinish a deck? (no) To me, it’s your voice, your humor and your eye for design that keep me reading. I get those things from the smaller posts, so I like them. :)

    • Anele @ Success Along the Weigh says

      First off, I totally support your decisions to cut back and dedicate more time to your kids. I’ve gotten used to no Friday posts and I think with as hard as you guys work, you deserve the day off.

      I appreciate the giveaways though I admit there can be a little disappointment when I see them because I don’t enter them. But that’s me. I’m one person vs. a plethora of readers. I guess you have to look at your numbers for giveaway days to see if participation vs. normal days are worth doing weekly. (I think they’re weekly, or they’ve gotten more ‘plentiful’ lately!) :-)

      I like seeing the big projects as of late because it allows me to dream big but I admit I do miss the smaller stuff as well. And Burger…and Clara…and Teddy. I would say I’d like to see a balance of DIY and life but I’d probably not like if it became completely kid centric because it seems like 70% of the bloggers I read became pregnant and then their blogs became all about the babies. Not that there is anything wrong with that but if that wasn’t the main focus then readers are bound to be lost.

      You guys balance a lot. I don’t envy it especially since I get overwhelmed, have no kids (or even a dog) and I get overwhelmed…and my blog is teeny tiny! LOL I say go with your heart. Produce the kind of blog you would want to read if you had the time to peruse and people will stay or go and for the ones that go, new readers have yet to discover you so they could fill in. I think if you are *able* to stockpile some little posts that are too small for books but still under a DIY/craft/life umbrella, you can give yourselves a break when you know big weeks like this come up. Either way? Team YHL!!

    • SarahC says

      John and Sherry –

      I have also been reading since your first house and have enjoyed the journey. You have always done an awesome job of mixing house/DIY with family/personal writing in a way that is open, honest and fun. Thank you for opening up for feedback!

      I 100% support you putting family first and striving to simplify life. That said, I do feel like the shift was more significant than readers expected. You mentioned in the post you wrote about slowing down that you wanted to go back to how things were earlier in blogging – simpler life and more fun. Yet the way I remember your blog then was with a pretty even mix of long, technical posts, short “fun” posts (personal artwork with keys, table setting, organizing a drawer), and family posts. I personally love and miss that mix.

      I think that most people understand, but when posting is really only 3 times max a week (plus a giveaway), people start to feel less connected. Maybe you have felt like you need to post “big” or not at all (maybe due to your evolution with the book and other projects) or maybe it is because you are taking on big projects right now. But, if possible, I think mixing in quick and personal posts would go a long way in re-connecting with your readers.

    • Grace says

      I’ve also noticed a major shift in the blog (I started reading right after you bought house #2), and it’s hard to put into words, but your heart doesn’t really seem in it any more? The spark, passion, whatever you want to call it, just seems to be gone.

      And I have to agree with other commenters, I would have a lot more sympathy for you all if this wasn’t your full time job, for both of you. If it was a personal blog, or heck, even a side thing, I would completely understand; priorities change over the years. But this blog is literally your main source of income, and if I started slacking off and seriously decreasing my workload, my boss would fire me. You can’t have it both ways; this isn’t just a little DYI diary, it’s a business that supports an entire family (and apparently is supports you very well!). I grew up with both of my parents being self-employed and owning their own business, and I saw first hand how much passion, hard work and discipline were needed to run a small business and support our family. I would love to see some of that – passion, hard work, and discipline – back in the blog. These days it seems like you’re just phoning it in. And yes, I could just “move along” and find another blog I like, but I am your customer. If enough customers are dissatisfied, you may be losing your main source of income for your family.

    • Chase says

      Love this website, check it when I can- sometimes multiple times a week, sometimes I skip a week. If I have “lighter” and “heavier” weeks, I don’t see why you can’t too. I am totally okay with you skipping days if that’s what you want/need to do.
      However, I do also like those mini-posts (sometimes it’s just because I’m bored at work, so even a short blog post fills the time). So I’d be totally happy with a post even if it’s a quick one…but I’m also not sad/mad/frustrated/annoyed if there’s not a post. I’m fascinated by DIY stuff (your blog, HGTV, etc.), but I don’t do much of it myself, so sometimes I feel like the shorter/simpler ones apply more to me.
      Takeaway message: I love the blog! Do what feels right to you! Shorter, simpler ones are fun! Long, technical ones are interesting! It’s all good.

    • Jill K. says

      I’ve been following this blog for about 2 years and it’s definitely my favorite. I try to check it every weekday morning, first thing when I get to work. I’m definitely all for more blogs, even if they’re small, but something is better than nothing in my opinion. But I totally get the busy life you guys must have, so I’m not angry or upset if you don’t post. It’s YOUR life and YOUR blog. We just enjoy getting a sneak peak at your DIY madness! Speaking of which, I personally love the more in-depth technical DIY stuff because I’m learning from you guys. My husband and I are doing major DIY tasks in our own place, so the tutorials are amazingly helpful. That said the smaller projects and mini posts are fun too. Oh, and I like the giveaways because I wont a grill from you guys!! Wooohoo! She’s a beaut! Here’s the link to that post from Saber: http://betterbarbecueblog.com/younghouselove-com-winner-of-saber-ss-500-a-story-of-perfect-timing/ Thanks again!

    • Paige says

      Hi John & Sherry!

      Been a fan since you were in your first house…I’ve loved seeing your family grow, and it’s been fun to go on this house journey with you both.

      As a freelancer/entrepreneur myself, I have to applaud you for shifting priorities and decreasing the posting to focus more on Clara & Teddy.

      I also know the pressure of not having a consistent pay check (even though it’s a trade off with having so much flexibility!) – so I know you guys are always looking to diversify your income (book deals, etc) and you gotta do what you gotta do!

      I don’t fully agree with Luke, but I do miss some of the older, more frequent posts – I like some small stuff mixed in with your larger projects. It has felt more a bit more “dull” lately because the Show House went for so long which I personally didn’t really tune into, and I do feel like you guys used to break up the larger projects with smaller posts a bit better – but also, I know this blog follows your life in real time and right now you have a newborn and you already expressed the decrease in number of posts, so I was definitely expecting this. I would personally like to see a fun give-a-way maybe once a month and have another design post on the other Mondays (I love the reader redesigns!).

      With that said, I can’t imagine having the pressure of tens of thousands of people’s opinions on my mind when choosing how to run “my” blog – I think you guys handle it with such grace and ease – or at least it seems that way on my end, haha ;-).

      Thanks for being so engaged with your readers – it’s one of the reasons I love your blog so much compared to the other hundred DIY home blogs out there!

    • Danielle says

      Just want to preface this with, I love you guys and this blog! I understand why you have stepped back! But I just wanted to chime in and say that I would love to see some smaller content peppered in with the bigger (ex: door hanging) stuff. Unless a reader is currently going through that exact situation much of the super technical stuff is boring for a lot of us.

      That being said, I still check in here daily. :)

    • Alicia says

      Oh, and by the way, I love it when you guys debate a dilemma and share about it on the blog. It’s really interesting and helpful to see your thought process.

    • Kelli says

      First off, like most other readers, I’m so glad that your family is your first priority. Personally, I’d prefer small update posts (like rearranging a tablescape here and a photo wall there), reader redesigns, house crashings, or organization tips to all the giveaways. I still appreciate the little technical posts (the guide you made for routing out the spot for hinges on your doors was something I wouldn’t have thought of on my own but will definitely remember for next time). I also love hearing about how you manage to get things done with two littles, along with other little personal tidbits. Thanks for asking!

    • Lisa P. says

      I think what most people are saying is that “we love you and we miss you” when you don’t post. Regardless of what you decide, I will always read your blog.

    • Stephanie says

      John and Sherry –

      A few of my thoughts –

      I have always loved the mix of posts you’ve had on the blog and have enjoyed the construction heavy posts as of late. As others have said projects reflect what’s going on in your daily lives and at time they may be more hanging doors etc. while others more decorating.

      I do love the reader redesigns and think their a fun stand alone post and are great for when you may not have time for a more in-depth post.

      You have always done the weekly giveaway and those are nice as well that you are able to line those up for us.

      Finally as to the number of posts. You had given us notice that your number of posts would be decreasing and honestly I check the blog almost daily and have not missed the extra content. We all have busy weeks and I wouldn’t stress if your posting slightly less here and there.

      Keep up the good work!!

    • Nat says

      I think a good balance of both techincal mixed with decor, house crashing, shopping posts is why I started reading this blog to begin with. I love seeing what you picked to decorate your home (whether it be for a bookcase or for the flooring) and you guys are a huge inspriation for me and so many others. I’d say if you feel like your on the right track then keep it there. But, if you have more fun writing shorter less techincal posts (I’m guessing this is Sheri’s forte while John loves the techincal) then go for it! Maybe have a goal of doing one of each a week? The truth of the matter is it’s your blog & your passion. Just go with what feels right! Readers will feel your young house love if you love what your doing! :)

    • haverwench says

      “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)?”

      I would be happy to see more short posts of this type, especially the Reader Redesigns. I wouldn’t mind seeing that become a regular weekly feature. I’m a fan of YHL because I like seeing rooms transformed in interesting ways, but I don’t mind in the least if those rooms are in other people’s houses rather than yours. (Besides, I submitted my own bathroom as a Reader Redesign and it was never featured, so maybe if you start working your way through your backlog I still have a chance. :-) )

      But the quickie updates are also interesting. I’d much rather see “Look, we decided to move this one picture from the hall to the living room” or “Blue or green curtains for the office, what do you think?” than “Look, it’s yet another chance to win $500 worth of overpriced and impractical goodies.”

    • Larissa says

      Long time follower, every day checker. I miss the smaller posts too! Like the Dude, Get On That stuff and the life posts. Those smaller, easier posts inspired me to do things around my house. I’m not much of a DIYer, much to my dismay, so I really appreciate the little, creative things you do that spark creativity in me. All that being said, I love that you’re spending family time together and not trying to do it all. Everything you were doing leading up to Teddy’s birth was stressful!

      Love you guys!

    • Kristin says

      J&S, I personally love every part of your blog! I check it daily in hopes that something new will pop up, whatever it may be. I do love your simple posts, not as intensive, since I am not very handy. Something simple, even a readers resign can be inspiring to me to just try something on my own. You are really the only blog I read, and I have been hooked for years. So anything you are willing/wanting to give, I will read! Love it all!

    • Meredith says

      Have been a reader since the pre-Clara days (!). I MISS the little posts. I understand the scaling back with two kids and support that, but I now really consider this a M/T & Th blog. (I know the giveaways are work for you guys, and I read them, but it’s not a “post” to me.) I would LOVE on busy days or on Fridays (please! I miss Friday content!!!) if you posted some lighter fare—Clara conversations, Reader Redesigns, House Crashing, whatever. I was reading when you did 10 posts a week (including a giveaway winner post and a burning question post), and I don’t need that level again, but 5 days a week with 1 giveaway and 1 or 2 “lighter fare” posts would be a happy mix in my opinion.

    • Emily says

      I agree. As someone who has enjoyed your blog for years, what has kept me coming back is that you guys are able to tell your story through your point of view. The tutorials are very helpful (and I’ve banked a lot of them for future use), but what makes your blog so fun is that you let your readers get to know you on a more personal level. You share your personal experiences and what they’ve taught you. Your candid honesty is the heart of what keeps your blog fresh and interesting, even if it’s just about a shopping trip to IKEA, or a project that you had to re-evaluate once it didn’t go as planned. Don’t be afraid to be honest, especially with some of the little things in life. I’m sure not all of us have the time or energy to move at the pace that you do with larger house renovations (I know I don’t!) – but something like organizing a closet, reviewing a great toy, or telling us how you’re learning to juggle the chaos of two kids can be just as great of inspiration. Keep on keepin’ on, but remember, we all love your blog because of YOU.

    • Jessica says

      Love y’all…. love your blog. Just be YOU! One of the things that I like so much about you is that I feel like you’re my friend (that’s creepy, I know). I so enjoy the little peeks into your lives and personalities. That being said, I really enjoy the technical posts too. Go for a good mix :)

    • Liz says

      I feel like regular posting is what made you stand out from other blogs – at least it used to. Not every post needs to be a full room makeover but the smaller, informational posts are always welcomed. It has been feeling like the blog is an after-thought these days and even the DIY feels “unloved”. I understand you have multiple projects going on but so do the majority of your readers (ahem, working out of the home for over 40 hours a week, juggling childcare, personal projects, etc.) while still meeting commitments.
      If the blog is no longer a priority, I think that’s perfectly fine but I feel that (and I’ve heard the same from friends who are YHL fans) that you’re keeping the blog up out of necessity/habit and not out of love.

    • Laura C says

      Personally, I’m OK with fewer posts. While the posts have been less frequent, I feel they’ve been pretty consistently “juicy” (excluding the giveaways). Some of my favorite blogs (like Manhattan Nest) only have 1-2 posts a week. I understand that bloggers have lives away from the computer screen and that doing the projects then writing and editing posts takes time. I prefer fewer, quality posts over lots of little lifestyle posts, but that’s a personal preference. I skip right over things like painting pots, styling tables and arranging photos on a wall and I hold out for more major renovation posts, but I know others like that kind of “light” stuff. Ultimately, I think all bloggers have to decide what their priorities are as far as what kind-of readers they’re trying to attract and then accept that it’s OK if their choices don’t suit everyone.

    • Stefanie says

      Extremely long time reader here (house #1 before Clara’s nursery) and I agree with a lot of what everyone here is saying.

      I visit the blog daily and while I certainly miss the days of 2 posts a day I really applaud and appreciate the scaling back to spend more time enjoying life and your family. With that said I miss seeing the small posts about nothing. The posts about family outings and Nona visits..etc. The “family blog” was my favorite section because it let us get a glimpse of you’re real lives and gave us a chance to relate on a personal level. Stockpiling a bunch of these small posts to put up when you’re having a busy day or making Friday posts “Family Friday” would be wonderful! I feel like we had so many Clara updates and we don’t know a thing about Teddy! Not that we’re entitled to, but I do miss the feel of those posts. I love a good giveaway but every week gets boring.

      I know your family is busy right now and juggling it all with two kids this time around is probably a lot more time consuming. I just think you guys should know that a quick family update or a fun post about “nothing” would be fine with us. =)

    • Jill says

      Some others have touched on this pt & I’ll add my 2cts – the blog is not a hobby for you, it’s your job. In fact, it’s your main job, bec w/out the readership, you won’t sell books or stuff at target or get asked to do showhouses. So really, the blog should always come first in your job priorities.

      Keeping that in mind, I think frequency is important.

      Also, making time for family is something everyone has to do. You won’t get tons of understanding on that regard. As nice as this community is, readers are ultimately customers not friends. Harsh but true.

    • Cait says

      I’m going to agree with the filler over nothing comments. I do come here everyday (I actually often watch my clock and say YAY! it’s time for YHL) but since I just had a baby three months ago I get that sometimes life jumps up an bites you. My hubby and I are renovating a house we just bought so these super technical posts are definitely helpful *but* I do miss the “smaller” posts. Actually having a new baby in a new house I would LOVE to see some “smaller” posts about living and decorating with a new baby! One of my favorite posts ever was where you detailed Clara’s toy library! I want to do that and would love to see more tips on how to live in a beautiful space that isn’t completely taken over by kids. I suck at organizing so things like that are my savior!

      So I guess if you can have some stockpiled “quick tips” kind of posts I would really appreciate it! But if it’s going to be a hardship then take care of you first and I’ll be around when you come back (I think you do really appreciate your readers and wouldn’t just peace out for great lengths of time for no reason)

    • Megan says

      Hi guys! You definitely will never please anyone, so I hope you are just smiling at how much people love you and your blog enough to “complain” when they don’t see you enough!! That’s pretty amazing. To expect this to be 100% the same format all the time isn’t really fair because life isn’t 100% the same all the time. Sometimes you’ll have more technical posts w/ more technical projects, and sometimes you’ll have smaller projects while bigger things are in the works. I don’t think giveaways once a week are bad, and they’re always super easy to enter with really amazing prizes!!! I disagree that you’re moving on to “greener pastures” and actually think you seem so grounded and grateful and are always thanking your readers and even included us in the next book with in infographic questions. Love you guys, don’t get too bogged down because clearly whatever you have been doing and are doing and will do works!!! God bless!

    • Berry says

      OMG I am looking at all of these long responses and thinking of how long it would take to read through all of them–but I think you guys are awesome for asking for feedback and considering what most of us are most excited about.

      I do miss the small things, especially Clara Conversations even though I see some on your IG (I also like Budget Blooms and a lot of the other smaller stuff). I too think of you guys as “friends” and so it’s fun to see any updates big or small–I was pretty bummed about the single blog post this week. I guess I appreciate that you guys set up the giveaways, but since you have such a large following and only one of us can win they are not very exciting for me.

      I know you’re getting a lot of different feedback, so thanks for working to find the perfect balance for a lot of people that are super-psyched to hear from you every week no matter how often.

    • Katie W says

      I’d love random little posts when you can’t do more! The Laundry Room creation has been really interesting, but not relevant to me… I do have that filed away in my brain, however, for if I ever need to install a door/tile a floor/hang cupboards in the future. But for now, I love reader redesigns or little projects here and there. I love your first book and am looking forward to the second. I understand that lots of smaller things go into the book instead, but I miss some of those on here!

    • Rosie S says

      I think that some people will love your blog no matter what, and some will always try to find issues. I, personally, would love to see ANY kind of post from you guys….long, short, in between…because I so respect your need to balance family life with a very public job.

    • Lily says

      Since you are asking, I’ll add my 2 cents.

      1) I think it’s great that you’ve cut back on the posts in search of the elusive work/life balance. You need to do what’s best for you so you don’t burn out or anything. Less may make some of us sad, but it’s understandable.

      2) I’ve been of the opinion that the laundry-room heavy large project posts being the norm and less smaller projects is a natural phase. Back before you sold your 1st house you got complaints that it had become all small posts and decorating without enough big meaty projects and posts. Well, things eb and flow and now you’re in a phase of big meaty stuff. I’ve always expected that as your days change the post content will change with it. So while I may skim the laundry room posts I know that for me skimming it someone else is handing off every word because even if I don’t “need” it someone else does. And I appreciate that it’s hear for me to reference if and when I do need it. So, at the end of the day, it’s your blog and it will reflect your day to day as it is at that point in time.

      3) That said, sinec you asked, I would like to see more variety in post type when possible. And wouldn’t several smaller posts help ease your work load? 3 large posts plus 1 givaway post per week seems like more work than 1 givaway, 2 larger posts, & 1 smaller post if I were to try to quantify it. But there isn’t going to be a magic formula for do x big, y little, and z givaways per week. Some weeks will be heavy on the large posts and some heavy on the small post just because that’s life – for you and for everyone, some days as busier than others.

      4) A lot of us miss the family stuff. No one wants it over-run by family stuff and you’ve always been good about preventing that, kudos. But there was an expectation that after the family blog went away we’d see some of that content here.

      In short, you’re doing a great job. It’s not my place to say to change anything. But if you’re asking, if it’s feasilbe for you guys, try to re-introduce some smaller things – Reader Re-Designs, family updates, we did this last weekend, we’re half way through this here’s a messing during the project picture, funny Burger tid-bits, shopping trips, whatever. Like others have said it doesn’t need to be long. It doesn’t even need a full sentence. Just keep it real to you, like you always have.

      One special request: a cloth diaper update on cloth diapering while your washing machine is out of commission mid-laundry room construction! My impression was you had a few weeks sans washer & dryer. It’s easier to do a load or two on the weekend at a friend or relative’s house. But cloth diapers? WAY more frequent to wash. Were you borrowing a friend’s washing machine every other day? Did you put Teddy in disposibles for most of the no washing machine part? Strategy for being without a major appliance update! Pretty please?

    • Margaret says

      Hi Sherry, John –

      Another long time reader here chiming in (as if you needed another opinion). I appreciate you both welcoming the feedback and taking an interest in what we want to see. I have to agree with Luke and many of the others here – while I love love love seeing the huge transformations and learning about your DIY ventures in the technical posts (and I think it’s really remarkable and important to look back and see how adventurous and detailed your projects have become over time, I think that’s just so cool), I don’t mind the little “jewels” in maybe a one picture 2-3 sentence post, or a completely unrelated post about your latest dangly earrings, what’s in your purse or Burger snoozing on a chair. I think one of my favorite posts was Sherry talking about her closet – I’m 5’0″ and was thinking “all of this makes SO MUCH SENSE!” Also, I’m a renter so my ability to pick up a drill and do some damage myself is somewhat limited – the smaller posts are more doable/relatable.

      It doesn’t have to be more posts, but just maybe a mix in the three substance posts outside of the giveaway (which is something that I know is just another way you give back to your readers, so who could complain about that!). And for the record, I remember folks complaining about not showing ENOUGH of your big kitchen reno in the last house, and too many small projects, so I think the answer is really just a mix. Love you guys!

    • Christy says

      Since you asked…
      I really enjoyed the mix of DIY & Family & Design & Craft posts you had during your 2nd house time. Lately, I can guess the post subject before I open your blog and I miss the surprise. I seem to remember that even when you were working on a big reno you would mix in other topics so it was always a guess of what you would blog about. I would love to read more reader dilemmas, short crafts, Clara conversations, parties, gift ideas, etc.

      It also seems that lately you have have been putting together longer posts (maybe to “make up” for cutting down the frequency). If there was more mixing of shorter posts and topics, then we wouldn’t know that the post was a “emergency day off” post or a “planned non-DIY” post.

      In days where you just can’t get a post up, then an update like today’s is still welcome.

    • Sarah says

      I actually just wanted to shout out a request (I think the blog is fine :)). I am going to be visiting Richmond soon with two young kiddos (4.5 and 2) and would love a post on fun things to do with kids around the holidays in the area – parks, museums, restaurants, etc.

    • One Bedroom House says

      I think you will get people who either like or dislike the shorter posts, so it’s almost like a no win in that regard. But as far as your business is concerned, it’s always better to have a filler post just to keep the click numbers regular.

    • Heather W says

      I think the smaller posts are great! But I also understand the shift in priorities and no matter what you end up deciding someone will complain. I have missed the “old days” but as a parent of two that are also 3 years apart totally understand the time is not there like it used to be. You prepared us for the shift so, I still check daily and if there is a post great if not oh well.. Do what you feel good about.

    • Sharon S says

      Wow, you’ve gotten so much feedback, I hope you were ready for it! I’ll add in my thoughts as well. First of all, thank you so much for all you do, I really admire all the work you put into this blog day in and day out. We all obviously love it which is why we are reading and commenting today. I’ll admit that I’ve been doing more skimming lately but that’s because I’m not building walls or installing tile (now). I agree that small posts are better than no posts at all. Sometimes just a check-in which one or two pictures is all we want. We don’t check in with you day after day hoping for a detailed tutorial but we’re looking for some tweaks and ideas that we can incorporate into our own lives and homes.

      I’m also very interested in the thought process about designing your house – more of the “why” than the “how-to”. I really enjoyed the laundry room posts where you discussed the options and brought us along on how you got to the final plan.

      I was hoping that the design house would have more of that instead of just the “after” pictures. I was most interested in how you picked the kitchen layout, what did you learn from a kitchen designer, why you picked your countertop material from all the options, why you picked your dining room table size/shape, what materials did you use that were kid-friendly, etc.

      Anyway, all that to say, I hope you have a good weekend and enjoy your family. I’m so happy for you four and can’t wait to see what the future holds. We’ll all stick around, don’t worry about that :)

    • LisaOK says

      This website is the highlight of my work day! I am totally happy with Reader Redesigns and short decorating posts and would prefer those to no posts. I also appreciate more technical posts that give me the courage to try new DIY projects at home. Thanks for inspiring me to continuing to improve my home!

    • Christine says

      This might not be helpful at all, but I think you guys are doing a wonderful job. Sometimes I think you guys must have a time machine to go back in time and work 40 hours a day because it’s just incredible that you get projects done, blog about them, respond to comments, and raise two kids.

      I know this is a business for you and your livelihood, but you’re not going to please everyone, and actually enjoying what you do is what’s most important. I wouldn’t want you to feel like you HAVE to post 15 times a week with filler posts just to keep us happy, and then dread coming up with said filler posts.

      TLDR: Whatever/whenever you write, I will read. Love you guys. xoxox.

    • kristin says

      Hi y’all! I think what stinks about the internet (and well, the world in general) is that you can’t please everyone. I know, I really really try to sometimes and it is just unbelievably exhausting and then I end up curled up in my bed watching Love Story or Into the Wild alone. I digress. I love decor-related posts. But I also love following along on things like your laundry room redo and learning as y’all share things with me that I never even dreamed of knowing about. I think it’s cool, and it makes me feel like I could do that myself. Which, in turn, makes me cooler than I feel after realizing that I can in fact rearrange my coffee table without supervision. Large scale redos that make me think “hey, that doesn’t look too terrible to diy” give me a sort of superpower sometimes! So you know, as I like to say, “you do you.” You’ll win some, you’ll lose some. But live and share your lives as they come. And enjoy the heck out of those precious kids in the meantime. That’s my 2 cents. :)

    • Kristin says

      Yes.. I love the balance of a meaty post with something smaller. Being a renter myself, I don’t get to do any “meaty” makeovers. But, I can do some reorganization, easy art projects, etc. I love the windowshopping posts. Reader dilemmas/redesigns. Moodboards. Healthy living tips. Etc.

      One warning… sometimes these simple things become the most easy to snark on. Its all about balance. If all you did was change your tea towels to match a few new seasonal decorations.. great. Show me a pic and give me a paragraph statement on the ins and outs. No need for a 2000 word essay.

    • Marsha S says

      After reading through the comments there seems to be a common thread a lot of us are feeling; which is that the overall ‘vibe’ of the blog has changed…for me it is evident why, I MISS SHERRY! Sorry John, but you seem to be doing a majority of the posts now and while your posts read well…they are just ‘lacking’ the loveable playful personality that Sherry seems to naturally radiate! I love the DIY content and don’t mind the longer posts, but I equally loved the smaller decorating posts and family posts. I like many others don’t read nearly as much anymore…and I didn’t realize at first; but it became subconscious decision that I would scroll to see who wrote the post and if it was John I know the post is going to take more ‘effort’ which I simply don’t have on a break at work…playful and light it what originally drew me to the blog :) best wishes on all your ventures!!

    • Kara says

      I read the first ~10 responses, so excuse me if this is repetitive, but I think I have to agree with being a little disappointed in the content. I think for me, it’s that a year ago, maybe 10% of your posts were giveaways, but now with you’re decreased blogging schedule and the fact that you still do giveaways every week, it means I only get an actual post (whether it is: a big laundry post, reader redesign, window shopping, whatever) about 50% of the time, or in this case once a week.

      I am definitely all for your reduced schedule to keep your lives less hectic, but I would suggest trying to keep the ratios of how often you post about particular things the same (so if you used to do 1/7 posts as a giveaway, then I think now you should only be doing a giveaway post every couple weeks, and replace that with more regular content)

      Just my two cents!

    • Britt says

      Hey guys,

      I don’t see how there can be a win win in this situation. No matter what you decide you will always hear “More Clara!”, “Stop using Clara as a prop” (which I think is madness BTW I’m team more clara.)”Less art/crafts!”, “More DIY, what is this blog anyway”, “Be the old YHL!”, “We want more Clara Conversations!”,….. I could go on but why? The point is, as a reader who personally loves anything you write/do, I say from he bottom of my heart DO YOU. You both know what is best for your family and your work life. If you can’t post for a few days WHO CARES!? Its not like you are sitting in the egg chair sipping Mojitos. I appreciate the detail and specificity you provide in your posts, you make me feel like I can tackle anything, and that has not changed.

      Do you Petersiks.

    • Tom says

      The laundry room has been a bit boring and pedantic, but boring and pedantic is what originally drew me to your blog. You really do a great job of explaining the tiny little details in your posts. I found your blog when trying to paint an old dresser. Most blogs and books just said sand it and then paint it. You actually explained what type of sand paper to use and how to do all of the prep. That can be boring to read if you don’t have an interest in the project, but it sure was nice reference for me.

    • Lisa E says

      Hey you two. I started to read all of the feedback concerning smaller posts, frequency, etc, but there were too many! Rule of thumb, you can’t please everybody. I think the overall feeling I’m getting from the dozens of responses I did read is that you are missed because the posts are less personal. I really think it’s more about that and less about quantity and quality. I think your family is special, you always give your all and try to do the best you can and are always gracious doing it. You are loved and appreciated and people just want to share your life. Whatever you do, I thank you for your efforts, hard work and awesome dedication to what’s most important…. your family. I wish you the best in your journey, finding a balance and doing what’s best for YOU.

    • Brittney says

      I know you’ve probably received more feedback than you can read, and I hesitate to write ANYTHING negative because I am a huge fan!! However, I just wanted to chime in and say…I miss you guys. I’ve just assumed that you’ve had something going on (behind closed doors) that you aren’t ready to share with your readers…and I don’t think you have to apologize for that. But (selfishly) I miss the old blog. I loved your little projects, I totally copied your Anthropology calendar hallway art! –I even traveled 3 hours to the nearest ikea so I could have *the same* RIBBA frames you guys used! I loved reading about Clara’s flamingo birthday party, and sent your link to my co-worker whose daughter also wanted a flamingo party! I love your house crasher posts. At the end of the day, you have to do what works for you…but since you asked (and I applaud you’re bravery!) I thought I’d say: I miss you! Hope all is well & I hope your other readers aren’t too harsh with their words! See you next week! -Brittney

    • April says

      I agree with Luke as well. HUGE KUDOS, for taking more time for the family and less blogging. The transition into one post a day skipping Fridays is good, however the post discussions are less exciting and the giveaways aren’t a huge deal either. I miss the craft projects, the drop ins on other home spaces, the variety. I’ve also been checking the Family Blog for something there but that has also lacked excitement too. I’d be interested in your daily routine now that there are two little ones, you’ve done that once before, as well as must have’s and nots for Teddy pre/post pregnancy, current products you’re using/loving and not worth buying again. As well as any updates in Teddys nursery now that he’s been around, has the layout/setup worked well?

    • Elle Jay says

      As so many previous people have stated, we come here for the DIY, but we STAY here for you guys. Please don’t ever be reluctant to post a small post unrelated to DIY, it’s always fun to read what you guys have to say, no matter what you’re talking about. I would read a post narrating a family trip to the grocery store, honestly.

    • savuryandsweet says

      Sherry and John,

      While I appreciate your attempts to please all your readers I hope you stick to your guns and priorities. I fully respect your refocusing on family, while it’s sad to see less posts it’s completely acceptable and understandable. It’s so wonderful that you care, but it’s ok to do your own thing, blogging less and living more. <3<3

    • Molly S. says

      John & Sherry,

      I’ve scrolled through most of the responses and just wanted to add my two cents. I think you guys are fabulous. I check your blog daily at 10am with excitement. I’m also into DIY and can’t wait to buy a home that needs repairs, and the way you detail your DIY posts is amazing and crazy helpful. Please don’t ever stop the heavy DIY posts!

      Additionally, I do sorely miss the Clara Conversations. How is John’s water-only thing going (Aquavember?). What are your thoughts on expensive vs I’d love to see posts about you and your family. Even if they’re just rants or ramblings about a topic you’ve been thinking about. How about another day-in-the-life-of posts. Or even a photoshop tutorial for decorating rooms (like the photoshopped pictures of your office)

      You guys are great writers, and I miss the posts about ‘you’ but I totally understand that you’re still in the heavy structural DIY phase of your house, and your life is just so so busy right now. I’m amazed you’re able to post four times a week!

      (I wouldn’t mind cutting out the giveaways. Or possibly having a giveaway plus a fun small post about something). 25% of the weekly content is a giveaway, and that’s kind of a lot- just my opinion. Maybe have a giveaway every other week? Or have them on the sidebar for people to enter, or dual post something small that day?

    • Julie says

      Hi Guys!
      It sounds like you’ve gotten a ton of feedback, but since I’m also a long-time reader I thought I’d chime in as well.

      The super technical posts are extremely beneficial — I love them because it gives me confidence that I can take on projects I otherwise would have been way too intimidated to attempt. It’s imperative that you give the in-depth, step-by-step rundown of how you do everything so that readers like me get a full understanding of the process. So please keep those coming!

      I admit that it’s a downer to only have a giveaway post on Wednesdays now, since I like to read your blog during my lunch break at work. So selfishly, I would like to at least see something like a Reader Re-Design on Wednesdays every once in awhile — but I completely understand your need to scale back the schedule as well. So maybe not EVERY Wednesday, but every now and then it would be cool for something else to be thrown in, in addition to (or in place of) the giveaway.

      Also, like some others have mentioned, I did enjoy seeing personal tid-bits on this blog (like the Clara Conversations), just to diversify things. And they were hilarious. I know I could pop over to YHLife to see them anytime, but it was fun to see them right here too.

      Good luck tossing ideas around! And thanks for taking in everyone’s feedback — I’m sure it’s a ton to pour over, but I think everyone appreciates you guys reaching out.

    • Hilary says

      Hi J&S, I have read through quite a few comments but didn’t notice anyone mentioning that perhaps part of the reason people feel the tone or voice of your writing has changed is that John has really been doing a lot of the writing since Teddy has been born. Instead of a 50/50 split I would guess John does closer to 75% of the posts. Both of you are great writers, but definitely have different styles. So maybe readers are missing Sherry’s voice.
      And I miss your family blog, but I also understand if you have decided to put less of your family life out there. I personally debate with myself everytime I post pictures of my kids on Facebook – and my page is quite private.

    • Bridget says

      What I miss most is you guys!! I think your “voice” (personalities, sense of humor, etc) is what keeps people reading and is really the essence of your brand. I read every post because I know there will still be something to make me laugh in the midst of a post about hanging a door, even though I have no plans to ever hang a door. That being said, my favorite posts are the ones where you show your personalities a bit more, like 5 things you grabbed at Target or some product you’re loving/hating. I guess I don’t see those as filler if they are written in an entertaining way, which seems to come naturally to you guys. A good example of this is your pal Roo and her sponsored posts – even though they are sponsored and maybe around some kind of prompt, she always shares something really interesting or funny or just generally shows her personality. I’ll still keep reading regardless, heart you guys :) :)

    • Mallory says

      I agree with the folks who are saying something is better than nothing, but I also understand how hard it can be to get that stockpile of shorter, “fun” posts built up. I’m a teacher and I imagine that building a stockpile is rather like preparing for a substitute when you’re sick – it would be less work to just come to school (yucky feelings all all!) than it is to prep for a sub. I also have to say that I miss the fun little updates. Like many others have said, I think of you as “friends” and would relish any chance to catch up with you! I don’t mind the technical posts, while I’m a renter now and they don’t really apply to me, I’m a DIY-er at heart and KNOW I’ll be coming back to those posts for inspiration!

      Whatever you decide, I’ll still check in Monday-Thursday!

    • Karisa says

      I saw your question about smaller posts & I am hoping this is the right spot to chime in. I miss the smaller posts about organizing, reader projects & the like. They balance nicely with the heavier/longer posts. I know that sometimes the “quick” posts can take a lot of time too though so it can be tough!

      Really though, life always seems to go in clutters. So one season it is heavy-duty renovation & then suddenly it is all little decor projects & rearranging furniture, so kudos for posting as much as you do! I am amazed you can tackle making a whole room from scratch, photographing it and then walking everyone through all the steps in your posts! Not to mention having two kids running around! My one keeps me pretty scattered ;-)

    • Nancy says

      I don’t mind the technical posts – sometimes there are little nuggets in there that I can use, even though I don’t do a lot of heavy-duty DIY projects. My favorite posts for sure though are the ones that lean toward decorating (which Is why I’m looking forward to your next book!) I loved the show house process and seeing the choices you’ve made for this house (interior and exterior). I feel “meh” about the giveaways. For me, a little note saying “too busy” is fine; having a few go-to reader redesigns or other types of posts would be even more fine.
      I’m just super grateful you don’t have sponsored posts and filler (crap) content. The sponsored posts on other blogs can be spotted a mile away – no matter how they try to disguise it – plus there’s the added “damn, why can’t I just get a free chair to review?” jealousy factor to annoy me further.
      Like someone already said – you’ll never please everyone. Just keep doing your best and I’ll keep reading.

    • Casey says

      J&S-
      The most important thing is that you guys are making blog choices that work for you and your family. If you’re happy with how the blog is flowing, then that’s what’s important! That being said, I would love to see smaller, more personal posts, like more Clara convos, window shopping, quick DIYs, etc. I find those the most inspiring, plus they’re the posts where the most personality shines through for you guys.

    • Amy says

      I’ve been enjoying your blog much more since you moved into this house. You guys are finally thinking long-term and investing in a way that more fits my lifestyle. Budget-conscious, but being sure to pick and choose what to spend money on and doing things right, even if it’s more expensive than planned.

      However, I agree that the lack of posts is getting to be too much. It’s great to cut back, but this week you’ve made it abundantly clear that the blog is now an afterthought in your current life. I’m sure you don’t intend on being a 1-post-per-week blog, but that’s exactly what it is this week.

      Smaller posts are great. Less wordy posts are wonderful. Have you considered that you might need to hire some help at this point? You are trying to do 3 or 4 or sometimes 5 jobs at once – SAH Parents, Bloggers, Authors, Decorators, Product designers… it’s a great goal, but at this point it is unrealistic for you to maintain long-term. The blog is suffering. Perhaps hiring someone to moderate comments, or put together Reader Redesigns, or manage the giveaways (or all of the above) would be a solid investment. Then you can focus on the good stuff while maintaining the blog so you don’t completely lose your following.

      The blog should come first. The reason your advertisers stick around, the books sell well, and your products are picked is because of your name recognition from the blog. Without maintaining the blog, I’m not sure that your other “side” projects would be as plentiful or successful.

    • Jessica says

      As a renter, a lot of your posts aren’t relevant to my life because I can’t do a lot with my space. That said, I LOVE this blog. Your writing and tackling new challenges inspires me. I love living vicariously through all of your projects. I’m so happy that you are scaling back for your kids (and hope to be able to do that with my own work when I have kids).
      I do miss seeing more content but I totally get it – I would read 3 posts a day, if you had that many. I would like to see more family posts, even if they are small, but not to the detriment of your sanity. I will read whatever you post and love 99% of it! Keep up the great work and feel free to send us more pics of those adorable children of yours!

    • Laura in Cancun says

      Quantity of posts: I’m fine with less posts so you guys can dedicate more time to your family and other fun projects. Good for you!

      Content: I agree with Luke. I liked the technical posts (like when John built the deck) when they were mixed with smaller, more colorful projects, but I don’t like how that’s all we see lately. Small posts about design, your house, etc with 1 or 2 pictures would be great! Most of your readers don’t care too much about how lengthy the posts are, I would guess. I also love Richmond posts, but that’s because I grew up there, so I might be biased. :)

    • Karen says

      Keep in mind that I think you guys are absolutely great and I love that you go into details with how things get done. It makes big projects seem much more reachable.

      I understand however that DIY is not a super fast process, nor should you be blogging after spending 8-20 hours doing hard core DIY projects. I also like to see lighter posts too, so Reader Redesigns (along with giveaways, I love giveaways, I know they are really readable content, but you guys get such great ones it totally makes up for it) or lighter posts like that are fun to read. But honestly, I respect that you have a family life, and if the format that you currently have is strongly preferential to you, I hope you keep it.

    • jenn says

      I completely agree. I’ve noticed he blog slowly going down hill for a while but now I can’t even watch. I come here once a month, maybe and walk away with nothing. When its two people full time jobs I don’t think you can use any excuse that’s going to work. If you can only work around the nap times of your children maybe you should get some child care. This isn’t a hobby its your full time job. That means work every day. You have the luxury of being at home but it just seems lazy how you two work. No one would get away with the bare minimum you guys produce now. Every post the past month has been on the laundry room. Its clear its the only thing going on right now. They could have easily been shortened into less posts but you’re stretching them out and its painfully obvious its because you have nothing else. These posts are also not for everyone, space them out in between light fun stuff. You also have to consider the people who come here for ideas not just to see renovation slowly unfold. I bet half your “work load” is moderating comments. When you look at the comments of most posts its about 40% sherry commenting the same thing. Mt suggestion is wait for it to pile up. Respond to a few questions. If there’s multiple questions that are the same update your post because that should be a hint you missed a point. Testing swatches, driving to IKEA, installing IKEA shelves and posting a giveaway. How is that a full week of two people? That seems like an afternoon of one person. By your what? 7th year now you guys should be professionals. Not DIY dorks. This is a business not just decorating your house. You make money from us reading and enjoing content. You even say you hardly make money with side gigs, your money comes from the blog and when you slack so much its a slap in the face. This blog should be developing more into a website insead of a little diary because its not that anymore. It seems more like you guys are newbies, just buying a sofa online just to create content. There’s no love in this anymore. I no longer gain inspiration or knowledge from reading here. It seems like a lazy sad mess. Its obvious when you look at your last two houses you guys aren’t gaining more knowledge like you should be. Its pieces re used here and there and no thought behind things. Just buying something and forcing it to work when it clearly doesn’t. There’s no thought behind the rooms its mashing things in insead of using the mood boards you use to make. That’s how you plan a room especially by two professional people. You have to think ahead. What would look best, what do I want this room to be. Then how can I diy as much as I can to make my readers interested. What can I do differently to learn myself and to teach my readers. But instead its heres another hem taped curtain and another pillow shopping spree and another grey wall. I get you have a new baby and you deserve maternity leave like the rest of us. But just let us know. Take a break instead of embarrassing yourselves. Like I said you guys are professionals now, the blog should be professional. You should have posts ready for when your too busy, you should have content prepared so some days are just hitting submit while you work on another project. An entire day should be devoted to writing and another to editing pictures. It seems ridiculous you haven’t figured this out yet. This many years in it should be a science to you, a second nature. You can’t work this slow until Teddy’s in school and you have more time you need to figure it out now before you both are applying for jobs elsewhere. If your readers aren’t happy then you have nothing. Its not about what you write, what choices you make or how big or small the post is. It matters that you try, that you think about things before you do them, that you commit and are prepared.

    • Kenzi says

      I’m sure this was already said (I didn’t read through all the comments), but I feel like the giveaways should not count as a post. I’m sure a good percentage of your readers (along with myself) do not participate in the giveaways and that’s one less post I get to enjoy. I love coming to this site at the end of the day and reading about your projects and your family. Even if you don’t have DIY stuff or projects of your own to show, even a quick Clara Conversations, an update on Teddy’s photo project, a project a reader of yours did, or something like that is fun to read about. I’m sure most of your readers come to this site for cool ideas, helpful tips, and to get to know you and your family. So, even if you post an update about the family, at least it’s something that we get to actually read and it’s something that makes us feel closer and connected to you! Hope this feedback helps with your decision about your future posts! Love the site, love you guys! Can’t wait for the second book!

    • Cassie says

      It looks like you’ve got plenty of opinions, but just wanted to throw mine in there. I personally would rather see something small over nothing at all. BUT, at the same time, I totally admire your decision to put family first and I know that smaller posts still require time to put together and will still generate comments, which in turn adds work for you.

      What’s that quote, the quickest way to fail is to try and please everyone… or something like that. While I think readers sincerely appreciate you trying to post what we’d like to see, this is still YOUR blog and still YOUR business. You gotta do you! That’s what brought us all here in the first place :) You guys are awesome! Keep on keepin on!

    • robin says

      I thought I’d leave my input because, well, I can :) I only discovered your blog last year, when we purchased a new house at the tippy top of our budget which left no room for hiring out all the “visions” we had.. so I’ve been using your site to guide me through so many of the things we’ve tackled–from painting furniture to (coming this fall..) renovating our own bathroom (yikes!). Though I appreciate all the little mini decorating things like making my own no-sew curtains (thank you!!) these recent “down to the nitty gritty this is how you install drywall..’ not fluffy stuff has been enlightening to me! I check your blog everyday, even though I know you have refocused to make your family your priority which I APPLAUD! I always have your project section I can check for new, or new to me today, ideas of ways to spruce up my house while waiting to see that door to the future bunk room painted! Truly, love your site no matter what you put out :)

    • Lee says

      Since you asked, I do miss the smaller posts. For me I think it’s more about your voice than the content (plus, as others have mentioned, you are my scheduled morning work break! Sad when I can’t have it.) And your personal/family posts are some of my favorites.

    • Terese says

      Hey J&S. Long-time, every-day reader here (although I never comment because I guess that’s just not my thing). Just wanted to chime in on this thread and say keep doing what you’re doing. We all love you so much because you’re true to yourselves, you’re realistic about your limits, and you have great personalities. We (as your readers) are not entitled to any more than you want to give us. It appears to me that many people are feeling like we deserve more from you – and I find that to be untrue and selfish. By giving us such great content (whether “technical” or “fun”, it’s much better than any other blog I know of, and it’s all free), you’re doing us all a service and you owe us nothing. Rather than saying it’s not good enough, I just wanted to say thank you!!!! My Mon-Thurs click over to your site is always a welcome break, but if you’re taking the day off, so be it. We all get days off from work, and you should too. I am also sensing from this thread that people want more of your personalities back in the posts. I don’t disagree (because your family is lovely), but if it’s not your jam to share all your personal details on the internet anymore, then that’s fine with me. Do what’s good for you and your loved ones. And I hope you take this entire thread as a compliment, because you are truly loved for who you are. And you’re perfectly allowed to have a one-post week and make it be about whatever you want. I’ll still always follow along.

    • Stephanie R says

      John, Sherry –

      My husband, and our family, have been in ministry for fifteen or so years. One thing I’ve learned is that you CAN’T please everyone!

      I don’t mind the big technical/DIY projects, eventhough, those aren’t things I would venture into. I love seeing a space come together. I also really like seeing the little projects and family stuff (really miss Clara convos). All that said, please do what is BEST for YOUR FAMILY! You have a life outside this blog, as do the rest of us, and you should get to enjoy that without having to answer to the masses. In my opinion, you don’t owe us readers any explanation or warning that things might be different for a period of time.

      Praying many blessing for your family!
      Stephanie

    • Kay says

      This might be sappy, but I just really love starting my day with Young House Love, so even if the posts were little updates or projects, I’d be content.

    • Sarah says

      I’m not going to pass judgment on what others have said, but since you asked, I’ll offer my brief opinion :-)

      I do miss the frequency of posts, but I also totally respect your right to make your own schedule/priorities/etc. Having a post to check out at 9 a.m. during the workday was my “morning break” for years, so selfishly, I wish you still had regularly scheduled posts – maybe even if it was 10 a.m. Eastern on M, W, F, I’d have something to look forward to every other day ;-)

      Regarding content, I do appreciate a mix of detailed and meaty how-to’s along with simple and quick craft projects, musings on room layout or paint color or favorite pins, or family updates, too! The Clara Conversations were always excellent and if you can rail that post off in under 20 minutes, then by golly, I’d vote for a weekly installment!

      At the same time, my husband and I just bought a new house that we’re gutting and remodeling – and you are our primary source for buying the right tools, making plans, putting up walls, installing bathroom fixtures, selecting and installing new lights, etc. So we greatly appreciate your honesty, attention to detail, step-by-step, and layman’s terms explanations. When you detailed installing new doors the other day, it was just what I’ll need… in about 3 months (sigh for my own slow-going ginormous project).

      But yeah, tool reviews and recommendations, the funniest thing Clara or Teddy did this week, your re-org of the linen closet or the best pin you’ve seen lately scattered among the long how-to’s would be my favorite :-)

      Thank you both for all your hard work on this wonderful blog!

    • Cori says

      First of all, you guys are awesomesauce. That just needs to be said. Second, while I have noticed a shift in your posting, both in the frequency and the content, I have no problem with it. We knew your posting would decrease due to your BUSY schedule and adorable family, and all I can do is applaud you for accomplishing so much! As for the content, your blog is a reflection of what is going on in your life. Yes, there have been a lot of technical laundry room posts, but that’s because that is your focus in your house, and I know there are plenty of people (myself included) that appreciate the detail you give us in these posts. I will use them the next time I am reno-ing a room in my house!
      I do love the suggestion of stock-piling some “fluff” pieces to quickly post when you just can’t get around to a normal post, or when you need a break. I would 100% rather read a small post like that than have no post at all.
      Thanks for asking for our feedback, and for always taking our thoughts into consideration! You go above and beyond, guys. Just remember that it is impossible to please everyone, and do what is best for you and your family! <3

    • Meg @ Meg, Acting Out says

      Hi, guys! Since you asked, I love a good mix, too — smaller projects (decor ideas and before-and-afters, etc) as well as huge DIY projects. I’ve been reading for several years and have always loved when Sherry stops in with an art or craft project, a quick holiday decorating video, or what have you — and it seemed to be the stuff you guys have fun with. However, I want you to hear this: Don’t knock yourselves out!! We all understand the extra time you’d like to spend with your family and appreciate all you do for us, whether huge or tiny. You guys are awesome and we only want you to do what you ENJOY doing. :-)

    • Pam the Goatherd says

      When Teddy was born and you moved to a more relaxed blogposting schedule I actually sighed a sigh of relief! As an extremely busy empty nester with a small dairy goat farm (milking by hand takes a long time!) and poultry operation, I don’t always get to sit down to read my favorite blogs every day. When you were posting something new every day it was overwhelming for me to try to catch up after three days of not having time to read blogs.

      You explained that this week was going to be extremely busy for you and that posting was going to be light and I was OK with that. However, now that I’ve read through these comments and been reminded of some of the little things that have been missing from YHL lately I might have to agree with the original idea that the blog has become a teensy bit too technical and is lacking in the shorter, more personal items.

      Clara Conversations and Reader Redesigns are two things that I would like to see return. If you can find the time to clean up some of those unfinished posts and tuck them into the rotation when you are too busy for a longer post I would be happy to see them make a come-back.

    • Colleen says

      I enjoy the technical posts for the archive it creates on your blog. Three days ago I watched an old post of you two repainting your kitchen cabinets in house #2 in preparation of my own cabinet painting. I love having your blog as a reference knowing that I am going to get a thorough explanation and honest feedback on tools used. I only skimmed through the laundry room posts because I have no plans to redo mine. I really appreciate John’s attention to detail and step-by-step explanations. I was more interested in your exploration process – what if we move the room over here or change the stairs to the attic here? – because any good remodel needs that. The posts that truly delight me are those that I don’t see coming and that spark MY creativity. One such post was the blue clock Sherry made for Clara’s room. Besides being fun and too-cute-for-words, it was about making a house a home. And that’s the number one reason I love your blog.

      Enjoy the ride.

    • JenB says

      Yeah, the blogs been a little techy for me but I’ve still found them interesting. That’s just what you’re working on right now! I do love the short little crafty or decorating posts, too. I always enter the giveaways, even if I never win! As a mom of 2 small children, I appreciate that you’re still keeping this thing going and you’re just trying to work it all out. It’s tough to juggle everything, but as Teddy gets a little bigger, the juggling gets easier(or you just get used to it). Hang in there guys! I think you’re doing just fine!

    • Emily says

      Ok, I’ve been wanting to comment about this, and I’m so glad that you’ve asked for feedback. I’m a long time reader- all the way back to house one, pre-Clara. I think the real issue is all the non-blog things that take up so much of both of your time.

      Last year, while juggling the Target line, book and show house, and trying to maintain your normal posting schedule, the quality absolutely suffered. Smaller updates are great if they’re thoughtful, but pre-Teddy-downshift there were definitely posts-just-for-the-sake-of-posts. Currently, I feel like you’ve gone to the other extreme- so few posts that I wonder where you’ve gone.

      I understand that working fewer hours and choosing how to split your time is the prerogative of the self-employed. But, there are two of you after all. I also understand that you have work outside the blog now. That is where I really think the problem is. If you’re doing so much non-blog work that you can’t manage get one original, thoughtful post up per day- between two people- maybe something has gone wrong? I can’t help but feel that such dramatically reduced visibility among your readership base can’t be good for the long-term health of the YHL brand. And, if the readership dwindles, and the clicks go down, what happens to those non-blog opportunities in the future? Might we need to focus more on dancing with the one who brought you?

    • Blair says

      I too agree. The projects are a little too heavy for us non-technical’s; however, I do understand that there are heavier projects that need to be undertaken. Personally, like Luke, I too enjoy the smaller projects that I, myself, can potentially take on in my own home. Looking forward to the finishing of the laundry room and future posts.

      Nonetheless, I’ve been following your blog for 2 years now. Last summer, I refinished my front door and its hardware thanks to y’all! :)

    • Karen says

      I agree about the heaviness of the content about the laundry room recently, however…I do like posts like this as I am a serious DIY lover and like little projects as much as big. I’m sure it is primarily because the laundry room is small and moves so quickly (a month ago it was barely a thought!), rather than the more drawn out DIYs of kitchens, etc. But one of the things I did like about the bigger “building” projects is that they were interspersed with design updates and small posts, so if it wasn’t your jam you would still see something you wanted to read each week. I think it is fine if you finish the laundry room this week but the final post isn’t up for another week or so because you’ve been doing small posts along with bigger technical ones.
      That said…I also agree that I would like more small posts on anything…and yes, Clara conversations would even work! It at least gives you something quick and new to look at when you pop over to check-in on the blog. I realize that you all have scaled back due to having two little ones now, and I definitely applaud the choice…but in response to the question posed about update tags on a post about not being able to post vs a super short and simple post…I vote short and simple. Even a new picture of Teddy being cute and a little caption would make it well worth a trip to the site.

      I love your blog and the work you do…regardless of what you decide, I will remain an avid reader! Can’t wait for book two!

    • Christina says

      Hey guys.

      In my very personal opinion, I believe that the reason you have so many loyal readers is because you are open, honest, and real people. Keep doing that and you’ll be great.
      If other proyects are taking more of your time and those proyects are making you happy, then do them. Your happiness and your family come first.

      As for the content: While there are some readers that are unhappy with the long DIY posts, others LOVE them, the same will happen with filler posts, etc. Some people will like it, others will not. Can’t make everyone happy, so you can only do what makes sense and makes you happy!

      I love your blog and really like that it isn’t always predictable! :)

    • Jessica says

      Whoa. Yes, fewer posts and more giveaways is kind of a bore for me, I don’t mind smaller posts at all. However, You guys have a newborn in the house… Not only are the several new adjustments from 1 to 2 but man, sleep and feeding and diapers. Maybe Sherry has PPD, maybe there are personal things going on? If you can’t post as much because things didn’t go as planned, well, you can’t please them all. Life is happening and it is way too short to schedule your schedule around the inter webs… I just remember life after each of my three kids were born! Heavens, it was crazy, I could hardly keep up on housework or showering myself. Take your time and work as you can right now. Soon that morning will come and all of your children wi be on the bus and gone ALL day long.

      You can’t keep up with it all. Don’t try to live up to other peoples expectations because there is a void in what they see here. We only see here, not those long days or nights and projects and books and Clara time and date nights or family time, etc.

      Don’t get so out there that you find trouble in the most important corners happening right now! Breathe.

    • Carrie K says

      In reading a lot of these comments, I’m definitely interested to see how Monday’s post reads!

      You guys have to do what is best for your family. I would personally love to see smaller posts, how you work things as a family (we CD with BumGenius on your recommendation), updates on how previous projects are working out for you, thrifty finds, etc.

      When my husband wants to tackle something big, I do tell him, “There’s a post for that.” and often reference to your bigger projects for him to look at before he gets started.

      Like many have also said, “You can’t please ’em all!” Have a wonderful weekend reading all these comments!! :)

    • Lindsay M. says

      I would love to see more on the blog like it used to be. I miss the variety. I agree with the commenters about technical heavy posts lately. I have a chd of my own and I understand the craziness of trying to balance work and life but just wanted to weigh in on what I miss and what I’d like to see more of. Love your ideas for the smaller posts on days when you need fillers. Voting to not see just pics of the kids, though. I follow you on IG and enjoy seeing those type of pictures there. Thanks for being awesome and thanks for this of of yours.

    • Lauren Nicole says

      Bless you guys for blogging at all! With a 6-year-old and a 10-month-old I can barely get the dishes done! Please continue to do what is right by your family, whatever that may be on any given day. Much love to you, Petersiks.

    • Lindsay says

      I think I just miss the variety of content – I like both DIY/technical posts as well as the short ones. I always liked the focus on budget-friendly products or how to survive with only 2 bras or whatever :) With that being said, it’s not like you guys have a staff working on your blog, so it makes sense that big changes on the home front will bring changes to your work. There are literally hundreds of archived posts for people to check out if they want to get crafty, so I wouldn’t worry too much. Have a great weekend!

    • Christine says

      Long time reader (goodness, since house 1!) Thanks for being brave enough to ask these questions! I have long felt that you have been transitioning your careers to a lifestyle practice that includes some static website content, but mainly focuses on other endeavors. And that’s so totally cool, but just felt we as readers needed to understand that transition. Otherwise, we feel taken advantage of a bit. My advice to you…do your own thing. Write your own way. Don’t listen to the other online people who criticize your style. If you want to write about Clara, write about her. If you want to be silly, be silly. Do your own thing in your own way. I like the technical posts because I’m a geek. I wouldn’t be interested in silly craft posts (nightmares of Sandra Lee’s tablescapes come to mind), but neither do I like no posts! I think y’all are amazingly talented, and I have been disappointed to see how much cash you all have been spending lately instead of more DIY. Spending a lot of cash isn’t the same thing as having grown up forever things and I’d like to see a focus on things the average reader can relate to if, in fact, you intend to keep a daily blog around. Again, thanks for asking the question!

    • Janelle says

      Well that one comment opened up a whole can of worms! Here are my thoughts.

      I am a long-time reader and I completely respect that you’ve cut down your posting schedule. Call me crazy but I don’t think you “owe” any of your readers an explanation or even a heads up about having a lighter week. I think that’s just something extra that you guys do because you love your readers.

      As for post content: I agree with those above who really enjoy the smaller posts about how you organize rooms in your home/your car, your favorite beauty items/kitchen stuff, little family things or parenting dilemmas.

      One of my favorite posts of yours (not counting the birth stories – I’m a nut for those) is the one where John and Clara were building Teddy’s built ins. It was so heartfelt and genuine AND home-related. Now, not all your posts need to have a huge emotional crescendo, but just that I really appreciate and enjoy your posts with genuine, honest comments about what you do to your home and/or how you live in it.

    • Meghan says

      I am definitely in the group missing the smaller posts. You guys still do a great job with your content and I have been a daily reader for many years, and I was totally fine with you scaling back for family/personal reasons. However, lately it seems that it has been all large-scale projects. These are interesting to read about and it is cool to see you create something out of essentially nothing. But being an apartment dweller, it gets kind of redundant since I don’t have the option of even considering attempting anything close to that (nor do I have the skill set but that’s a totally separate issue). It was nice to have the “mini” projects that were realistically doable for those of us that can’t start ripping out sinks or tearing down walls. It feels like all I can relate to are the Fab Freebie posts.. it’s just a little disappointing compared to what your blog once was.

    • Kathleen says

      I love you guys and your blog! I’ve been reading for about 4 years and check it every Monday through Thursday.

      It seems like people are noticing that the kinds of posts that used to be the second post of the day back when you posted twice a day don’t seem to show up as often now that it’s just one post a day. I don’t mind because I still enjoy your blog and how your personalities pop out even when you are explaining something really technical. I also appreciate the technical posts for future reference and just because it gives me confidence to try my own DIY projects.

      I also think the timing of asking for reader feedback has lead to more “it’s too technical!” responses because you’re finishing up the laundry room. That project won’t last forever, and the focus of posts will shift again.

      Greedily, I’d love to read as much as possible, but I also recognize it’s silly to think you are under any obligation to please or entertain me. I’m a happy reader and fully support how you run your blog.

      I’d also like to acknowledge that the idea for the laundry room came from comments and reader feedback, and I love that you were willing to change your plans when ideas were suggested (even though some were not presented in the kindest manner).

      I by no means agree that quality of the content has decreased. If anything, it’s increased. Posts seem longer with lots of photos and details. I just think the topics don’t float everyone’s boat, but no topic will.

      I appreciate when you post updates about missing a post and think overall you both are incredibly reliable with posting. Missing one every once and awhile is not a big deal.

      So, now that I’ve written a novel, I’ll just say I love you guys and your blog!!!

    • Melissa says

      Now that you have a lot of comments and suggestions for what your readers prefer, you should do a poll to summarize all of this. It would be interesting to see if there is a majority that feels a certain way. Just curious myself too…if I’m the odd ball that likes your lengthy technical posts vs. the short and sweet ones :) PS sorry if someone already suggested this, but so many people responded and I didn’t read each one!

    • Christina M says

      I’m sorry if this has already been said – I couldn’t get through all of the comments, but I wanted to share my opinion, since you prompted it! I completely understand that you want to post less, and I am fully on board with that! But, I miss the variety that your blog had before. I really enjoyed the design dilemmas, house crashing, reader redesign, insights into your family…the posts feel very calculated now. A little cold almost. It sometimes feels as if you are burdened by your blog/readers, and you HAVE TO post something. I wouldn’t mind seeing only 2-3 posts per week, but having each post be something dear to you. Maybe a weekly update on whatever project you are working on – doesn’t need to be the full rundown/tech details…just some photos of your progress, quick and dirty; maybe a weekly reader redesign or a funny story about Clara or Teddy; maybe a house crash, or a design dilemma; maybe a guest blog even? Anyway, I guess I’m just missing when your blog felt so light, and fun and fresh! So carefree! Like you do this because you absolutely love it. Lately its just felt a little like your job, and like you’re required to be DIY experts now. That’s my input! At the end of the day, I still check your blog religiously and I won’t stop reading even if you only post once a week and it’s a giveaway! haha. Best wishes!

    • Jen W says

      Hi guys!

      Thanks for letting us weigh in on this! I’d love more smaller posts when you’re having crazy days. After all, life in a house isn’t all renovating laundry rooms! (Thank god!) I love the detail you’ve put into the laundry room posts, but I’d rather see a reader submission or store crashing or even a family detail than nothing. That being said, you know the difference between a good post and “let’s put something up so the natives don’t get restless”, so I trust you to give us what you can. I like a balance between big deal posts and smaller “hey look what we’ve been up to” updates.

      Thanks again for hearing us!

    • Kimberly says

      I love the step by step approach you guys have been taking. I find it really empowering to try my own projects bc I have a better idea what im getting myself into. Keep it up!

    • Tamsen says

      I love you guys and love the blog, definitely my favorite and the only one I check religiously. However, I do agree I’ve been pretty bored lately and miss the window shopping/house crashing posts along with the family updates. I love the Clara quotes and recaps of your family vacations/weekends/events and without younghouselife there hasn’t been many of these. I love the quick redos like when you redid your grandma’s bathroom. I would love more of the posts on making things pretty or more functional. I also like seeing the larger posts like the laundry room, but maybe some fun posts to cut through the long technical ones would be awesome!

    • Leah says

      I love the idea of tiny posts or quick life check-in posts. The list posted above (fav kids books! yes! Tell me about it!) sounds awesome. Don’t feel pressured to make very post a huge post. I’d love to see a daily post M-F and know that the Fri post (or whichever day is easiest) will be one picture with a paragraph.

      The comments are always awesome on your blog, so reader polls are fun too. I know comments take time for you, but I hope that wouldn’t be too arduous. That might be a fun Friday thing — to post something fun (sometimes DIY/home and sometimes lifey) where readers can really weigh in. Not gonna lie — I often revisit the blog to see what’s going on in the comments.

    • Rebecca says

      John & Sherry!

      I have read your blog almost every day since you were expecting Clara!

      More than anything, it is a way for me to start my morning. I pour my tea, open up my computer and ease into my day by reading your post.

      While I understand, and applaud your efforts to cut back and have more balance and family time in your life (really, I do!) — I feel sad on mornings when there is nothing for me to read… either Fridays or the contest day.

      Personally, I love the little updates… Perfecting a corner. Moving pillows in & out. Reader redesigns. Inspiration for an upcoming room. Making a little plant thing. These glimpses into your life have always been why I read. (I’m not a DIY-er myself!)

      Contests are my least favorite aspect of your blog, although I’m sure many others love them.

    • Jen @ Domesticated Nomad says

      Since you asked, I have to say that Luke said what I’ve been thinking for a long time. I respect that you want to spend time focused on family, yet on the other hand this is your job (which you had the luxury to choose, so good on you!) but you seem to treat it as a hobby. I can’t understand that. I started tuning out when everything in the new house seemed to just always be neutral with one pop of color. It’s not as fresh and exciting as it used to be. (Oh, I cringed when I typed that! I want to be helpfully honest, and I hate saying something that might hurt.) I used to check in frequently, particularly when I was in need of mental break, but now I check in about once a week. If I see it’s a giveaway, I just leave the site immediately. It was the updates that caught my eye this time.

      As much as we are not your real friends, in some ways I think many of us devoted readers do see you as sort of virtual friends. We want to see you do well. So, with all due respect, I am sharing my disappointment this time only in hopes that it helps you succeed and progress in the direction that is best for you all.

    • Jes K says

      Blog lurker/lover here. I am only providing feedback since you asked for it. I love everything you guys do really. I generally read everything you guys post and enjoy your content. I do also like the “smaller” posts that have been less frequent lately. The little updates and things you guys would do around your house (like we cleaned this up and switched this around to be more functional for us, or I just bought this new pillow, or these are things I am crushing on from this one store) I found useful and inspiring. (not that your heavier/more technical posts aren’t inspiring, I just am not currently in a phase for complete over-haul projects)

    • Julie says

      Hi John and Sherri
      I too have been reading your blog almost from the beginning. I’ve appreciated your very detailed posts for big projects and often refer back to various projects….but I’ve enjoyed reading about small projects more…decorating, design, small crafts….even the dreaded tablescape…I know I could find these in lots of other blogs BUT I’m not reading other blogs, I’m reading this one. I don’t regard smaller projects as filler!

    • Megan Frank says

      I’m a HUGE fan. I am totally on board and have come to accept that we are only getting four posts a week. I’m guessing right now a lot of your readers are just being overwhelmed but all the really technical projects. You’ve always done them and that’s part of what we love about you. But, when you had higher posting frequency, you always threw in lighter posts along side and inbetween technical project posts. Lately we’ve mostly lost lighter posts. So I think all that needs tweaking is to mix it up a little. I for one, really miss reader redesigns because it really helps spark creativity for me by seeing ideas for a completely new space I’ve never seen before. Or if you were feeling more generous down the line, I would just die of happiness if you just upped back one more post and did something light every Friday (family friday or reader redesign or blog crash or house crash).
      Either way though, I doubt you’ll lose me as a reader any time soon (as long as I work a desk job 8 hrs a day anyway lol)

    • Suzy says

      I’ve been following your blog since house 1 (around 2009?). I check almost daily and seeing how your family and your projects have grown, I’m surprised at how long I’ve actually been following you guys.

      So…as long-time reader my opinion is that you keep being honest with us. Only post what you want and when you want to. Honestly, I skip all these freebie posts and giveaways. If that day that’s all there is then I move on. I do sometimes wonder if those posts are fillers to keep your advertisers happy. That’s my sincere opinion, just be honest with us. I think that I keep coming back because you still have that excitement about every single thing you do. Sure, at the beginning it might be repairing some little ornament and now you’re doing bigger things because you’re more skilled. There’s nothing wrong with that. Just do your thing and don’t cheat us ;) I think people turn away permanently only when they see that you are faking it, when it’s just for the money.

      Anywho, I’m still a reader and it’ll be weird when your page is not on my daily list.

    • Jules says

      Personally, I think that your blog has always been a journey through your home adventures and a peek into your lives. I think it is why you have faithful readers, because you seem like real people, a real family, and not a business, not just another job.

      You will never be able to make everyone happy all the time. All readers could never be of the same mind or at the same stages in life as you.

      I think the charm is it is a somewhat real reflection of your lives. So you get busy, that is real life. Some people may be upset you didn’t make time to write something up for them to read, and some people may feel relived to see that you are real people, life gets busy, and sometimes you have a lot on your plate.

      I don’t think it makes a difference if you post small posts, or big posts, every day or just sometimes, spend a little money, spend a lot of money. Just do what works best for you and your family, because in the end, that will be what is best for your blog too.

    • Alex P says

      Hello!!! Wanted to chime in on this! I have been a long time reader (rarely comment), but like before Clara time in your first house :) This blog is my favorite in the blog world, and I completely understand being busy with two little ones (I have 2 boys, 3&5) so scaling back is understandable. I will say that I miss the old content from the blog, seemed more relatable, like we were having a conversation, yet I was just awkwardly laughing to myself at my desk. However, I still love the blog, check it almost daily, and will continue to be a reader. This is YOUR blog, and if the flow of it is working with your life right now, then keep it up, after all, you all started the blog to update people on what’s going on in your world. Don’t write it out of what everyone else wants it to be. Hope you are soaking up those moments with your babies!

    • Chris says

      I’m a daily reader of the site and one of the things I like about the site is its posting frequency. I totally understand cutting back after having Teddy, that made sense to me. But because your blog is part of my daily routine, a small red sentence letting me know your busy, is a bit of a let down. Especially so since I do not count a give-a-way as a blog post. I would rather see smaller posts; window shopping, house crashes, etc. then a simple sentence update. OR if you find it easier to do the red sentence up-date, consider still trying to do three real posts and a give-a-way. Meaning, cool you couldn’t do a post Wednesday, but maybe we get one on Friday?! Good luck with everything. I’ll still be a fan no matter what.

    • Crystal says

      I’ve been reading your blog since before Clara was born & I agree I’ve been disappointed too since before Teddy came along. I understand taking more time to focus on the kiddos (and I’m assuming other side projects). Being self-employed is hard business (I know personally) and I think it’s just time to admit you need some help. Maybe a nanny and a full time writer.

    • Noelle says

      I have read your content all the way back to the beginning and I love it. The thing I most loved about your blog, though, and the reason I started following it regularly, was how simple your lives were and how you modeled that. I remember a post on how Sherry’s makeup bag only had a few things and how you shared shower products, and that definitely translated to your decorating and renovations. It was a really practical blog for someone on a budget or just someone who wanted to live simply and frugally. I think over time (not just with Teddy — the change has been more gradual in my mind) that has changed. Projects are bigger, and you mentioned dropping thousands of dollars on something without batting an eye. I know some of that goes with growing up and with success, as you have more money. But I find less and less I can relate to as someone who can’t just pay $3000 for a laundry room redo but has to rely on cheap and simple tricks to make my house a home. And I wonder if mixing in more simple posts about how you’re styling things or using what you’ve got for cheap updates would be a better balance for some of us. It would also tend to include more renters, who aren’t going to be doing the elaborate construction things you’re talking about but have to limit themselves to temporary updates. And even in your dreamhouse that you’re wanting to update and make really nice, surely you’re also doing some of these smaller things to make the house liveable in the meantime.

    • Kristin F says

      As yet another long-time reader (House 1) I think Callie said it best: we think of you as our friends, and when friends aren’t around as much or talking to us much, it makes us sad.

      Completely agree and understand the scaling back. What I actually thought to myself though is I feel like we never see Teddy! My babies are both teens now, so I’ve been living vicariously through your baby/toddler/preschool life. Would love to hear more about how he’s doing, how Clara is adapting to a little brother, etc. Along with funny or observational posts like you used to do more of.

      But don’t worry, you couldn’t keep me from checking in daily if you tried. I even look some Fridays in the hope you sneak one in on us! :)

    • RFS says

      First of all, I love your blog and have been reading it regularly for years. I agree with others that I have not been following it as closely the past several months. I would love to see more small posts and think it would be great if you could involve your readers more. For example if you don’t have enough time to post, set up a poll for some quick and easy projects that you could tackle for the following week or something (like organizing a closet or making an art project, etc.). Or if you are unsure about how to proceed with something, ask for advice! Also would love more follow up posts and blooper type things. Things that you thought were great when you did them and now you look back wondering what you were thinking. Or if you really are short on time, how about just linking to an interesting article or blog post so that readers can still take those few minutes that they normally spend with you. I don’t know, just a couple thoughts. I do think it’s great that you’ve scaled back and it’s just my opinion that if you actively involve your readers more it can make your life easier and your readers happier.

    • Dana says

      J&S, just weighing in since you asked. Personally, I loved the smaller projects/shorter posts about everyday things. Especially the Reader Redesigns and window shopping at ____ posts. They give us a glimpse into your lives and also connect us to new stores/items/designs we may not have otherwise come across. Great for a new(ish) mom like me who doesn’t get out much. Either way, you won’t lose me as a reader until you stop this all together. I’ve been a reader since 2008 (wow) and I’m not going anywhere. XO!

    • Donna says

      After reading all of the comments above, I think that what I am missing in your posts is VARIETY. The laundry room posts are interesting and well done, but there is a lot of technical detail not everyone is interested in. You have a large base of readers with different interests. Maybe spread out the big projects with little stuff in between?

    • lynne says

      hey guys

      i think it’s awesome that you wanted to pull back with 2 kids. of course we miss you because we love knowing what is going on! to be honest i like the ‘filler’ posts… really love reader redesigns actually! i love to see what people are doing in their spaces (which differ from yours but might work in mine). to be honest i don’t usually read through the technical posts unless it is something i need info on but i do go back and search them out when i need them so i’m glad they are there. we even built my daughter a dollhouse based on your ‘plans’! i think we just love feeling involved in your lives but if you are busy, that’s life! i actually already wondered what would happen if you FINISHED your house… no pressure to think that far ahead but… i just hope you won’t disappear. ever. :)

    • Kay says

      Another long time reader here (from early H1 territory). Sadly, I too must agree that the content has gone down hill.

      Here’s the thing, when I started reading I was in my late twenties, owning my first house. H1 was the perfect match for me – same size as my home, same problems (dated fixtures, small budget etc). Your style was right up my alley (neutral, thrifty etc). Problem is, in three houses, your style hasn’t really changed. Lots of white, teal, coral, yellow and bright blue,IKEA/HomeGoods – just repackaged in a different venue. Even the show house was just the same look/feel with slightly higher end finishes. Your office is a great example – could be a sophisticated room done in a new color palate (rich browns?) but instead it’s white with pops of color. It feels really played out, and I find myself just tuning out those posts because it looks like all the other rooms you’ve done.

      Now that I’m in my 30 (as are you), I want to see more sophisticated design, different color palates (not so much “youthful” looking color pops) and more investment in a longer term design. I know there are plenty young folks who will come along in the same place that I was six years ago to take my place, but I think that’s why some of us “longtime readers” are frustrated with the content in the last years.

      Also, I think you’re missing some of the posts that have been my favorites over the years, like when you refinanced H1 (caused me to realize I should do it myself), organizing, cleaning products, kid products, etc. Those are the “human interest” stories that balance out the “how to install a door from scratch” stuff. I still like to read the site, but I only stop by now and then, rather than daily like I used to.

    • Deena says

      So, I’ve read a lot of the replies, and I think I can quantify what’s going on here (correct me if I’m wrong, though…):

      You may both be working 80 hours a week between blog, book, and whatever “secret” projects may be in the hopper, but for those who only see the blog, it seems like you’re phoning it in. I have (and still do) run my own business, so I know what it’s like to always have work to do from sun up to sun down, but your clients (blog readers) don’t give a flip if you have bookkeeping to do or coding to fix. They want the product (content) and they want it now. I don’t want to sound insensitive to this (I actually totally get it and empathize), but the fact of the matter is that the clients don’t care. If they can’t see the product (especially when it comes to book / secret projects / etc.), then it may as well not exist. For example, they’ll never get that it took you 1000 man hours to put those hooks on the shelves at Target because due to contractual obligations you weren’t allowed to share the process with us. It was more of an instantaneous “look, we have product on the shelves!” even if you explained you had worked for over a year on it. As you know, many a sentence in the blogosphere gets skimmed over, so details like that get lost.

      I can also say that scaling back production to spend more time with your kids is what 99% of parents would love to do, but we can’t – we have to produce product in order to survive / keep our jobs / whatever. So, there’s not a ton of empathy from clients there. In fact, it looks like some of the string of comments reflects some resentment and envy (but that may be their own mommy/daddy guilt coming through). I’m not saying that you shouldn’t work on that balance if you can (and it seems like you can) – good for you. But, I think you need to stop beating that horse as a reason to scale back. It looks like the tide is turning from “good for you” to “kiss my grits,” if you know what I mean. ;)

      Again, not trying to be mean / snarky. I feel like I see and understand both points of view. You need to do what’s best for you, but I hope you can understand and empathize with the readers who have come to expect 1 thing and have received another.

    • Crystal says

      You guys are the only blog I read. I’m curious about this thread and the encouragement to get the fans engaged on this issue. In my line of work, I often hesitate to ask for feedback unless I think it is realistic to make the changes I anticipate being asked for :)

      I’m sure you’d see it in your site analytics if you were losing fans due to frequency or content. I’m sure you know if your mid-morning spike in hits is waning or if comments are dropping off or if ad click sales are off the mark… (And I think you anticipated that happening when you made changes to your schedule, no?)

      The important thing is that your site still meet your needs. If it brings in fewer followers or perhaps less loyal readers does that matter? Are you still making enough to live your lives and occasionally buy cool new power tools? If so, seems like your scale back plan is on target and I say good for you.

      I’ll admit that what was a mandatory 11 AM break in my day is now something I usually get to (but not always). That could be me or it could be you– but being less like Pavlov’s dog is probably healthy for me.

      Also, the lack of family posts has come up a lot– I’m happy following along with family stuff on instagram.

      Good luck– you’ll need it just to get through all these comments without making your head spin.

    • Jessica says

      In my mind, I am “over” blogs in general. I used to check like 5 blogs daily, and now that has whittled down to just yours. I can’t wait to take that 5 minute break at work every day or so to check in on the blog.

      While I have skimmed over much of the laundry room remodel (not my jam), I realized today that I have skimmed over several of the big remodel posts just to remember that post months or even years later and thought, I NEED TO FIND THAT ON YHL. While I yawned at the installation of cork floors way back when, I searched for that post recently like a rabid animal when we installed our own cork floors. So while I so, so appreciate the “big” posts, I agree with the general consensus that little posts about small style changes or family updates are a welcome break from the big project posts. But, I love it all. I always joke to my husband that our house is becoming a mash-up of every YHL house to date, as I’ve more than once followed a post step-by-step or stole a style idea. (Floors? Cork. Frames? Made ’em. Sectional? Ikea Karl baby.)

    • Jen_nifer says

      I’ve been reading since before Clara was born, and would enjoy if you brought back some shorter posts in the mix (e.g. Budget Blooms, crafting) and was hoping to see family updates once or twice a month as well.

    • Tzivie says

      I am SO SO SO happy this was brought up! I have been feeling exactly like this lately but felt like a horrible person bringing this up because of you bold choice to stay with Teddy. Me and my friend who share a major love for you guys since house # 1 have been saying it kind of feels like the “John Show” or giveaways. And yes we love love love John, but he is typically posting the really technical building, mathematical posts and those posts were usually spread out over time (think the veranda project last year). We miss the small crafty, designy type of posts! Please don’t leave us :( My husband jokes that I refer to John and Sherry as my BFF’s who craft with me on the weekend and I would hate to lose my BFF’s!

    • Megan says

      Hi John & Sherry,

      I’m a faithful every-day-checker, and I can agree that the technical-heavy posts tend to be ones I skim over, purely because I’m a renter and bigger projects like that aren’t an option for me at this point. That being said, I definitely make a mental note of them so I can come back should I, at some point in the future, be able to use all of the great info and insight you provide.

      As far as the short post vs. no post question, I really enjoy even short tid-bits. Things like small crafts, art projects you do with Clara, decor tweaks…I love those. As a fellow parent, I deeply appreciate the quick ‘n easy projects you share; those are the kinds of things I’m most likely to try myself.

      All in all, I love your blog and won’t quit checking back regardless of whether you make more changes. I genuinely respect and admire your dedication to your family. You’re blessing your kids by putting them first.

      -Megan

    • Lauren H says

      I love y’all’s blog! And always have! It has changed drastically over the years but blogs in general have. I appreciate the big and small posts. And I don’t mind no post but like the note that their won’t be so I know to not keep checking back.

      Keep on keeping on!

      Lauren

    • Laci says

      LOVE everything ya’ll do!! I would love shorter posts (if you have tons of them and tons of time and if ya’ll like posting them even if they’re “old”). I think I miss Sherry (no offense John). p.s. I currently (this season of my life) read the posts while I’m pumping; so for me, I like more no-brainer stuff between the intense stuff (no-brainer as in for me. I know it is all “brainer”…if you will…to ya’ll). p.s.s I wish we could “like” other peoples comments on a thread. ;-)

    • Christy says

      1. I am so glad that you are able to structure your lives so that Clara and Teddy are a priority. Clearly, they are the most important parts of this equation. Right now your laundry room project is sucking up all of your time, but it was a huuge undertaking and you’re almost done. And you warned us that it would be a light week. Fair play, I say.

      2. Your blog is one of my favorite ways to distract myself online, and your announcement that you were scaling back came right as I really needed some distraction. So as happy as I was for you, I was a little bummed. Until I realized that I could go back to the beginning and read all the posts that were from before I started reading the blog in real time. Plus, I figured that would give you more clicks on your website to help support everything that you are doing.
      I really enjoyed seeing everything that you did in your first house and watching your style progress! And, it was super easy- I just clicked all the way back to the beginning and then left the browser tab open so that I wouldn’t lose my place.
      So, I guess that I am suggesting that if your readers miss the “old” style of the blog and didn’t start reading at the very first post, this is a great way to get a YHL fix. :)

      3. I love hearing about your day or even a little update about what is happening. Even a kid pic with “we’re working hard on this project today… and Clara is doing her best to distract us!” would be fun to see when I check in. Or any of the awesome ideas that were listed above!

      Thanks for letting all of us strangers on the internet into your lives!

    • Andrea G says

      Hi guys!

      I’m a huge fan of yours and just wanted to give my 2 cents. I prefer the big meaty posts the most but would of course take a small post in place of no post any day!

      Another reader brought up that maybe just a little variation would go a long way and I would have to agree. I know everyone loves giveaways but I find they lose their appeal when we can expect one every week.

      Whatever you guys decide, I’ll still be here reading!

    • Kari says

      I was just speaking this and many of the other thoughts listed below to another fellow reader friend! We love the silly posts that you used to do! Even if ya’ll can’t stick to a timed schedule, I still follow blogs that just post when they can, but still several times a week. Don’t feel pressure to stick to a schedule, just do what you love and share it with the world… that’s what blogging is about after all, isn’t it?? :)

      Good luck with everything!

    • Amy says

      I’m probably 1 of 10,000 here who have responded to this thread, but I hope all the feedback you receive is helpful. Like many others have mentioned -and like them, I feel bad for saying this- I too have been skimming your posts more frequently. I completely understand why it’s been heavy with technical content lately with that fabulous laundry room reno, but I do miss the days of posts that highlighted parts of your lives that we as readers could totally relate and connect with as well. Though I don’t have kids, but hope to someday, I enjoyed reading about your cloth diaper adventures, Baby Led Weaning (I think that’s what it’s called?), the DIY toys you made for Clara. And I also loved the random, every day house related things, like when you reorganized your refrigerator, or when you gave a fresh look to your bathroom simply by changing a few items in it.

      Bottom line though, as much as I too would love to revisit the days early on in your blog (I’m also a longtime, back when you had your first house, different blog name reader), things change. Life happens. And you adjust to make that life work best for you and your family. I can’t tell you how much I admire what you do and how you do it. I think why everyone loves you guys so much is that you don’t sugarcoat things. You keeps it real! If you don’t have time to post something one day because life gets in the way, we understand. We’d be remiss to say things like that don’t happen in our own lives as well. I don’t think anyone here is disappointed that you didn’t post anything on Thursday. I do think, obviously, that we’re eager to give you our feedback on the overall content of the blog.

      Now that I’ve written a novel here…I look forward to continuing to follow your blog, no matter what direction you take. I’m excited to see where you guys go from here!

    • Kate says

      I would MUCH rather see a “quicky” post than just a statement saying that you guys didn’t have time to post. Even if you wanted to put a blurb at the top giving an update saying that you guys are busy, I still enjoy the quick posts. I don’t see a lot of those posts as “filler”, I see them as fun and interesting.

      Also, I like reader redesigns. I wish they would come back in general!

      If it helps for perspective, I’m a fairly long time reader (I remember it was just before you announced you were pregnant with Clara – I think one of the first posts I ever saw was where you were unclogging the bathtub drain and in the picture were hiding your bump behind the shower curtain because you hadn’t announced it yet, lol). I still enjoy the blog, but am a bit put off by the fact that there often isn’t a post every day anymore. I miss the shorter posts.

    • Amanda says

      Seems like this is fodder for another graph! Make a quiz for everyone to check off the types of post they want to see! I’ll check every box, love you guys. :)

      I will say, though, that when you have something that makes you want to update a post with more information, like you did here…a lot of us will miss the update. The only reason I saw this is because I was behind on my blog reading, so you’d posted the update before I ever saw the original post. That said, most days I read them as soon as you post them, so if you update it I’ll never know. My feed reader doesn’t tell me there was an update! :)

    • C says

      I’ve been a dedicated reader for many years now, but have found myself clicking over here less and less. I’m disappointed to find only one post this week, and just three posts on normal weeks, sometimes only two. I agree with so many others that your blog used to be near the top of my list, and I agree with Luke that it feels like you are moving onto greener pastures, and saving content for your new book. I understand that you earn money other ways now–your books, your Target line, and your increased traffic here on the blog, so I realize that you don’t have to depend on the blog as much. Unfortunately, this fact is becoming more and more glaringly obvious, and makes some readers feel sad and used–another reason why I tend to visit less often. You have you done so well, but please, you would be no where without the clicks of your loyal fan base over all these years. Please don’t throw us away. We love you.

    • Jen says

      I do say that I agree and it’s not just this week. It’s been for a few months. Please don’t view this as an attack of any kind. I know kids change things a LOT. But it’s more like… I miss you guys! Sherry hasn’t been on the blog, like, at all. I was actually thinking “hmm, I wonder how she will decorate for fall this year.” With book deals and your business growing, doing decorating posts probably feels “meh,” but that’s what makes us little people want to come back! Show your faces… we want to see them! Love you guys, avid reader.

    • Lauren says

      I’m in between here. I like the long big DIY posts.. they’re so interesting, but I do also miss the sprinkled in smaller DIY posts,reader designs, small crafts, clara convos and stuff like that. I’d love to see those smaller posts sprinkled in when you’re running short on time. even if it’s just “hey, here’s some decor we picked up while shopping this week”

      Whatever it may be. I would love to see the small every day family / quick posts sprinkled in with the bigger posts, or on days when y’all are busy.

      All in all though, do what you need to do for your family :)

    • Ann says

      Since you asked… I SOOOOOO miss the smaller posts. This blog was a regular stop for me as well, but now, I just don’t. And when I do, I skim, because I just don’t want to read a huge post every day.

      I didn’t read most of the comments, but I did see one that said it seems like you have both quit your job. And since this job is what makes your bread and butter right now, it would be great to up the ante a little bit with content. I totally understand your need, want and desire to spend more time on your family, but why not fill the empty slots with some of those stories as well?

      And I also agree that giveaways do not count as posts, although I do enter, in the eternal hope that someday will be my lucky day!!

    • Meg says

      I have two small children too, so I just think its amazing you guys are doing all you do! Cheers! But if you’re taking votes, I like the small updates/reader redesigns/etc. They’re fun, and a good balance to all the technical/heavy duty DIY you’ve been tackling lately.

    • Athena says

      Seems almost pointless to add the din of comments at this point, but I felt compelled anyway (like so many others hah). I’ll keep it relatively short and easy to skim though:

      1. I was prepared for a cut-back in content with Teddy, especially for the first 3 months when everything is chaos chaos chaos. What’s happened feels a lot more dramatic than that. I can FORGIVE AND FORGET about it because it’s not like you’ve had 2 kids before and knew what would happen, or what to expect from your life.

      2. SMALLER posts about your life is better than NO posts. I think everyone can relate to this. I’d rather get a text message from a friend even if we’re used to phoning each other every weekend or seeing each other every day than a bit fat silence. In fact, it helps everyone be more understanding when we actually see what you’re doing and why things can’t be longer (eg: an actual mountain pile of laundry that Clara can scale using ropes from not having a washing and drying machine for way too long).

      3. Not a home-owner. I’m an apartment dweller with one kid. Renovation posts are useless to me because I cannot renovate. I look forward to DIY posts about smaller things. Where to shop. HOW to shop. Where I can find coupons. You’d be amazed at the things that I’ve gleaned from your blog that changed my life (eg: how I keep my pot lids in my cabinet). I think more people have the BUDGET for those small changes more than the large ones, especially in this economy.

      4. Love you anyway. I’ll be sticking around for a long time. We went to your signing. We’ve bought several copies of your book. If this is a low point, oh well. We’ll ride through it and wait. My daughter didn’t sleep through the night until…oh, wait, we’re at 2 years and she still doesn’t. My life is a wreck of its former glory. I don’t know about what Teddy is like, but I know about forgiveness for parents. Stay well, guys.

    • C says

      Hi, I saw my comment, and then I didn’t, I hope I didn’t mess it up–so sending again:

      Hi guys, I’ve been a reader for many years now, but have found myself clicking over here less and less. I’m disappointed to find only one post this week, and just three posts on normal weeks, sometimes only two.

      I agree with so many others that your blog used to be near the top of my list, and I agree with Luke that it feels like you are moving onto greener pastures, and saving content for your new book. I understand that you earn money other ways now–your books, your Target line, and your increased traffic here on the blog, so I realize that you don’t have to depend on the blog as much. Unfortunately, this fact is becoming more and more glaringly obvious to your readers, and it makes us feel sad and used–another reason why I tend to visit less often.

      Plus a lot of your posts have become completely unrelatable to me — for instance, dropping $3,000 or $4,000 on this laundry room, or $1,400 for a patio couch…When so many Americans are struggling…it’s unrealistic for the majority of this country/world, so you have to consider how bad this makes other people feel. You have you done so well, but please, you would be no where without the clicks of your loyal fan base over all these years. Please don’t throw us away. We love you. Thanks for listening to our thoughts.

    • Hayley says

      Reader from house 1 here too!

      My comments are thus: I would definitely prefer a reader redesigns post to the amount of time you spend moderating comments. I think you’d be surprised how few readers read through the comments so they are only benefitting a small number of your readers, but from your Day In the Life post it sounds like they take up a significant amount of your time. I’d much prefer that time to be spent doing a quick organising post, or money saving tips.

      I’m also a bit bored / surprised by your love for ikea in this house. I remember in house 1 you had an expensive sofa and saved for an organic matress. Buying fewer better quality pieces seems to fit more with your ‘green’ angle, and seems more in line with a maturing couple (we are similar ages. I have been moving away from ikea as much as possible for a few years now).

      I’m really looking forward to your blogiversary, favourite week of the year!

    • Sav says

      Hi,
      Long time reader, first time commenter.
      While I completely understand why you both took a step back, and support that decision: I too would like smaller posts if you are running short on time some days. I don’t want to nit-pick but it seems lately you both just don’t enjoy this blog anymore. It seems like a resented obligation now.. which I understand it’s your full time job, so sometimes it does suck, but if your two aren’t enjoying it maybe it’s time to re-think? It was so refreshing and fun to read about how much you two love diy-ing and it lead to all these things…but now it just seems like you have to pump a post out.. sorry if this is harsh..I will read either way. Love the blog! (Also sorry this comment is one big run on sentence!)

    • Kim S says

      I’ll ditto Molly’s comment above: “I love any content above no content, especially since your writing style is so fun to read. I’d love to see the little things, even a problem you haven’t solved yet!” Completely understand a crazy week every now and again, but if you can manage to stockpile a few quick-and-easy posts, I’d be on board for sure!

    • Paige @ Little Nostalgia says

      I’m glad to see so many other replies in this thread! I think this goes to show that a lot of people still really love you guys and want to “make this work” despite the changes.

      First of all, I LOVE that your writing schedule is less intense since you had Teddy. Somebody probably would’ve had a nervous breakdown if you kept trying to post everyday, so scaling back was the best plan. Family totally comes first.

      I do agree with some other people who miss the variety. It’s been really interesting to read about the laundry room the past few weeks, but there hasn’t been much else except for Teddy’s birth story and the weekly giveaway. Remember when you guys did Burning Questions? I bet that would be easy to bring back once a month! Reader Redesigns are always good, as are the little peeks into your home organization. With the holidays coming up soon-ish, some gift guides would also be helpful.

      Basically, you guys are still super awesome and I’m not going anywhere, but since you DID ask, something quick and fun is better than no post at all. :-)

    • Jessica says

      I definitely agree! I would prefer shorter posts even if they aren’t house related. My favorite part about your blog is sometimes the smaller posts and the posts about kids. These give the blog a little variation in my opinion. I agree that some of the recent posts have been very technical and I have been skimming through the majority of them. I understand why though, as you guys post on the blog as it relates to your current projects. While it is good to see this, I think it would definitely help to mix it up a little with some smaller and unrelated posts.

    • Chaucea says

      Well, this blog *is* a business, so you need to figure out where your bread and butter is coming from ultimately.

      If you decrease your blog activity too much, you are essentially forsaking the reason why you *are* able to get book deals, etc. in the first place.

      You started with the blog and if you shift away from that too much you run the risk of diminishing your marketability when it comes to obtaining other/related projects.

    • Lori says

      I like the DIY stuff better than the “tablescapes, crafty, kid” posts. I love your level of detail in sharing those projects. Substance over quantity would be my preference. I think maybe you’ve become progressively less relateable to the average reader. You went from being part-time bloggers to full-time bloggers to authors to show-house designers to product line designers… we’ve all come along for the ride, but you’re no longer the kids down the street. You’re on billboards and book covers. You’re stars.

    • Adeline says

      Hello,
      as you’re asking for feedback, here’s mine. I personally love the smaller stuff: I’m in a rental so I tend to be on the lookout for little projects that would make my place feel cosy and like my home (even though I like seeing your big DIY projects but I have to admit I skip the technical details for now). And I think it’s been a while this you made a window shopping or a thrift store shopping post, they were really fun.
      Anyway, I still love coming here on a regular basis.
      Adeline

    • Misty says

      Hi guys! I like the short posts. It breaks up my workday! :) Also, I miss house crashing… those posts may take too much time from your schedule but it was always cool to see other people’s houses too. I like the reader redesigns as well, and the short DIY stuff…AND I like the long, technical stuff too…I like it all!

    • Meg says

      I miss the conversations that used to happen around here between you and your readers. Like when you ask us to vote on something in your home, that sort of thing. I also LOVED the reader dilemma’s. It was always great to see the ideas you came up with to solve the problem, then the readers would chime in, and it felt like such a great little community.

    • Tiffany says

      I’d love to see more small project posts, and maybe also some Macklemore/pinterest-y/general gangsta-ness posts. Silly is good. Kudos for scaling back to spend more time with each other, and thanks for asking for readership opinions! Hope all is well.

    • chrissie lynn says

      I just had to chime in to say REALLY? People are complaining that there aren’t enough “busy” posts to keep them occupied while you wrestle two kiddos, a book project, not to mention you CREATED A ROOM IN YOUR HOUSE in the last few weeks, and somehow found the time to write about it – at all.

      I’m shocked that people have talked about the “quality” of posts, gimme a break. They’re still chock full of photos and cute quirky titles. What’s missing?

      We all knew there would be fewer posts as you took the time to tell us you were going to refocus, and to expect you to spend an afternoon bedazzling something just so we can click on it seems really silly to me.

      Sure, are some posts longer and more technical? Yeah. You’re growing! You’e becoming more capable DIYers. I think what people tend to FORGET about blogging is that it’s a process and that the authors change with their content. I’ve seen similar posts on blogs about dating “Now that you found a man, you’re boring.” Gimme a break. You’re human.

      So all that said, keep changing and keep growing. You’ll lose some readers in the process but likely gain a few too.

      Wow, that felt good.

    • Bree says

      I LOVE all the technical stuff! While it’s tough to not have a post every day, the little ones about rearrangement or art never really did much for me. I have 3 active/crazy dogs, so accessories/arrangements don’t matter as much as the bigger picture stuff: decks, cabinets, laundry rooms, painting wood paneling etc. I think it’s awesome that you’re scaling back for your family, do what you have to do for YOU!

    • C says

      Oops sorry, I see my post again now, duh. ;P Sorry for the repost. …One more thing I just wanted to add though–that deep-down what I seem to take issue with most is the general dishonesty I’ve been feeling…Again, it’s obvious that you make enough money from other venues (book deals, Target), and from increased blog traffic; that you can afford to post only two or three times a week (probably even less). If it was not feasible you would not be doing it. So what I would like to hear from you is some honesty about this–just tell us this straight, instead of using family excuses or whatnot. No big deal. // It is refreshing to see that you are actually hearing your readers out, when so many other bloggers don’t, or don’t seem to care. :)

    • Britt says

      My thought – you have a NEWBORN! I could barely answer a text when I had a newborn. This is your job, and you haven’t taken maternity/paternity leave…you don’t owe me as a reader any sort of update or explanation when you don’t post on a day you normally post. You don’t owe me a posting schedule; you don’t owe me an update when you decide to “scale back.” Your readers aren’t your boss – even if your blog provides income. You’re in charge how how that comes in and if it’s enough, and just because you earn money here doesn’t mean you owe readers a schedule or daily post.

      Your blog is successful because you are talented and you work hard, and being likable doesn’t hurt either. Seasons come and go. In some places, people would still be on leave from work taking care of their new baby. I wouldn’t expect that everything would be “business as usual” for a little while yet, if ever.

      I appreciate that your financial wisdom and personal humility allow you to live comfortably, and to scale back where you choose to, rather than trying to grow bigger and bigger, and amass more materially. That shows a lot of maturity. Not every individual or family feels the need to keep up in the rat race, when they know they can do with less.

      I appreciate that you open a dialogue to ask readers what they think of this, and how a DIY blog has managed to create a community. I hope that in the scaling back process, you’re enjoying the fruits of years of hard work, making memories with your beautiful family, and getting some rest. I am sure still enjoying your blog, and all the inspiration it continues to provide.

    • Heather says

      There are some great comments on here. However, I am completely floored mouth hanging open that anyone would call you guys “lazy” or not “professionals”. I check your site every single morning for more than 6 years and will continue to do so. I would love to see some more small posts and others that help us to feel connected with your life, home, and family (and growing baby). I know there is so much you have going on ‘off blog’ that we do not even realize (like the Target line) until it is announced, so take that in consideration with the harsher comments asking how you spend your time if not blogging. You have to do what works best for you, and I wish you luck at just finding the time to read all our comments. Thanks for being such a great inspiration to so many of us (and for those missing a blog post daily, the archives are great to go back to the beginning and read if you have not already).

    • Sarah says

      Hi!

      1. So kind of you guys to give an update that you can’t post on a day!
      2. I don’t understand the people who seem to think you “owe” readers anything. This is a blog that we read for free. You don’t “owe” your readers anything, though of course your readers can choose to stop reading.
      3. I also don’t understand why people think you shared too much. Even when I detail my life to my closest friends, I feel like I’m sharing about 5% of what I’m thinking.

      This all said, I think the problem is that if you post only 1-3 times per week (not including giveaways), a big project can take over the blog. Back when you posted many times, there were small things mixed in even during big renos just bc of the sheer number of weekly posts. Overall, it’s not like you post more technical stuff, but it becomes a bigger percentage when the total posts decrease. So, for me at least, it really is as simple as revamping how you post with the new schedule, with at least 1 post out of the 1-3 being family/reader redesign/window shopping/whatever (I miss the family blog a lot!).

      I like you guys for your tone and writing style, and you have a similar background (corporate NYC rat race). Some of my best friends are a lot like John–mathy, funny, long-distance running types (some even went to magnet high schools and UVA!). So, I don’t really care what you write–reading your blog holds the comfort and familiarity of reading a friend’s email.

    • Michelle says

      Hey guys!

      Firstly, I will admit that I didn’t read all of the feedback. I do agree with some readers that the content has been a little stale lately. Lengthy posts about how to install a door aren’t exactly my jam. With that being said, it’s not my blog and I am not your only audience. You know what they say about opinions. I find it strange that people feel they have the right to complain that you only wrote one post this week, and that they didn’t like the content. While your blog is one of my favorites, I don’t get upset when I check in and see that there isn’t a new post or that I don’t like what you wrote about. This is your blog to do with whatever you like. In short, do what works for you. Keep up the good work :) While lengthy DIY posts aren’t exactly up my alley at this point in my life, I love how you incorporate what you have heard/read elsewhere and how you tweaked it to work for you. In my opinion, there’s something here for everyone and that’s a big reason your blog is so successful.

    • Misty says

      I would love to have more short posts. When a post gets long and techincal I tend to skim if it’s not something I see myself doing (not complaining. I would love to see more quick reads about random stuff.

    • Caitlin Wallace Rowland says

      I love the content y’all have been posting lately (I love to see the progression of rooms, whether than means just decorating or full on renovation), but I’ve also been wondering lately where the other posts were. I would love to see more Reader Redesigns, a few small posts, or family stuff. I love everything y’all post and I think you could still include other great content on your blog while still keeping it scaled back to only a few posts a week! I would love to see something other than giveaways!

    • Kristin says

      I agree and of course respect the decision to scale back the content. But i feel like your posts have gotten super long and even more detailed. I think i would like a quick post every day (how else would i procrastinate at work every day?) with a small project instead of you giving a bunch of small updates in one long post. Also, while i do own a place, it is a condo in DC with no outdoor space and definitely no space or time to do big projects. I’ve gotten to where i skim your blog posts in 20 seconds instead of soaking in every word. Especially when you do your more construction-heavy guides. One day i hope i can buy a fixer-uper and then will be super happy to have all of your step-by-step guides. But in the meantime, i’m missing those small little changes i can do in my place.

      Now that your first book has been out for awhile, could you just go through the projects in the book and give us the back story on those and just paste in the project straight from the book (if your publishers would allow)? I have the book and went through it when I got it, but having a weekly reminder of the fun projects in it, may give me the motivation to do a little weekend DIY project.

    • Hayley says

      “Again, it’s obvious that you make enough money from other venues (book deals, Target), and from increased blog traffic; that you can afford to post only two or three times a week (probably even less). If it was not feasible you would not be doing it. So what I would like to hear from you is some honesty about this–just tell us this straight, instead of using family excuses or whatnot. No big deal.”

      Just had say I agree with C about this too. I had a boss once who used to pretend he was going to meetings when we all knew he was going home. We didn’t care he was going home! He was the boss! Good for him! But it felt weird to know he was lying, and that he felt like he had lie. He made enough money to pay us to do the leg work for him. I always wished he would have just left the office, without the justifications. He didn’t need to be in the office. No need to explain.

    • Allison says

      Let me start by saying I GET IT!! I have an almost four-month old and a three year old, and this second kiddo is kicking my butt! I’m newly a stay-at-home mom as well, and that is kicking my butt as well! I totally get it if you are drowning (delightfully drowning!) in infant care! That being said, I would love to hear about it! How are you adjusting to life with two kiddos? What changes has that brought to your family? I miss hearing about you guys! Your house is awesome, but you guys are what makes it a home. I miss your frequent Instagram pics as well! Don’t get me wrong, I love your technical posts as well. I reference your site for nearly every project I do in my house. So don’t get rid of the technical! :) But, if you’re in between big technical posts, and you haven’t had time to do any decorating-type things, tell us about what’s been going on with your kiddos, etc. We love you, and we miss you guys!! :)

    • Sandra Tsimis says

      I am not enjoying your blog as I once did. It seems to me that your passion has gone and the posts are very long and drawn out.. The new laundry posts are not interesting to me as a renter and I would love to see more variety in the content of the blog. It seems to me that you are not as vested in this house as you were in the other two. I understand that you need work life balance -we all do but as this blog is your full time job it seems your balance now is heavily leaning towards life not the blog.

    • Alyssa says

      I’m a full-time blogger too. After a while, I realized I didn’t have anything else to say and I was feeling burnt out, so I hired more people. People with talents and knowledge in areas that I didn’t have. My blog is so much stronger for it. My overhead has increased, but I believe the increased traffic I have from posting more often makes up for it. Have you thought about doing that? It’s a great way to introduce more variety to your posts and when your life is crazy or you’re working on side projects, you can still keep the site running on a regular schedule. Just a thought!

    • Rachel says

      Hey guys!
      I’ve been reading your blog for 5 years now. I love your posts, technical,fluff, and random, all the same! You have grown and your life has changed. I guess in a sense you’ve “grown up”. I for one love seeing the journey unfold. From two young singles to parents and homeowners. As I was reading through some of the thread, I came across a comment that said it felt like you have shut the world out of your life a lot more than you have before. While I do agree with that observation, I would have to say that your privacy is a sacred thing and I don’t think anyone begrudges you that in the slightest. I think whatever you decide for content is in the end the correct choice for you, your family, and your business. I do enjoy some of the fluffier pieces though. Art, style, window shopping, thrifting, and different decor posts. You guys are so sweet and so genuine. We all know that there are haters it the world. Some more prolific than others. In the end you guys are still pretty awesome in my book. Illegitimi non carborundum!

    • Nicole C. says

      I truly can’t believe the people suggesting that the lighter posting lately is due to either of you being lazy or unprofessional or using your children as excuses to slack off or because you two are so busy swimming through the piles of money you make off this blog – a la Scrooge McDuck. That really makes me angry and I’m sure (I hope) that both of you know that the majority of your readers don’t feel this way and please don’t let it get to you!

      I, too, miss you guys when there’s no post! But that’s because you have become like friends after all the years I’ve been reading (since house #1 and pre Clara!). I can completely respect the need to lighten up on posts to prioritize family. I also realize that you both have many other things happening that we don’t see or won’t see for now (the book projects, etc.). If you can manage to stockpile some quick posts, especially lighter topics, for when you’re busy with other things, that would be fantastic and I would love that. But to jump ship because there wasn’t much going on this week? No way. That’s no way to treat a friend.

      Whatever you choose to do with all this feedback, please remember that so many of us cherish your blog (and you and your family) and are happy to “see” you as often as you can allow. Thank you so much for all you do!

    • Christen says

      Just wanted to add to the very long list of comments. I’ve been a reader since TYH, and used to check every day. As many people have already said, I no longer come by here as much because I know that Fridays don’t have a post, Tuesdays are just some giveaway, and that a lot of the other posts are going to be (admittedly impressive) heavy DIY stuff that I could never do because I’m more of a decorator (could never build my own anything).

      I’d love to see more quality smaller posts like house crashings, reader redesigns, or seasonal posts, but would rather not see the filler type posts (say, flower arrangements).

    • Beth says

      I’ve been reading for 4 years and have never once commented, but feel compelled to jump in here. I can’t imagine what a stressful week / month / years you’ve had. I know how much pressure you put on yourselves and I know how seriously you take this. Your blog has always been amazing and continues to be – of course it’s going to grow and evolve as you do. Please don’t stress (been there), please don’t cry from exhaustion (been there) – take a deep breath and try to relax and know that us readers love you guys and are here to stay and that your lovely children are going to have such fond memories of their life growing up with two wonderful dedicated parents. Love everything you do and am completely fine with every post being a small little update :)

    • Brittany says

      First let me say that structuring your career/this blog for what works best for your family is the most important thing you could do. Like others have said, you’ll never be able to please everyone and not all of your content will be relatable to every one either.

      However, since you asked, I do miss daily posts. I like the reader redesign, house crashes, small crafts, new household items that work for you, debates you are having, cool things you’ve spotted… In other words, I like some less intense posts too, and your style of blogging and writing never seems to be empty or filler to me.

    • Nancy says

      I have to agree, for the most part, with Luke. The heavy technical posts don’t really apply to me, but I don’t mind them every so often. However, this laundry room seems to have consumed the blog. It would have been nice to drop in more shorter posts on different topics for those of us not building a laundry room or door frame. I have been a regular reader of your blog from the beginning and do miss some of the “lighter” content on decorating, thrift shopping, crafting, house crashing, family, life posts, etc. You had said you were combining life & DYI blogging, but I don’t really see that balance. Plus, giveaways now and then are great, but it seems like they are often taking the place of “real” content. Just my two cents! I hope you take this feedback in the spirit it is intended. I hope it doesn’t come off as mean spirited and you instead find some honest feedback helpful. I fully realize you won’t be able to please everyone! Everyone is going to have an opinion and they will probably always contradict. In the end, it is your blog so you have to do what works for you and your family!

    • Cynthia says

      After having read every single comment (because I am clearly a crazy person), I have to agree with what feels like the overwhelming majority – while I love the lengthy DIY posts, I miss the smaller posts. Crafts, organization/green tips, and especially Clara Conversations were some of my favorites!

      I understand that the blog is and always has been DIY at its core, but I think the personality that shines through more in these smaller updates are a large part of what has gained you guys such a loyal following.

      You have given me and so many others inspiration and knowledge – for free, might I add! – that it irks me to see people being so callous as to call either of you lazy or unprofessional. I am 23, with no kids, work 45-50 hours most weeksand have no idea how you do it. As for everyone chiming in about how John and Sherry *obviously* aren’t working 40 hours a week each – dude, it just took me 3 hours to clean out my closet, and these guys are over here building brand new rooms. With an infant. Seriously? That makes me tired to just think about.

      That being said, I want to thank both of you for giving all of us the opportunity to peek into your lives for the past seven years. You have beautiful kids, a lovely home, and a happy family. I think that’s what matters.

    • Cara says

      Whoa, doggie!! I finally made it through all of these comments (I started this morning, read during toddler’s nap, and finished just now) and, silly as it may sound, I’ve had a tight feeling in my stomach all day thinking about how you process all of this feedback. You two make your private residence accessible to anyone on the internet, you stretch yourselves ABOVE and BEYOND to provide informative and entertaining content and respond to reader comments, and you juggle family responsibilities beautifully. You are the essence of THOUGHTFUL bloggers. We, your readers, owe you a huge “Thank you for doing what you do so well and we hope everything is okay!” when you miss a post, which is only once in a blue moon.

      Why are some people so bitter about a week with a holiday and a missed post – as if it’s a regular occurrence?! This hardly ever happens, folks.

      And why so much exaggeration of the lack family/crafty/design posts? You recently showed us your light fixture changes, fabric wall in Clara’s closet, freshly painted deck chairs, new office decor plans, Teddy’s birth story, etc. It hasn’t been all about the laundry room, as many have said. I noticed the other great stuff too! :) And even if the laundry reno has been the main focus lately, why not?? It’s a super exciting upgrade and if the critics would think about what you guys are gaining in terms of physical space, efficient design and new DIY skills it’s a project worth reading about in great detail. I think we hear less from Sherry on the technical posts and the balance of your two voices is what we all love about YHL. But let’s cut Sherdogg a break here (breastfeeding zaps hours out of the day!) and pat John on the back for doing more witty writing lately. You guys make such a great team.

      Lastly, WHY WHY WHY so many comments suggesting that you stockpile some smaller posts for busy weeks like this as if you hadn’t thought of that already… as if you didn’t do exactly that when Clara was born… as if you have an extra 20 hours (minimum) to crank out 10 little emergency posts? This type of comment seems so insensitive when you two obviously maximize every hour. I know it’s not your style to be defensive, but I wish you would remind everyone how much time goes into each post. And don’t we all remember how hard you worked on the showhouse right up until Teddy was born?! So you had no time to prepare extra posts then and, coming from a sympathetic mother of 2, extra time is non-existent from here on out ;)

      Post when you can about what interests YOU the most. You have solid instincts. If it’s shorter but you don’t consider it “filler,” most likely we won’t either.

      I admire you both so much and wish I could send a singing Olaf telegram your way to give you both big WARM HUGS!!! XOXO

    • Sarah says

      I know you guys have talked about how much time coordinating the giveaway is–I would be totally happy if you let that go and replace it with some content! A blog post with a little light content benefits everyone while a giveaway really only benefits one or two people. I’ve been entering it weekly for like 3 years and I know the chances that I’ll win in the future are super slim.

      I don’t feel like you’re phoning it in post-Teddy, I just think you’re in the midst of a technical project amongst book business. Those laundry room posts were full of tons of useful information! I love that you guys set a great example of rethinking a space and investing in a change that will work for you in the long run. It’s what separates you from some other bloggers that produce a lot of “fluff”. A few other readers mentioned that they didn’t like that you are dropping money without batting an eye but I respectfully disagree. Obviously you did a lot of thinking about it and there is a relatable middle ground between living modestly and making lasting upgrades to your home. I skimmed the posts because I’m not building a room so I didn’t relate to it. I did the same thing when you painted all those cabinets in the last house. But I know you guys go through cycles of technical projects and fun projects. When you were posting a ton before some of the of the posts seemed superfluous. Now that you’ve dialed it back, I think those lighter posts may seem more critical to the week’s lineup than they were before so by all means, bring them back!

    • Lindsay says

      I used to start every work day with YHL at 9 am (I’m in the midwest). I’d get to work, get my coffee, check my work schedule and email, and then pull up YHL. It was part of my routine and not having a post on days when I expect one is frustrating. I’ve been fine with the no posts on Fridays over the summer, but I feel like in the fall I want them back! What if (just an idea) you hired someone to help with the admin tasks and help make your life a little easier? Or maybe hired a guest poster for Fridays (as long as they were as fun as you)?

      I prefer the little ‘filler’ posts to technical ones – the ideas I love most as the cute little art projects, thoughtful anniversary traditions, ways to capture trip memories, holiday decor, etc. I generally skim the technical posts for the quirky/funny parts.

    • Cara says

      I hope everyone saw this comment above:

      “You both know what is best for your family and your work life. If you can’t post for a few days WHO CARES!? It’s not like you are sitting in the egg chair sipping Mojitos.”

      PURE GOLD!

    • midnight says

      A few months ago when your life had started to get more hectic you got comments everyday saying things like:
      This is great and all , but no update on so-and-so renovation/installation?
      Or:
      These posts are just filler, I’m waiting for your update.
      Or:
      You’re not doing much home DIYs anymore , your posts are only family stuff.
      With comments like these every day you decided to cut back on quantity to be able to focus on quality diy posts. Now you’re getting these comments! So my feedback is that you can’t satisfy everybody , and though I for one do and always did like more fun and family stuff , I still vote for you to do anything that pleases you and your family more!!

    • SarahC says

      Okay, I feel kind of silly commenting twice, but was thinking about my comment yesterday and reading through some of the others- I want to make sure it didn’t come across as too critical. I appreciate your openness to feedback, but really hope you ignore any attacks about being lazy etc (which is ridiculous). That comes from them – their own jealousy or selfishness. Haters gonna hate.

      I still vote for more quick and personal posts, but there is no way you can please everyone. Ultimately you have to do what is right for you.

      I think what some of the other commenters have said sums it up – we are just super fond of you and miss “seeing” you more! :)

    • Tom says

      You really just seem burned out at this point and want to focus on building your brand rather than working on your own house. And that is fine. The website can grow into something different altogether. Your outside brand issues like the show house, the books, Target, and stuff like that can take more and more of your time. The website has suffered.
      So why not partner with five or six smaller blogs to get content from them? Pick a blog that is doing a renovation in a particular room and make the content with them. Maybe you can consult with them and then two three or four posts over a couple of weeks on your site about their project. You can put together very detailed tutorials of their projects. Check out Sawdustgirl. Most of these micro blogs would probably love the exposure. Then, after their one project is done you can emancipate them and go to another small blog for content.
      Perhaps instead of just being a catalog of your renovations your blog can be the crossroads of the internet for all DIY blog content. You can be the place where people go to find projects and different ideas…. because, and I hate to say this, all your projects are looking an awful lot alike these days–monochromatic with little pops of color. People who started out with you may be growing past you. People may be trading in their ikea couches for something a little better quality. By going this route you could appeal to different age groups.

    • Lindsay L says

      Hey y’all, thanks for being brave enough to ask for our input. It’s one of the many things that makes you so awesome and unique. First of all, I would like to slap the person that described your blog as a “lazy sad mess”. I have a lot of other thoughts about that but out of respect to John and Sherry I’ll keep my comment PG :) but it is so disrespectful to two of the hardest working people I “know”. After reading your blog for many years, I trust you and know that if you’re not posting frequently it’s for a reason and you are working extremely hard in another area. I know you’re not sitting around all day. Yes I agree with Luke and yes I miss your voice on the blog so mix it up however you like, just know that most of us will still be here everyday no matter what you choose because you’ve earned our respect and loyalty through years of hard work and kindness towards your readers!

    • Angie says

      First of all, I am in awe of all the projects you share with us and I fully understand that there’s a lot on your plate. Family comes first and then there were (are?) some side projects going on as well… I honestly doubt whether I could handle all of that.

      However, as some have stated before, the post lately have a tendency to be rather long and technical. I miss those shorter little glimpses into your life (Clara conversions, project reviews etc.) and quick crafting projects. When have we last heard something about ceramic animals, for example? ;)

      I’d love to get short updates – not only when you’re busy but generally speaking. I do like those detailed how-tos, but I mostly file them away for possible reference later on (if we ever stop renting). That’s why long construction post after long construction post can sometimes be overwhelming, especially when I haven’t been online for a while and want to catch up. For me, it feels a bit unfair to you guys to just skip over them when you put so much effort into them, but sometimes I just prefer short and light updates :) And to be honest, I prefer these over giveaways (although I like those too).

      That being said, I don’t mind at all if you don’t have a post ready now and then. Life happens.
      It’s really nice of you to drop a line if you can’t stick to your schedule! After all, it’s YOUR schedule, so you’re the ones who define it ;)

    • Sarah says

      Still love your blog as much as ever. Yall do what works best for you; I’ll keep reading regardless. There have been a lot of meaty, technical posts lately. I would guess these are probably relevant to fewer readers. (Everyone can decorate a space, but not everyone can build a room from the ground up!) Still, I know that one day when I’m a homeowner, your technical posts will come in super handy, not to mention how inspiring they are now, especially since just a few years ago didnt you start with building some bookshelves for clara’s nursery? now you’re building entire rooms! (a post about this evolution in confidence and skill level would be super interesting!)

      Oh and I for one would love short filler posts with cute photos of Teddy & Clara, just saying. :-)

      xo, Sarah

    • christie says

      yeesh – agree with some of the later posters about the peeps who are all like ‘oh my gosh, this is your job.’ bitter, resentful, jealous much? thinking they must’ve forgotten about your ‘day in the life’ posts. i remember thinking pre- that kind of post that it must be nice to live off a blog – how easy. ha! we aren’t your clients, you don’t owe us. i don’t think you need to update us if you couldn’t post. it is clear the majority will be back regardless, happy for the next post. hope you aren’t overwhelmed with feedback. i also think, like someone mentioned, that it would be ok for you guys to scale back on comment response, if you wanted to. that has got to be time consuming, and i know you often have to reply a lot to the same question or things that were already answered in that post or another one.

    • Anne says

      Why are the only options “something small” and nothing? This is what has bugged me the most about YHL for the last year or so. Y’all constantly make references to being too busy and having to “squeeze in” a nap, shower, project, etc. I understand that you believe you’re busier than the average person, but the only explanation for that belief is that you’ve grown completely out of touch with average people. Both of you present the blog as your full-time job. Obviously the arrivals of Clara and Teddy were bound to reduce your content, but you (1) posted ONE substantive post last week, (2) take three-day weekends every weekend, and (3) get to spend most of your days at home with your children. Please understand that people who are actually busy have full-time jobs, take care of young children, AND make improvements to their home. I don’t have a problem with you taking the easy road if you can, but please stop telling your readers (and yourselves) that you’re zomgworkingsohard. Your attitude has a far bigger impact on reader satisfaction than your actual posts do.

    • abby says

      J&S,
      I can’t believe some of the trolls who are leaving comments. I hope you aren’t totally turned off because most of the people seem to love you guys and want the best for you. To pull a Taylor Swift moment (don’t judge) haters gonna hate, shake it off. I hope you guys do what is best for you and I will be here to read, like many others! Xoxo

    • Amandelin says

      Also a long time reader here–as in, when you featured my son’s room redo four and a half years ago, it was like getting a hug from my favorite celebrity. Whenever my internet glitches, I load your site to see if it’s back yet, which is the only reason I saw the second update to this post and your request for us to chime in.

      I guess I have to say that I…haven’t noticed a significant change? I do tend to skim the technical stuff a bit, but not too much. I like knowing if I ever do need to frame my own door, I have a trusted and detailed source to come back to.

      Of course, I am also SO enthused about the new house and the bunk/play room and the laundry room and am really stoked to see it all come together. Your blog is still the only one I check outside of my reader (promptly at 10:15 M-Th). If there’s no new post, I have an “awww” moment where I realize I have to wait longer to see progress on the new project, but it’s not the end of the world.

    • Joan says

      Hi John and Sherry,

      Wow! This is a lot of valuable feedback, and I’m looking forward to seeing your response to all of this.

      It feels like you’re figuring out what place the blog has in your lives, so readers are struggling because we don’t know what to expect. To that end, it would help us to know if
      a) the blog still is a full-time job for you guys?
      b) the blog has turned into a part-time job?
      c) you’re turning the blog into a hobby?

      In the past, you compared writing this blog to running a two-person newspaper. No matter how big or small the news of the day, newspapers have stories and get printed. You’d never see a newsroom hang a sign on its door saying, “There’s no newspaper today because things didn’t go as planned.”

      I think some readers are upset because they still think you’re running a newspaper. But if they know this blog no longer is your full-time job, then they know not to expect full-time commitment to it and can scale back their own expectations.

      Here’s the link to the “two-person newspaper” quote: http://www.wsidesignermarketplace.com/content/designer/Design_Blog/2013/08/diy_design_inspirati.html

      As for your question of whether to publish a) apologies for no post or b) a shorter post, b) is always better if you want to maintain your readership. You can’t please all of your readers all of the time, but you can please most of your readers some of the time. By including a variety of posts, you’ll have wider appeal to more people.

      Plus, posting an apology for not having anything prepared for the blog prompts readers (me included) to think this is the beginning of an erratic posting schedule. In that case, I can visit a couple times a month to catch up with your posts instead of checking in four days a week.

      Thanks for the opportunity to provide feedback! Hope you answer my question in your next post.

    • MDW says

      John & Sherri-

      I have been a loyal reader for many years and wanted to provide my feedback. Thank you for all you have offered over the years… I have loved it.

      It just seems you have hit a point where the blog is in dire need of some change to breathe life back in. You guys are well aware that business has to innovate or it will die. You were on the blogging cutting edge at the beginning and have ridden the wave. If blogging is still your passion and still your means to feed your family… then YHL probably needs to innovate and grown in a new direction.

      You guys are better than what you have offered the readers lately. Better work doesn’t need to be more work. Partner with other bloggers, hire a new voice, inspire us with someone we have not seen in the blogging world. Your family has worked very hard to build this special place… your talent is obvious. Maybe and understandably.. you are nearing the end with this blog. Not many have accomplished so much. If not, I am confident you will take us on an even better journey.

      There are plenty of average blogs out there, YHL should never be one of them.

      MDW

    • Dalenna says

      I love you guys and am still a loyal reader (since before you even announced Clara was coming). Everything has seasons and I love that you love your blog enough to invite this feedback. I will tell you I have been skimming posts lately, they are so long and technical. Now, that doesn’t mean I am giving up on enjoying this blog. It is still a wonderful reference I use quite often. One big thing missing is the family component. I know it is your lives and how much you share is what you feel comfortable with! And I applaud that!! But with combining yhl and the life blog it really feels like you just cut out the life. We all ‘knew’ so much more about Clara then we do about Teddy. I mentioned this in a comment the other day too, but even if one day’s post was his weekly picture that would connect us with him. And you are already doing it. And there is your post.
      Just remember we love the DIY gold mine that you are but the daily checkins are because of you guys. It’s sharing life with our internet buddies John & Sherry. And, we miss you!

    • AmFriend says

      S&J,

      I can only imagine how you might be feeling after reading some of these vile, rude, jealous, envious, disrespectful, entitled opinions. Obviously some folks forgot their manners. I know you asked for feedback, but apparently folks forgot about tact and constructive criticism.
      While I know you earn money from my (& the YHL community at large) forays through your blog, how much you earn (based on a posting schedule that meets your family’s needs and helps you find balance in life) is ultimately controlled by you. It seems, dependent on how you move forward with the frequency and type of posts, as well as the voice of the blog overall, you may lose some readers (and honestly based on some of the venom that has been spewed, those people couldn’t be gone from this community quickly enough for my taste> I firmly believe new readers will find you each day.
      I honestly was surprised at your 4x a week average posting schedule after Teddy joined the family. When you said you were cutting back (a decision I applauded and continue to support) I honestly didn’t think we’d see more than 3 posts a week max.
      Please know the vast majority of the YHL community do not have a sense of entitlement, nor do I feel you “owe” me (or the community at large) anything.
      If you are still loving life as full-time bloggers, evolving DIYers, product developers, authors, etc., then continue to work on achieving a balance that works for you and matches your goals and dreams.
      Any decrease in income you might experience from loss of some readers, can hopefully be offset by income from your diversifying brand.
      Blessings to you and yours as you adjust to your “new normal” and as you work to process all this feedback.

    • Michelle says

      When I was pregnant with my daughter, I knew I would be leaving my students mid-year. I was devastated by this. I wondered how my students would make it through the rest of the year. I planned on meeting with my replacement weekly. In my final month, I arrange for them to be able to access me whenever they needed to. The same night I gave birth, I sat in a hospital bed and typed up emails and a lesson plan.

      I tell you this because once my daughter was born, all of that anxiety and concern went away. I was actually irritated by the thought of grading my last few papers and fielding their worried calls. Never could I have anticipated not only the challenge of doing this whole new job, but the joy of living in the present without concern for the future. Really just being there with my newborn.

      Eventually, I went back to work and things returned to normal, but I can’t forget how little I cared about what anyone else wanted or expected from me. In a way, it was liberating.

      My hope is that you really don’t care what we think and that you and your family are enjoying that liberating feeling of living in the present moment. You invited the world into your home and your lives. Whatever you want to give is enough.

    • Sarah says

      Smaller posts such as Reader ReDesigns (in addition to the technical posts) would be great but I’ll keep reading no matter what! Love you guys!

    • Melanie says

      I love the idea of smaller posts! Especially some of the ideas from commenter One Bedroom House. I really enjoyed your posts about being “green” or thrifty as well. Sometimes I go back and read thru those categories for inspiration! Keep family first. I will always be here to read.

    • Emily W. says

      As someone staying at home with two kids (4 yrs and 19 months), I applaud your efforts to balance home and work life. It is a constant juggling act and I can appreciate how hard it may be some days; something always has to take a back seat. Short or long posts all take time and effort to pull off. Do what is right for you. The kids are only little for so long; enjoy ’em and I’m sure you’ll find a balance that works for your home life and blogging/work life. Best of luck and I’ll be sure to keep tuning in no matter what. ~ Emily, Utah

    • JP says

      John & Sherry, your core strength is inspiring the average homeowner to “get on that” as you say. Like you, we don’t have the resources to hire Kelly Wearstler, but that doesn’t mean we have to live in homes that don’t reflect our style, taste, or personalities. We don’t have to live with blue trim, builder grade light fixtures, or paneling from the 70s.

      Having said that, I’m probably not going to need your step by step instructions on every detail of your home renovation, diy, or curtain projects, but I just like seeing that you tackled some weird thing in your home and made it better. It inspires me to tackle the weird things in my home and make them better. Since reading your blog, I’ve made some clothespin lights for my laundry, redone the laundry flooring, cabinetry, wallpaper, and added tile. I’ve refinished my stairs and replaced some closet bifolds with a barn door. With the exception of the clothespin lights (which are truly awesome) I didn’t really follow any of your instructions or methods, but I was very much inspired by your “dude-get on that” attitude.

      If you’re going to scale back, I wish it would be in the length of the posts. I also think that your slavish devotion to approving and replying to comments isn’t a sustainable model, and it isn’t really necessary. I never look at the comments; there are just too many of them.

      Thanks for all the ideas and work you put into this blog. My home looks better because of it.

    • Vicki says

      Sherry and John,

      I love YHL, I’ve been coming here every morning for years. My alarm goes off on my phone, I check my work email, then I pop open your blog, all before I’ve even sat up in bed. It’s my little ritual that I’ve still kept up even though the number of posts has gone down lately.

      I like any post from you guys, big or small. And while I enjoy the super detailed posts about home renovations (and I know how much time it takes to put those posts together, taking photos along the way), I’m a renter and don’t get as much out of those posts as I do the smaller, home-decorating ones. Like when you guys are just brainstorming some wallpaper ideas, or ways to arrange the frames on the wall, or a quick “painted this ceramic animal yellow!” posts. You guys have great style, that’s what I am looking for most when I come here. But again, I’ll take whatever you guys are offering.

      I really appreciate you continuing to share your adventures with us as your family grows and life gets crazy. Your voice and your ability to share your processes, warts-and-all, is what has kept me around all these years.

    • Anne says

      I agree w/ Luke — a little update about the family, an unfinished project, an Instagram picture with a caption, would be really nice. I don’t like the Fab Freebies, but I’m sure a lot of people do. I’m really impressed with how serious John has gotten with his technical skills — even though I’ll never do stuff like that, I’ve just gotten to know you guys through your blog and it is cool to see your new skills.

    • Zoe says

      Hey,

      so I wouldn’t have bothered to reply but you asked. And the other mandatory thing to say: I have been reading since you bought your 2nd house.

      my 2 cents;
      – I like little posts; I just check in once a day and more then getting inspiration or anything I like the style in which you guys write – the best post I ever read was the one where John drew a stick figure re-inactment of a shopping trip. it was funny!
      my point is I like them – whatever they are, I will read it.
      – I also like the big projects. Maybe I am not going to hang a door – but I like to see you guys do it! (haha!) I mean it is a renovating blog, not a buy stuff from the shops and arrange it on a shelf blog!! so yeah – get stuck into it!!
      – I like it when people take parental leave away from their work. It is what I will do when I become a parent. I am going to take time to be with my baby and not going to work during that time.

      but I dont like:
      – (this might be controversial) that you are not actually taking parental leave…. I would expect that there would have been a period of “no work/ no blogs” for several weeks /months. (which I believe would have been respected) instead this is kind of a ‘trying to have it both ways’ situation – which is why I think people are confused and dissapointed (not only is the blog still going but your doing the book and other stuff) ya’know.
      why not just put a sign on the blog ‘on parental leave – see you in December’ or something.
      – I also dont like how there is not much going on that is ethical/environmentally friendly. There is a whole lot of buying stuff new nowdays – not much restoration and ‘working-with-what-you-have’which you used to do a lot. Washing paintbrushes down the drain (as Sherry says you do) – frownies, what about eco- updates like solar panels etc
      Anyway, I still check in but I now wonder why I do. Your style and mine are not at all alike and now my husband and I have finished renovating our house (to a high environmental standard) I feel like maybe I wont bother – I mean if you guys dont care anymore (and it kind of feels like you dont) – why should we??

      cheers, Z

    • Bec says

      Hi Sherry, hi John: I’ve been a long-time reader, since waaay before John bogged that moving truck in the ditch in front of your first house and I love what you do. Firstly, you’re doing fine – things have slowed down around here, but you’re working on your second book and are entitled to some maternity / paternity leave. Secondly, ignore the nasty comments and nasty people, if someone can’t find a nice way to communicate some constructive criticism, they’re too bitter to bother with. Thirdly, importantly, IF this isn’t working for you anymore be honest with yourselves and then be honest with your readers. If it isn’t working for you anymore, then one answer is STOP: go back to school, get a “normal” job, figure out your place in the big picture. These are exciting times … I’ll miss you if you disappear from the interweb, but you’ve already given so many people so much. If you’re loving it and struggling with time, energy, inspiration or priorities, then it comes down to managing reader expectation and changing as much about your work life as you have power to change. As one reader said above, innovate! Let go of the blog-related jobs you don’t like (and then feel the weight off your shoulders) – there aren’t any rules! Do more of the things you do like. Enlist the community around you, including your sponsors, to help YHL evolve. Become the managers, not the producers. Morph YHL into something new, something that stretches you again to learn new tech, design, coding, management, communication, promotional … whatever skills. Talk to your mentors. Take care and good luck.

    • Holly says

      I’m not going to pretend that I’ve just read this whole thread, as I have not, but I will add my two cents. I was actually thinking that this topic might come up during your blogiversary so I was hoping to place my “vote” then, but since it’s come up now…
      I do really miss the smaller lifestyle posts. I love the cleaning, organizing, family, budget, quick decor, type posts. But I equally love the bigger project posts. Reader redesigns are ok, not my fav, but I still read them.

      I think it’s totally ok for you guys to not post when the time doesn’t allow. I think it’s also totally cool for you guys to post something like a reader redesign, add your two cents, and say we wont be active with replying to comments with this post. But I also think that maybe a lighter post here and there would be great too. Less pressure on churning out big projects, and more about how you guys are adjusting to life with a new little one, how your routines have changed, etc. But of course I totally get your need to want to get the big projects done, after all you are the ones living in your house.

      So there’s my two cents, probably completely useless to you as my thoughts were all over the place. But to sum it up, yes I miss light posts, and I’d be happy with some of those in lieu of bigger posts, but if you need to skip posts from time to time do what you gotta do ;)

    • Erin says

      More frequent smaller posts about small projects around the house or fun things you’ve done in Richmond. I definitely don’t mind if you jump around to different projects or provide a tiny project update.

      The long step-by-step posts might be good for future reference if I want to DIY something (and are definitely motivational for our house), but there needs be a balance.

      The charm of your blog is 1/2 house progress and 1/2 “fun time with the PETERSIKS!” I love coming to the blog every day at 10am, but I just don’t bother when there’s a giveaway (where’s the fun in that?). I’ve been reading the blog since 2008, but I definitely agree that the content just isn’t the same.

      More of you guys and your talent to make your house your home in a budget-friendly way that’s full of color and style.

    • Christy says

      As the original woo to the hoo-er and someone who has literally read every single post (I found you just shy of the name change and went back through the archives-that doesn’t sound stalkerish, does it??), here’s my couple of cents worth…

      You guys chose to stay home and have the blog be your full time jobs…”Job” is the key word. Just like with any job, sometimes you have to stop and re-evaluate how your life fits together. For some people that means making adjustments-like you guys have already done. For other people, it means changing jobs.

      I respect that you guys are asking for feedback. YHL is now not just a blog but its a product. You guys are attempting to cater to your demographic and that’s great and smart. I don’t actually know what the right mix is your you guys as far as small posts/technical posts/give aways/reader redesigns/etc. I know that my personal preferences have caused me to check the blog less often than before but I’m still coming back several times a week. I’m always pleased when there’s a new post. I’m never irked when there isn’t one. But I cannot imagine trying to accomodate such a diverse fan base. I hope that you can find the balance that’s needed to both fulfill your audience but also make a reasonable income to comfortably support your family.

      All that said, though, here’s my real point…. no matter what you chose to do, if you’re putting your family first, everything else will fall into place. You may lose readers, you may gain some. But at the end of the day, you have a network of people here who support you and wish you the best. There’s no doubt in my mind that you guys will figure it out and land in your sweet spot.

    • Carissa says

      Hi John and Sherry,

      I’m a longtime reader (found you through The Nest way back) and love your blog! Regardless of the content I will remain an avid reader as long as you’re willing to put it all out there!

      Since you’re soliciting feedback I would probably fall under the smaller posts are just as good band wagon. The highlight of my work day is reading your blog. Anything from a photo of you or flowers or the kiddos that says “no post today” or a short “filler” post. That being said, you need to do what’s best for you and won’t lose me as a regular reader even if you don’t decide to do the smaller posts.

    • Tara says

      I’m a little late to the party here, but I feel like checking out your blog is like calling up a good friend: I’m thrilled when you’re there and have something new to share with me, be it a little family update or a detailed explanation of a big project, but I don’t take it personally if you don’t pick up the phone. Or rather, you don’t have a post everyday in this case. I love would hearing more little updates on family and fun outings you take, if only to be assured that you are taking some time away from projects and the blog!

    • Randi says

      I, for one, miss the “get on it already” series. It helps kick me back in gear to finish those little things that pile up.

      Use that series, and other small projects, tweaks, and updates to fill in between content heavy posts. I’d rather see something light than nothing at all.

      While I really enjoy the laundry room reno, I felt it wasn’t as spaced out as the other renos have been. I don’t know if the project was just that much quicker, or if the posts could have been spaced out more. Blog world isn’t real time so if the content is more digestible in smaller pieces, let the project take longer to unveil on the blog.

      I also second more family life posts. I feel like it’s starting to lose the personal charm.

    • Sarah W. says

      I think it’s a little nuts that readers think they should have so much of a say in what you post. It’s a blog about your life! Write whatever actually happens in your life! While I’d certainly be happy to read about a little project you did here or there, I don’t think you should feel pressured to add one more little thing into your schedule just for us. Your life should be dictating the content of the blog, not vice versa.

      People are uncomfortable with change, but it happens. Your lives are undoubtedly completely different now than they were when you started this blog as a young couple many years ago. Of course the format of your posts is going to change as you grow as a family. I’m sure the readers’ lives have changed too. When I started reading I was living in a rented room with no furniture other than a table and an air mattress. What if my friends started saying to me now, “I just wish you could still talk about how to decorate a third floor bedroom in student housing with stuff you found in the garbage, but now all you do is talk about organizing your two bedroom apartment and working on your patio garden”?

      I’m happy to read whatever you guys want to write. I, for one, do not expect you to have the same interests and goals as you did years ago, and I would rather you be organic about documenting things that you’re doing than be forced to do extra projects just to please a bunch of grumpy strangers who want you to post every day so they have something to read with their morning coffee.

      In summation, you do you!

    • Kelly M says

      I would also love to see more posts that are house related even if they are small ones (reader redesigns, small stylings, etc). I also love logging on daily as I read my coffee at work and it is a wonderful 5 minutes of zoning out and reading something I enjoy.
      I have been a long time reader and continue to love reading the blog :) Can’t wait for book #2!

    • jeannette says

      i am a long time reader. i check in every day. i like the long, technical, how-to posts. i like the sub-theme that little people can do enormous jobs. please don’t ever end with the long, technical, how-to posts.

      i think this critique is not well taken, for the most part, except that your DIY furniture rehabs and makeover projects may have all been shunted to your books. i like your upcycling stories, the frugality stories, the making something of nothing stories, very much and i do miss them.

      as others point out, you’ve always had fab freebies and so on. i never paid attention to them. your new blogging sked has — perhaps unfortunately — emphasized their presence. i’d say they attract a substantial number of readers who have no interest in the rest of your content. for those of us who are very much interested in the rest of your content, the recent prominence of the fab freebies in the absence of eye candy posts is very noticeable. i still check every day, though, because of the resurrection/upcycling theme, your level of professionalism, which is unusual in this venue, and your good hearts. what i would take to heart, if i were in your shoes, is the siphoning off of the eye candy and frugal projects into your books.
      that said, love you. all.

    • Rachel McCoy says

      Man I should read the comment section more often, lots going on here! I think what I am going to say has already been said, but I’ll weigh in just in case. I had to say I agreed with Luke’s post, but also understood others who disagreed with him. I appreciate John’s dedication to the technical laundry room posts, in case we’re ever bold enough to pursue that kind of heavy DIY. That being said, one thing those posts reinforced for me is that my husband and I still have a lot to learn when it comes to “DIY” and we are way far off from attempting big projects like that on our own. But in the event we DO get bold, I know exactly what to search for on your site.

      I have always loved Reader Redesigns, and if that is a short term solution to this issue, bring it. You guys definitely have your own style going on, and I love that those give us a look into other folks’ styles and choices in homes. I don’t know how labor intensive those posts are for you, but I do love them and the other smaller posts that are often called “filler.” Sometimes those smaller posts give me courage to try smaller things so I have courage to do the bigger things, if that makes sense.

      Either way, I’ll still tune in to see what’s happening, as will thousands of others. You guys do what works best for you and your little fam. Hope this helps.

    • Becca says

      It’s interesting that this conversation should have popped up like this, because I’ve been kind of wondering where you’re headed with the blog too. I’ve been reading since house one, and what I love about you guys is the technical DIY stuff. I like posts that are actually about a project, be it yours or a reader redesign. Not necessarily a huge one (although I love your laundry room!), even the succulent terrarium or painted flower pots are cool. But filler posts to me are the budget blooms, Clara conversations, giveaways (1:10,000+ chance? not worth entering!) and tablescapes/mantle decor. And I will stop reading if you post too much of those. No hard feelings: of course, it is your blog and you can post what you want, but thats just not what I want to read.

    • Melissa says

      Joining in on this thread, I think that I wouldn’t mind the giveaway posts if there was some type of follow-up… meaning, I’d love to know who actually wins this stuff and what they do with it. Right now, it feels like a commercial and then the next day, it’s back to regularly scheduled programming.

    • Katie says

      Ditto to what One Bedroom House said (I love all of her post ideas! It actually reminded me of what the blog used to be). I feel like we used to catch a glimpse into your family life more (parenting, organizing, shopping, etc.) and I feel like that left at some point. Would love to see that brought back, it’s what I orginally fell in love with about this blog.

    • Emilie says

      I’ve been reading for a long time. This is the only blog I read at work, so I am not likely to stop :) but that also means I am disappointed when there’s nothing to read (or only a Fab Freebie) at 10:30 when I take a break! But I don’t think you owe your readers anything, so I feel disappointed but certainly not upset.

      In terms of content, I enjoy the projects the most (because we are constantly diy’ing our way through our house) but understand that such posts take time. In the interest of having a work break, I am happy to read a different kind of post if that’s what there is time for.

    • Erica says

      I like smaller designy tips a lot! I was thinking/wondering the other day if you guys had bought anything cool lately, like your countertop radio you got at the old house. I loved that post about the radio. I mean, you could’ve actually split the laundry room reveal post into a lot more little posts – like just one on the laundry drying rack and sorter, one on the art, one on the organized cabinets.

      Love you guys!

    • Priscilla says

      I feel like I missed something… I popped over to this thread expecting to see reader’s votes/opinions on their preference for smaller posts & blurbs.

      Instead I found myself reading through unsolicited business, blog & life advice… What is it about the internet that emboldens us to say things to people that we wouldn’t say on the street or over coffee?

      Anyways, all this “advice” seems to be out of left field to me. I can tell some readers mean well, but nonetheless I feel like it’s crossing the line.

      John & Sherry, to answer your question – I would love to read small posts, reader redesigns, etc – just as much as I love reading more detailed, technical posts.

      I so appreciate the hard work you put into your blog & business. I am a happy camper/customer ;)

      Thank you!

    • Ashley says

      I’ve loved your blog for years. The “small stuff” is what I find most inspirational. I am never going to install duct work or frame doors or hang drywall. I wish I could but I just never am — I have two small kids, too, and my husband and I both work, and we have no time, talent or childcare available to pull off major DIY things like that. The blog has seemed heavy on that in the last year or so. Y’all are awesome to be able to do these things and add so much value and character to your homes, and I wish I could do the same. But what I love are posts that I can actually relate to: organizing tips, small projects for the kids, reader redesigns, window shopping, thrift-store finds reimagined, small DIY projects (like refinishing something small), redecorating your hall table for a new season, a new picture display on the wall, etc.

    • Erica M says

      I was prepared for decreased blogging but not this much. I would love to see shorter posts, reader redesigns, etc. Technical info is helpful if it’s a project I am doing (I like digging in your archives for help) but I’ve just been skimming the laundry room posts because it’s not something I’d ever attempt. The planning stages were interesting as well as the reveal. I feel like I miss you guys! Even your young house life posts for a peak of what’s going on in the Petersik house! Much love xo

    • Liz says

      I couldn’t disagree more. I love you guys and I find the technical DIY stuff inspiring. I just replaced a toilet, thanks to you! Everyone has there own taste and some post styles may be more appealing to some than others but the appeal of your blog is that you’re real people, working (and blogging) in real time. It makes your site feel very authentic and that’s why I like it!

      On a more personal note, while I would happily take more frequent posts, I have two kids as well (including my own baby Teddy! It really is the best boys name ;)) and I completely understand and support the slow down in posting. I’ve been wanting to tell you how much I enjoy your blog and look forward to your posts. We live in CA so I’m usually able to read your new posts before I get out of bed, thanks to the time change. (I’m a lucky lady whose husband gets up with the kids so he can spend time with them before work.) I always make sure I have a full cup of coffee before I read it and it is seriously the highlight of my morning.

      All of this is to say keep up the good work, do what makes sense for your life and know I’ll be here loving every but of it. As long as you guys are doing your DIY thing (and let’s be honest, there’s no way that’s going to stop) I want to read about your exploits.

    • Catherine says

      I think you are going to have to be very, very careful not to get sucked into the vortex of trying to be all things to all people. Like you said, there are people who will agree with Luke, there are people who won’t. You can’t please them both. Just stay true to yourselves and keep your unique voice. You have no obligation to post every day. I don’t get everyone’s attitude that they have ownership over what you post. For crying out loud people, there are a million blogs out there! Have you heard of a blog reader?? Find another blog (or 10) to read as well so you aren’t suffering withdrawals or pressuring these lovely people to feed your work procrastination habits!

    • shannon says

      Personally, I appreciate that you are beefing up your posts. I’d much rather see true DIY projects rather things that any person might do on a given day (e.g., deciding to move the trash can to the pantry; planting succulents–we could all be rich if that made for great blog content).

      I’ve read the blog for years and feel that my style has matured over those years (from wanting to spray paint everything in sight and furnishing my house with IKEA, to focusing on bigger projects, overall decorating concepts, and being more mindful of quality.) I appreciate that you are DIYing more significant projects, but small posts are still welcome–so long as they are original and not just “fluff” to appease someone’s need for an internet break at work.

      I’m sure after blogging for a number of years it’s hard to come up with so many post ideas, and I’m sure different people want to see different things. Perhaps another one of John’s surveys would help here (or trying to use some of the demographics for the last one)!

      I also think discussing (perhaps in snippet posts) how your style and decorating priorities have changed over time both due to maturing and having an expanding family would be interesting.

      I’m glad that you are no longer posting twice a day and are focusing more on family; that’s important and hope you’re finding that the balance is right for you.

    • Lisa says

      Thanks for asking for reader feedback. None of my feedback is unique, but to the extent you might be looking for trends/consensus, here are my thoughts:
      1. I like the longer, more technical posts. As a homeowner, it is good to see the possibilities for DIY and also have a how-to reference.
      2. I also like the smaller, less technical posts (even the personal, non-DIY ones), and don’t consider them “filler.”
      3. It would be nice to see a variety of #1 and #2 throughout the week, even if that means that a heavy project like the laundry room is not being shared in real time but instead spread out a bit.
      4. I don’t participate in giveaways, and don’t consider them a substitute for a “real” post.
      5. Much of what sets your site apart is your personalities/writing style. Lots of sites have good content, but yours is more enjoyable to read than many because of this factor.
      Wishing you the best in trying to find your “new normal”!

    • Jenny says

      Wow, tons of responses here! No surprise I guess, you have lots of well-deserved loyal readers. You guys are great.

      I’ve been reading for 5 years or so, and one thing I feel like I’ve noticed is that the tone seems to change a bit when you have big ‘secrets’ from the blog. Of course some of those are inevitable, but it seems like your personal blogging style has always been (over)sharing, and we’ve come to love and expect that. I, for one, felt a bit…duped…when I found out months after the fact that you’d bought this new house. By then you had so many gazillions of readers, I knew it wasn’t a big deal if long-time followers were put off by that.

      Right now, I know you guys must have lots of things going on that you’re not telling us about — presumably work like designs for Target, your book and who-knows-what-else are kept off the blog by contract. But I think it changes your tone somewhat when the stuff you’re most excited about is happening elsewhere.

      All that said, I’d love mini-updates that bring your wonderful personalities to the blog on days you’re tied up elsewhere. :)

    • Hillary says

      You guys are incredible. I don’t know how you do all that you do and respond to readers with the grace that you do. I admire you for putting your family first, for chasing some fun and inspiring side projects like the books and the Target collection and the show house, knowing that they would cut into your time here on the blog. I love the technical posts — it is so great to hear about someone else’s struggle to get a door to hang right or how exactly to put down tile and why to do it this way in this situation and a different way for another situation. That stuff takes time and persistence to write about and it is such a fantastic resource for the rest of us. Whatever you path you take from here, I’m sure you’ll do great. You offer diverse, high quality content with great frequency and your personalities come through. Keep up the great work!

    • Alicia C. says

      I agree with what Luke said, to an extent. While I completely support your decision to scale back, I feel the content has suffered. I’ve been reading since 2007 and miss the variety. I definitely dont think you need to post every day, but maybe add more variety in the posts? I LOVE the reader re-designs, house crashings, and the fab freebies. But I also love the organizing posts and the mood boards you used to do. While i know you don’t have time to consult and do mood boards for clients, it would be fun to see them on projects your tackling. I agree that the technical posts can be long, but i save those for when i’m really interested and if not, i skim through them. The point of all of this is to say that this is YOUR blog, baby, business (whatever you want to call it) and you need to do what works for you, but it would be good to think about the fact that eventually you’ll run out of big projects in your house and it would be nice to sprinkle some smaller ones into the posting mix. I think one of the issues is that you’ve done several polls asking for what your readers want to see, but the posts dont seem to reflect that feedback. Good luck with pleasing the masses! :)

    • Chrissy Henry says

      I am a little late to share my thoughts on this… because I don’t check in on you guys everyday anymore like I used to. I have been a reader/fan/follower of yours for many years. Before Clara, before big fancy houses, before book deals and TV show pitches ;) And I will probably always check in on YHL here and there.

      The truth is; I miss you. There is little to no personal stuff on the blog anymore. To me it feels like YHL has evolved into a strictly home/DIY/occasional decorating blog. I think the biggest problem for me is that nothing feels honest anymore. It does not feel like it is happening in real time. The posts are full of all the technicalities of the project but lacking some of the personal opinion and Petersik flair.

      In all honesty there was no way anyone would have been able to keep up with the pace you had; so I always expected big changes to happen with the blog. And with an ever growing audience there comes a need for more privacy and writing style/posts that will appeal to a broader audience. But I could really go for a post about a ceramic animal right about now ;)

    • Julie says

      Hi John and Sherry,

      I’ve been a reader since the first house but I have never commented before today. From what I can tell, you guys are committed to living intentionally, to being transparent, to being accountable and you’re disciplined and hard-working. You try to be environmentally friendly and healthy and conscious parents. You make things a priority for your children that other people do not. In reading the comments and seeing people say that they parent and the work full time isn’t necessarily comparable. It doesn’t seem like you guys ever plop Clara in front of a movie – you are very committed to spending as much time with your kids as possible and I don’t think other people realize how committed you are to that.

      I feel like commitment to real-time posts and comment moderation have a huge effect on you guys. Those things seem to be a huge time suck and honestly I don’t think most people care about that. I read someone else’s comment about making Christmas ornaments now and posting them in December and I absolutely agree. I don’t care when you do something – I want to see your ideas! And maybe we don’t care as much about tablescapes but we do like to learn about creative furniture placement and color schemes! Another thing that I’m sure affects your blogging is that Pinterest is now around so we went from a time where styling ideas were basically only visible through blogs or magazines to a time when you could easily search for tablescapes and get 10,000 ideas. I’m sure this has been both a positive and potentially a negative thing.

      To me, posting fewer times a week after Teddy was born doesn’t make much of a difference because I feel like we kind of lost you guys a long time ago. I don’t think people who work a full-time job understand the difference between being a small in-home business owner and working a full-time job. You’re never really off the clock – spare moments are always left for feeling guilty for not working on things that could be getting done or committing more time to family and it’s a really difficult and exhausting place to be in. You never come home from the job. You can’t just enjoy a vacation without having your camera with you everywhere you go. You guys have to capitalize on this blog as long as you can so that you will be financially stable for as long as you can be as well. Being a blogger isn’t an easy job and I can totally appreciate that. I think that you guys don’t have as much content to write about anymore though. I think that successful bloggers reach a point where they’ve renovated everything and you have to figure out how to appeal to such a broad base and stay relevant and that’s the struggle.

      I can still remember how excited I was when you guys redid your unattached garage and you added wrapping paper to the insides of your cabinet windows. Pre-Pinterest, it was super creative and accessible and I went and did it while I was in college. Your first house felt like you were really in love with it – it was a passion project. Your second house felt like a means to an end and while I wasn’t as interested, I stayed around because I liked you and l wanted to wait it out. I know it’s been a while but it actually did make me uncomfortable that you guys purchased your third house secretly and while I totally understand all the reasons that you gave, it still gave me a sickish feeling because I felt betrayed. I’ve been with you along every step of the last seven years and you don’t owe me anything and I totally understand that. It is your life and obviously real life has to come before random readers. But in a way I felt like my friends had kept this giant news from me and I couldn’t be excited with you for this great thing and even though you guys always stressed how important transparency and real-time were, it was abandoned in this case.

      I just miss you guys. This might sound pretty lame in the comment section of a blog but I’ve gone through some really rough times and being able to go to my Google Reader (RIP) and always find a post from you guys got me through some really tough days. Happily, I’m not having that same need anymore but I still miss seeing your lives.

      Why not do Design Dilemmas again? You could charge more than you charged before and it would give you new blog content that other people shot and sent to you. I bet people would be really excited if you would do that again. I don’t like giveaways personally – they don’t mean anything to me and I usually just scroll past but I understand why you do them. Your commitment to real-time is admirable and I appreciate your intention to have integrity but honestly you guys could have things scheduled weekly – you could have Monday thrift shop day, Tuesday craft day, Wednesday home project day and Thursday family day or something like that.

      I’m happy for you guys and I’m glad that you have the opportunity to be in a long-term home now. I admire that you’ve blogged for this long and I hope you continue blogging for a long time – a sustainable blog is rare and awesome! I just miss reading when it seemed like you really enjoyed doing this. I know lots of people have weighed in and I’m just another voice in the sea of comments but I appreciate you guys and I want you to be happy and fulfilled.

    • Nell @ At Home Wherever says

      Sherry,
      I don’t comment often, although it was a proud moment for me when y’all bought an octopus I had sent you on Pinterest! I too feel like we’ve lost our connection to you. As a mom, I completely get wanting to be present for your children and protect their privacy. I’ve been a reader since the kitchen reno of the first house. I’ve stayed a daily reader because of BOTH the larger how-to posts (the tile and the painting furniture) and the smaller posts (the couponing one is still a fave.) I miss the Reader Redesigns and I miss the posts where you highlighted your favorite items in stores you were browsing. I know you’re going to have to find a happy balance that works for you and for us, but I could use some smaller posts. Creative and fun, not “phoning it in.” You’ll find the balance. Keep at it, and THANK YOU for caring about what we want.

      Also, I miss Clara Conversations something fierce.

      Nell

    • JoTiessen says

      Just to add my two cents: I love what you guys are doing here. It is truly inspirational. Your moto of writing what you love is such a good one, keep it up! But I worry that you are working too hard! I think that your posts are getting longer, instead of the shorter that you promised when Teddy came along. Often, I think that you could have split your posts into two or three day’s worth of great material.
      And as a side note, I would prefer to see a Reader Redesign or two picture post instead of nothing. In fact, I would prefer to see those things instead of the give-aways also. But as it stands, I feel like your site has a lot of great content to keep me coming back.

    • Melody says

      I’m a little behind, but here are my thoughts-have YOU noticed a change in your metrics? Is this affecting your blog traffic? How much does that matter to you? I read this blog from an RSS feeder (Outlook) because I read at work, and that’s just quicker. Not sure how that affects your metrics. However, I have lots of blogs so I just read whatever pops up whenever it does. I like overly technical posts as well as small ones because honestly, I plan to go back and search your site when I do projects like yours. I have recommended your site specifically (and been thanked for it) because of the detail you put in to the posts.

      I applaud you listening to your readers, and I know they (we?) are why you’re able to do this in particular as opposed to a traditional job. If you’re able to stockpile and keep some stuff ready, that’s awesome. However, if the burden is too great, that’s understandable to me. Family first! Only you can decide how you want to play it! People like me will read regardless, because you’re in our daily “feed.”

      I also only participate sparingly in the giveaways, but I think they’re awesome. Free stuff is always great. But I do gloss over them unless it’s something very specific I need.

      I do love the small posts too, and I guess I can see what Luke said about it seeming like maybe you’re saving the small stuff for the books. I don’t know if that’s true or not. Laundry business has been busy! I also own the book and though it’s awesome, and there are some things in there I hadn’t thought of, I would have bought the book even if some of the stuff was duplicated, because…well, it’s great!

      Good luck in whatever you decide to do…as long as RSS keeps working, I’ll keep reading. ;)

    • Larita says

      Late to the party here, and I’m guessing I’m not adding anything new, but wanted to add my two sense. You are my favourite blog and I nearly cry every Friday when there is no post. As a full-time working single mother of two, I totally get why, though, so no criticism there. I am very glad to hear others saying they want less giveaways; I completely agree, but thought I was crazy. I don’t come for the free stuff, I come for the awesome content. Despite not having any renos or DIY in the pipeline, I read every word of every post. Obviously, less technical stuff that I might actually be able to personalize now would be great. I love Sherry’s crafting/art posts, and the little updates that make big differences. Keep doing what works for your family, but feel free to ease up on giveaways and sprinkle in more “boring” stuff :)

    • Jessi says

      Hi John & Sherry – The last thing you need on this thread is another comment, but after reading them all I felt compelled to put my thoughts in.

      First of all, I understand how a lot of the commenters feel. I also miss the more personal posts – not so much the totally family related posts, as that’s not really what this blog is about, but more so the lifestyle posts. I love reading about what products you use, how you organize your home, your thought process behind purchases, and honest opinions on how things you’ve purchased or changed work for your family. When I first started reading, the personality behind the two of you was what drew me in. Some of the warmth and sincerity has left your writing, and I do feel as though your stress comes through on the blog. You seem more like business people now (which you are!), but people have to understand that when you started you were NOT. People change and grow up. But I think that a lot of people are like me – your style was never 100% similar to mine, but your ideas were fresh and innovative, and your posts were personal. I think you’re appealing to a more niche fan base these days.

      That said, what you decide to do 100% depends on what you want. I think that’s obvious. A lot of the people who have posted seem resentful (and some downright offended) that you refer to this blog as your “full-time job”, and have been “phoning it in” (their words). I think that a lot of this is due to some envy that you’re doing what you love as your career, but I think that people are forgetting that regardless of the fact that you love what you do and you don’t have to go into an office every day, what you do is a LOT of work, and not all of it is enjoyable. Just this post, for example: you say that you read every comment, and if that’s actually the case, just reading the comments from this ONE THREAD from this ONE POST would have taken hours, and that’s without doing anything else! You’re not under-worked, you’re clearly way OVER-worked and spread too thin. It’s pretty obvious that this blog isn’t your main career anymore, and whether or not it’s still your main source of income (which isn’t our business, but those posts were also good for human interest) maintaining it is still career-level work.

      Anyway, I think you guys just need to simplify. If you want to make this blog more of a side-project, then do it and be forward about it with your readers. They’ll appreciate the honesty, and if you’re not worried about just posting to post I think the personality will come back. If you do want to keep the blog as your main career, hire some staffers to gather content and maybe do more of the technical writing, so that way when you you’re writing about more personal things you have time to actually be more personal. This was way too long, but I think you guys are great and will continue to read regardless. Stay happy! :)

    • Kate says

      I am a faithful reader and am only leaving feedback because it was requested. I read a fair amount of the comments: agreed with some, disagreed with others. I love your blog (obviously since I read it almost every day that you post), but I thought I would share the sentiments with which I agreed. I support your decision to post less and don’t think that is the issue with which most people are struggling. For me, the major issue as others have suggested is that the blog has seemed to no longer have “You”. The problem for me is not the major renovation/technical projects (I love those), or the Giveaways (I sign up for almost all of them), or the reduced number of posts or lack of posts. For me the problem is that the blog is no longer about you, your home, and your love. We still get glimpses of the people that you and your family are, but for the most part it has become a blog about special projects (the Dream Home, the book, the hospital, product lines). Again, I am in full support of you spending more time with your family, because it is your family that I love. But honestly, sometimes it reads like the blog isn’t suffering because of time spent with your family, it is suffering because of the other opportunities. I admire you for those opportunities and I understand they might be financially necessary and where your passion may now lie, but the blog is the reason for those opportunities and it is suffering as you focus the time you are devoting to work on them and not your blog. If you can’t post one day, I am actually fine with the lack of the post, but I would like to see your posts have a bit more life to them. I loved the ideas expressed by one of the commentors. I would love to see “you” back in your posts, whether there is one every day or not.

    • Jenny @ Words On Wendhurst says

      I think there are simple, fifteen minute posts that you could have in the hopper at all times for weeks like this past week when things got out of hand. Clara Convos was always awesome, Dude Get on That was always a good kick in the pants for me, Budget Blooms (who doesn’t love to see flowers?), and then my other thought was for the weeks when a regular post is missing, do a “made me smile” post a la House Tweaking with your latest favorites from around the web. Make that post’s picture one of your kids and people will be happy! :)

    • Kelly says

      Call me crazy, but I’m not sure exactly what everyone is complaining about. I read the post about cutting back after Teddy came along and as a mother of 2 also, I completely understand. I’d love to blog myself, but there’s no way I’d have time. Last time I checked, this blog is free, so I’m glad I get what I get. Now, if I was paying for a subscription, that’s different. I’m just happy with what you can give. I would be devastated if you went away. Most of my inspiration comes from you.

    • Hannah says

      I completely disagree that your posts have been lower quality lately. I love your blog just as much as I always have and am a little embarrassed to admit how much I look forward to reading it every day. Of course I selfishly wish that you were able to post more often, in the same way that I selfishly wish my town had an Ikea or that it could feel like fall all year long. Unfortunately, some things just aren’t realistic, and I’ll gladly take quality over quantity any day. More importantly, I completely respect your decision to scale back blogging and enjoy more time as a family. Anyway, I just wanted to drop in and make sure you don’t think that all your readers have been secretly disappointed and just waiting for someone to give them a chance to complain – I still love you guys (and I’m sure I always will).

    • Leah says

      I know you’ve gotten a million responses. I just want to encourage you a bit. I applaud you for scaling back and think that’s great. Someone else said it’s not about the number of posts but about the variety, and I agree with that too. I am a stay at home mom to little kiddos with no blog and I can barely manage to get dressed lots of days (we switched to cloth too and man SO MUCH TIME ON LAUNDRY), so don’t let people criticize you for not “working” hard enough. Everybody has different abilities/strengths. There are no structured hours to your job, no boundaries or limits unless you set them, and I commend you for keeping balance. I read lots of blogs that I LOVE that don’t even have a posting schedule, but the content is varied and engaging and I just get excited when they do post (2-3x a week). Someone suggested the idea of 1 technical post and a couple of shorter, fun posts in a week, with maybe a giveaway and/or reader redesign (you could even alternate those week by week. The technical posts are SO helpful for reference when I’m working on a project like that, but not for everyday readability. I reference your archives a lot, but skim anything like that on a daily basis. The fun posts are what keep me actually reading rather than just looking up your site when I’m doing a home project. Keep up the good work!

    • CB says

      Wow, some people sure seem to feel entitled that you post a certain amount or a certain type of content!

      I have been a regular reader since your very early days (I think since your very first year of blogging) and I have no problem with you slowing things down a bit. Where I come from (Canada) one partner will take a whole year off of work upon the arrival of a new baby so I already think you are over doing it! I would personally prefer that you slow down and don’t burn out rather than try to keep up a crazy pace and end up choosing to give up the blog all together (as many, many pro bloggers do).

      You’ve been on a frenzied schedule for years. People who want you to post constantly can look through your extensive archives for goodness sakes!

      As for me, you’ll remain a mainstay of my Feedly.

    • Bree says

      Some interesting (and opinionated responses) but the ones that resonated most with me talked about how it feels like your attentions are elsewhere (and if it’s mostly kids, I completely understand that!), but I can’t help feeling like my friend made other friends and just isn’t as interested in filling me in on the real parts of their life. I miss Sherry too. You guys are such a great team, and I love John’s posts too but together you made it better. When I hear people comment about missing the smaller posts, I mostly think I hear they are missing Sherry (even though they love John too).

      I don’t know what you guys are dealing with (there’s less transparency/life sharing these days and I’ve been suspecting for a while that maybe things are rougher with kid #2?) so I can’t (& probably have no right) to speculate what you are or are not doing with your time (though it seems like you used to share with us why). I know having 2 kids is busy. After my 2nd was born, it kicked my butt. I was more moody and had less to give everyone else. I felt like my body was not my own and everyone needed something from me. So if you are feeling that way, Sherry, I could absolutely get why you may be stepping way back… If that is the case, I think you’d get tons of support and camaraderie sharing about it as it is a common thing moms go through.

      As far as what it’s like sitting on this side, it’s been hard to go from 8-10 posts a week to 2-3 (I don’t really care about the freebies and skip them & I agree that lately the frequency makes it seem more like a hobby blog). I thought you guys were scaling back to like 4-5 with some of those being Reader Redesigns, and smaller posts. I miss the big projects being broken up with smaller posts about whatever else you guys were excited about…yk? I didn’t care what it was, your enthusiasm for what you shared made me love you (since pre-Clara).

      You guys do you best of all and I have faith that you will figure out the best way to proceed from here to make it work for you.

    • Emily says

      Read some of the responses and, well, good luck to y’all in figuring out how to move forward.
      I’ve been reading your blog since I moved to RVA 7 years ago and have just bought a new house that’s in need of repairs/updates and had my 2nd baby, so I can relate to you in a lot of ways. (Why, oh why is it taking me over a month to paint those dang red walls??!! Oh yeah, a baby & a preschooler. That’s why.) I agree the posts recently have been overly technical. But in a good way. In a “I should pin this in case I want to reference it months or years down the line.” I skip the posts that don’t interest me and devour the ones I’m into. You guys provide this blog for free to the reader and do a fantastic job with walking us through so many DIY projects. Many of which I’ve referenced and used as a helpful guide. So, go on, do your books, your homearama homes (which I saw in person & liked a lot), pay your bills & be home with your kiddos. You are pretty blessed to have this set up! Maybe this is just a slump time for you with the baby, the new book & coming off of doing an entire freaking show house! Take a break. Give your creative juices some rest!! I’m not going to stop reading or stop visiting your site to reference past posts. I may just skim some more, every now & then.

    • Deanna says

      I’ll read everything you post! Giveaways aren’t my favorite, but they’re par for the course in the blogging world. I sense you’re going through a different season in your personal lives and in your stage of “house love”, but that’s not a bad thing, it’s just a thing. Power to you as you sort through all of this feedback.
      Hi from Delaware,
      Deanna

    • Erin says

      Just chimming in that I too feel like I miss you guys! Is that weird? Maybe it’s just because it’s been a heavy laundry room couple of weeks – but I also miss the first day of school posts, the beach weekend round ups and the like. I LOVE that you’re posting less to spend more time with the family you are blogging about, but don’t hesitate to write up a quick – we’re swamped with x.y.z, but we did manage to go out to dinner here post, and look how cute Teddy was. :) Hope you’re adjusting well to baby #2! It’s tough!

    • Torrie says

      Here’s the thing- While I would love it if you posted five days a week, I think that’s totally unrealistic.I mean, you guys are two people with two young children. You’re not a big corporation. While I think constructive criticism is great, I think people forget that you don’t owe them anything.
      Personal blogs ebb and flow- it’s the nature of the beast. You have a baby who’s not even 6 months old yet. People should give you a break.
      Here’s a question- if you do more small posts, won’t you then have to deal with the comments? That’s hardly a time saver for you. (Unless you guys make the leap and hire an intern or employee to vet your comments for you.)
      I think you guys are wonderful, and you handle the insanity of the internet and all of its horrors beautifully. You guys are my favorite blog, by far. One of the things I love, is that you sometimes post about something I could care less about- like hanging a door, but your delivery/writing is so great, that I still enjoy it.
      I hope whatever kept you from posting this week, wasn’t too bad.

    • Kate says

      1. Your site gives the best step-by-step instructions. The time you spend taking extra inbetween pictures or making diagrams of a tricky step is invaluable. In this regard, your how-tos are unmatched by the majority of home blogs so thank you for that.
      2. I did love power tool/equipment free tutorials like no sew curtains (but I have gone back to some of your technical posts when finally deciding to tackle big projects).
      3. I also like posts on crafts, budgeting, living with less, etc. but totally understand how a big project might take priority for the day and am totally fine with no post. I’d rather see that than a reader redesign (often less quality than your re-dos or without our budget constraints…often seem to be trying to drum up traffic for their own blogs, which I understand, but don’t love), reader’s dilemma, or freebies.

      You probably didn’t need to still be getting more comments to read. Just wanted to say that your diligence is awesome.

    • Kristi says

      John and Sherry,
      I am also a long time reader, well before you were pregnant with Clara! Watching your family grow and change over the years has been fun, and you feel like friends! I still check in on the blog almost daily when I get home from work (even before dinner has been started!). I’m definitely a little bummed on days where there is now post, but completely understand and encourage you to spend more time with your family and less time working! You put in well over 40h per week for years, as many 20 something’s do. But with a growing family it’s acceptable for that focus to shift (and it should!!!). I wouldn’t mind more family updates sprinkled in, I miss hearing about Clara’s humor and conversations. Keep up the great work, you won’t lose this reader anytime soon!
      Kristi
      PS – Go Hoos!!!!

    • Maria says

      I sort of agree with Luke and sort of disagree, too.

      I agree that this blog feels somewhat emptier than it used to be – and not because you post less, but because it feels like you’re saving other projects for your book, or somewhere. It’s like… I know you are amazing with your ideas and I can see that not all of them are landing on your blog!

      But I disagree about technical posts: I love that your blog is like a DIY bible where I can do a search and find detailed instructions for a door or a deck! If all of them were like that it would be boring, sure – but you do plenty of stuff to mix it up, so no worries.

      And lastly: I hate filler-content. Whatever the site, it just shows that it’s a filler – it lacks in spirit – and I would very much ask that you don’t degrade down to that level. I personally don’t mind if there’s two or three posts a week – it’s not like I am paying money for a subscription or something, if National Geographic missed an issue then I would be upset, yes, but you are different. You don’t owe me daily content.

      So I would just say, sit back, enjoy, share with us your children and your dog and your humour, and it’ll be golden.

    • Tonya says

      I love your short little posts and your long ones. Ultimately I think your new posting style is great – it seems to be a good balance between work, renovations and family life. I love the little bits of things as you go whether it be quick thoughts or a little backstory as you start something new. I think you should keep doing what your doing as long as it continues to work for your family.

    • Rachel says

      I’ve been reading for years, and it’s really just because I love reading about your family and your projects in a more general sense…I don’t own my own home, never DIY anything on the scale of a laundry room, and couldn’t care less about what kind of paint to buy for a specific project. But I subscribe to your posts through a blog reader, and I can skim past anything too technical for me. It’s kind of nice to know that if someday I do have a big project I’ll know where to go to find detailed info! But that being said, all I’ve done lately is skim! Or scroll really quickly past a post just to get it out of my reader. I’d love to see more family-type posts, but I understand if you’d rather maintain a little more privacy as your family grows. I guess a substitute would be posts that are at least more fun and relatable- stuff about living in your home and making it work for the whole family! Anyway, with all that said, I really hope all is well with you! I have an almost 4 month old and can’t imagine keeping up with writing a blog right now. Do what you need to do! You’re not “letting people down” by doing whatever works best for your family, whether that’s writing once per week or never! Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise–it’s just silly.

    • e says

      Ahh…Since you asked for advice, so….I am also sad to see more giveaways and less posts about your own style. And I do also skim the very technical posts. While I’m sure it would be useful if I ever install a door… that’s not about to happen anytime soon. The main reason I love your blog is because of your personal style and innovation. So I would also prefer to see more little posts on simple things. And while I’m not you two, I’d imagine that shifting to documenting little projects, creating mood boards, et c. would be compatible with maintaining better work-life balance. (Although clearly if you have big reno projects like the laundry room that you want to complete for your own reasons those are great too! Although I personally care about the style more than the technical details)

    • Julia says

      Replying to Luke’s post, yes you guys have gotten a little technical lately, but I also feel like you guys are in the phase of home reno that’s a little heavier, so I don’t mind. Renovating a real house is the whole spectrum of small and big projects (and some of them take unexpected amounts of energy).

      I also have potential cool idea for you guys. Have you ever thought of getting an part-time unpaid college intern? I’m sure some college student would LOVE the prestige of having “Marketing Intern @ highly rated, Oprah featured blog Young House Love” on their resume. With technology these days, you could do everything virtually, and said intern doesn’t even have to live in Virginia. Take one of those dusty posts, and record yourself talking about it (perhaps even on Skype with your intern), they can take your dictation and turn it into copy/a coded blog post depending how techy they are, you read it over and tweak anything that needs revision, voila your post process just got soooo much faster — potentially. What do you think? Are you feeling the intern idea?

      (And to be clear, I don’t have myself in mind for such a position. ;-) I just think it might be a cool way for you to get things done. The internet is amazing like that.)

    • Holly says

      I don’t really understand all this craziness…I’ve been following your blog since right before Clara was born and it started as a DIY blog and has pretty much remained that way through 2 kids, a book deal, etc. I have ALWAYS appreciated the amount of time you guys put towards this blog…knowing it went from ‘hey, look, we’re redoing a bathroom and let’s start a blog to show family and a few friends’ to 2 full time jobs! And although you’ve asked for feedback here, seriously, you cannot make everyone happy. ALL that matters is what makes YOU guys happy.
      -Keep up with what you’re doing
      -Don’t change (insert INXS tune here)
      -Don’t fix what isn’t broke
      and THANK YOU for everything you do

    • Silke says

      You know what the thing is with the little updates that have been missing from the blog? I feel less “involved” in your lives as a reader, and that was big part of the appeal of this little website. Of course I am not “involved” involved in your lives (I am just a reader), but having a little sneak peek inside your life, like “An afternoon with Sherry and Clara crafting at the living room table”, is really what I have been missing (and craving) when coming back here.
      Oh, and don’t call it “filler”, because if you call it “filler” it will indeed BE white noise, and that nobody wants to read :D

    • Jaimee says

      Okay, my apologies if someone else already suggested this (there were A LOT of comments and I have a short attention span ;)) but have you ever considered re-posting some older blogs on occasion? I know a lot of other bloggers do, and since you have such a large archive I think it would be great to see some of your past projects – especially if you did it as a semi-regular “our favorites” feature.

    • Kim says

      You don’t owe us anything! And you will NEVER be able to please everyone (as you can see from all these contradictory comments).

      I’m just going to repeat what someone else said above: “We all love you so much because you’re true to yourselves, you’re realistic about your limits, and you have great personalities.”

      “We (as your readers) are not entitled to any more than you want to give us. It appears to me that many people are feeling like we deserve more from you – and I find that to be untrue and selfish. By giving us such great content (whether “technical” or “fun”, it’s much better than any other blog I know of, and it’s all free), you’re doing us all a service and you owe us nothing.”

    • Claire says

      I never comment and can’t imagine you have time to read all of these, but I wanted to leave my two cents.

      I love y’all, and love the blog. Yes, things have changed, but what I think people are losing sight of is the fact that you are people–a family–and that’s what initially drew us all in to begin with. To say that this is a business and therefore we’re owed x number of posts per week is ridiculous. Using that line of thinking, if this was a true “business,” then where is your 3 month maternity leave so you could spend time with your newborn, which, in my non-parent opinion, is totally warranted? There are plenty of blogs/tutorials/YouTube videos out there that offer DIY information on how to hang a dang door, but who wants to read those? I’d much rather follow your personal story and learn from you.

      I love what you do. My husband and I bought our first home when I was 22 and you all gave me the courage and know-how to DIY my entire house (while he sat on his phone updating football scores. Bless him–he’s not very handy). I’ve never found a blog that I enjoy more than yours–John’s punny humor, Sherry’s love of ceramic animals, your honesty, your style, and your ability–none of it can be beat!

      I think what it comes down to for a lot of people is expectations. If you commit to doing a certain number of posts, and then do, I think people will feel like they know what they’re going to get from this blog, and that’s exactly what you’ve always done. Last week was an anomaly, so I think people need to give you some grace! Goodness.

      On days when you don’t have time to do a big post, I personally would much rather read a Reader Redesign than one of the little “how to style xyz” posts, but the thing is–that’s just me. You can’t come close to giving us all exactly what we want, so don’t forget that, and don’t feel bad for it either! You need to do what makes sense for your family, but PLEASE OH PLEASE do not stop blogging. However you decide to move forward is inevitably going to disappoint people, but we as readers have to be understanding that we can’t all get what we want from you.

      Much love and respect,

      Claire

    • sophie says

      Luke, respectfully disagree!!
      I’ve been reading for a long time too – you are parents of two now – your houses have evolved and gotten bigger and you are no longer brand new homeowners who will be doing only small projects…
      for those of us who are growing up along with you and tackling bigger and bigger projects with more real life on the side, we love you as you were and as you are (in a totally non-creepy stranger-love kind of way) — and we accept that those are two different things!!
      While I appreciate that feedback is important, this is a blog about your house and your life — we have all benefitted so much from your experiences, and I for one would not ask you to alter your style and life, or change your natural path of growth and development to suit anyone else’s taste!!
      In my opinion, there is nothing worse than people trying to pretend to be something they are not, or trying to stay forever young — don’t buy into the peer pressure – you may not please all of us all the time but, just like in new life, you will find just as many new friends and new people who will be interested in what you have to say!!

    • Charisma says

      Also chiming in to say I disagree with what some have said. You guys have always been very transparent about what you doing, whether it’s temporary or not, how you felt about doing it, and whether you’d do it again. Correct me if I’m wrong but I believe you told us you would not be doing the books again but have a contract to finish the 2nd so you are following through, you told us the show house was something you donated your pay/time for, you’ve told us that you do not accept payment for giveaways nor do you do sponsored posts (which so many big name blogs are doing now). Simply put, you guys are amazing. You are good people with a wonderful talent for writing and making us feel like we are apart of your ride. Life gets hectic and I am astonished at what you are able to produce and share with us and am grateful for all of it. We immensely hope you’ll find yourselves able to come back and will greatly miss you in the interim (like so many others, checking here is a part of my daily routine) but even if you don’t, we love you, we thank you, and we understand.

    • Amanda B says

      Hi John and Sherry,

      I just wanted to chime in with my thoughts…since you asked for them. For me, what is feeling off is not the frequency of posting. Four times a week or five is about the most I look for in a blog. Content is not the issue either. I loved, loved, loved when you did more of the small, every day type of things and the little decorating ideas. But I also love the longer, meaty posts and tutorials for their depth and clarity. What I feel has been off for a while now, is the balance. I actually think the change started back right after Clara was born and John came on full time, not that I think John specifically was the catalyst for change. But before Clara was born, you guys were weekend warriors, every day type of people. You did, and blogged about, small improvements and ideas that you could put into action while you “saved your pennies” for the bigger projects. You still did both, but not at the break neck pace you maintain now. And, as a reader, that’s difficult for me because you’ve always said that you “do things like any DIYer would”, with a lot of thought, time, saving money. Now, it feels to me like the time and money for your DIY projects seems endless and it’s kind of disheartening to see post after post about big changes. This used to be a blog I could go to for concrete ideas to put into action on my limited budget and time. Now, it’s become a dream big, “some day maybe when I have more time/money” type of blog. It’s inspiration in the same way, say, Design Sponge, is, rather than a place where I can get useful ideas. I hope that is clear and doesn’t sound too harsh. I love your blog and feel very invested in your family. I’ve been reading since before you were Young House Love and I will continue reading so long as you continue posting. But it would be great to see a little slow down and some smaller projects back in the mix. Some may call it filler but it’s just different content. And I, for one, love seeing reader redesigns, mood boards, questions from readers and your design solutions, and family posts. I hope you guys take a needed break, spend some great family time together, get re-inspired, and come back!

    • Shelley @ Green Eggs and Hamlet says

      Regarding not posting vs. smaller posts, I personally love the smaller posts. I’ve always loved your blog for the variety of content – DIY, home decor, organizing, art, budgeting, business, family, food, landscaping, the list goes on and on. I even loved all of the post ideas OBH listed. I think the larger, technical, DIY sort of stuff like the laundry room is really cool and I equally love brief posts about window shopping, reader redesigns, etc. Thanks for asking for feedback and doing what you do!

    • Aimee says

      I got about halfway thru the comments (apparently I have no life) before I gave up because they all began starting with TL;DR but, and got repetitive. I’d have had to take notes to compose a coherent response! Budget Blooms – people, if you cannot figure out how to buy containers and arrange flowers, I don’t know what that says about y’all. Never was interested in those or in mood boards. Watching beautiful old woodwork being slathered in white paint for the gazillionth time or oh look another grey wall with a pop of color against it gets old, as does the IKEA as decor Mecca stance.

      That said, evidently I’m in the minority, judging by the thousands spent in the last year on this house (meaning they must make a very decent living at it).

      John started this blog in the 1st house to update family and friends on the kitchen remodel they hired out because he couldn’t see doing it on his own. I’ve liked seeing him grow from not knowing the difference between a handsaw and a bandsaw to a total tool nerd who probably wanders around the house wondering if he could Dremel this. Also enjoyed seeing how his prose matured from quick once-over paragraphs to detail-oriented stuff that you can tell he’s grooving on. Even though I no longer have a house, I like having the wistful, vicarious enjoyment of heavy-duty DIY on my screen and the way John explains it. I was offline for a bit with computer issues and was happy to spend an evening catching up on the laundry room. Even cooler because a reader suggested the final orientation of the room placement and got him all gonzo to go on it. If he ripped this house down to the studs, I’d watch. I like John’s posts. He was the one who did them back when YHL under old name began to take off, after all, so I think people who are slagging him off need to remember that John-heavy posting is merely taking the blog back to its humbler origins.

    • Claire (This House is Our Home) says

      Holy cow, has it only been three weeks since you last posted?! It feels like an eternity.

      I’m the same Claire that posted above, saying that I love you guys and that I think you deserve to blog in a way that works for you. I just wanted to chime in once more to say that the past 3 weeks and 3 days have been full of some SAD mornings, because I miss your posts so much. Each morning, I look forward to checking the site, but have restrained myself since I knew there wouldn’t be anything new.

      This morning, I thought to myself, is it time?! Is it finally time?! Surely it’s been over a month!

      But, no. Not even a month yet, and I know you said you may take more time off even than that. So, I just wanted to leave a little note saying that you’re missed. I hope your time off has been rejuvenating and you have some clarity on how you want to move forward.

      Also, you know, no rush…….. but like……….. please come back!!!

  10. Lynne Tilley says

    Wow, what a fabulous gift. I have curtains in my house that were here when I moved in 4 years ago, and they weren’t my style at all, but I’ve kept them, meaning to replace them, but never getting around to it. Wow, what I could do with this prize !!

    Reply

  19. Taylor says

    I have been eyeing these Martha and Ash curtains for a couple years now but they are outside my budget. I’ve entered multiple giveaways on your site but this is a must win! Ahhh! Fingers Crossed!

    Reply

  22. Brittany says

    Since we don’t get a Thursday post, can we get a Friday post–PLEASE! :)

    Would love to see some smaller projects soon, but so excited to see y’alls progress in the laundry room. Looks fabulous, and as you can tell, I can’t wait to see more about it!

    Reply

  23. Kali Tunstall says

    Thanks so much for the update! Now I can stop checking back every few minutes :) I’m completely addicted to your blog, but totally understand that you are not DIY robots, working 24 hours a day to feed my DIY addiction :)

    Love you guys!

    Reply

  25. Liz O says

    I’m reading your update thinking “Why are they telling us there won’t be a Thursday post on Wednesday” *staring at screen confused**…..then I realized “IT IS THURSDAY!”
    Reminding readers of what day it actually is… just another YHL service. You are so much more than DIY.

    Reply

  26. Karen L. says

    I’m sure life does get priority over blog content sometimes! Totally just glad that y’all are well and getting lots done, too. You’ll soon have a great laundry space to thoroughly enjoy (at least as much as doing laundry can be)!

    Reply

  28. Lynsie Flinders says

    I have been wanting to make new curtains for over a year now, but cant decide what to make. Its so much easier to me to see them finished to make a decision. I would love to win this!!

    Reply

  30. Jessica says

    While people are making suggestions, I really wish Teddy’s photo project was a weekly post. It would be fun to put it up on Fridays, since I am sad when there isn’t a Friday post.

    Reply

    • Jenn says

      I really like this idea too, as I like seeing the photos but often find myself forgetting about them because there isn’t a post!

    • Jess says

      Glad this was mentioned. I don’t want to have children of my own and don’t read mommy blogs because I’m not interested in the children of people I don’t know. So generally I’d be the last person on earth to suggest that what’s missing from a DIY blog is more photos of your kids, but it strikes me as such an obvious and easy way to create content without any additional effort (since you’re already doing the photos for your own memory-keeping). I assumed that Friday would become “Here’s the photo of Teddy this week! Enjoy your weekend!” and was surprised when Friday disappeared instead.

    • Katie says

      Me too! I also deeply miss the Clara convos. They were some of my favorite posts! My mom used to write down things my brother and I said and they are just as entertaining to read as those you kept of Clara’s.

    • vicki b says

      love the idea of a weekly teddy post and i love love love the littler posts, reader redisgns, clara convos, thrifting/shopping recaps, etc. the big projects are great but the little posts about clara paintings, cloth diapers, things you’ve quickly tweaked or changes your mind about (those troublesome kitchen stools in the last house) or even some craigslist finds are awesome too. having just had a baby myself i realize the huge shift in priorities but i miss the afternoon projects that make me feel like i could change some things up around here!l

  32. Micalla says

    No need to apologize! Glad you are able to have some balance between work, family, and life. Never a dull moment, huh? :)

    Reply

  34. Kari says

    I think short posts are just fine. Sometimes I only have time to read a short post anyway. Whichever works best for you is fine by me!

    Reply

  35. Cristy says

    I love the little posts too, especially when they are a contest! I am a looonnnggg time reader and love whatever you post, but honestly pay most attention to the photos in posts. :)

    Reply

  36. Heather L says

    I love your blog, you represent RVA extremely well. I think not all posts,on any blog, will appeal to all readers. If one post is not to my likely I head to another site and then come back in a couple of days for another update. I am just happy to have your blog in the rotation.

    Reply

  37. Sarah says

    Have to say I agree with Luke, I appreciate the giveaways to spice it up mid week but the blog content lately is getting boring. I used to check first thing every morning excited to see what you had done and now I find myself only checking if I’ve got nothing else to do on the computer. Don’t get me wrong I still think you guys are hands down the best DIY blog, but sometimes the little tweaks around the house with one picture would be a better read then 5 about dry-walling techniques. (exaggerating here) Even if it’s WOW look what we found while out shopping today with one shot! :)

    Reply

  38. Chelsey says

    I am not sure if I am commenting in the right section/thred, but I wanted to second Luke’s note from above. I cannot say enough about how much I absolutly love your blog and respect you for putting family first; however the reason I started becoming a daily reader was for some of the smaller/DIY projects you posted about. Whether it be a quick table change, picture arrnaging or a fun ‘craft’ it was all very inspiring and allowed me to see how I could translate that into my own home in some way. Including some of the longer/more technical posts are a must and can give the reader a sense of confidence that you do not have to be a trainer contractor to do all of these projects, but it would be great to see some more of the light hearted projects thrown in there. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all you do. Again, I would never want to criticize but I appreciate that you take review all feedback and can it seriously.

    Reply

  39. Athena says

    Personally, I love the big DIY intensive posts and the family oriented or small posts as well, but not too small. Like, if you change out flowers in a vase, I won’t care to read that post, however, THIS IS YOUR BLOG.

    Everyone has different tastes, and you can’t cater to everyone. I’m fairly certain, if you post it, there will be some (fairly large) group of people, that will love it. I skip over most giveaways, but they appear to be very popular (23k entries!!!). Do what has been working for YOU.

    Reply

  40. M Su says

    Prefer some post to nothing–even if smalll; however I don’t participate in give aways, so preferably not more of those. I also understand if you just can’t post and say so.

    Reply

  41. Jenna says

    I don’t mind the more infrequent posting (seriously, you’re only human and stuff happens) but I do miss the smaller crafty projects, window shopping, and definitely reader redesigns! I’d love to see those incorporated more in between the technical DIY stuff.

    Reply

  42. Katie says

    I would still like something small over nothing at all. Y’all are the first site I hit up each morning and I hate when there isn’t anything new to read!

    Reply

  43. Heather Baleka says

    Hi guys!
    I like the ideas OBH mentioned and would gladly read those smaller “filler” posts, but I’m also perfectly fine with you missing a day (or days) here and there, as that’s how life goes! I don’t think it’s fair for people to be upset about you not posting every single day.
    Post when you have something to share and I’ll be here to read it! :)

    Reply

  44. Faith says

    I have always enjoyed the little, frilly posts more than the technical ones. That’s probably because I am not a homeowner. I do respect you scaling back for your kids, but I do miss my favorite blog (and the only one I consistently read). I’d love some shorter posts. Or, even, having the same amount of posts and making some of them a little lighter?

    Also, the giveaways are disappointing. They’re fantastic prizes, don’t get me wrong, but there isn’t any content and that’s a let down when I check in. You’ve mentioned before that they take so long to organize, so maybe cutting those out would be a time saver and would allow you to blog a little more? Surely you enjoy writing posts about projects more than organizing giveaways.

    Reply

    • Becca says

      Agree about the giveaways! Your blog is super popular, which is great and all, but it means that I have basically no chance to win, plus the lack of actual content, means giveaways are my least favorite posts.

  45. Shauna says

    Regarding the thread about smaller and more frequent “light” posts…do whatever you please. I read everything.

    I understand the drift of the commenters, of course, but I think you should do the blog for yourselves before you do it for us.

    Maybe those smaller entries are a sweet peekhole into your lives, beyond the DIY thing. Maybe that’s why people love your blog, too. But do your own thing of course. The “tech” stuff is the clearest and most helpful stuff I’ve found just about anywhere online, so don’t feel like it isn’t read.

    Hugs to the 5 of you.

    Reply

  46. Care says

    I love reader redesigns – those are awesome….maybe a few of those here and there??
    Good luck guys, I know you’re gonna get so many opinions – whatever you end up doing will be just fine :)

    Reply

  47. Michelle says

    I definitely like all the posts – smaller posts, too! – but dislike the giveaways and “fab freebies.” I get excited, then disappointed, when I see this, because I enjoy content from you, but never win the giveaways, so I don’t participate.

    Reply

  48. Tina says

    hi guys! i wanted to tell you that i agree, i think taking family time over blog time was a good idea, you’re kids will appreciate it. ;)

    i think writing more small posts instead of no posts is better… it at least keeps my interest in the blog more. i always liked those better anyways. the little ‘life tips’ that not everything thinks of, which make life easier, were always so refreshing and intriguing to learn. or even just small re-styling posts. “One Bedroom House” had lots of good ideas, i’d like to see posts on all of those topics. :)

    hope this helps! you guys are still doing a great job!

    Reply

  49. Bonnie says

    I have to admit I’ve been disappointed with the abbreviated posting schedule and the sometimes so technical how-to recaps of late. I understand all too well the demands of raising a family and I respect your right to decide what works for you. That said, if you decide to keep blogging, I think you will have to mix it up more to keep up your readership. I would be very surprised if your readership hasn’t dropped off noticably. That isn’t meant as snark — I’ve been reading you since your first year of blogging — it just seems as though your heart isn’t in it any more.

    Reply

  50. Laura says

    Yes! I love the idea of smaller posts like Reader Redesigns. I would much prefer that to no post at all. I miss y’all! Thanks. :)

    Reply

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