Update: We hoped to have a Thursday post for you guys but this week didn’t go as planned. So sorry!
Update #2: We’d love your thoughts on this thread that popped up on this post. What are your opinions about smaller posts when we can’t write something juicy? Skip them and just own that we can’t post that day with a little update like this one, or would you rather see something small instead of nothing (like a quick organizing update, a Reader Redesign, a dilemma we’re debating, etc)? Thanks for the feedback!
Curtains can make the room. And pillows, well, you can never have too many (at least according to my pillow obsessed wife). This week someone’s going to win $500 to spend at Martha & Ash, a family business that’s focused on fabric goods with quality and craftsmanship. You can splurge on pillows, dog beds, or score yourself some custom drapes, like a striped or two toned option in your choice of over 25+ colors.
Please use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter (it might take a second to load, but it should eventually pop up below this paragraph). This giveaway is available anywhere in the world!
Gaby says
Personally I’d rather see less regular long posts than a bunch of itty bitty ones. I usually skip the short ones. Similar to Manhattan Nest?
Laurel says
I too dislike the giveaways, but enjoy all DIY content, no matter how large or small the post. I also appreciate that you keep personal posts on the family blog. When I take the time to follow a blog, I expect design-related content and grow weary of fillers like baby clothes, random product promotions, etc. Do what works best for your family life, but please keep the content relevant!
Allie says
Hi guys! I know you probably don’t need MORE feedback after 1500+ comments…but as a lover and long-time reader of your blog I wanted to add in a few words of encouragement! I’m such a fan of your blog and will take whatever you’re able to put out there. I say do you and do what you can do :) I have a feeling you might reengage some disenfranchised folks if you more closely align the blog to your current lifestyle rather than trying to mimic how this blog used to be before the new kiddo and side gigs (e.g., musings, family quips, projects you’re dreaming of doing once you have the time, throwing up the only photo you had time to take all day with a brief caption, etc). I’m on board regardless and hope you find a pace and content that works best for you and the fam!
Cindy says
I LOVE your blog, 4 years ago when I first found it and today when I still check it. I too have become far busier in life in the last 4 years (I have a 12 year old and a 5 1/2 month old) so I don’t check your blog but once a week. I LOVE your style, now and always. Not only that but you help to inspire me and keep me motivated to work on my home. I can’t afford crazy 3K lamps, so I love seeing with you can do/find on a budget. I want nice things that will last for a long time but also not interested in spending all my “fun” money on it! You guys need to do you. Some of us will still be here no matter what:)
Sarah says
Woah, I’m somewhat appalled by the judgement and entitlement of some people in the comments. I sincerely hope you don’t take them to heart (and in my opinion, no love lost if they stop reading!) I love your blog. I learn SO much, and moreover, appreciate that your budget is so much like my own. I can’t do high-end design, its not an option for my budget. But you guys give me tools I need to get as close as possible! And I don’t even always share your design aesthetic, and yet it doesn’t matter, I STILL learn stuff. And appreciate yours. So just wanted to say that.
morgan smith says
totally agree!!!!!
jeannette says
i thought the comments all were interesting. the bottom line seems to be, where is sherry?
Lil says
I would like smaller posts…I carve out a few minutes in my day for YHL…and it’s disappointing when there isn’t a new post. :(
I love reader redesigns. I also enjoyed the design dilemnas you did a couple of times…you could even post the query without all the extra work of making your own suggestions…see where the comments take it? Just a thought.
Some of the other blogs I like do posts once a week with things they’ve got their eye on…a rug, lamp, shoes, book, etc…kind of like you have in your side bar. Seems like it would be an easy post? A picture and a link?
Do your thing. I’ll be around for a while.
Christy says
Please don’t stop with the DIY posts or the technical specifics! I appreciate those so much! I also like small projects, but the mix of big and small projects, technical and personal, is what sets you guys apart! I think you’re doing a great job. Keep up the good work!
Becky says
I follow you guys because you’re hilarious and fun to read. I think you should do what works for you, but I’d be willing to read just a one-liner post about Clara. Or instead of posting a photo to Instagram, put it here. Bringing in that light, personal touch would be more than enough in my opinion.
As for contents – I’m not a fan of freebies, only because I don’t think I have a shot against 26k of my closest friends. ;)
Shauna says
I agree with the folks who’d rather have less posts with more meaty information. (Meaty, Burger, there’s a joke in there somewhere.)
Honestly if you went for two weeks without posting and then did the laundry room reveal I’d be all “heck yes!”
If you do feel the need to do “filler” I like house crashing much more than these suggestions of kids this and kids that. No offense to your kids, they are super awesome, but I think a lot of readers are here because you’re a home decorating/DIY blog…and some of us still don’t have any chil’rens.
And again, for people who want to “style a bookshelf” or see more content…um, that’s what the rest of the internet is for.
Pamela says
John & Sherry,
I am going to chime in with the chorus because I have been a devoted fan since at least 2009, before I even bought my house. I also found your site my googling around for instructions on how to paint cabinets, which another post also mentioned. It was such an amazing discovery. I have referred countless new home buyers and anyone looking for design inspiration to your blog. You have been a huge inspiration to me, and many, many of your projects helped guide me for my own house.
I do not share the opinion that your content has lost “the spark” or anything like that. I think the content is great, but I absolutely miss more frequent updates with smaller projects. I would love to see more of that.
I do agree with some of the posts that it seems like you are not enjoying blogging as much as you used to. And that’s fine. That’s your life, and you know what’s best for you. Furthermore, I will not presume at all to understand the business/financial impact that fewer posts has for you. Again, that’s your business. If you stop blogging all together, I will feel like I lost a friend, but yet I completely would respect your choice to do so.
The thing about increasing posts, and adding small posts, is that there is more likely to be something for everyone. Maybe I am not hanging any doors (though if and when I do, I know where to look for advice!) this week, but I am rearranging art or something like that. AND I love reader re-designs. I also want to add that I was so excited when you started the idea of giving people feedback and ideas for their spaces, so please bring that back too!!
Final thought – some people have been critical of your design choices or furniture purchases somehow not reflecting growth or being expensive enough. I think that you appeal to people who have lower budgets and who try to get a good deal – going out and purchasing a bunch of designer-priced goods would alienate a lot of those folks. Don’t do that! But keep doing what works for you – it’s your house, we are just along for the ride.
Mel says
Long time reader checking in. I was around for the old name and the basic wordpress design. I was a true Fangirl. But now I’m not so much. And I know why. It’s not short posts vs long posts vs filler vs meat. It’s love. You don’t love your house(s) anymore. And it shows.
Since you are not professionals or experts all you HAD was a profound love for your home, something all of us could relate to. This is why house 1 made you famous. But then you moved to house 2. And then house 3. And it was clear your love of a home was not the goal. No one believes you guys when you use the phrase “forever home” when we have all seen you pack up and move three times in 4 years, which, btw, is not a relatable human existence. It also kills your credibility. So there’s no love, your credibility is lacking, and you have painstakingly explained to us that you are not professionals. So what exactly are we left with? Two novice flippers running rough shod over some potentially beautiful turf. And honestly, there are a million shows on HGTV that do this already and better.
Go back to roots. Love your house. Whether it’s short or a long post, just design like you mean it. Don’t keep moving every 2-3 years to create blog content. That’s not authentic. That doesn’t show love. I read you in the past because I wanted to see two people live in a house and make it a home, for the long haul. Make me fall in love with those people again.
Rebecca says
This
SimplyS says
keep just doing what your doing….I have days, sometimes weeks at work that what I planned to do just doesn’t happen for this, that and the other thing and so will you. You announced you were making a change so people could either get on or off the bus and you stated then that you knew you would lose some hits and readers but that it was the right move for YOU. Now everyone wants you to go back to what you were doing before…don’t lose yourself.
Just give us what ya got when you got it :) the true followers will check daily at 10am and accept it.
Ashley says
My post will likely get lost in the shuffle here (holy opinions batman), but I did want to say I just love your blog! I’ve been following since your first house and I can honestly say I read more now than I ever used to.
The technical posts are overwhelming for me (I’m not in the point in my life right now as a renter), but I can definitely see how I COULD utilize them if I was home owner.
I actually think you used to post too much, so I’m happy to see you’ve slowed down. That being said, I’d love some “filler” posts if they were life or DIY related. I don’t care for filler posts that are sponsored content or giveaways, but I also understand that’s the money maker.
Just my two cents. I think you guys rock and you’re doing everything right. Not everything you share/post/do will make every single reader happy, but I understand that and I would hope that others do too. :)
Jeanna says
OK, I might as well chime in too :) I have worried of late that the blog is becoming your least important priority. I totally get how busy your lives must be with two little ones and a new book on the way. There are only so many hours in a day, and you need a quality life too, that’s important! But I really, really miss the old days. I miss hearing about Clara’s little sayings, and her updated pictures. I miss the house crashing, and the “window” shopping you used to do at all the stores. I miss all of the DIY you used to do. It has felt better lately with all the good stuff from the laundry room……….seems much more like the good old days. But I feel sad that the blog has seemed like something you want to move away from. I hope that’s not the case. You guys really do feel like extended E-family, and I would miss hearing about your lives. That’s what made me fall for you in the first place!
Helen says
You can never please all the people, all the time, so I say do what works best for you! Having a new baby is HARD, not to mention all the other things you have on your plate (parenting Clara, taking care of your marriage, keeping up with family and friends, not to mention buying groceries and cooking and actually living your lives!). If you could throw in a short post about a smaller topic without it overwhelming your life/mind/schedule/guilt level, then by all means, post away! I check my favorite blogs often and am always excited to have new ideas and photos to devour, and yours is probably the one I’m most hopeful about when I check. (I’m a little desperate for design help right now. :) We’re rebuilding after a tornado and the learning curve for everything is HUGE!) If extra posts are too much and it’s raising your stress level or making you dread interacting with your public, though, just do what you can and call it good. If there’s no John and Sherry goodness to read, I guess I could step away from my computer and find something else to do with my time. :) Seriously, I love what you do and appreciate you sharing your can-do attitude, great sense of humor, and fun and attainable home and decorating ideas. I constantly look at your blog for ideas and help. Your style is so happy and casual- just what I love- and at least in theory, fairly doable. I hope I can adapt some of that fun and cheery loveliness to our new house. Or maybe I should hire a professional. Or… if things settle down for you anytime soon with the baby and the big kid and the life load and the work demands, and you’re looking for a new project to take on, I could use a little help here! :) Carry on, Petersiks! Keep doing what you love!
Rebecca says
I Love your blog and its one of the first things I check every morning after 8am (my time) when I know the new post will be up. Also, like other readers have said, I miss the frequent posts that we used to get but I totally understand wanting to spend more time with your family. Life can get crazy and it’s good to remember who we are doing it for, our kids. I appreciated the note saying that there wouldn’t be a post for Thursday so I knew not to keep checking. I miss some of the shorter fun stuff that we used to get but really, I just love your blog and love spending 4 mornings a week with you guys. Keep up the fantastic work. I’m sure whatever solution you come up with will be good.
Tanya says
It honestly amazes me that 1) opinions in the comments are ranging from “OMG you’re still doing that stale thing you have been doing” to “OMG you’ve changed so much” and 2) there are some people with serious entitlement issues reading your blog (and clearly, based on their words, are directly paying your blogging wages, since somehow they seem to think you owe them).
I don’t think any of those special snowflakes will read my comment, but I feel like I have to say this simply to counter-balance their uninformed opinions: some of us DO get how reality works (growing family, changing blog-world, larger, less sexy projects sometimes), and we understand that the reason we are drawn to read YHL is because of who you are, with your daily lives and projects and keeping it real.
I love having content all the time, but I totally get how time-consuming posts are, even the quick ones, if they are quality – and that’s what we all love about YHL – quality content. Someone mentioned Cup of Jo, and I must say, I’ve stopped reading that blog because I felt like it was too full of that fluff: “Here’s an article I found, what do you all guys think?”
Having said that, I still would love more Reader Dilemmas and Reader Redesign posts, since maybe they are not as time-consuming to prep as round-ups etc. but of course those are completely dependent on quality of photos that are sent in.
Also, just NEED to say this – I am floored that some people are like, “Sure, you’ve just created a room from scratch pretty much by yourselves, but psh, I won’t ever need to do that, so who cares reading about this? Oh, by the way, like I totally feel like we’re friends, why won’t you talk about stuff ~I~ want to read about?” Wow, if that’s how they feel friendship works, I’m glad I don’t know any of them personally. Very special snowflakes, those.
Sherry, John, I would never presume to be friends with you, but I feel so much love and support for you guys. Two kids are such a totally different ballgame than one, right? And with all the other projects you are juggling, I feel like maybe you just don’t have it in you sometimes to polish those half-written pieces to the level we all love from you, and at least some of your readers totally get it.
erin says
ha! love it!!! *very special snowflakes* yup.
and i feel ya on cup of jo. she doesn’t really write her own stuff anymore. she does a lot of interviews. and on top of that — the pictures they take, completely staged!
many blogs have turned completely different. YHL has been staying true to themselves! and staying real!
Amanda says
First time commenter here, but medium-time follower:) I don’t want to lie and say long time! Ha. But I’ve gone back into the archive to the beginning and I’ve been slowly making my way through your beginnings, while also keeping up with the current, so I feel like I have a good idea of where you started to where you are now.
And it’s amazing. You are wonderful people, a beautiful family, and your blog is for YOU. Blogging started as a way to show your family your progress. It has clearly come a long way since then, and you are making it a business. But at the end of the day, you started this whole she-bang for you, and your family. There will always be expectations and pressures from readers, that’s the internet.
But from one little internet person over here, I say to stick to your guns, and make sure to keep being true to you. Readers can be fantastic, and wonderful, and selfish. People get used to reading your stories, and how-to guides, and get used to a certain thing. Your blog has been reliable entertainment and education for years. But that does not mean that you have to do anything. It is still your blog, so make sure you know that there are many people out here that have no expectations, and are just grateful to get a weekly peak into your world.
We are blessed to know you, even just cybernetically! I hope that you don’t put too much pressure on yourselves, and know that we all root for your health, happiness, and family first. :)
Helen says
Just read some of the comments above, and I love the idea about having links to products you like. I have an idea of the look I’m going for in our rebuild, but finding what I love at a reasonable price isn’t going great in my central Illinois shopping vacuum. There’s a lot on the internet, obviously, but it’s hard to know what you’re getting, if it’s a reputable website, and how products will hold up. Getting ideas for products and sources would be incredibly helpful! We’re dealing with how to shop for flooring, appliances, light fixtures, etc., but I also would love to know where to buy kid bedspreads and cute piggy banks and an awesome mirror and colorful accessories… Even when we don’t have a major renovation going on, a lot of us are looking to upgrade a shower curtain or something. Just wanted to second that I think that was a great idea. :)
Jennifer says
I think you’re doing great. I haven’t lost interest and I’ve appreciated the fact that you, too, are striving for work-life balance.
Jamie says
Since you asked, I love smaller posts mixed in with the big projects. I always like to see what you guys have going on, even if it is making a terrarium or finding a cool item while out shopping for a bigger project =)
Brook says
I will start by saying I did not read all of the previous comments but after reading a few pages I want to say a few things.
1) I read this blog because I really like you guys. You are funny and quirky and my family is in a similar stage as yours. I appreciate the more cost friendly purchases you make because we have a new house and two kids and just can’t spend hundreds of dollars on little things all the time. Other blogs I read sometimes feature similar items in a variety or prices. Save and splurge. Maybe that would help those that want more spendy items.
2) many others have noticed you guys becoming more ‘impersonal’. I’m just going to guess but, if it were me, I’d be pulling back too. All the negativity is gross and that’s just want naturally happens when you feel defensive. I think you guys are doing a great job all things considered.
3) never let people make you feel guilty for spending time with your kids or each other. Time goes so fast. Many other decorating blogs I follow do not have daily posts. No one comments about it and it just is. It’s fine. The readers understand and are happy when a post shows up.
4) like I said before the negativity on the comments section is really gross. This blog is just that! A blog. It’s a fun and happy space in the Internet. I don’t understand what the heck people want. If you don’t like it then don’t read it. Really, there are so many other blogs out there. Maybe the negative people just need to find one that suits their needs a bit better. I would really love for you J and S to get back to the place where it felt like you guys were happily blogging and sharing your life and projects. I love how other blogs I read have a community of readers who are kind to the writer and each other. I wish this community could act like that.
Carry on J and S! You have built something really great together.
morgan smith says
I like your quick posts, they’re mighty fine. I really get excited when you have a new long post. I can’t imagine that people could feel so entitled to things. I read your blog because your writing is interesting and creative, and you give so much detail, and i am AMAZED at all you get done around your house. i have three kids with one on the way, so i know how much energy and time they deserve. the blog should never come before them or the quality time you get to spend with john. hope you will keep writing posts whenever you get a chance!
Karly says
I miss your 5 day posting schedule but understand why you scaled back. I would love to hear more about the other stuff you guys are working on….so maybe small posts related to Book 2, or product development or speaking engagements or whatever. Thanks for asking for reader feedback, and keep on keeping on!
Katie says
Hi John and Sherry!
First of all, I want to thank you for your dedicated writing. I know how hard it can be on days that feel extra long and your mind feels the least bit focused on a blog. I personally love the technicality that you all put in your posts. It helps those of us who may not be ready to do such a project, learn that we can face it and have a trusted source for some of the bumps we may experience.
But I also really love the suggestion of smaller posts. While maybe a little less exciting, I could definitely use tips on things like: how to make different pieces of art work together in one room, Deciding what fits together on a gallery wall, ways to pump up a room with a little rearranging, etc. I am personally a renter, so those posts appeal more to me than the major reno posts. But I love to read it all.
Again, thank you for letting us into your life so much! Balancing it all can’t be easy, and this is the only blog to have held my attention for multiple years. It’s great and inspiring! Have fun and make it what YOU want!
Aimee says
This is your blog. Do what works for you guys because trying to please people pleases no one. I like your blog and am a regular reader, but you have to be you and do what works for your family.
Nicole Norman says
I have to say, I think a lot of the commenters need to take a deep breath and remember…this is a blog, not something we’re paying money for. To be annoyed when there is not a post up when we “expect” one to be there…I’m not sure that’s a problem you guys need to worry about. I do enjoy the shorter, lighter posts a little more, but to post one when you don’t have time, just because people “expect” a post every day…I don’t think that’s necessary. I subscribe to your blog and when there’s a post from you in my reader, I read it. When there’s not, I don’t even think about it. As a working mom to a 7-month old, I know that you’re probably even busier than I am, and I don’t always have time to read. Love what you guys are doing!
Aleah L. says
Holy smokes, you guys read 1500 comments!? I love your blog. It’s the only one I follow. You guys are the hardest working people ever, I have no idea how you do it all! I mean come on! You built a room from nothing in like a month on top of everything else in your life! Me and my fiancé can’t even finish staining our deck! I love this blog, I’ve been following it since last year when you first moved into this house and look forward to reading it all the time and peruse old posts. I read your blog for fun and use it as a resource when I am trying to do a similar project. It’s just great. I’d love to see anyone sitting at their desks from 9-5 do what you guys do for a day. It’s easy to criticize from the outside. And readers can’t forget, how are we to know that there isn’t something else going on in your personal life that kept you away. At least that’s what I assumed when I read the update. I mean this isn’t a TV show that gets neatly wrapped up after every episode. It’s real life, real family, real time. I say, keep doing what you’re doing. I love the detail posts, I love the pictures, I love the infographics, I love everything! And whatever super powers you guys have to do it all, can you send some my way? Because I really need to finish staining that deck ;)
Sarah says
I really miss the Clara conversations, perhaps the photos of Teddy like there were of Clara, and of course the reader redesigns, those were some of the best parts!!
Roberta says
I really really miss the daily posts. That was one of your best features of this particular blog in my mind and something that used to set it apart. You were a very reliable daily read.
I don’t care for the giveaway posts. They seem like ads or commercials to me. I don’t mind shorter posts thought. Long posts are great but I don’t need a long and involved post to get my daily fix. I like the mix ins with other homes or styles as well. The light and white look is great but it is not my real direction either.
I like the info about the family. But as a household with two fulltime workers and two young kids, I also sometimes feel we are getting excuses. Yes, work gets in the way of enjoying my family quite a lot. This is something specific to a lot of us. Maybe the tone is the issue. There is nothing wrong with being a stay at home parent. But I don’t think that is what either of you are really doing here. Nor do I like to think I am a bad person because I work away from my kids all day. I think that life with kids only gets busier as they get older with sports and friends and such. So it isn’t like there is a five year time clock on that problem for us to wait out.
It’s great that you have a book deal. It really is. But I didn’t read the first one and it is unlikely I will read the second one. All I am trying to say is that I don’t read the blog to hear about the book unless the post involves some design related info. I too read your blog for house one, read almost aero of house two and have come back for house three. But where do you go when house three is mostly done?
I am okay with the budget decorating and I do think you involve some nicer pieces. Most people in my part of the country would be hard pressed to spend anywhere close to what you spend on home furnishings. Even as responsible and well paid adults, we live with a lot of cast offs and the kids damage nicer things too at a young age. I think your home is a good example of what is attainable through planning, smart shopping and hard work.
Lisa says
I have read your blog since your wedding. I always go to you guys for research/inspiration on my own DIY projects. I love your funny laid back style. I am not a blogger, so I can’t give you advice. I just hope you will continue to write, post pics, and post. I love your blog.
Ashlee says
I’m a little late to the party :) and I didn’t read all of the comments so I may be super repetitive but you guys are my favorite so here are my thoughts:
I am so happy that you have scaled back to focus on your family and I’m glad you had the ability to make that choice. Having said that I miss you guys (that’s not creepy right?!) I used to read Young House Life too and so maybe I just feel like I’m not reading about you as much (which I understand if you are trying to keep C and T a little more out of the limelight) Having said that I think over the years when you’ve had a big project going on (kitchen, bathroom, adding a WHOLE NEW ROOM!) the posts have kind of moved to more technical, just the normal and I figure once that’s finished we will move on to more “interesting to the masses” posts.
All that to say I would love smaller posts more than no post at all!
Also another note give away posts don’t bother me, I skip them so no big deal to me (I usually skim them, I think I entered one a long time ago they just don’t interest me…) as long as it’s not the only thing being posted once a week, ya know?
Angela in RVA says
I’ve read a few comments left last Thursday and I just wanted to add that, in the big picture, this blog is your “life” and it’s going to ebb and flow the same way that “life” does for all of us… And the day that the blog becomes more of a “product” of your life versus the “reality” of your life, I’ll be so disappointed…If others out here have developed expectations of what YHL is supposed to be, just remind them of your humble–and real–beginnings and help them reset those expectations. If I come across a post that doesn’t apply to my interests (like the door jamb post…sorry!) then, I just scroll through for pictures and move on…with my life! Besides dooce.com, yours is the only blog I come to on any regular basis. Kudos and Rock On! Love you guys!
Cameron says
I miss the smaller posts. I rarely read more than a paragraph of the tech-heavy stuff and just scroll for pictures. I’ve always enjoyed your smaller, craftier projects more than the big DIY ones. I mean, the big ones are super impressive, but most of us can’t tackle huge project after huge project. The smaller ones seem more attainable and inspirational. I would love to see you bring back more of the short posts on the little things that truly make a house a home.
Lauren (in PA) says
So, I love you guys and the site. I’ve been reading you guys really far back with the first house. Sherry, I think you posted your first family room redo on to thathomesite.com.
Obviously you’ve grown. You used to be a blog, and now you are brand. You used to be single and now you’re a family!
All good changes, but I think the blog is taking a bit of a hit.
You say you can’t post because of all your side projects…show house, Target, lighting projects, books, hospital project etc.
The feeling I have is that the blog is becoming more of a side project, an “oops, we better put a post up” type feeling. The message the other day…”so sorry, meant to post” was kind of like a slap in the face. It irked me.
I get that you’re busy. Truely…I work two jobs and have two days off a month. Get it. But that was insulting, but I know it wasn’t intended to be so.
As you are a brand, we are your customers. As you have all these “side jobs”…additional income, perhaps you focus on that more. It would be understandable, reasonable. But with bored, or dissatisfied customers, the side jobs may dry up.
As for content? I would take a swing through posts of a couple years ago…remember how you mixed it up with family, large and small projects. It was good.
Your decorating style is not my style, but I’m ok with that…it’s still fun to watch, and get great ideas that I can make my own.
The intense DIY posts? I can’t do all that with no tools or time..but, I love them. Even if I can’t do it myself, one day I may be able to, or at the very least, sound somewhat intelligent to contractors, so I don’t get taken for a ride!
Smaller projects, love them, and seeing you guys conquer them gives me confidence!
The family/Richmond posts? Adore them, but if this becomes a mommy blog, you’d lose me. But the amount of what it used to be would be cool!
What might be fun to see? I would love to see you guys working outside of your comfort zone. Out of your style. Maybe work with other designers, for different ideas…or even different designers as guest bloggers. (like Ree does, on pioneerwoman.com) I’d love to see you work with a “customer” who has a different style completely, and help them reno in that style. You guys have the skill for that.
And more Clara Convo’s, reader redesignes, etc. Thrift blogs are always fun…even with out Katie Bower!
As a brand, you manage your customers expectations, and it seems a bit like that’s faltered a bit. But not so much that it will dissuade me from your site…just would like to see “more (even filler)” and “different”!
<3
Bethany says
I’m really surprised by negative comments up above and people acting like they know the ins and outs of how you spend your time. I know that being self-employed means working crazy long hours that a lot of people can’t comprehend and probably wouldn’t ever attempt. And you’re raising precious children too. Writing a book on the side, decorating a dream home for someone else on the side, doing a Target deal on the side… I don’t think you’re giving anything less to readers. Brief giveaway posts seem very realistic in the scheme of things. I think you guys are doing an amazing job!! Way to juggle it ALL and blog great content each week! Well done.
Skittle says
Hi guys! I’ve been reading for several years & recently went all the way back to the beginning just to catch up on all that happened “before me.” (We just found out you’re having a girl!!) ;)
Yours is my favorite blog and, like many others, I feel like I know you because you’ve always posted personal things along with the technical. But while I do feel like it seems you may have “lost that lovin’ feeling”, could it just be the natural progression for people who have been doing this full time for so long? Everything can’t always feel new, exciting or even interesting to you if it’s what you do for a job, and maybe it’s starting to show. I also think there just isn’t the possibility that we’ll understand what it takes to keep this blog running or for that to be a full-time job. While I enjoy the heavy technical posts, what I’ve enjoyed in the past is that they were mixed with lighter posts and with more family related posts. For myself, the more posts the better, even if they’re short & meaningless. I enjoy your voice & ideas so much, even if it doesn’t pertain to me personally, I still enjoy reading what you have to say.
It’s great that you are at a place where you can afford to cut back in your job to spend time with your family. But your readers are the reason that you’re able to do that, and I’m afraid you’ve spoiled us to have certain expectations of your blog. While we’re happy that you’ve been able to use the blog as a launching board for other projects, it seems like between your decision to cut back on the blog for family reasons, in addition to the time taken away from the blog to work on other projects, you may be pulling away from your core support here on the blog.
In the (long-winded) end, you have to do what is best for you & your family, which you already know. I personally will be here until you type your very last period. It’s nice that you ask our opinions, but I’m such a junkie, I’ll take anything I can get!!
CodyJ says
I have been reading your blog on my lunch break for years and hugely enjoy it. I’m on a similar page as you guys with a fixer upper house, the desire to do most of it ourselves, and a young-un running around to complicate matters :)
So I appreciate everything about your blog. I understand slowing down your pace for your family; I love and respect you more for doing so.
I like technical posts; even if I don’t read them thoroughly now, I mentally bookmark them for when we take on something similar. OR, they inspire me to tackle something similar that may otherwise have seemed daunting.
And I love lighter, shorter posts as well. Again, I adore your blog, so more of it is of course better. I’m not going any where as a reader and enjoy your writing the most when it doesn’t seem like you’re trying to appease everyone.
Andrea says
Hi, John & Sherry:
I am longtime reader and will continue to be one, regardless of the format. I, personally, love that your blog is accessible to the “every day” homeowner; both in terms of projects tackled (for the most part) and products used (I am a loyal Home Goods/TJ Maxx/Target/West Elm shopper – and don’t consider my style to be “cheap”). I adored the shorter posts like reader redesigns, design dilemmas, small crafts or even little “around the house” style updates; as well as more personal posts. I think they keep the content fresh and keep readers tuned in.
Now, as someone who works in the PR/marketing industry your current dilemma raises and interesting point for me: how do “commercial” (i.e. this is your job vs. just a hobby) blogs/bloggers change their editorial focus, strategy, etc. in order to fit with their changing objectives, while being conscious of their readers’ expectations? I wish you the best of luck as you carve out the path that best fits with your business and personal goals.
Jen says
I used to be a huge fan of YHL. I read daily, was waiting for the 10 am post to go live, seriously considered driving several hours to go to a book signing, etc.
But then, the blog started feeling less authentic. It stopped feeling like two friends who had invited us along on their renovation progress, who were showing us tips and tricks to help us get the best DIY results possible, and more like two people milking a persona to keep attention while doing minimal effort.
You completely lost me when you bought house #3, hid the purchase for months on end, and then did all sorts of projects in house #2 claiming it was still your forever house. All authenticity you had was gone then. If you had been honest with your readers then that you had been able to purchase a home in your dream neighborhood and now were prepping this house to sell so you could move into your “forever home”, it would have felt less like a slap in the face.
Since that point, the blog has continued to move downhill. I get that blogging is a lot more work than most people think, but you have two people working full time(according to you) at this gig. If you are taking on so many side projects that at least one of you is not devoting a minimum of 40 hours per week to the blog, then you have lost your balance. Pull back on the side projects, hire an assistant to handle some of the tech stuff that you don’t love. Stop constantly monitoring the comments. Auto schedule your posts to go live at 6 am EST, schedule two 15 minute blocks of time per day to check in, and use the rest of the day to work on other projects. You could do a post once a week with updated answers in response to the comments- it’s a fairly easy post to add in since you are already answering these questions many times in the comments, and gives you another post for easy reference.
It’s time to decide what your priorities are in regards to the blog. You scaled back after Teddy was born, but in reality, we’d had less content far earlier than that- you just stopped adding as much annoying filler. I don’t mind reader redesigns, house crashing, etc. as long as they actually fill a balance with actual DIY and design posts. Go back and read your own archives from house 1 and the beginning of house 2. Look at what is different from then to now. Figure out where you went wrong and build from there.
You are no longer 20-somethings. It’s not cute to see wut-up, j-dawg, sherboom, etc. in every post. Learn appropriate adjectives and stop using -ish, crisp, pop, moody, and any other word that you love to describe how something feels in the house. Take photography classes, sewing classes, and anything else you can find that will help you with a better blog. There are some easy blog posts in those for you too, as you can report back on the classes you take. Stop taking shortcuts with hemtape, spraypainting everything in sight, and placing everything in ikea frames.
If you want the blog to continue and to succeed while being able to spend as much time with the family as possible, you need to take a real hard look at where you are wasting your time and where you could gain time by letting others take on tasks. It’s time to stop lying to yourselves and pretending that you haven’t lost a large chunk of readership over the last two years- one just has to look at the comments section to see that. Be honest. Be real. Be AUTHENTIC once more.
I hope you are seriously listening to your readership. The overwhelming majority are not happy with your current posting style and content. Most of us started reading you for a reason- we liked that you invited us into your home, shared the ups and downs of diy, and made us feel like we weren’t alone in trying to figure out how to make the most of our money. Bring back those feelings again, so we stop feeling like the blog is fodder just to get side projects.
Melissa Summers says
Gross
Laura Williams says
My personal opinion is I love a post Monday-Thursday or Friday. It is great to have the little posts mixed in with the bigger meatier projects. I am in a place where I can’t afford to do many big projects around my home, so I like the little decorating projects, gift ideas, etc. But I still love the big projects too (as I hope to one day have the funds to do the big projects).
I also totally understand where you are with trying to get the laundry room done. Laundry room, kitchen, bathroom, all spaces that the renovations need to happen relatively quickly because life is happening, so I understand why the posts have been heavy on that lately. Maybe filler posts so you can space out how many technical projects we get in a row? You guys are great! Thanks for all your hard work!
Anne Crabtree says
John and Sherry,
Just in case you read all the way to my comment – DON’T CHANGE A THING!! I love that your blog touches on all kinds of topics. From your very personal pregnancy/birth stories to your remodeling adventures. Each post may not be important to each follower at that given moment…. but I know one day I will have to hang a door and I know the exact place to go to get step by step tips that aren’t from an intimidating hardware website. So thank you for sharing so much of your lives!!!
Sarah says
I also miss the house crashing (even just virtual), funny pictures or videos of burger, picking out things at a thrift shop and saying how you could use them, the funny spray painted animals, naming of furniture items, etc…
I also miss the crafting, especially instructions about things that reader could do! Like making a quick quilt or decorations for a birthday party, the pouf, or crafting that you do with the kids.
Elaine says
I will echo what many others have said–do what works for you. I love the quote that says “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs, but ask yourself what makes you come alive, because what the world needs is people who come alive.” This blog became the success it is because it came alive with your excitement. Do and share what you want and don’t worry about others. I, too, go through phases with my art/design/home decor. Sometimes, I’m really into painting. Sometimes, I’m all about sewing. Sometimes I’m cleaning and reorganizing, and I wouldn’t want to have to switch gears or fake something I’m not doing. You will find a balance with the blog, just like you are seeking (and have hopefully found) with your life. Best of luck to you.
Emelia says
I love all your content! I won’t mind some smaller posts mixed in there between larger ones. One idea is maybe a follow-up on the people that win the Fab Freebies- I’d love to see how people are using the tools, accessories, fabrics, etc. After entering I daydream about the projects I’d take on with said freebie. :)
Karen says
That’s a really good idea actually! A follow-up maybe 6 weeks later to see how people are using the tool or how they decorated with that pillow/fabric/bedding/wall art would be pretty interesting. And another thing that can set YHL apart from lots of other blogs with giveaways.
Sarah says
Or posts highlighting what your home blogging friends have been up to! And other Pinterest challenges! I loved the clothespin lamp. And other cool things around Richmond or even commenting on how the shops in Richmond decorate.
Posting more inspiration pictures would be nice too, especially with different color schemes.
Amy says
I love your posts. I don’t need to see high end decor. I don’t have a high end budget. I can see all the expensive make overs I want all ready. Keep doing what you are doing.
Tami G says
I too LOVE your blog and have enjoyed watching the process of change throughout your three houses. I would agree to the idea of a few smaller posts thrown in here and there (or regularly even). While I love to read your blog posts, sometimes I just don’t have time to get all the way through it because they are often so long. :(
Maria says
I’ve been reading from almost the very beginning of this blog. I want to speak up just to say – you don’t owe us anything. I read because I am entertained. What you are then able to do in your life because you are so good at entertaining people on a blog is completely your business. I just hope you continue for many years to come.