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!
amanda says
John & Sherry,
I have been a longtime reader of your blog, but have never commented. I just want to say that I love your style, maybe because it is similar to my own. ;-) Also, I don’t think you can please everyone and why bother, this is your blog and your sense of style, not someone else’s. I just hate that there is so much negativity in this world. I will continue to be a longtime reader whether you have short or long posts. :-)
Caz says
this :)
Brittain says
I love posts of all sizes! I stopped checking in regularly when posting slowed down, but I sure enjoy catching up on old posts when I do check in. I checked in most recently at the end of this laundry project and it was super fun to go back through all the posts leading up to the finished product. My house is small and all white trim and light walls and I love the bright and airy feel and find inspiration in this blog for my own projects. Keep on keepin’ on. Life happens. :)
Thami says
OMG!!!! I cannot believe I won!!! You know what’s funny? I’ve been shopping for curtains online all day today! Haha, thank you so much!
Lynn R says
I’ll take what I can get from you his. Love your blog, whatever use it is on at the moment. Thanks for sharing your lives, projects, ideas, how tos. You rock.
Kim says
(history) I found your blog a few years ago trying to educate myself on decor while we were getting our house ready for sale — I went back to the beginning and read every last post and learned a ton about decor, about finding my own style, about DIY, and I gained a real sense of adventure about my house (especially since we’ve moved, holy cow I made a whole kitchen, which I doubt I would have done without your example, and enthusiasm, and is it really encouragement if you never actually talk to me?)
I don’t envy you reading all of these comments, because I just couldn’t. It hurts my heart to see some of the things that people have said in the name of constructive criticism. IMHO, you seem just as in love with this house as your others, and I feel like you’ve been tackling a lot of large projects and lots of little things, too!
I really disagree with people harshing on your work/life/family balance seeing as how blogging is your “real” job. Most other (american)couples would just be coming out of the haze of maternity leave now. I completely respect that the blog has had more of John’s “voice” recently — I would expect nothing less for a family with a very new baby.
As for frequency, because I read your blog from an rss feed I’m not really conscious of how frequently you post. It isn’t a big deal to me if you don’t post for a few days. I’m happy for the content that you provide, when it’s ready for public viewing. I’ve loved watching the projects that you have done on your new house and I constantly use your posts as research for work I do in my house.
so, tldr: love the blog (for long times), don’t love the harsh/judgy comments, keep up the awesome.
Jo-Anna says
I actually can’t believe what I’m reading here…so many of these comments are beyond rude. This is your blog, your business, your life so you get to decide how to run it! Keep up the good work…it’s hard work and I know it! Love love you guys!
Christina says
Sure, small posts when you don’t have time for a big one would be great–as long as that’s something that doesn’t suck you back in to a super heavy posting schedule. You guys were really posting A LOT for awhile there–in addition to whatever side projects you’re doing and clearly reading all of and responding to many of your comments (something I don’t see a lot of other blogs doing). I really respect that you made a conscious and public decision to scale back and spend more time with your family. It’s great that you’re asking our opinion and trying to make sure your readers are still happy, but you need to stick to your guns on what works for you and yours. Personally I enjoy the longer, more technical posts of late–I like to think that someday I’ll be so handy :-P –but they must be a beast to write up. I like your short posts too, so bring them on if they’re really doable–but I’m sure even a short post, plus reading and responding to comments, takes a big chunk of time. Please do what works for you, and please ignore anyone who’s using your request for feedback as carte blanche to tell you how to raise your kids.
Allison says
I have read your blog forever, never comment, and am not even sure if I am responding to the correct thread. Anyways, I think you guys are great, but perhaps should consider a bit more variety. The big projects are awesome, but the small craft projects and “shelfie” kind of things are too. When you focus on one big project, it is only really interesting to people also working on that same big project. Don’t change too much, just a few posts here and there for the weekend crafter/decorating dreamer might be the minor recharge you need. Also, thanks for the hours and hours of wonderful material throughout the years. You have no idea how many times I have walked away from a crazy stressful morning, sat down with a lunch I have 10 minutes or less to eat, and just escaped into your beautiful homes.
Mindy says
Wow, those comments started out ugly. It made me sick to my stomach. I’m sorry for what you must be feeling. I’m a long time reader, but rarely comment. Just wanna say, f$#k ’em. Family comes first, no matter what. Whether you post once a week or seven times, I’ll still be reading.
Amanda says
Yes! Gosh, people are mean through the anonymity of the internet. We need a lot more kindness and respect up in here.
Caz says
Agree Mindy. I can’t believe how nasty people can be … on a home design blog? Can’t think of any other reason than jealously. And I’m spitting my coffee when those people try and justify their bitterness with “because you asked for feedback”… such a pathetic sense of entitlement.
Please, YHL, don’t let the haters scar you. As Mindy says, f$#k ’em, and run your blog however it suits you on the day.
Leslie says
Next time you may want to include the words “constructive” criticism. I love your blog and have learned many new things, painted my door yellow (and I hate yellow) and spray painted the handles, read and re-read the tutorial on ripping up a stone patio and laying down a new one – I WILL TACKLE THIS NEXT YEAR and use your tutorial as a reference point for all sorts of things from tile cleaning and livening up a wood floor. Don’t let the really negative comments discourage you consider it a really bad day at the office and keep on keeping on.
Alex says
I doubt you’re still reading comments at this point and it sounds like I might be outvoted, but personally I’d rather see fewer meaty posts then a bunch of short fluff. Maybe it’s because I read with an RSS reader so I’m not actually coming to the site to check all the time. Personally I like that your posts are often so long and detailed- I’m not really suuuper interested in construction-y stuff but it’s good to stockpile that information away in case I ever need it, and get a solid idea of if something like, say, drywalling is ever something I’d want to DIY. I’m sure I’m also in the minority here but I definitely would be less interested if there were more parenting-related posts… as someone with no kids, it just wouldn’t be interesting to me, and I think the mommy blogging niche is plenty full anyway (don’t get me wrong, I love the Clara-isms and adorable family pics, but “shopping with kids” or whatnot wouldn’t be interesting to me or seem to fit into this blog’s theme.) But of course it’s your blog, so do what feels right for you guys!
Alex says
Also to the folks griping about “pale walls and cheap furniture”… if you don’t like YHL’s aesthetic, there are a bajillionty other home blogs to follow! You can’t expect people to change what they like just to keep their blog interesting for you (and in the process lose plenty of readers who did like that aesthetic…)
Steph says
My two cents (and I’ll cut to the chase since there are so many comments:
I used to read your blog religiously. I don’t enjoy it anymore and it has nothing to do with content. It’s totally a lack of professionalism and lack of maturity. I am your age, and I cringe when I see your writing. J-Boom? Sher-dog? Fake wannabe gangster stuff? Seriously, stop. It feels so contrived.
I also can’t take the whiny nature of “how busy” you are or how basic parts of your job are written up as such a burden. At various points reading your posts throughout the past year, I’ve wanted to shout at my computer screen – SO QUIT THEN! Why are you doing this if you don’t seem to enjoy it and you want to complain so much? It’s just off-putting and unprofessional. My job is busy and fast-paced and hard work, but I imagine if I droned on and on about that, I’d lose clients. I think that’s where your at.
You may have picked up newer readers or some of your old readers who love everything you do, but in my circle of friends, for example, who all read you every day and discussed how much we enjoyed your blog – we’ve all come to the same conclusion – we’ve outgrown you. Sorry – just my honest opinion.
Unlike others, though, I don’t know how to tell you to fix this. This kind of reminds me of watching a good tv show that continues on for a few seasons past when it should have ended.
C says
Thank you.
Caz says
If it doesn’t suit you Steph, walk away and stop whining. Your attempt to condescend a successful blog with “we’ve outgrown you” is ridiculously juvenile, and betrays your own insecurities.
Are you aware that there are actually other websites on the internet …
Jessica says
I love me some Sher-dog! and if you’re not enjoying the experience of reading this stuff, then you can quit – anytime.
Melissa Summers says
Steph. You are gross. Truly.
Jessica says
Yo. I’m insane, so I like a schedule. That being said, I get that a schedule can bog you down. I’m a perfectionist, so when I miss my schedule (like my workout today), I feel like I’ve already failed. Hoping you all are not afflicted with that. I blog, so I get how long editing/writing/photos can take. It’s insane and definitely less awesome than the actual project.
I have liked all phases of your blog. I loved the beginning as a creature of habit when I knew a post on “A” happened every Monday and a post on “B” happened every Tuesday. Maybe that would help for the stockpile situation. However, if you guys say “nah”? I’m in, too. I also like it when people SPELL SHERRY CORRECTLY BECAUSE THEY ARE “LONG-TIME READERS”. Oh, was that shouting? My bad. A little respect (like knowing someone’s name) goes a long way. Keep rockin’ SO hard, Petersiks. xoxo
RNg says
John & Sherry, I love your blog and I visit every day. Your never going to keep everyone happy so it’s important to do what makes you happy and right for your family. I don’t mind seeing smaller posts mixed in with meatier posts. You guys make me laugh and I love to see what’s happening in your home.
Nichole says
Wow! I can’t keep reading these comments! I wish I could be a fly on the wall to hear Sherry’s “Jersey” response to some of these comments. ;)
I was surprised that there was no backlash when you bought the 3rd house while still owning the 2nd. I personally thought it was great, but the mood in our country these days does not seem to be one that celebrates the success of others. So I was incredibly impressed by your following at that time. It gave me hope about people. Some of theses comments have dimmed that hope a bit.
Best of luck to you. I’ll keep reading, just like I have for over 5 years.
Whitney says
I was reading through these comments after you linked this thread on your post today. So many people talked about being longtime readers, and I realized I couldn’t remember exactly when I started reading so I was going through the archives to guess. I found this and thought I would share. I think your own words say it best. https://www.younghouselove.com/2009/07/dont-worry-be-happy/ Thanks for all the fun over the years.
jenny says
Thanks for asking for feedback, I would love a little post rather than none at all if you can. Reader redesign, anything! I am always a teeny bit sad on giveaway days because there’s nothing to read, crazy I know! I also agree with those that say they miss the family blog, it’s true we haven’t seen really any of those posts over here in awhile from Clara convoys to burger etc. I’d love to learn little bits more about teddy in that vein too! I love you guys so I hope you find a system that works for you, but as a non-diyer (I rent) I read for the heart of your family, your advice etc (ok like how was it REALLY to live without laundry machines? I want to hear that story! Thanks for asking your readers do love you!
Ann says
I really enjoy the posts that give detail/video/pics(love videos because that’s how I learn/comprehend the best) of say like doing a door jam etc…along with the pros & cons & why you chose the route you did OR what would be AWESOME giving us readers choices on what you would have done with 3 budget options for the project!!!! yeeehaaw!! 1)high end options 2)middle end options 3)last but least-your chosen option & why you went this route. Shucks, it would be really cool to do decor projects this way too!
I would also love & enjoy it more if your pictures were more crisp/clear on 100% of the photo instead of trying to get 1 small focal pt. while a huge portion of your pic is sort of fuzzy in appearance (bokeh?) Would LOVE to see the entire pic crisp/clear & 100% visible allowing us to see everything fully focused. Love you guys & thank you so much for considering my thoughts. Your pics have made myself & friends frustrated and we found ourselves in the past yr or so not visiting as much (we’ve been afraid to say anything till now) :( hugs!
Melissa Summers says
Beautifully constructive feedback. Though you may have to think about exactly why you haven’t been visiting as much because I don’t think it’s because of the focus of the pictures.
Lauren says
I wanted to add my two cents (like you need another comment). :) I have noticed the shift to weighty posts and fewer posts. I love your weighty stuff, and as we tackle projects on my own house, I am definitely going back to them to read up again. I trust y’all. That’s huge. It says so much that you’ve worked to earn that trust with me and with other readers. I LOVE a quick post too. As others have said, bring on the family! I love baby product suggestions and toys and books- lots of us are in that time too. I love your style- don’t change on my account, or anyone else’s. I have noticed some bigger purchases that aren’t in my budget, but seeing you work on your house slowly and start to add in quality items lets me know that it’s normal! You were one of the first blogs to encourage me and to make us feel that it’s okay if it’s not all done immediately. And that sometimes you need a quick fix, and sometimes you need a sturdy, worthy investment piece. Y’all rock. I feel like I can trust you for your reviews and the content you post. I really think that house crashing, reader redesigns, window shopping, and family stuff should be brought back. It may not be 8 posts a week right now. And that’s fine! You need to do what works for you. But as a reader, I’d love to see smaller stuff. As a business owner, the pageviews might not be bad for you either. Thanks for encouraging feedback!
Melissa Summers says
I wish there was a like option on comments. I like this comment.
Becca P. says
Long-winded comment alert!
First of all, you guys are awesome. Yours was the first blog I followed and actually the only one I follow right now (yep, you’ve set the bar too darn high for me…) Your writing style is absolutely genuine, so friendly and funny and humble–what a rare treat. And the sheer numbers of visitors and the gazillions of comments show that you’ve got loads of loyal fans.
It seems your blog has already moved through a few seasons, and I can only guess that it will continue to do so along with your personal life (do you even have a personal life anymore? haha) In any case, maybe some readers will drift away if you have less posts, or more technical posts, or short bookshelf-stuffing posts. But I bet plenty of readers will stay, and plenty new readers will find you, especially as you get your books out there and continue to build your already huge catalogue of search-engine-friendly projects. Many have a gift for DIYing, but you have an unparalleled gift for writing and explaining and marketing–not in a gimmicky buy-1-get-1-free way, but in a making-the-conent-seem-magical-to-your-audience kinda way.
I know you are probably stressing about it because you care about your readers and are so intentional about your blog (and because it’s your livelihood!) So I just want to say thank you for asking us, and best of luck in sorting through all these comments and guessing what the future will bring. In the end, it has to be the way that works for you–and you’re just so thoughtful, chart-loving, and gosh darn lovable that I’m confident you’ll make it work for your readers too :)
Avone says
Just now seeing this because, sadly, I don’t check in everyday anymore. I’m a long-time reader (since your first house) and love your blog because of YOU. Your voices are a breath of fresh air in an over-crowded internet. So, do whatever you want. Technical, family-related, table scapes and stamped pillow cases…whatever. But just post SOMETHING!
I get that kids are important and I know they take a ton of time! I’m a blogging, homeschooling mom of three (whose husband has a day job). I totally get it. What I don’t get is how having two kids takes away from the blog. You guys don’t blog in the middle of the night after your real jobs. This is your job! How can you just decide not to do your job today? And yeah, if one of you wants to be with the kids I think that’s awesome and what’s best for the kids, and I totally disagree with people who suggest getting nannies or assistants as the solution. Why do you need that? Even if one of you is on full-time parenting duty, that still leaves someone to DIY and blog about it. I think we all just don’t understand what you’re doing instead of blogging and we’re concerned that it won’t work for long. I hope for your sakes that it generates some income. :/
Avone says
Eek! That came across much more harsh sounding than it was in my head as I typed it.
Point is, I understand that blogging takes a whole heck of a lot of time (and my tiny little blog is nothing like the business you guys run).
I also know that babies don’t keep. :( I think parenting is way more important than blogging and family should always be a huge priority.
I was just trying to say that even though family is most important, blogging is your job(s)and pays your bills. We miss you and want to see more of you!
Melissa Summers says
Gross. This is gross and says so much more about you than anything.
They’ve been posting daily for years, this is ridiculously uncalled for.
Corinne says
John & Sherry,
I’ve been a fan of your blog for years, and always enjoy the posts no matter how often they come. The juicy ones are definitely my favorite! But my point is that I get to them all, whether I’m catching up once a week or browsing daily over your past projects as I attempt my own.
The spirit of your family and blog has held true through the years, and it keeps me coming back.
RebeccaNYC says
whoa you have a lot of responses….but as a long time reader (before Clara) and very rare commenter, I wanted to add my two cents because I “read” every post. Well…I don’t read them, the SUPER LONG technical ones are boooooring, so I just scroll through, and the product placement ones are not interesting to me so I scroll through those too….so I am doing a lot of scrolling these days on your blog. It does seem that the posts that brought me to you in the first place are being saved for your books, and that’s all well and good for YOU I suppose, but not so good for a blog reader who used to look forward to seeing those kinds of posts. I would rather have a few short posts a week about actual design than such long boring posts about how to hammer a nail. Even though I am not loving your blog right now, I keep coming back, so that’s something…right?
Maria says
Hi, I really admire you have put this request for feedback out there. It shows you are really honest with your readers and show the daily challenges of a working family. This is nice to feel this blog is not another one, where the blogger wants to transmit the “I am mon, a susscessful blogger, a book writer, a wife, a cook, an interior decorator and… I can do all of this happily, pefectly and smoothly.Ahh.. I run 10 miles a day to stay fit ..” The super hero sort of blog… it is good to know that you also face issues as we all do, and the best is to see how you approach them. As for smaller post vs no post, my take is as follows, smaller posts are better than no posts as long as they are not always related to someone elses apartment or advertising of a certain brand, whith a bunch of pictures you did not take. Shorter posts about your daily life and small DIY are much more interesting. Thanks!
Merideth says
Add me to the peeps that used to check YHL every single day….sometimes more than that to see if new posts magically appeared! Lately, that’s not the case. I tend to forget all about it bc the pace has slowed down so much. I understand wanting more time to parent (I have 4 of my own) but would be nice if the frequency of posts would eventually return to the way it was. I’m curious how the viewership numbers are now that you’ve switched to fewer posts.
Erin says
Sherry and John,
I’ll give you the same advice I give my kids all the time: “Don’t let the turkeys get you down!”
Thousands of people find your work inspiring and no one can please everyone. Now you have a better idea your “niche” and can focus on how your work appeals to that group. Don’t forget how many of us love and admire your work. Keep it up!
Teri says
I love this blog- it is the only one I read! I think you are all doing a fabulous job with balancing everything– I think that is what we are all struggling to do– have a balance. I enjoy short and long posts and are thankful for what you have time for. :) Please focus on the positive responses and take into account any constructive issues, but close your ears to the negative digs. They do not deserve a place in your mind or on this blog. I don’t really “know” you, yet I feel like you are friends of mine. I feel disappointed when I read the critical things that are posted about you. So I am sending you some hugs and hope that you feel the love.
Megan says
Late to this comment party, but thought I’d throw in my family’s 2 cents. Strangely my husband and I talked about this and have slightly different interests. My husband found your blog over 5 years ago looking for a spray painting tutorial and knew I would love it and passed it on. he LOVES the technical posts. Our houses and family has grown and changed along with yours so it has been fun to see a mix of larger and smaller projects. I love the paint colors/painting and decorating posts. I used to love the mood boards you did for readers and then seeing them come to life.
I loved when you posted more, but as a working mother of three, I get that it is hard. I do think once a day (not counting give-aways) would be what I would like. My other thought it that each post doesn’t need to be a huge with lots of pics and links and detail – smaller updates, window shopping and even just links to your inspiration would be inspiring for me. I love to see your ideas and a weekly (friday??) post on what has inspired you over the week would give me some inspiration – paint colors, products, other blogs, pins . . . just an idea. Also, if I were you and were going to do another show-house type project, I would have split those posts into shorter but more posts – maybe one room for each post. You could have “covered” more days and gone into more detail on each room. I live in MN and couldn’t visit the house. I loved the project and was surprised you didn’t spread it a little more thinly over more days and posts.
Since I almost exclusively read at work shorter posts actually work (no pun intended) better for me.
You guys are great – have loved your blog for 5+ years – keep up the good work, don’t let any of this feedback get you down. can’t wait for your next book tour – hopefully I can actually stay to meet you – last time I had to leave my book and take a work call!
Caz says
I am gobsmacked by the nastiness of some comments – you’d think you were the only website on the web existence and they pay you large amounts to entertain them. And that their first borns were being sacrificed if you failed them in any way. Jealously poured forth on the flimsiest of excuses, and they were completely out of line.
PLEASE do absolutely whatever you feel like with your blog – you’ll regret it if you don’t. Don’t try and cater to the masses, or even worry about them.
And next time, maybe identify personally 100 or so regular commentators (which rules me out!) who you trust and connect with, and instead survey those privately for audience feedback when needed.
Aria says
Please take your time and do not feel pressured to post a certain number of times per week/month/etc. I am excited to read every new post (long or short) and appreciate the effort, creativity, and thought that goes into all of your projects. If that means we have to wait every once in a while for a longer post, I don’t mind at all! The spirit and enthusiasm you have is what keeps me reading, and I would hate to see that dampened by trying to meet a certain quota. It’s clear that this is a labour of love for you both, and that is exactly what makes YHL special to me :)
Your enthusiasm, insight, and tutorials have been a source of inspiration to me and my husband. These posts have often given us the courage to tackle (and finish!) projects at home. I really appreciate the fact that so many of the furnishings and updates are affordable. As a newly married couple, we do not have a big budget for decorating and updating our home, but YHL has shown us that it is possible to DIY a beautiful house without spending a fortune. Thanks a million!
Amanda says
I completely agree. I hope they are back soon. I will be so sad if they don’t come back!
Kristen says
I thought I would chime in as well! Here is my point of view… like you’ve said in previous posts: You simply cannot please everyone. No one is going to agree with you 100% of the time. Some people want house crashing posts, some people hate them… some people want big updates to the house all the time, some people think that is boring. As far as content is concerned, I think you just have to stay true to yourselves and what is going on in your life right now. Your style as evolved and changed, and people will fall off as that happens… but you will also pick up new readers too. I can’t imagine trying to figure out what to post. It seems impossible, you’ll always have someone upset.
As far as the posting schedule goes, I think you need to pick a schedule and stick to it. People get all in a tizzy when they are expecting a post and they don’t get one. People get all in a tizzy when they think they are getting a ‘ta-da, all finished, budget breakdown, here’s where we got all our stuff post’ and they get a post on how to make a wreath. I think as long as you set the posting schedule and stick to it: Monday is big project day, Tuesday is little craft day, Wednesday is giveaway day, Thursday is a lifestyle post with just a picture and a short excerpt day (for example), people will adapt. Apparently readers are like children and dogs. We like our routine and get anxious and worried (and sometimes throw temper tantrums or chew on furniture) when the schedule doesn’t go as expected.
For the record, I know your blog has changed since I’ve first started reading… but I keep checking in and I’m along for the journey, wherever it takes you!
Christina says
Ugh! Holey Moses! I saw the giveaway and then the asterisk with the note that you would be back the following week. After reading your newest post, I had to come back and read these comments. Oh My Word! So people are not getting what they want, right now, 100% of the time!!! Wah! We are such an instant gratification, selfish society to be frustrated for you b/c you are not perfectly serving our every beck and call. I am ashamed for us as your readers. As a nearly 40 year old wife/homemaker/fill in at work for my husband when his employees cannot come in/mother of seven, much of your style is not my own, but I love what you do and appreciate the insights and encouragement. Higher end is in my dreams and not my reality, so I love me a good knock off, good deals, great suggestions to get the look and the information on how to do a project. Do what inspires you, do what is best for your family. Despite the jealous, angry comments re: your excuses/kids, you will NEVER look back and say, “Hmmm, I sure wish I worked more, read fewer books, held them as much as we did.” On the contrary, I meet people right and left who feel the need to confess they wish they had more children, worked fewer hours, put their careers on hold for a measly 20 years. We lie to ourselves and drink the Koo-laid that we can have and do it all. Don’t fall for the same temptation. I am sure you have some close friends/family that you can honestly ask their opinions of and go with your gut…do not let your own pride to prove it to us get in the way of what is right! I will miss you terribly, but I will be checking back starting in a few weeks. If you never come back, God bless you and all that you do!
Kahley DeVries says
My feedback: ok so I think that this is all very much on the ridiculous side! I believe that this is YOUR life, and we are all blessed to be able to be a fly on the wall. You are wonderful, and you owe your readers nothing as far as I’m concerned! The reality is that you are a family without ALL of us. I think we should all consider ourselves lucky that this incredible blog even exists! I think everyone needs to take a step back, and chill. It seems some people have their whole lives wrapped around yours & your blog content. Advice when asked people, advice when asked. This whole thread started with unsolicited advice. Anyhoo! I adore you guys, and everything you post! Some I read, some I skim! You’re the best John & Sherry.
Kahley DeVries says
Amen Christina!! (comment above)
Liz C says
Dear John & Sherry –
I hadn’t been able to read my blogs for a few days and boy HOWDY did I miss a bunch of intense stuff!
Not that you need one more chiming in, but here’s my take:
You can’t make everybody happy all of the time, even if you try really hard. I agree with the folks who are telling you to just do what feels right & good for YOU guys. You are who I fell in love with when I began reading your blog two houses ago, and watching your family grow alongside your projects has been part of why your blog is the first one I check when Feedly tells me there’s a post.
The drawback to you being my favorite, of course, is that it leaves a huge hole in my day when you’re not posting. Do I miss the former post frequency? Of course I do, because I adore this blog! But you know what? I’ll survive it, and I’ll keep watching my feed reader to see when you’re ready to talk to me again. Because really it’s all about me, right? Except it isn’t at all, it’s about YOU guys and your family and your house and your projects, etc.
I personally LOVE your “technical” posts just as much as I love the ones about your family, or the “fluffier” DIY decor, etc. I bookmark those intense once for when I need moral support to tackle something in my own home that I never would have tried if reading your blog hadn’t given me the courage to do so.
I *like* that you guys don’t specialize in a specific niche, you just specialize in being Petersiks. I’ve loved seeing your blog grow & change, loved your book, get REALLY excited about the possibility of winning a giveaway, etc. But the reason I read this blog, and the reason I’m sad when you’re not posting, is because you guys are…you know, YOU GUYS. I pretty much love everything you decide you want to talk about, because I like the way you talk.
What makes me sadder than not seeing posts, is watching you guys struggling to keep your readers happy & altering your voices to do it. I can see it when you make disclaimer statements – offhand I can’t think of a specific one, but stuff like, pardon the camera phone photo/we’ll be back soon with actual detail/maybe only we care about X but… etc. I can see it when you & your home could really maybe use a Fab Freebie of your own, but your integrity won’t allow you to accept something. I have many times wished that you WOULD, because it seems to me you’ve MORE than earned a freebie or six by having us all along with you for all this time.
Here’s what I hope:
I hope you don’t go away for long, because holy crap I will miss you every day you’re away.
I hope you guys find your groove and your happiness in this blog, because it would SUCK to lose you altogether.
I hope that you are able to move forward in whatever way makes the most sense for your family and your lives – and whatever you decide you want to share, I’ll be reading that.
I’m here for you guys. Thanks for being here for me all this time. I love what you do, in whatever way you choose to do it. I’m a fan. So whatever you guys decide, I’m here for whatever you choose to share. And I hope you’ll decide to keep doing so.
Love,
Liz C., aka Yarngeek elsewhere
Keeley says
Hi! This is in response to the thread about what you should post when you are too busy to post – a small, pre-drafted post or the “just own it” note. I have been reading for over 5 years, and you guys are my favorite blog, and are just wonderful – so professional, thorough, and entertaining and fun all at once. All that to say, I think you should DO WHATEVER YOU WANT! If all you have time for is a quick note that you are too busy to post because life is raining down havoc, do it! Just another side of keepin’ it real, right? But if you’re asking if I like Reader Redesigns and Window Shopping and small posts on organization or small-scale table redesigns, the answer is a resounding YES! I don’t think you need to worry about how long a post is – sometimes just a pic of something that makes you happy (like a table or shelf redesign) will make me happy too! :) I do think that what sets your blog apart is a certain level of polish and editing and professionalism (not in attitude, but in presentation), so while I wouldn’t worry about post length, I would think about being sure even a small, short post is up to YHL standards. That is not something I would like to see sacrificed. Just my thoughts because you asked! Again, you guys are inspirational and wonderful and I think of you as friends, even though that makes my husband think I’m crazy. :)
Keeley says
P.S. Oh, and as your “friend” I would always only support you putting your family first! I have a 5-year-old and a 3-year-old, so I am right there with you! I completely agree with Christina that no one says “I wish I’d worked more when my kids were small!” Seize the day and the joy of these precious little ones. My son started Kindergarten this Fall and while he is loving it, I MISS HIM SO MUCH! Enjoy your time, Carpe Kairos (a la Momastery) :)
Melissa @ HOUSEography says
After reading this… the only thing that is definite is that you can’t be all things to all people. My only suggestion is to find a schedule that works (2 days, 3 days?) so people know there will be a post. That post can be almost anything because it’s clear that SOMEONE will love it and SOMEONE will click on to the next site. No biggie. Not everyone will stay but I think most people will. A mix and big and little is fine. Giveaways are fine and probably a necessity. Reader redesigns are also fine. Just do what you love or don’t do it. Enjoy your break and try not to think too much!
Carly says
I have really been enjoying the bigger projects (laundry room etc.) but I think what seems to have changed is there aren’t any little ones thrown in the mix which kept it interesting for everyone. It used to be we’d hear the progress of a BIG project over a longer period of time with different little things thrown in. Now it seems that it’s just big project to big project with no breaks in the middle! I’m still excited to get the e-mail with a new post, but some days I just skim now when it’s a post for the third time in a row about a bigger project. All the best to you guys!
Sally says
I just wanted to say that I’m a new reader to this blog. I wished I’d been following it longer. I would prefer more of the short posts with ideas about decorating.
Janette says
I actually miss when you used to design mood boards for people and they would redesign their homes and post it. I think the very technical/DIY posts are cool but the majority of us aren’t doing those projects. So it just a shift in audience.
sam b. says
You know what your family needs. If you’re leading a life you’re happy with, it will shine through in everything you do – blog or whatever comes next. Good luck, Petersiks!
Maureen says
I know this is a few days late and a decision has already been made but I wanted to comment as well. I miss the smaller more family oriented posts. The laundry room looks fabulous, but holy cow it’s been the only thing you’ve talked about lately. And SO technical. I miss hear about the smaller things you’ve accomplished. I also know (because I run social media for a small business) that you can preschedule SO many posts. Blogging (and fb, twitter, etc) doesn’t have to be a write it now and post it now kind of deal. Write up some of the less technical stuff and save it for a rainy day. When your week gets out of hand you can pull up these prewritten blog posts and post them. It doesn’t have to be real time, just well written. All of us are busy, most of us have small kids, we all have to balance work and life and after reading you for several years I really feel like the blog is something you’ve let go in favor of other interests.
Lisa says
I did not see this invitation for feedback until now or I would have responded sooner. I had an aha moment in which I realized this Petersik team, which I have long and fondly followed, had gone “corporate.” When you were coming to Chicago on book tour, I invited you to visit my condo, which I personally have decorated over time and of which I am very proud. I thought your readers might enjoy it as a house crash. You guys said you would love that and we could work out details later, but just before the visit, after you got a better offer to visit the home of Nicole Balch from Making it Lovely, you canceled. So all your readers got out of the trip was a tour of the incredibly well-documented Balch home: https://www.younghouselove.com/2012/11/nyt-rva-chi-town-the-t-dot/. Small example, but illustrative.
Meredith says
My mind is blown… I just read the beautiful note from Sherry and ran as fast as I could to this thread to see what the fuss was. I’m so deeply sorry for how this thread turned out- I do understand the value of honest feedback, but this has gotten a little out of control. This is and always will be YOUR space, your baby, your place to share your life with the world. Transitions are hard, newness is even harder and right now your family is in that spot. As readers we create ‘relationships’ with bloggers (crazy town but you understand) and like any relationship you have to be willing to stand by even when life is in a state of flux. I never want you both to feel like you have to apologize for anything- you have created the top DIY/lifestyle blog out there and it’s a shame that this community has tried to solicit an apology from you. Your true fans are still standing with you strong, sending you love and energy to move through this transition. Wherever you land, just know that we hope it’s exactly where you want to be (not where the internet thinks you should be). I have no doubt that you’ll find that sweet spot. You two have got this!!
xo
Meredith
Julia says
This, exactly.
Sandra Berg says
I have never ever in my life made a comment on a blog before. BUt oh my goodness. People have horrible hearts. Please do not take these comments seriously. I apologize for the rude comments fo these people I dont even know. So sad people are this rde in the whorld today.
Laura says
I love reading YHL, and if nothing changes I will definitely still be reading your blog.
I do think some shorter posts- even just an Instagram picture with a caption- would make a nice mix with the longer, more technical laundry room (or whatever the next big project is) posts. Honestly, I don’t have time to read a long, detailed post everyday, but I do love seeing the progress you are making.
I also love knowing that I can go back and reference these technical posts in the future, when I try to take on a larger project. They are some of the most accessible DIY resources I’ve found.
Best of luck to finding a balance that works for you!
Stephanie says
I am really late to this since I was on vacation, but in case J&S see this – I personally love the new format! I don’t need to read a post everyday because that often leads me to an hour of wasted time every morning at work… I love the DIY take you have started on the laundry and am excited to see more posts about the nitty gritty. You obviously do your research and are always careful to do it the best way so it is great for me since I don’t always want to spend hours googling how to do stuff. I also think it is safe to say that just about every one of us readers is jealous of your day job! Keep rockin’!
Kathleen says
John and Sherry – we love you guys! You’re awesome and you make rad babies. Keep on keepin’ on, we’ll all be here when you get back. Don’t let the crazies get ya down!
Ellie Y. says
I don’t think I’ve ever commented before but this post made me realize how much YHL means to me. John and Sherry- you guys are AWESOME! Your blog is inspiring and interesting and detailed and funny and warm and you are REAL PEOPLE! Everyone’s lives go through different stages and so it only seems natural that your blog would too. I have loved reading every single post over the years. I love that you guys keep it real and share the failures right along with the successes. I will miss the posts while you are away but I understand. MANY of us will be right here waiting when you feel ready to return. Take care.