. . . for Lauren and Lauren: about this blog

January 8, 2014

about this blog

I know that posts without pictures aren't very appealing, but then I feel like I have to throw something in there that doesn't make sense and doesn't fit, so here I am with a pictureless post and some honest random thoughts about my feelings towards blogging.  

There are still people in my real life that do not know I have a blog.  And I am okay with that as I still am a little embarrassed about it. 

I often feel like four out of five of my outfits are boring and people probably don't care to see them. Especially with the same background and less than quality photos.  It does however motivate me to get dressed and for that I like it. 

While we were going through our infertility struggles and I started sharing about it on my blog, I felt like my blog had more of a purpose.  That God was using me to encourage others going through the same thing, that my faith could be a testament to others.  I struggle a little bit with the purpose of my blog now.  I am thankful that I can document Addilyn's life through stories and pictures, but sometimes I wonder if I'm using my blog as any kind of purposeful place. 

I felt much more validated in my outfit posts, heartfelt posts, really any kind of post when I got more comments.  It seems like people aren't commenting on blogs as much anymore or maybe it's just mine? I used to be able to spend a lot more time reading other blogs and commenting, which I know is part of it. But sometimes I feel like I'm writing to just a handful of faithful readers (who I dearly love). 

I mentioned this before but I did a lot of sponsored posts in December.  It's funny that the opportunities I get seem to go in phases and I wish they were more spread out.  I honestly have a hard time saying no to the chance to make money and get free things, but don't want my blog to be filled with boring and shallow things so I try to only say yes to things that fit in my blog and things I would really use.   

I also used to be so good at responding to emails and comments quickly and the reality is that I do not have time to do that now.  I hope some day I do again, but I feel sad and kind of guilty that I don't have time because I seriously and genuinely appreciate every comment and email.  If only my thoughts and responses would just be read and by my computer and sent back to you without having to type them out.  Can someone invent that please?

I still struggle and probably always will with comparing myself to others.  I see other bloggers who started the same time I did and the growth of their blogs, the quality of their pictures and outfits and all that and some days I desire for that growth for my blog and other days I feel like it's too much work.  

There are a good handful of girls I've met through blogging that many times a week I wish lived by me.  I wish I could be friends with them in real life and see them face to face.  I am truly thankful for the relationships I've made through this blog. 

Photobucket

54 comments:

Pamela said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I think we all go through this! I may not comment every day, but I still read your blog! I love how your 'normal' & not fake!! You're honest!

Carly said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I wish we lived next door to each other my friend! Don't compare, your blog is one of my favorites…because it shows so much of your heart!

Carly
www..lipglossandcrayons.com

Unknown said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I honestly like seeing your outfit posts because they are different from the others I see all over the internet. The things you wear I can actually wear, whereas most fashion bloggers wear things that most normal people can NEVER wear.

Also I think that comments come in ebbs and waves. Especially around the holidays because life happens. I'm sure it'll pick up.

Documenting Addilyn's journey is priceless and there's a whole network of mommy bloggers out there. Although sometimes you may not feel like you could post it, struggles with motherhood (because everybody has tough times), random thoughts etc... if you feel like your blog is kinda shallow or not as purposeful as before.

Also the drop in comments is probably because you don't have as much time to network now because of Addilyn. Don't get discouraged.. I love this space on the web!

two birds said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Oh man, we all go through this! It's hard not to compare yourself to other bloggers or feel upset when you don't get a lot of comments on a post. You are putting yourself out there and what you are writing about is important to you, so it can be hard when you don't get the response you want! I think people are definitely commenting less these days. I think Instagram and Facebook are part of the reason (they are so instant and so much easier!). And some people are just busier, like you! Try not to be discouraged and know that we are reading, even if we might not always comment!

Hima Rajana said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Katie, I've been following your blog for over a year now, and I have to say that I still love it the way I did when I first came across it. I love seeing your outfits everyday, even if it's just leggings and a sweater. I love that you're so real and honest all the time, and and while I may not always comment on a post- I read all of them. I wish pageviews corresponded with comments!

xo, Hima
Hima Hearts

Unknown said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Something I'm still learning is that my blogging goes in phases. Sometimes I have LOTS of time to blog and other times I don't. And thats okay.
I still LOVE your blog <3 You are a wonderful mother/wife/blogger!

Rare Nonsense said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I felt the same way! I started blogging and comparing myself to others. It made me so self conscious that I stopped blogging. It also didn't help that my co-worker found out and was following. Embarrassed :(. I keep thinking that I will start a brand new one and NOT tell my family or friends this time. I love reading your blog even without pictures. I do love seeing the baby pics though :) It gets hard to find time to comment sometimes but I do still read it!!
Kristin

Rebecca @ Mommy in Heels said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Wrote something similar to this yesterday about comparing myself to others. I need to stop doing it! You just keep being you, because YOU are awesome :)

Linnea said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Just want you to know I love reading your blog and seeing your outfit posts and your adorable daughter!!

Emily said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I don't comment a lot but I love your blog! It is one of my favorites to read! I love your real outlook on life and your faith. We experience infertility too and our little girl is just a few months older than your sweet girl so it is nice to read a blog from someone I have things in common with! :) your blog is wonderful!

Curious Runner said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I totally understand! I love your blog and think you do a great job! I have been blogging for almost two years now and am still trying to figure it all out :) You inspire me with your blog and writing, thanks :)

Amanda said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I'd be so pumped if I could live near to you!! I love your blog. Stop doubting yourself. You are awesome!

Erin @ Love, the Campbells said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I used to feel like this a lot, especially when I had my previous blog. I still adore reading your blog though and your outfits are real life outfits which is nice because so many out there aren't AT ALL. Wish we could meet in person girl! You're one of those girls I think we would get along so great if we lived closer to each other! Keep writing for you :)
xoxo

Lindsay @ Pursuit of Pink said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I simply adore your blog and have for quite some time. I find so much comfort in knowing that you are going through so many of the same situations as me, being a first time mom. I love how honest you are about all of the details of mommyhood - I feel I need to be more honest like you!
And I totally wish we lived close, Kendall and Addilyn would be great friends just like us! And keep posting your outfit picks, I get inspiration daily from them!
And one final note, its been 6 months since I had Kendall and I still don't have much time to comment on as many blogs as I used to. Heck, I barely have time to read everything (I'm so behind). You are not alone my sweet friend!

Unknown said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Girl I agree on so many things! I barely have time to read and comment and I see other blogs growing and just feel like no one likes me! Just keep writing for you and what makes you happy :) it's hard to not compare ourselves to others because I do it too.. I just don't know how not to! I love you and your blog though :)

Katie | FashionFrugality.com said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I am terrible at commenting but I love your outfits! I never think they are boring but rather well thought out and real. Different backgrounds and crazy photography is overrated anyway. :) You keep being you and post what you desire!

Jennifer @ Delightfully Noted said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Funny on your timing of this post because my blog has been on my mind all day today. I for one don't even notice that you have the same background in your pics because I am paying more attention to the deals you scored on your clothes! I have to say blogging with a baby is twenty times harder than I had anticipated!

Ashley said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

We (as in every single blogger) have had every single feeling you've expressed. And yes...I think people are still reading, but commenting less. I feel like we could have an entire day-long conversation about this entire post!

Briita said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I love your blog! I don't always comment, but I do read it all the time! Just from reading your blog I wish I could be your friend in "real" life. You are amazing-don't ever forget that!

Amanda said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I read everyday! I appreciate your blog because it's real... I usually comment on your instagram, as it is easier!

Best,
Amanda (IG:agrisham85)

The Lady Okie said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I haven't been commenting as much, but I've been reading! I guess you've become one of those assumed blogs, like you should assume I'm reading :) But who am I kidding? We all like comments, and I often judge the success of my posts by the number of comments. It's kind of nice to know that a bigger blogger with thousands of followers does that too!

Kerrie Williams said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I think you're right that people are just commenting less. It's a fast paced world and getting faster by the second. I notice a difference in my space too. But hey, you started this blog for the Laurens, and I bet they still read it. Like many said above, I read every one of your posts AND enjoy them. Love you girl! one of these days we'll actually hang out. I feel sure of it ;)

Betty said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I just left a comment but it didn't work! Oh well...just wanted to say that I know how you feel. I'm trying to decrease my amount of time on the internet in general because I do tend to compare myself with others. But I do love blogging...it's hard to find a balance. And BTW, you are one of the bloggers that I wished I lived closer to as well! :)

Sybil@PeaceitallTogether said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I have been thinking a lot about blogging lately, too. In fact, just a couple of weeks ago, I wondered if I should stop writing. I wasn't sure I and anything more to say. I love your outfits, they give me inspiration. I also love reading about Addilyn and seeing her grow. I just love you, so I guess you could blog about almost anything and I'd still read. One day we will meet...I just know it!!

Lindsay said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Girl I can relate to so many of these. Comments are way down on alot of peoples blogs due to all the social media avenues I think. Do what your heart leads you to do. Followers were come and go :) I love stopping by your space. xoxo

Jessica @ Here&Now said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I think there will always be these thoughts, these highs and lows, despite your life chapter. I have really tried hard to do what I am doing because I want to do it, not because someone else expects me to… if that makes sense. I'm still here, everyday, cheering you on!
xx
Here&Now
Enter my current giveaway!

maria said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Aah! These are my thoughts exactly on blogging!
But you know what? I love your blog, it's real, and that's a good thing!
xo

Stephanie said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I love your blog! I feel like a little bit of a creep since I just read and don't comment but I love your story and you give me hope. We've been trying to conceive and are at the point where we're getting specialists involved and the whole process is so emotional. I love seeing pictures of your sweet little girl and reading about your story to get her here.

A Brew of Blessings said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

You wrote the words that I so often think. I find myself wondering the same thing sometimes as I always want my blog to serve a God given purpose and if it doesn't anymore one day then I want to have the courage and know when to give it up.

I love this space of yours lovely and although I may not always comment {because I don't have as much time as I would like} I am encouraged by it.

Happy New year deary!

Aleena said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

love ur blog!

http://iamaleena.blogspot.com/

Liz said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Love you friend!! You are speaking life into other mamas & hopeful one day mamas! God has given you a gift to write & share & encourage & be vulnerable & simply do life in a way that is worthy of letting all of your virtual friends know! And sharing about the miracle that you prayed & waited for so long to receive is nothing short of amazing & inspiring to anyone who reads about your journey! Comparison is a nasty booger & I hate that I totally get wrapped up in it way more than I should. Thank you for being so open! I love you & Addilyn & Molly & this blog :) keep on writing sweet lady, I'll be reading!

Lauren {By Lauren M} said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I can relate to a lot of what you're going through! There are days I'm not excited about the outfits I post, but I somewhat feel obligated and just "go through the motions." I find myself comparing my blog/outfits/picture quality to others but it's impossible to live up to my own criticism, so I really try to refocus my energy when that happens. And also blog comments have definitely been down for me as well. But that may also be, like you mentioned, my lack of time commenting on others' blogs. I'm just trying to do the best I can! I love coming by to read what you write, so don't be discouraged! There are definitely highs and lows when it comes to blogging!

Anonymous said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Hi Katie, great post as always. You don't always need pictures and the ones you post are great. I love your outfit pictures as I really have no sense of style.

I feel the exact same about the comments. It takes me longer sometimes to reply or leave comments. I have been been trying to keep up with my favorite blogs, which includes yours :)

I always look forward to reading your posts. Your blog is inspirational. Keep up the good work :)

Anonymous said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Hi Katie, great post as always. You don't always need pictures and the ones you post are great. I love your outfit pictures as I really have no sense of style.

I feel the exact same about the comments. It takes me longer sometimes to reply or leave comments. I have been been trying to keep up with my favorite blogs, which includes yours :)

I always look forward to reading your posts. Your blog is inspirational. Keep up the good work :)

Anonymous said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Hi Katie, great post as always. You don't always need pictures and the ones you post are great. I love your outfit pictures as I really have no sense of style.

I feel the exact same about the comments. It takes me longer sometimes to reply or leave comments. I have been been trying to keep up with my favorite blogs, which includes yours :)

I always look forward to reading your posts. Your blog is inspirational. Keep up the good work :)

Laura A said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I always look forward to reading your blog, but don't often comment just because I read from my phone (my baby girl is almost 5 months old) and it's more difficult for me to comment through the phone as opposed to computer. Keep writing!!

Unknown said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I think all bloggers go through this. I blog and sometimes only get a few responses. Look you have gotten over 35 responses to this!!! I have never gotten that high of a response. Keep on keeping on. You're doing fine.

Bri said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I look forward to seeing your smiling face in pictures daily! And your purpose is to encourage women to look and feel great in what they wear..and also to mom's and future moms who will experience some of the same stuff you are now and know that it's ok and it's normal. Don't think I won't be going back when to read some of your posts when I am holding an infant with a cold. ;) I feel blessed to have gotten to know so much of you and wish I lived closer so we can share stories face to face :) I am still in my beginning stages of blogging and sometimes I doubt my content, picture quality, etc. too, but I feel that is what our true blogging friends are for...to lift us up when we need it. You're a much daily read for me my beautiful friend!!!

xoxo

Emma Something said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Hi Katie,

I'm a mid-long time reader and struggling with infertility.
Every single time I see a picture of your beautiful Addilyn it fills me with hope. This week at my Church we've been having a prayer & sanctification week and the word surrender has come up a lot - I had already named my year "victory" but I keep being reminded of all that you learned last year and perhaps, just perhaps I need to surrender - and then the victory will follow?!

Anyway I guess what I am saying is your blog is so encouraging for me, just sharing your journey and walk has affected mine too, so thank you for that and sorry I've never commented before - I'm a big blog reader but not a commenter!

xxxx

Lauren said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

As I have told you many times your blog is one of the first things I read when I get to my first prep period even though I should be checking my email haha. I am always very disappointed when there isn't a new post :) I love you very much and I love this blog!

Laura said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I wish we could be friends in real life!

Don't for a second think that your blog's worth is based on how many comments you get. I read every post, even if I do not comment, and love seeing your outfits posts, heartfelt posts, whatever. I'm glad you're still blogging through this new phase of life I hope you continue to :)

Unknown said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Hi Katie,

First time commenter here :).

I found your blog kinda by accident last year & have been reading ever since. I love that you are relatable & don't seem to need to impress people by the things you wear or what you write about yourself.

My husband & I have been trying to have a baby for almost a year now but I am encouraged by the journey you went through. We know that whatever God has in store is the right plan & far better than we could ever come up with.

All that to say you still have a voice & to be honest the best thing about it is that it is "normal everyday stuff" because that is what 100% or your readers are going through

:) Love to you!
~Becca

Danielle Wallace said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I'm definitely a faithful reader of yours and love following what's going on in your life. You're such a real and inspiring person, and I truely admire you for that. I'm with you on not having time to comment though, I wish my thoughts would just fall into a comment haha. I think a lot of the poeple we follow are stuggling with the same thing and that's probably why you aren't getting as many comments as you used to. I recently moved and don't really have any friends here other than co-workers and family, and I agree, wouldn't it be awesome to be real life friends with some of these awesome blogger gals?

<3 danielle

Courtney Kassner said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Just letting you know that I do read every one of your posts...usually when I'm up in the middle of the night feeding Crew! I can't ever manage to comment from Bloglovin' on my phone though. Either way, your blog is one of my favorites and I never miss a post!

Allyssa said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Everyone goes through this, I'm sure. I've been trying really hard to just be me in my blog, and not care so much about what readers want to see; however, I do catch myself thinking about that, and wondering what I can post that will get a lot of comments. It's not worth it, though. If you're not being your true self in your posts, people will see right through it. I think you're doing a fine job, my friend. Just keep doing what you're doing and be YOU.

Justine B said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Aw I only sometimes comment....but I always read! I am pretty much a certified blog stalker :)

Your blog is your own and thats all you need to worry about. You can post what you want, when you want. Its your choice if you want to do sponsored posts or outfit posts or whatever! Thats at least what I try to live by. I dont want to be in a place where I am doing everything for all my readers and nothing for me. Then again....my numbers are WAY smaller than yours!

Justine
http://www.sleepysinglegirl.blogspot.com

Jen said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I read every day & have been known to pull up your blog while clothes shopping to see if my outfit would be Katie approved. I generally read while nursing & don't have enough hands to comment!

Annie Luhmann said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Katie, I love you blog so much (And the sweet pictures of your adorable baby aren't to bad either:)). I think your outfits are super cute and I love seeing them. You're an honest, beautiful person. You're awesome! ~Annie

Classy in The Classroom said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I always feel like my blog pictures are bad quality with the same boring background. When I think about it though I don't even notice the background in other bloggers photos because I look at their outfits! We are our toughest critics that's for sure. I absolutely love your blog! I love your style, your crafting, your funny stories, pictures of your baby, etc. Your blog is one of my favorites!! :)

Cramer Coffee and Jesus said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I think this is a pretty common thought process after you have a little one. It was for me and I've taken random breaks and come back. I think you'll find your balance but I will say this, when I was taking a break, I really missed journaling my daughters and our memories.

Cramer Coffee and Jesus said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I think this is a pretty common thought process after you have a little one. It was for me and I've taken random breaks and come back. I think you'll find your balance but I will say this, when I was taking a break, I really missed journaling my daughters and our memories.

Unknown said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

Katie, I'm glad you decided to stick with blogging. You are such an inspiration to all the newbies like myself!

Breeann said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I definitely struggle with this, too. I've felt like my blog has been kind of purposeless this past year, for anything other than documenting parts of my life. And I have been really bad at commenting on the blogs I read. I'm hoping all of that will change soon! Thanks for sharing your heart xoxo

Unknown said... Best Blogger TipsBest Blogger Templates

I know how you feel, but then again, I'm new to it and know it will take a while. I also feel I've met some amazing you through blogging (including you!). This was a great post!!