Hello Everyone!
What a wonderful place the world of blog is.
For me the new friends I make daily are the best part
of the experience. I wanted to take a moment to express
my sincere thanks and gratitude that you are reading along.
I have been feeling a little down about losing so many readers
lately. I do realize I have many blog friends and followers.
I'm not concerned with the *number*.
I just want you to enjoy your visit here and stick around.
I can't turn my blog into crafty stuff I make since I don't
make anything. I have also promised my hubby not to turn
my blog into a personal family journal.
This is due to safety reasons, deployments, etc...
This pretty much leaves me showing you our home and
the changes we make, recipes and fun giveaways.
I hope it's enough.
I really don't want to post the same things over and over
and then bore you to tears but I feel I have run out of ideas.
This isn't meant to create a pity party.
I just wanted to be honest and let you know how I'm feeling.
I will post about the post ideas you all gave me very soon
and if anyone has anymore please let me know.
Thank you again for your kindness and understanding.
You are all always welcome here anytime!
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Join me to see items from dearest blog friends.
I ordered this beautiful flower arrangement
for my foyer table from Kristens Creations.
She is so talented! If you have not paid her a visit
check out her blog and Etsy shop. She is about to
make new items from her recent trip to market.
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Look at the precious bird and lovely urn style vase.I really love it and the height for this special location.
Thank you being such a sweet friend Kristen!
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Another wonderful blogger friend is Gloria at Happy To Be.She is the kindest heart to all and my blogger "Mom"...:)
A few months ago I won a special giveaway of hers
and have treasured these darling bluebird plates.
They are a set of 4 and I displayed them in the bookcase
in our bonus room. They mean so much to me.
Thank you very much Gloria! Pay this lady a visit.
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I added a stand and pretty plaid ribbon..JPG)
Another sweet blogger friend of mine is Sherriat Jack & Jill Interiors for Children. She makes
beautiful handpainted creations and created this
large M. I won this from her on a recent give away
and couldn't be more pleased with it. Thank you Sherri!
Please pay her a visit to meet an amazing lady.
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Have a great week!
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89 comments:
Melissa, I hate that the followers thing hurt your feelings. You know, I never even had the followers list on the side because I just didnt' want to pay attention to it. Then people kept asking me to add it so I did. One day recently I did notice that a couple of followers were gone...it stung a little. Keeping it in perspective though, I try to remind myself that in the scheme of things it doesn't matter. I don't know why they left and thank goodness I can't track them down. :) Can you imagine? Wouldn't you feel tempted to run and ask them why? I would! I love your sweet nature and the fact that you share your beautiful home with us. That's just perfect in my book!
Hi Melissa. I've lost a couple of followers recently and I'll admit it bothered me for awhile. But then I just thought that we can't be all things to all people, and maybe I just wasn't their cup of tea. My blog list is getting bigger and bigger as I find more fun places to visit, but it can be difficult to visit every new post. I love your posts and your visits, just keep doing what you do well! Hugs, Kathy
You know Melissa....I don't really even care about that followers. Only reason I added it was because some asked. I love my blogroll. Those are the ones I regularly visit and they visit me. I lose some too...I don't know why, but that is fine....no one should feel obligated to read a blog they really can't connect to. Your blog is one of my favs and what you post is just fine with me. Maybe you could repost some earlier posts because I find people don't go back through like 3 years of blogging...understandably!
I noticed this morning that I lost a follower. It is hard not to take it personally, but I have no idea who it was and if they don't want to read my blog, then so be it. You have a great blog. Keep doing what you are doing!
Melissa, I love coming to your blog. I love Kristen's Creations also! I hope she has some new stuff soon! I love that arrangement she made for you. I am going to check out those other blogs you mentioned. I am also sending you an email. Look for it.
Melissa, I have been enjoying your blog for a short time and your home is quite lovely and you have been very nice. I worry about running our of things to blog about, too. After I show my home and changes and a few projects, what next. I hope I make enough changes and work on enough projects to keep it going.
Such a pretty arrangement - love the height on it :)
Melissa, So much of your personality is here and I think that's why the majority of us return every day you post a new entry. I am never bored and am always inspired by your beautiful home. I love it!
Plus one day I really hope to get to meet you for lunch or something. hey, a girl can dream. : )
So far my dreams are slightly paying off since Tony is done with his schooling ... and going back to NC ... : D
Melissa, reading your post for me was surreal. Unlike you and so many other fellow lady bloggers, I dont have a very "beautiful" home to share. I think my home is a hodgepodge of god knows what! lol...so I figure the reason I dont get many comments or followers is because I dont have that. So we are complete opposites! lol.
I think you just blog about whatever is special to you, it never has to be personal and probably shouldnt be...and if people enjoy it so be it--and if not--so be it. I love blogging, love the decorating ideas, recipes, etc. I just wish I knew how to apply some of it to my own home.
Melissa,
Yours was one of the first blogs I began to follow and I cannot ever stop checking in with you from time to time---sometimes more than once a day. I so enjoy your writing and your photos of your beautiful home. You have also inspired me to change my lifestyle to one that is healthier--I have lost 25 pounds and am looking forward to becoming healthier in the future.
Please do not ever think you are boring or not interesting. You have blessed me so and your sweet spirit comes through in every post.
I pray you will continue to write and share visions of your life and home. I could not bear the thought of not being able to follow along with your inspiration.
Blessings to you tonight.
In Grace,
Marie
You haven't lost me! I don't always have time to comment, but I always enjoy reading your blog.
I love your blog. Keep up the great work. I also love the pillow on the chair below your M's.
Lynette and I were just talking about how blogging is different than when we first started. I've noticed that when I lose followers, it isn't long before someone else is added, so try not to worry about it. Many stuck with me through my many sick months of being pregnant. My problem is lack of time, but I've also had times where I don't know what to post. Maybe you could go to local stores or street festivals and show what your area has to offer. I think Laurie has a good idea about showing your favorite things. Even though we have seen things in your house, I love looking at the pictures (in magazines & blogs more than I like reading text), so you could probably take photos in different ways to highlight them. Just suggestions. I don't have the answers. Love that 'M' Sherri(e?) made for you. Have a good week.
Oh sweetie! Your blog and your spirit are both BEAUTIFUL! I love looking at your home even if it is not my style. You put together the best look. AND it is fun to see because you love it so much. We each need our own space and we need to love our spaces. It's not bragging it is just enjoying. Your craft is decorating. I too am much better at decorating than crafting. I do little things here and there and not much to tell about. But I love the craft blogs too! I really think we all show our true us on our blogs and I am drawn to the real person inside the look! I love your home better than a magazine because it is not staged and you live in your home! How more real can you get! I will add I have for no reason that I can explain twice "lost" blogs on my followers list. Blogger is not the best. Also you can only follow 300 blogs. Who knew. I was shocked I followed that many. SO I moved store blogs and free images and background sites to Google reader. Now this made me no longer a viewable follower but I still get the link every time they post. Just a few thoughts. I also don't put my giveaways out there anymore. You get people just for the giveaway. I really try to visit new blogs if I see them through a giveaway notice but won't enter if I am not interested in the blog. I am not saying people do but how many times have you seen where the winner didn't come forward. Anyway, I love you and your blog and I am so very thankful you are here to be my friend!
Big hugs honey!!
Lisa
Hi Melissa. I completely understand what you are saying about your blog. I am not a diy-er or a crafty person so I wonder what will happen after I post every room in my house. The post that get the most hits is the decorating ones. I guess that that is what people enjoy the most but I can't always post about that.
How do you know that you are losing followers? There are 600 or something on your google reader thing.
Hi Melissa,
Well sweetie you are so kind and the fact you worry about your followers being bored or no longer followers shows you are a wonderful sensitive person. You are a beautiful person inside and out and your home reflects YOU. I have enjoyed your blog for quite some time and love getting comments from you because they are always so uplifting and sweet!
I'm a thick skinned girl and usually don't get my feelings hurt easily. I hope you know how much people admire you and enjoy reading your blog! Keep up the good work and BE HAPPY..DON'T WORRY!
Big Hugs!!
Miss Bloomers
Melissa,
Just continue to be YOU. We each make our own mark on the world and each is significant. You are on a journey with your recent phyical transformation...changing and growing in new ways. The right friends will find YOU. Believe that you have something of worth and value to share. Sometimes I think when we have these stirrings inside of us, God is perfecting us because he has something greater right around the corner!
Blessings,
Mary
Melissa how many followers are you talking about because sometimes it is just the site we are own. I have lost followers before and it was not that they stopped following but were just dropped off by google. I have even joined sites and then find that I am not on there anymore.
I honestly think you should just be yourself and not worry about pleasing everyone because that would be too hard to do and too stessful.
It is hard to do a lot of different post but so far you have done great or you would not have so many followers
Take care
Maggie
Hi Melissa, All I can say for the short time I have been blogging, your blog is one I truly like coming to...perhaps it is just your warm spirit that is attractive, and sometimes that is just enough.....I just started getting into posting my home and changes more....however the first couple of months of blogging, where strictly, nonsense persay....(sp) see I can't even spell. Just continue to be who you are, we will come and love it!~
Well, I for one enjoy your posts! They are why I followed you to begin with. Sometimes I gain a follower and lose one in the same day. I, too, wonder why they left. It is hard not to take it to heart. I've learned to not take it personally though. I'm enjoying blogging and those that do follow me.
Melissa,
You have been such an inspiration to me and the way I decorate! I have loved every post and always come away with a new idea! You definitely have a friend and follower here! :-)
~mandy
Melissa, Every single one of the bloggers goes through the same thoughts and the same feelings once in a while. It is part of the "game" that our ego plays on our minds. You haven't done anything maybe the followers have their own set of problems and is trying to pare down their stress levels. It has nothing to do with YOU it has to do with "life happens". You have such a sweet honest way of saying things and I would miss you if you went away and I know everyone else would too. Just keep being YOU and don't worry about the numbers. A while back I went through the same feelings and I started to compare myself with the Feathered Nests numbers but I HAD to address my own reasons for blogging. I started to use the blog as a journal of my creations and then when I forgot about numbers and started focasing in on WHY I started in the first place I am content to just be ME, Whatever that is....lol
Blessings to you Melissa,
Keep the faith and know we care,
Sharon
You have alot of followers and sometimes they just get deleted and when they find out they were deleted they will add back on. I have had to go and put myself back on several blogs and I have had a few comments about this or that person being deleted from my blog...they will come back, how could they not....your blog is so wonderfl..
Hi Melissa, I always enjoy your blog. I just don't always leave a comment. I don't have the time to look at every blog or I am in such a hurry, I just look and leave. Especially with it turning nice outside. That may be it that others are working outside more now that it's nice out. Maybe they just aren't on the puter as much as they were! Don't be worried about it.
Melissa, I love your blog, and I totally understand you not wanting to turn it in to a more personal journey, the fact you share your beautiful home with us keeps me coming back to see more :) I often wish I had more followers and wonder what I could be doing to make people comment more... you have over 600 followers and a good 60 comments every time you post so I think you're doing something right :) and I for one will keep on following, no matter what you post about.
Melissa, I always enjoy your blog and find it very interesting. You just be you. My blog followers number goes up and down all the time. I enjoy such wonderful friends here and I really enjoy new ones, but I understand that sometimes people move on. Take care and God Bless. Hugs, Marty
Hi Melissa, You are stuck with me. I didn't leave you, my blog left me !! Can you believe that ? I am going to give it one more try.
You have always been such a dear and always stopping over to complement me on something. It really is appreciated. I think we all go in cycles -- there are days when we don't want to go near the
computer, and other days when we can't leave it alone. I read somewhere that we should write for ourselves and it others can see something there they have an interest in, they will comment.
So, I have decided to write what I have an interest in, and perhaps make a book later.
We all think you are a sweet gal and I for one am so proud of you for your work on your BP. Good work !
Have a good week, and I am at Dare To Dream, so stop over if boredom strikes, lol.
I love your blog and you have always been such a good bloggy friend to me. I’ll always stick with you :)
I love the “M” painting and all of the art on that wall. You have such an eye for decorating and everything always looks nice.
I hope you have a wonderful week ahead :)
Hi Melissa. I always enjoy visiting your blog. You give us alot of inspirational ideas. I totally understand about feeling a little down when you see that the follower count has decreased and then you start to wonder "why" I try not to stress about that. I blog for fun, for inspiration, and of course to make friends..even if we don't ever meet in person. :) I'm going to keep following you Ms Melissa, cause I love everything you post about. :) Take care.
Sandra
Hi Melissa,
Your blog is one I always love to come and visit and see what lovely things you have to share.
I say do not worry about the followers and just enjoy what you are doing and there are a lot of us that are happy to come and visit.
Have a happy week
Hugs
Carolyn
Hi Melissa~ first of all I didn't know you were having feelings on what to blog about?, or followers leaving you (I think) Its tough, you quesion what more you can do? or what you did that was wrong? when you loose followers... I have lost about five. Oh' Well, there will always be more. Anyhoo, you do a great job. Your home is beautiful and you have a gift and talent for decorating. KEEP SHOWING US.
LOVE ALL YOUR WINS.. WOW' they are all fab. Kristen if very talented too. Hugs friend. Jenn
p.s. JUST LOOK at all your comments thus far... PROOF YOU ARE LOVED!!! NUFF SAID! ;)
OH girl, please don't be upset!! I know it's hard, but I've found I have ignore that stuff or it will get to me. I just don't even look. And don't forget that losing followers isn't always a bad thing -- they could just be adding you to their blogroll -- then not following because they see your updates on their blog. It could be a good thing!
Just keep doing what you do!!
Hey Melissa!
My name is also "Melissa" where do you get all of your leter M's from?!....!? I can't seem to find but two kinds....I need a little bit of help in the store department.
Melissa from GA
Hey, Melissa, I have been a follower of yours for quite some time and I love your blog! I love the pictures of the beautiful home you've created and your weight loss tips, too. Don't be concerned with numbers...Kepp on posting!!! I, too, have a blog but don't post very often. I love to read others' blogs.
I just discovered your blog a few months ago and always enjoy my visits. One of the first posts I read was about your new eating program. That is a subject that interests me. I also think you do a beautiful job decorating your home. Not to mention that you come through as a really sweet person. I hope you will try not to give another thought to what is happening with the followers and stay true to yourself. Whatever is in your heart to blog about will, no doubt be of interest to the rest of us.
Melissa,
I love your blog and all your beautiful posts. Just keep right on doing what you're doing!
This little corner is so pretty! Those bluebird plates were meant for you! They are beautiful! And I love your floral arrangement.
Thanks for the tour of your lovely home.:)
Oh sweet friend, I hate to see your hurting over this. I can't imgaine why anyone would not want to follow your blog. I know it is hard not to take it personally. I have lost a few followers recently and it stings a bit, but then I just try to tell myself that the people that matter, the ones who visit and support me on a regular basis and the ones whose blogs I love the most are still there and that is what counts!!!
I, too, encounter "bloggers block." Quite often actually, and my blog is just a totally random anything goes type of blog. But I still hit a wall every now and then. It always passes and it will for you, too! If anything, with spring and the warmer weather here you can do some posts that focus on the outdoors as well as the indoors! Everything you decorate, whether it is in your home or out, is so lovely. And maybe over time your hubby may not mind making your blog a little more personal without giving away any sensitive information. Maybe you can share some outings the two of you take? Or when you go for your walks together maybe bring a long your camera and show a little of the world around your area.
Whatever you choose to post, and how often you post it, there are MANY of us that will ALWAYS be here for you!!! I, for one, am not going anywhere! You always inspire me, my friend! And you are always so quick to visit my blog with a kind word and a hug! That means so much to me!
BIG {{{hugs}}} to you, sweet girl!!! xoxo
Melissa...I am so glad that you wrote about this. I have noticed the same thing lately. I have lost so many followers it was starting to give me a complex. I kept trying to focus on the fact that I was still getting new followers but I was worried about what I had done to offend. As my blog grows it gets harder and harder to keep up with everyone and I started feeling guilty. I just decided to focus on the fact that I sarted this for FUN and I wanted it to STAY fun. I am not going to let a few lost followers ruin it for me.
Your blog is wonderful and I look forward to all of your posts...everything you do is done with class and WE ALL LOVE YOU!
KEEP IT UP!
I hope ya'll had a wonderful weekend!
Cathy
My first thought was, with 600 something followers - you must be doing something right! :) I agree with everyone else, there are all sorts of reasons why followers fluctuate, blogrolls, google issues, etc. I just betcha those folks still come check up on you :) You have a beautiful inspiring blog, and I can feel your warm sweet personality coming through your posts. Keep it up!
Hi Melissa,
I'm so new to the blogging world and have just a few followers. I do treasure those that want to stop by and I appreciate it so much! A couple have drifted away and I too wonder why... I think that is just human nature though.
You have a beautiful blog and a simply gorgeous home! I appreciate your sharing with us and especially the items you purchase or win from fellow bloggers. That's how I found out about Kristen! :-) Now I must check out the monogram with the crown. When we share about other bloggers and their creativity, the Etsy shops, etc., I think it's beneficial to all. You do that very well!
You have been very inspiring about the weight loss journey and healthy foods. I so understand about your need for privacy too! I volunteer with Soldier's Angels and Chemo Angels and confidentiality is an absolute MUST! I am not a person that creates objects all the time nor do I shop very much. Perhaps that will change once I get settled here. Just know that your presence is a gift to me and I dare say all in blog land feel the same. Just keep on keepin' on as the old saying goes. You do matter!
Brightest blessings,
Pat
Hey there friend....don't let the reduction in followers get you down. I'm not going anywhere! And you'd be hard pressed to get me to leave! :)
I mentioned your blog on my post this morning so feel free to check it out if you have time. And I'll be sure to report on how the fish turns out!
Many Blessings,
M.
I have lost followers and I always wonder why, but then I usual gain one in the next couple of days. You are doing a great job, so keep up the good work. We all have trouble coming up with a topic every once in a while, don't worry about it! I hope you have a great week!
~Dan~
Hi Melissa! I love your blog and never tire of seeing how you decorate. You give us great ideas! I know I don't get very many comments and feel it's partly because I blog so "here and there". That's what works for me as it does take a lot of time to write a post, add pictures and then comment. We just do what we can and hope that a few will read and leave a comment.
I also think there are a TON of excellent blogs and it's just hard to keep up with so many.
I do hope you keep doing what you are doing. I love your sweet style. :)
Donna
HI MY husband asked me not to talk about him or his job on my blog. So I steer away from that as much as possible. My home is one big toy box right now for my two little natives and four cats. One day I will be able to decorate it like I want to but until that day YOUR BLOG INSPIRES ME! I love to pop over to see what you are up to. DO NOT worry about the followers...they come and go and things change. Just know that your blog is wonderful!
Melissa, I love your blog! I'm sure it does hurt but remember that life circumstances change for some which may change what they want/have time to read. For example, when I had little one, I wanted to read more about mommies/babies so stop reading so many decor blogs. Now that little one is getting a little older, I'm back at the decor blogs. Your blog is just lovely and you have great ideas so I'm sure it is just related to life occurances. I would personally like to know more about that kitty of yours! Where did you get him? More pixs of that cuddly looking guy would be great!
Hi Melissa, I am so sorry that your upset that a few followers are leaving. I personally think they are crazy, I ADORE you and your blog. I consider you one of my first true bloggy friends. You have been with me from the lows of my infertility and to the highs of my pregnancy. I value your friendship and would have never met you without my blog. Your comments always cheer me up.
I also wanted to let you know that I love your blog of the week. I have had the pleasure of meeting Reynie in the Southern Bloggers forum. Since I am a Southern gal wanna be, I just had to sign up. Click the link on the leftside of my blog and come join us women. It's a great group and your blog will be the hit of the forum!!! Take care.
Karen
Hi Melissa!
I'm laughing really hard about your post. No, I'm not trying to be cruel or think is funny your feelings got hurt. Is just that I had 10 followers and now there are only 8! Nothing I can do. I know I could be a little too honest but that is truly who I am. I am not ging to fake it so people follow me. I do make some crafts at home, but I see soo many more beautiful out there, I dont bother with those. I blog for me, to have a way of expresing my feelings.
I hope you realize we all like you very much and that's why we started following in the first place.
Warm hugs!
Hello Melissa ~I've truly missed my visits, but little by little I'm catching up.
Although last month was difficult with our loses, a new month has brought new hope.
I poured myself a cup of tea and read a spell...Most of us aspire to have your low numbers of visitors,lol. I do realize the numbers are not the true gage, but since we can't see an actual physical person, it's all we have to go by when we're missing someone. When I see your activity of friends visits it doesn't seem to waver, so I was surprised to read your concerns. The difficulty in a friend who stops coming by,is the question as to why....
I'm busting at the seams with ideas I want to share, but I've lost a ton of friends because of my absences because of continued health struggles and now loss. I wished I could get my projects posted in a timely manner. For me it's also important to return each and every comment that I receive. I can make over 50-100 visits/comments and get(hopefully) about a quarter in return. My frustration is with those I continue to leave comments who "never" visit or send an email and still won't stop in.
I always keep in mind that those who come in faithfully are the ones I want to share my time and hope to inspire, cause in the end those who continue to look for you through the thick and the thin of times are who really matter.
You have such an inviting blog with a personal touch. You always leave me wanting to come back for more, whether it's for your keen eye with decor or a bit of whimsy with Chestnut on center stage....I will return!
Sweet wishes,
Sara
I love your blog and think you should keep doing what you have been doing and try not to stress about it.
Thanks for the message...I'm laughing still...it was 10 not a 100...I can only wish...BY THE WAY, I'm in love with your cat. I also have a furry baby and I tell you, she rules all of us. She is the sweetest with our baby.
Dear Melissa,
I'm really sorry to hear that the followers thing has upset you! You probably know how I feel about the whole thing and this is one of the reason why I wish they had made some other less noticeable way to easily subscribe to a blog.
I think you really have to blog for yourself otherwise external matters that you have no control of will take the joy out of it!
I adore you, all your posts and your lovely home (which I never tire of seeing).
Hugs,
Manuela
Hello my friend,
And I truly mean that! Although we have never really met, your blog is prominently featured on mine, and it's the first one I browse each time I'm online. I first started blogging to just get ideas, and yours is the first place I stop in at - "how would Melissa do that?" By the number of comments here, you have many followers in blogland; and I'm sure many more you never even know about that stop to browse. Blogging is a strange and wonderful thing. We are happy at the stranger-friends we meet, but sad when they move on; even when we never really knew them at all.
Your blog and you are perfect just as they are. Don't change a thing.
Hi Melissa, I have been reading your blog for about a year now and love it. I really haven't taken the time to get my own blog and my house is not put together like all these talented ladies are but I love yours! I love Kirklands too and you give me ideas that I have to run to the store on Sat!! thank you so much for opening your beautiful home and life to the rest of us. My son is a Navy pilot and I understand about not putting too much personal info on the web. Please dont stop your blog. I had no idea that blog land even existed until last year. I read alot of them and get great decorating ideas too. I would love it if you would share your wt loss secrets. I am on my own journey so it encourages me and I am sure others. Thank you and keep blogging!! Anita
Please, keep posting! I recently bought a new home (Navy retirement is a wonderful thing!) and I am having a blast decorating and have become a regular at Kirkland's because of your blog. Seriously! I even know when they get shipments in. Please, keep up the great work!
Melissa,
You're a #1 blogger on my list! Blogging is fun, but work and I enjoy having you in Blog World. Just keep being your sweet self, because many love you for it!
Hugs, Cathy
Melissa ~
I read your post this morning before running of to accomplish my list of errands. I've been thinking of you all day. Don't let a number upset you or give question as to why they left. Just know that you have many friends peeking in to see what you are up to and care about your well being.
I too have to be very careful with what I share due to my husband's position in the Navy as well as being a teacher and not knowing exactly who is reading my blog.
Goodness ~ I'm in the 60's when it comes to comments. I don't think you have anything to worry about sweetie! ;)
Have a wonderful week ~
Jo
Melissa, I love the fact that your blog is reflective of your heart and home. . . just like your blog title says! You are such a warm person--so friendly, so kind. I think you do a wonderful job of welcoming people to your blog, just as I imagine you welcome people to your home.
It's a funny thing about having readers and followers. There are so many new blogs, and some of them seem to have gathered hundreds of followers in a very short period of time. Sometimes I find myself wondering how they do it! Mine is such a little blog, but I work hard at making it a good place to visit. . . sometimes I wonder if perhaps people just aren't interested in what I have to say. But then someone new will come along and tell me that they appreciate what I have to offer, and I remember that the kind friends I've made and the fun I've had with my blog are my motivations, not trying to be a big blog with lots of followers.
I'm so glad to "know" you via your blog and I wish you the very, very best. I'll be here reading about whatever you care to write about!
Hi Melissa, I know how you feel about the follower thing. I have told you that I have lost some too. Sometimes I think it would be better not to have it on our blogs, but yet I like to see who has signed up and it excites me to get a new follower. We just have to try and not let it bother us...Please keep doing what you are doing! You are very interesting to all of us and we all enjoy reading your blog. I understand about the personal things with your hubby's job. I know it's hard to come up with posts sometimes. I got off track last week, but I am going to stick with the shorter posts, it's alot easier for me. Thanks for posting about the arrangement! I'm glad you are pleased. I still haven't had a chance to make anything new for my Etsy store. Kevin said he thinks I like shopping for the stuff better than I like making it! lol...Talk to you soon, Kristen
~Hi Melissa~
((Hugs)) You have such a sweet and genuine heart and you really care about your followers…what an enduring quality.
I've lost some followers myself and I don't even come close to having the following that you have. However, my philosophy is, you win some and you lose some.
Everyone I know *LOVES* and enjoys your blog and your beautiful personality, as it really shines through like a ray of sunshine. =)
Keep doing what you do, because you do it better than most.
XOXO ~Liz
Girl, from day 1 I've been amazed at how many girlies are following you and leave you messages. At first, I wouldn't even leave messages for blogs with such a crowd.
Take that camera eye outside and to your fav shops and ask can you take a pic or 2 for your bloggers.
Show us where you get your gorgeous ribbons or how to bling out your items the way you do.
It is thanks to your beauty that my 100th follower give~away is anchored by a tassel lol
Texas Love Girlie!! Keep on Blooming...it matters to all of us.
You are beautiful and amazing and inspirational!!
Melissa,
I, too, have lost a few followers, but then I soon gained several more. It seems to come in waves and I try not to let it get me down. I am what I am...take it or leave it. You are such a sweet person and have so much to offer. Your blog is defintiely a favorite of mine!
Hi Melissa! I am relatively new to blogging and have just become a follower of yours...Actually, I think I might have even joined 2x lol. I think blogging is a fun and creative outlet. Your blog is very interesting, well written, very personable and sensitive. I recently wrote a family cookbook, complete with stories and pictures. I missed the project so much and discovered blogging, while recouperating from surgery. I have a shop on Cape Cod...antiques, hand painted furniture and other trash to treasure creations. I thought that by blogging, I could share creative projects, besides recipes, with family and friends, while keeping them up with basic news. If someone else out there is interested, well then that is a wonderful bonus. What was surprising to me, was how it lead to making some nice friends. I don't do the giveaways or anything like that, I just like to share with anyone out there that likes some of the same things I do....And now, how wonderful, I've met you...another road in life that has lead me to something special! Keep up the lovely blog...I'll be visiting, often. Karen
Good morning my Dear NC Daughter...girl now don't you be a fretting about a thing everyone LOVES you death here in blogland..girl have you lost weight in your brain ha ha!!
You have a wonderful blog Mellisa and eveyone loves coming by and seeing you...Girl I'm still trying to get back in my groove since I got home...girl you take me off this mountain top and I have to rethink again ha ha!!
Now as far as followers go...girl I an lose them faster than weight...I just told you the first of the year I was going to blog about what I wanted to and I have and losted...but you know what I have met so many that are now into antiques just like me so I have gained not number but knowledge...
How is that sweet Alex doing my friend...Oh girl I was at the airport in Vegas and they had the best aircraft museum there has he ever seen it...Now we watched Amela the other night and I didn't care for it...I think it was the Hollywood story I didn't like as I had read the book....
Girl you could't bore us if your tried...Just you always opening up your beautiful home and the warmth you show to everyone you meet girl...Hey I'm lucky to get 30 comments and look at what you get...do the odds darling...people love you...Now don't make me come with my BIG woodren spoon and get you girl...Love ya sweet daughter...hugs and smiles your Calif. mama Gloria
Dear Melissa,don't worry if you lose some follower it may happens and it is not your fault.I read your blog with pleasure and I enjoy your photos.By the way...great flower arrangement!A kiss from Italy,Anna.
Thanks for finding me and I am your newest follower!
Have a delightful day!
hi my bloggy buddy melissa,
i am shocked everytime i stop by to visit you and see how many followers leave you wonderful comments! you are blessed with great followers, i have been going through my site lately and noticed that i seem to follow people and they don't always follow back... and that has been hurtful i try and be supportive of everyone and don't understand bloggyland sometimes but i guess we just have to concentrate on the wonderful ladies who do spend the time visiting us, and man i can only say i wish i had 50 or 60 comments to each of my posts but like you i don't go tons of giveaways and my blog is alot about my journey with a special needs child, our life and now my wellness makeover. anyhow, i'm here for you! keep smiling! and one of these days i'd love to meet you in person!
shelley :)
You are blessed with MANY blogging friends Melissa...
I know used to kinda let the follower thing bother me (and I don't even come close to having the amount of followers you do)! But I really treasure the ones that do!
I have to agree with the majority here, that it probably has to do with the give-aways, once they are over there will be some of them that decide not to follow anymore.
Just try not to sweat the small stuff sweetie... and keep on doing what makes YOU happy to do on your blog... you will always remain popular to the ones that really count!
Hugs,
Sherri:)
Melissa,
Thank you for your kind words about me and my art. You're a sweetheart! You are very blessed to have such a great following and need to realize that your friends will stick with you, even as you go through some slumps. I've had followers leave and really just don't take it personally. Lord knows I've had so much on my plate lately with my two businesses, family and wedding, that I haven't posted as I wished I could. I'm lucky my "followers" block isn't empty lately! ;) You didn't gain such a huge following by accident...we follow you because you write about happy things, real life, and all of those things that make you special and make us smile. When we read your blog, it's like reading a letter from an old friend. Just keep on being you and don't sweat the small stuff!
Melissa,
I love your blog... I have a hard time getting around to everyone on a regular basis as I follow so many and I do try my best to keep up with them...I follow them that means I enjoy them . Including yours. I wouldn't change a thing girl. I am always amazed by the beauty of your home! I might just suggest giving us some decorating tips and hints, because you are soooooooooooo good at it. I don't have kirklands around here..bummer.... I so wish I did. anyway , you just keep doing what you are doing. We can't please everybody... just please yourself.
Blessings!
Gwen
Melissa, come see your influence on me and enter my give-away.
You got some glorious plates from Gloria and that ribbon is incredible.
Hi Melissa,
I haven't been out and about in Blogland for awhile. I really do enjoy reading your blog and your nice comments on mine. Keep blogging about what you enjoy and find fun or interesting.
I too had notice my numbers had fluctuated? I wondered what was going on. Well, now I know :) I guess the followers tastes just change and they move on. You never know they may be back or not?
Have a wonderful and blessed week
Crystal
I adore your blog. :) I think everyone goes thru a blog funk every now & then. I find it hard to believe you are losing readers! I just love seeing your house & home. :)
You left me a comment a while back about my current posts not showing up in your reader. I have no clue why. I have noticed that bloggers that have my blog listed on their blog - my blog 'update' shows I updated 2 months ago! Clearly that is not the case & could be related to the issue you're having. I'll be checking into this. :)
You just keep doing what you're doing! :)
I enjoy your blog, Melissa, and I'll keep following....Christine
Oh sweetie, they come and go! I don't feel at times blog land is much different then high school or sororities full of women not girls, some very child-like and catty. I had days where I received nasty comments, I even have one who writes about me and a friend very unkind. But I just had to let it go. Its so foolish. You and Chestnut are highlites of my day. Even though we decorate our homes totally opposite, I love seeing your ideas, hearing news, sharing recipes and so forth! Also Kitty tales!! Big Favorite!! Sending you bundles of love, Lori
Melissa,
You know I've been a follower of your blog since its beginning! I may not always leave a comment...like right now, I should be lurking--since I have tendinitus in my wrist:) Girl, you blog is beautiful...don't let the numbers discourage you!!!!
Melissa --
I think you are wonderful. I am sorry that you have been feeling down. I love reading your blog and getting your sweet, heart-felt comments. You are a sweetheart.
I would love to hear more about how you lost your weight, maybe recipes and other ideas. I think that would be wonderful in addition to seeing your home, which I always love. You have a wonderful eye and such style!
XOXO
Jen
Hi Melissa,
I think from reading your comments you should be feeling really good about things now! Don't change what comes naturally for you since it's working so well. Your home and your sweet personality shine through every post - keep up the blog just as it is! I often wonder where my followers went, even though the numbers stay the same I don't always get a lot of comments, it makes me think I'm doing something wrong. But I have some very loyal and true blog-friends who say kind things, and are so supportive that I'm reminded not to worry about building up my following so much, but rather to keep on being me and posting about things that are close to my heart. It's gotten me this far, and you as well, so we must be doing something right! Have fun, isn't that what this is supposed to be all about? (I will try to follow my own advice, too!)
XO
Heidi - Heart and Home
Melissa~
I know what you are feeling. Though I don't have a "high" number of followers, I have formed bonds with a majority of my followers and consider them "Friends". (Even though my mother-in-law refers them as my "Fake Friends" nice...huh?) So when I had ten followers jump ship in less than a week I felt crushed. I felt like I should give up and stop blogging because no one wanted to see my yard sale finds or hear my stories.
Then I realized, I can't always be on, I can't always have give aways or side splitting, knee-slappy funny reparte. I don't fit much of a niche either as I am struggling to get my home decorated and stall out on projects more than I accomplish them. I am a mother, but not a mommy, and though I like to craft some...I am definitely not in the league with those lovely crafters and Etsy store sellers.
So...when I loose someone, I just figure that their interest has changed, or they are finding less time to follow certain blogs.
I for one will always stalk you because you inspire me each day with your decor, cooking and trying to find a balance in life. I think your blog is perfect...for me so count me in as a loyal follower!
Melissa, I'm so sorry your feelings are hurt. :( Try not to let it get to you though ... for the few who may disappear, several more will find you and your wonderful blog !! You know I love Kristen's Creations ... the arrangement she made looks perfect on your entry table !! I, too, love the height !! Your sitting area is beautiful ... love the monogrammed pieces on your wall, too !! You always pull your rooms together so beautifully !! Smile and ((hugs)), Becca
Melissa, this isn't my first visit here, but it is my first time leaving a comment. As far as followers 'leaving' - I think FB is responsible for much of that. It's sad, but I think it's causing many to go for the 'surface' relationships, instead of developing real friendships. You can't have the onnection via FB that you can with blogging. I blog for me & for my family. It's a sweet record of our days. I always enjoy my visits here. You do such an incredible job in decorating! You are so talented in that area. I would love it if you could find the time to visit my everyday blog (I have a giveaway going on right now, & would love it if you would join in). I notice I can't leave my url below - so I will leave it here - http://homespunblessings.net/Gratefulheartblog.html Hope you can hop over. Sending you big hugs!
Hi Melissa, I'm sorry I missed this post, but I wanted to add to your comments! I love visiting your blog, and I know lots of others do too! I try not to pay too much attention to the followers number, and try to have fun blogging. If it's not fun, then it's not worth it! Think that you have a wonderful record of your home and your life, that you can share with others in the future. I hope that you keep blogging :)
Melissa...look how many love you!! You are such a beautiful person and I love visiting with you! I too have gone through this at times and luckily I have a very level husband who lets me know that I shouldn't worry about who left me and how many people follow...the ones that are interested and care are there. That is what matters. I at times have been frustrated at how many comments I get on a post...I think, what do people want from me? Then I realize...all that matters is what I want to post on is what is important and if others liked it...that is a bonus. I have enjoyed your blog from the beginning of my adventure and still right here with you. I love your great taste and style. Hugs and love to you friend!!
Victoria
Hi Melissa:
I came over to see what you have been up to. I know exactly what you are saying about followers and blogging. I don't think we lose followers cause they don't like you or your blog, I think it's just that people move on, or are busy doing other things.
I haven't been blogging much, mostly because of my slow internet. It takes a long time to open blogs. But also I got hooked on Facebook and my Farmville. Oh boy...spending too much time on it. But it's so fun.
I don't have crafts or decorating on my blog and I know people get tired of reading about my family.
So I don't post too much anymore.
I think your blog is a great one and I love seeing your beautiful home, and the fact that you are such a sweetheart, makes it all that much better. Even if I don't get by as often as I would like, you are still one of my favorite gals, and I think about you often.
Take care.
Wow! Melissa I don't know how I missed this post. I hope you are not to down about losing followers. You have a wonderful way about you and people follow you because of that. I don't think that will ever change and certainly don't leg blog land define YOU!! Whenever we put ourselves out in a public forum it is opening up our egos and other emotions we don't have to face on a daily basis. Hey, Look at it this way. If you could please everyone you probably would not be your authentic SELF!! That is what is important. Just be YOU! because YOU is great, Hang in there!! Every time I think I don't have anything to blog about something always come into the ol' brain, Hugs Kathysue
This is so weird. I can't believe anyone would every hurt your feelings.
Your posts are always so warm and welcoming and each and every time I visit you I feel relaxed and peaceful.
That is your gift.
And I thank you sincerely for it each and every time I visit you.
You are lovely.
Don't change for any reason.
Sorry, I was still thinking about this.
Yea. I have one of those slow minds that takes awhile to process stuff.
Melissa. The fact that you have so many followers means you are doing something right.
I have never, ever felt you write your blogs for show...they are real...and express who you are and share your many talents with everyone...freely, gracefully and generously.
You never know peoples reason for what they do...no-one can ever understand anyone elses mind.
Maybe they lost their computer.
Maybe they found out their husband was cheating on them with an interior decorator and it was too painful to visit you.
Maybe they are insecure.
Maybe they feel threatened.
Maybe they're just plain envious of that giant PB gift card you won awhile back.
OK, that would be me.
But, see, I kept following you.
Don't let the negative even enter your mind.
Let it go and continue to make everyone that loves your blog and YOU happy!
OK, I think I'm done now.
My hands are tired.
And let me leave you with this last thought...
"What is love
Baby don't hurt
Baby don't hurt me...
no more..." Haddaway
hahahaha!
Melissa Thanks for continuing to stop over and see me. I know I can't expect comments, let alone visitors until the glitches are worked out with my mail and have to accept it.
I should mention to all that read your comments, that they should be careful when they change their I.S. provider as there are so many times you have to have an email address, and the old one keeps popping up. It hurts me too as I can only contact people who I have on my dashboard. Having said all that, I think people's lives dictate how they spend their time. Gosh, a new baby would do it in a flash. In my Following now I have one person only, and I think it is me, ha, ha. Then in the stats counter, I have something like 1170, so errors happen.
No dear Melissa, you are on the top of people's "to read" list. Thanks for being YOU.
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