Save a few regulars, you all are very quiet. I’ve been working on three separate posts, and the entire time I’m wondering if maybe it’s all too boring? momish? snarky? to post. Maybe I annoy you, maybe I don’t seem approachable, or maybe I’m not all that interesting and you are just really, really bored at work and I help you kill time. *cough-Steve-cough* That’s cool. My feelings are totally not hurt. {sob}
But here’s the thing. I’ve been talking with some of my friends, telling them how I would love to do a giveaway on the blog. The only thing that’s stopping me is, well, I don’t know who you are or what you like!
At first I thought I would offer some writing services for free. Then it occurred to me you all might write as a career or hobby and wouldn’t need me to write your grocery bill, let alone anything else.
I thought I would offer a bunch of books I have (read but mint condition) since I have now run out of shelf space in the office. Then it occurred to me you may not like to read, or if you do, have enough books of your own.
I thought about doing a collaboration with my more crafty blogger friends. Then I thought you all might have your own craft businesses and need more product as desperately as you need a hole in your head.
And so on and so on.
Let me cut to the chase (um, 6 paragraphs in): I want to do a nice giveaway but I am terrified to offer to the internet something no one likes or wants, which would result in, like, 3 people commenting. That would be humiliating beyond words. This, sadly, is the price you pay for writing a blog about nothing. And everything. But just not something. All this to say I hate to do it, but I’m going to get all Nietzsche on you and ask: Who Are You?
And, NO, I am not looking for demographic information to show advertisers. If I was, I would just say so. I am just painfully insecure and terrified of rejection. (Because I’m sure you haven’t guessed by reading anything I have ever written)
Oh! Speaking of advertisers, if you would like to advertise (for free) send me an email via the link to the right. I have a few spots available and am always looking to for pretty blinking things. Maybe that could be a giveaway? I guess it depends on how many people email me.
Now if you will excuse me, I have to go finish a few blog posts you may or may not like.
;)
You mean like how I gaveaway a super cool 350 million year old fossil on my blog and people joked that it was a shell I bought at Pottery Barn? And not that many people seemed to want it at all? Yeah, I hear ya.
Yeah, kind of like that. My feelings were hurt on your behalf, by the way. I thought it was beyond super cool and was disappointed I didn’t win. (Just in case you value the likes and dislikes of a shy, geeky girl)
Hi Jules. I’m notorious for lurking. I don’t comment because… well, I never feel like I have anything relevant to say. Ever. On anyone’s blog. I rarely enter giveaways either because I would feel rude to enter a giveaway when I never comment on anyone’s blog. See my dilemma?
You know me! I’ll pretty much enter to win anything, unless it involves some sort of fitness activity, since I’m athletically challenged. I’d take some writing services or some books or any crafty-related thing. I’d take advertising space, although you’re already doing that for me for free with my little badge. I read every post you write, so don’t feel neglected!!
what do you want to know?
My predicament exactly. I think I have a total of 3 people that read my blogs. I must admit though my writing is quite mundane. I need to generate traffic. In order to do so though I suppose I must become interesting eh?
In any case, I love your blog. It entertains me.
Oh and FWIW I thought the 350 million year old fossil was cool, but I was out of town during the giveaway. I so would have entered and basked in the glory of my win but instead I was camping with two 19 month olds. Yah.
Misadventures–good question, and I don’t know! I’m trying to think of a question that doesn’t force anyone to reveal personal information online, but gives me an idea of what we all have in common. Maybe why you read the blog (or posts you have liked) and any hobbies you might have? Or how about sharing your favorite blogs? That usually reveals a lot about a person without resorting to social security numbers. ;)
Hey Jules! I would take any one of those things you want to give away!
How the heck DO you get people to comment? I see all the people who read my blog (through stats), but only a few comment regularly.
FWIW, some of my favorite blogs: Dooce, Finslippy, Her Bad Mother, The Dawn Chorus, Go Fug Yourself, Navel Gazing at its Finest.
Things have been quiet over at my blog this summer too. NO reader – I’m down to 15 a day. It’s been a bit sad, really… I’ve been posting less often too though so it’s probably partly my fault. I’m sure things will pick up now that most of the kids are back in school.
As for the giveaway (they’re always popular) why don’t you offer a second entry for people who mention it on their blogs? That could really help it take off.
Great idea, Reluctant! I’ve been terrible about blogging. The summer days go by so fast, and with it being so quiet you start to wonder if maybe you kind of, sort of, really suck balls. ;)
It doesn’t help that I blog outside, in the land of bugs and sweltering heat.
I *LOVE* giveaways :) I always read your blog but I usually don๏ฟฝt comment because I๏ฟฝm a shy girl.
One of the things I like about your blog is you humorous-smart-well writing style ;)
You should comment more often, Valentina! Because of a comment you made a while back I found your etsy shop and purchased the orange “Feeling Inspired” note book on your blog header. I use it to keep track of all my post ideas. :)
Well, reading my blog is a good start! ;) I don’t have a lot of readers though so I don’t blame you if you don’t!
My favorite blogs:
http://mackink.blogspot.com/
http://bkids.typepad.com/knockknock/
http://ourkitchensink.wordpress.com/
http://cleanerplateclub.wordpress.com/
And so many others. I have 135 blogs in my bloglines account. Keeps me busy! ;)
Posts I like from you? All of them. I love “Favorite Moment” – it helps me remember what I am doing here as a parent and to slow down and enjoy. How you met your mister is so sweet and helps me remember how I met my mister and love him even more. The geography story had me laughing out loud and feeling a lot of empathy because I was (and still am) the same way.
I love your honestly, your ability to make me laugh or cry or feel something I hadn’t before. A little peek into your mind and heart and world.
anyway, hope that helps some! =)
Well you have one more reader because I just subscribed and put you in my blog roll. :)
I’m glad you mentioned the Favorite Moment. I was going to stop writing them (I didn’t know if people liked it and was too shy to ask) but my friend, Colleen, told me a few weeks ago she missed it so I started up again in hopes other people missed it, too!
Hmmm. Well, my name is Julie. And, my close friends and family call me “Jules”. Go figure! *wink* I only just found you–I think I told you that the other day. You could do a giveaway–but, I’d only comment just to let you know I was here, lurking, reading because I simply like the way you write. And, I’d recuse myself from the the drawing because, well, I already have more stuff than I should and no place to store it anyway . . . But, for those looking for ways to encourage people to comment or engage in discussion–any discussion, LOL!– I think it sometimes helps to ask what they think about something in particular. People always seem to enjoy expressing their opinion on something, even if there’s no giveaway involved at all! *chuckle*
I'm not doing a giveaway for the comments. I was just saying I didn't feel comfortable doing one w/o knowing what people do or don't like. If my readers (all 20) want to be quiet that's ok with me, I'm shy too! I just didn't want to give out PB&J sandwiches only to find out everyone is allergic to nuts. :)
I have asked for opinions in the past and received ok response. Maybe my posts don't lend themselves to commentary. I have to spice them up with racy pictures, I suppose. ;)
I think it is because of things like bloglines, and google reader, that we don’t really see how many people may or may not read our blogs. I know that my bloglines account has hundreds of new feeds every day and I don’t click on all of them to comment. Laziness? Probably somewhat. But I’m also pretty busy, as are most people I assume. I’ll try harder though, because I know how I feel when I get comments and other people must enjoy them too!
I’ve been reading your blog for a couple of months now and I really like your writing style, I especially enjoyed the posts describing how you met your husband. I tend to lurk on the many blogs that I read unless something really strikes a cord and makes me feel impelled to comment – especially when I have never met the person behind the blog. I’m not sure what to say about me, I read alot (45 minute each way commute), craft less than I want to (because I’m lazy), ummm…I don’t know what else. Really I just want you to know that I do enjoy your blog and that I’ll try and comment once in a while.
Hi. I have been reading your blog for a few weeks now, but this in my first comment. I am a graphic designer, new wife and hope one day to be a mom. I live in the Midwest, like crafts but don’t have a room dedicated to them, and enjoy the funny stories you share about your kids. I like your blog because it’s a little bit of everything — recipes, great stories, home matters, and family — but not too much of one thing. I like giveaways but have never won one. So, do what you like. I’ll be reading either way.
I don’t get a lot of commenters either- but you get way more than me :) I love your blog and always look forward to your posts. I’d love to do a link to my personal blog (which I’ll put up in the other post requesting as such!)
I don’t get a lot of commenters either- but you get way more than me :) I love your blog and always look forward to your posts. I’d love to do a link to my personal blog (which I’ll put up in the other post requesting as such!)
I don’t get a lot of commenters either- but you get way more than me :) I love your blog and always look forward to your posts. I’d love to do a link to my personal blog (which I’ll put up in the other post requesting as such!)
I’m not much of a commenter – you’d think, given how much I love to receive comments, that I would be better.
But if you’re giving away books? I’m there. I’m a crazy book-lovin’ nerd like that.
In terms of basic info….I’m a 26 year old, married, Creative Director for a hospitality development company. I have two dogs, a degree in philosophy (what was I thinking?…), and am terrified that my husband is ready for kiddos. I love color and fabric and anything on Bravo. I have a bit of an Etsy addiction, but am seeking help. I don’t read as much as I should and consider Domino my bible….guess that’s what thirteen years of Catholic school does to you….
Is that enough insight for you? :)
Been lurking on your blog for a few months. I usually read more design-y blogs (Decorno is my absolute fav. While Apartment Therapy is my biggest vice in terms of hours spent procrastinating), but I love your writing style. All the potential giveaways you mentioned interest me, so I think you’re on the right track. Give away what you’d like to win…I’m guessing we’d all be into that.
And who cares if you only get 3 comments — that’s three more than my blog as ever seen :)
Hi, I love your blog, I read it everyday. Your writing is great and you always have fantastic stories to share…My name is Lyn, Im 28. I work for Blue Man Group. I am a huge crafter, knitter, crocheter. If I can learn it i do it.
Sorry for always lurking as well. I dont often have much to say.
Hi, I’ve been lurking here for a while and have you on my bloglist, but don’t feel like you have to have mine on yours. I’m quite a bit older (a grammy!), but I love your style and your obvious love for your family. I have one person who reads my blog regularly and another who checks in once in a while. That’s not why I have one, though. I’m doing it for my grandkids to have when they get older and for family members to check out new kid pics and goings on. Tata. I’ll be back.
Melissa–I forgot…send me over a banner if you want some space. :)
Sandy–Thanks! :) I try to read at least 1-2 hours every night. I haven’t read anything since Tuesday, and I am feeling really out of sorts.
Kim–Hi! I’m glad you like a little bit of everything. Sometimes I worry that I should have more focus, but that’s just not me (at least not here).
Carey–Thanks! I’ve already linked to you, and appreciate the support. :)
The Driftwood Collector–I remember you from a post I did on Nico crying. Hi! Always nice to meet another book lover. :)
Monika–Philosophy was one of the hardest subjects for me in college. I just couldn’t get into it! Good for you to make an entire major out of it. I’m impressed. Isn’t Decorno great? She always gets the most comments nd really gets a conversation going.
Lyn–I hate to expose my lameness, but do you mean you work for Blue Man Group, the guys that put on the show? That’s pretty cool, if you do!
Susan–I will have you know I was reading your blog last week and enjoying the picture you have in your banner. Thanks for commenting. :)
I really appreciate everyone commenting. It means a lot.
I love pretty blinky things and I dont have one of my own.
I would truely love a giveaway that consists of a blinky (or not!) banner!
I mostly lurk also but I check your blog every single day. You are one of the highlights of each day (that you post that is…hehe).
I have had a blog for years and I think a total of 3 people have every posted a comment!
OK … OK … I’ll de-lurk and say hello.
I’m Erin and I’m a complete stranger. I tend not to be a big commenter because it feels a little creepy. It’s like you’re in your living room, having a nice conversation with your friends, and a woman with a glass of wine and a toddler pops up from the bushes outside and says, “Yes! Absolutely!”
I like to think that by just silently staring in through the windows no one will call the police.
At any rate, I come here because you make me smile. Oh, and I was able to use your recent post about the constellation night light to prove to my husband that I’m not the only one on the planet who uses the Twilight Turtle as a parenting tool.
Hey! It’s Rebecca, one of my best clients! Buy her soap, people, the Mister swears they help his hands. That, and they are awesome.
It’s like you’re in your living room, having a nice conversation with your friends, and a woman with a glass of wine and a toddler pops up from the bushes outside and says, “Yes! Absolutely!”
If you’re always this funny I think you should comment more often! :)
Rebecca–send me a banner for your shop and I will put it up (once I *ahem* figure out how to do that).
Dear Author of Pancakes and French Fries.
I’ve been reading your blog regularly since about January 2008. I’m a student who’s faced a lot of uncertainity and done a lot of travelling in the last year and a half or so. I have to tell you that your blog has been a real comfort to me on my journey.
I’d like to believe that maybe one day I’ll be fortunate enough to have what you do.
Keep writing and sharing your life with us. You never can know who’s life your going to make an impact on when you make a new post.
Thanks
-Em
P.S
Books make a fantastic giveaway!
I vote books! Duh.
well you already know me so I don’t have to tell you about that but as far as your blog my favorites are about your life.
I come her every day sometimes 35 times a day! I’m just compulsive like that. I haven’t commented this week because I’m lazy and I worked out last week. (That’s my excuse for everything now.)
I personally think you should catch that hawk and give it away. Or maybe some Christmas cards. Oh wait…..never mind on the Christmas cards!
I have been reading your blog for a little while and I really enjoy it. I tend to lurk as many others do. I am trying to break the habit because I know how much I like it when I get comments. I am pretty new to the blog world but am finding several that I just love, yours being one of them. Keep up the good work and I promise I will give you my input from now on.
Well, I pop in from time to time, but this is my first comment! I say, keep doing what you’re doing because I really like your writing style and easy going outlook. I think it’s fine to blog about a bunch of different topics – maybe because I do it too!
As for other blogs, I read a variety of ’em. I like a fair number of decor and design ones, some blogs on specific topics (Art Deco or garden design), as well as a bunch by (mostly) women who also write about ‘everything’.
A fan.
I just found your blog today, and I must say that it drew me in from the very begining. You had me hooked when I read that you might be fodder for your children’s future treatments, my fear’s exactly. I love your sense of humor and your easy reading style. I am flagging your blog as a favorite. By the way, I don’t know that you have to give anything physical away. As far as I am concerned, reading your blog has given me joy, what else is there to give? Thanks for sharing a part of your life, this Houstonian finds your writings amuzing and encourages you to keep it up.
Thank you! That made my day. :)
Since you asked who's reading, I am. I am a mom to two sweet little girls; I love to read; I am interested in design & art & gardening & cooking, but haven't had as much time for these activities since the little ones came along. I saw a link to this blog a few weeks ago on Making it Lovely, which I found on flickr when I was looking around for inspiration to redecorate our bedroom.
I am awfully shy and this is the first comment I've made on a stranger's blog. I enjoy reading this blog because you seem to share a lot my interests and you're an inspiring writer. My favorite post is the one about the dreaded playdate b/c that is how I feel going over to other kids' houses, though I hate to keep my kids from having friends just because it takes me so much energy to chat with the other moms, even the ones I like….
Tracy–I collapsed after that play date. I’m going to write all about my trip to Hell and back soon. Thanks for reading my ramblings. :)
How did I miss this post??? I read your blog daily now because it always brings a smile. :-) As for a giveaway, I think a writing giveaway would be great. I suck at writing – I'm much better with paper & scissors. Also, if you have space for an ad, let me know – my avatar doesn't blink or bling, but it's cute!
Send one over, Julie!
hello. fellow lurker here. my name is hillary. i like to write in lower case.. i tend to be too lazy otherwise. :) i don’t remember how i found your blog but i’ve been reading it for a few months i think and just enjoy your writing style. sarcasm makes me smile. i’m 26 and live in tucson and have 2 small rescue dogs and 1 rescue cat..they’re my life. i don’t have any hobbies..but i should. i love apartment therapy for design ideas and i’m one of those mid century modern lovers. i love thrift stores and estate sales and would rather by my home goods there than at target. :)
btw, i added your site on my blog. :)