I've been doing a lot of thinking about this whole "blogging" thing lately. Why do I do it? How does it benefit me? Should I keep going? The answers to all of those are simple, I do it because I love it, it benefits me because it gives me a place to write out my thoughts like a daily journal, and yes I should keep going simply because I do still enjoy it so much. I also love meeting new people and interacting with the friends who leave comments & connect with me on Facebook and Twitter. It's a feeling of appreciation that I don't find anywhere else. I'm so thankful for everything this blog has given me... everything you all have given me—the love, the stories, the friendship—thank you for all of it.
My question today is for anyone reading this post. Whether you've commented before or not, whether we've exchanged email after email, whether we've tweeted or liked each other's Instagram posts... if you are reading this blog, my question for you is, "What's in it for you? What brings you here each day? Why do you keep coming back?" I'd love to know & I'd be eternally grateful if you'd leave a comment telling me why you read my blog (you can comment anonymously, if you wish).
Again, thank you for reading. I can't tell you how much it means to me... but to keep it simple, it means a lot. ♥
102 comments:
I come back because I like your content. I feel like you always write honest, from the heart posts that people (including me) can relate to! I like that you care about your readers - that always shows! Keep up the great work :)
I first started reading because of an outfit post, I think. (this was years ago... LOL). I like that you are an authentic blogger and that you're very real behind the keyboard. I think as a fellow blogger, it can be hard to share the moments that are less than stellar, as well as the amazing ones. You're definitely relatable. I also enjoy that your posts feel really organic. There's not an overage of sponsored posts, and there's usually something new when I visit each time. Love that. :) Hope this helps!! - Charissa from the Smashbook
I first started reading your polish blog and then I realized that you had a bigger blog! I love reading about your style and adventures! :)
This is an easy one!
I come back because you care about things that really matter.
I get so weary of bloggers who only post about what they ate and drank, what brand new expensive bag they're carrying, or never post a picture unless they are perfectly made up. Those things are fine in their place, I suppose, but it gets exhausting to see that post after post. Your posts are a breath of fresh air. I can relate to every single one, and it's so clear that you understand what is most important in your life. And you care about your readers on an individual level, too, which is unique.
Quirky, funny, driven, passionate, creative, loyal... All traits that are completely endearing!
I read your blog daily because I know I can always leave with a smile. I feel like I can relate to a lot of things you write about. You're always so happy and genuine and I just love how much you truly care about your readers. You're awesome, Aunie! Who wouldn't want to read your blog?
I think Krysten said it well, I feel like I could be friends with you. I only started recently reading, but it's fun to see how others live, to live vicariously through them. I read a lot of blogs like yours. I categorize them as "life" blogs. You take me out of some of my boring daily life into someone else's experiences. :)
I love reading blogs in general because I like getting other people's opinions on things and a little peek into their lives too (shhhh). Sometimes, I even gather some inspiration from them!
The Craziest Paradigm - a 'lil bit of rust & stardust
I come here because I feel that I can connect to you. Your thoughts and steps on Trich are similar to my own. It's nice to know that you aren't alone in something that very few people have ever heard of.
I visit blogs to because I am inspired by the little things in peoples lives that are different, I enjoy the ideas that they share and the writing style that I can connect to :)
I read this blog every day because you inspire me every day. I feel like I have a friend in another state and I'm reading a little about her life. I love it here. :)
Hey I'm Sarah,
I found you from going on this website called stumbleupon; your website came up for your "Bye Bye Beehive" and I instantly fell in love. Then, I myself chopped off 6-7 inches off my hair and started your all natural year long hair idea. I started October 22, and now its June 26! My hair is almost past my boobs, yay! To me you became a summer role model because I am from Boise, Idaho, aswell. You're a perfect motivator for someone, keep it up. <3
Love this look!
http://afinaskaterblogspotcom.blogspot.ru/
It's funny, because I've been having some of those exact thoughts when it comes to blogging (and some of my blog friends have had similar thoughts as well!) I guess there's something in the blog water or something. :)
But, to answer your question, I keep coming back because I love your honesty, your love for Jesus, and the fact that you write from the heart. Whether it's running, Trich, or a style post, I know that you're blogging from the heart and that's something that we need more of in the blogworld. Keep it up, girl!
I read because your writing is honest, engaging and friendly - if you can describe writing in such a way. You also have a tendency to inspire me. I've already told you that you've made me think about taking up running and well, that thought was laughable before. But I see how much satisfaction and enjoyment you get out of it and it makes me want to try it out for myself.
xx
soweliveforever.com
I read because I've been reading your blogs since before The Sauce existed. Because you reply to my emails. Because you're honest. Because you always write what I need to read at the perfect time. Because I read before you were a Christian and now that you are a Christian it makes me feel even greater knowing that my prayers for you worked (even though I know it wasn't just me at all). Mainly because you're my blogging friend and I love you! xoxo <3
I discovered your blog when I looked up how to do hairstyles with no hair spray& ever since i have been hooked. Your blog is very truthful & I just love reading it.!
I love reading your blog because you always have something worth while thats grabs my attention! And I just read your about me, I drove through Idaho last week and stopped in Boise and was obsessed with it! How do you like living there? I would love to chat with yo about it!
xxS
I love checking in and reading your blog because of the variety of topics you have on your blog. I'm also kind of into health and fitness and running, so it's great to find a blogger who shares this with everyone.A big fan, Sil.
First of all, your hair is getting SO long. It's beautiful. :)
Second, I ''click'' with blogs. Some blogs I don't at all, some are neutral, and some I fall head over heels for. Your blog is one that i feel head over heels for. I love seeing your outfits and reading whatever you're writing.
I read every day to encourage myself and remind myself that there are other women who also value their family, their marriages, and LIVING LIFE far above working/climbing the corporate ladder. Some days, I really NEED that support and encouragement - thank you for speaking to my soul and how God created my heart <3
I read your blog because you are honest and real about who you are and your journey through this life! You are sweet and truly amazing + let's face it - your fashion pix are to die for and you are adorable! You are also SUPER inspirational! xoxoxo
I was thinking the same thing as Krysten.... I love all sorts of bloggers, but especially the ones where I think, "I would love that person in real life too!" Your posts are real & honest - whether it's a shorter post, or a heart-to-heart post, I just like hearing what you have to say! :)
Of course you know how I found you via LastLash & it changed my world... how could I not follow!!?
Love ya lady!
I read because you're one of my best blogging friends. I read because you love Castle and mystery books. I read because you've got an amazing out look on life and an awesome sense of style. But mostly, I read because you are one of the nicest people I know, even if I haven't met you in real life. You are just truly awesome! <3
It's nice to come to a blog that's "real". I know bloggers that just blog about popular topics and it gets old. I want to know more about the blogger, what they like, don't like, etc. Yours was the first blog where multiple blog posts were about YOU and your life. Right when I feel BLAH about blogging I come ehre and you've already posted something insightful or uplifting. (I particularly love the fitness portions too!.)
I love reading your blog all the time because I love what you have to share! I feel like you're a real person sharing real life. I don't feel like you're in it for the popularity or recognition. You have great pictures and you make me smile :) That is why I keep coming back for more.
I like coming back and reading your blog because you have a sweet spirit, you're uplifting, and you're totally real. One thing I appreciate, amongst other things, is your honesty with trich. I've dealt with it for 16 years so it's just great to connect with people you relate to. People relate when people share their stories...and you share yours well. :)
I'm a new reader, but so far I like that it's not the same stuff, day after day. Also, I like your blogs name, who can beat that?!
I like your blog because it is very real to me and I love how honest you are in your posts. Your taste in fashion is awesome! I really enjoy your poems and the lessons you share. I've been following your blog for a while now and I just really enjoy it!
I love your openess to be real on a vareity of topics, I love your prodcut reviews, your outfits, and your life stories. You were one of the first blogs I started following when I started blogging and have been a big inspiration to me in a lot of different ways!
I started reading because of your honesty. Your willingness to share your struggle with pulling. And I stay because of your sweet spirit.
I love coming here for your inspiration! You're always doing something spectacular or inspiring me somehow (most recently with the working out every single day)! Your blog is a blessing and I just adore it!
i love your posts because they are so real. you aren't fake and even though you are one of the 'big' blogs, you are so much more down to earth and someone i can relate to. you share such great stuff and your blog isn't all about trying to sell something or showing off. i love it for inspiration and it makes me feel good. thanks (:
I keep coming back for every single post because you are one of the most REAL bloggers I have ever met, and you always have something inspiring to share. If I had to pick one word to sum up how I feel about your blog it would be something along the lines of "motivational" or "inspiring." Keep blogging! :-)
At first, I cam because, like at Lipgloss and Crayons, I learn a little bit more about style... which I have very little of...
But, then, you show us ... YOU... and you are truly a special woman. Strong, and confident... driven...
I respect you and well, I admire you.
I keep coming back, because, it's like keeping up with a new friend.
I enjoy reading your blog because you're genuine and optimistic (while being realistic at the same time!). And you introduced me to Yes To products, anddd because I always enjoy reading fashion posts from people that don't look like every other fashion blogger out there.
Your openness for the good and not so good parts of life. You, also, are quite inspirational.
You're very good at explaining struggles and everyday life without sounding like you're whining or being boastful. You're real, but not in the "I tell it like it is/Sorry, I'm not sorry/I'm just being honest" way. I come back, because you're someone I would want to hang out with in real life. (Semi-stalker? Haha.)
I love being able to get to know you through your blog. It encourages me to try my hardest, but it's okay to fail too. I love knowing there are people are there that are sincere and open and aren't afraid to admit. I am sure you keep something things private, and that's good. It's just nice to know there are people I can call friends. =]
I keep coming back because your personality really shines through your
writing and you're not afraid to show your weaknesses, your posts are
always interesting, and you love Jesus :)
You know what miss Aunie, I check back here everyday still! I don't interact as much as I should, but you were my first blogging friend and I feel like I have been through so much with you! Look at you now all married and byebye beehive is done and you found God and I just can't tell you how happy I am for you! You are so amazing! I love coming to see everything you are up to!
What brings me here? Your ability to bring up tough issues and topics. Your honesty. Your kindness. Your faith. All of that and more brings me here. You have been vulnerable and shared your life with us and those are the kind of bloggers I love. Because when we can be really real with each other that is when we can truly connect.
Love ya, girl!
I come back each day and look forward to reading your posts because they always feel like they are from the heart. from your light hearted fun posts to the tough stuff, I always feel as though you are sharing wholeheartedly with us readers! You have an ability to put things into words that I wish I could say sometimes. I feel like I know you although I have never met you and i love that I can count on your to just be you! I love the stories of your joys in life and appreciate the struggles that you share. Thanks for always being so open and loving! Yours is such a fun and inspiring blog to read.
I come back because your posts are very sincere. Whether you're writing about fashion or running or something personal it feels like there is a real person behind the post, as opposed to a "blog personality", if that makes sense!!
I always come back to your blog because I enjoy your writing style and that it is never predictable. You keep it fresh, lively, and honest :)
Well I feel the exact same way, Krysten. Thank you. I totally think we would be friends in real life!
To say I care about you is possibly even an understatement. I'm inspired by the people who read my blog, I'm encouraged to keep going, and I am so fulfilled each time I get to meet new people, learn a little bit about them, and feel the love they have to share. Thank you, SO MUCH, Lindsey.
Charissa, thank you so much. I usually use my blog as a bit of a diary, and if I'm having an awful day... I'll write about it (though I try not to be TOO Debbie Downer). I used to do a lot of sponsored stuff & giveaways, but it just wasn't me. Now, I do one here and then... but I try to write, like you said, organically. I wake up each day and write my post and hit publish. It's not a thought-out thing... or even usually planned for that matter. Thank you so much for being here. I appreciate it a whole whole bunch.
Thank you so much, Emily! I'm so sorry I've slacked on my polish blog. I was so so so into it for a while there, and then just started being a little less neurotic about my nails. It's funny how when you're really happy, those little things don't seem like such a need-to, you know? I hope that makes sense. And thanks for being here!
Oh man, Hannah. If you're trying to make me stand a little taller... it worked! Thanks girl. You're so right though, I could care less about big fancy purses, accessories, designer shoes... ugh all that stuff just is $$$ to me. I like to LIVE and write, so I enjoy doing both. If my hair isn't fantastic, that's OK, I post it anyway :) Plus, if I hadn't have started blogging, I wouldn't have been able to be friends with you! So thanks so much for being here... I love that we've become friends!
Hehe... well I can probably think of quite a few people! I mean, I know people who only want to see outfits, minimal writing, "perfect" pictures each time. I'm just ... well, none of those things. Thank you so much for seeing (and appreciating) the real me. I really, really do care about my readers... especially you!
Jessica, thank you so much. I really appreciate this. I haven't been able to build a relationship with you yet, so I'm really happy you commented! But really, are you sure my life isn't just as boring as yours? I do a lot of boring stuff... but like you, I LOVE reading about people's lives. You feel like you get to know them. So I'm incredibly glad you're here. Thank you thank you :)
Thank you, Yuen! You know, I get inspiration from reading, too! Whether it's fashion, craft, food or lifestyle blogs... I learn a LOT from reading blogs every day! Thanks for being here :)
Thank you, Meredith! I'm also sorry I don't post about trich more often. I hope what I have offered in the past has helped... but I just appreciate your comment in general. You're right... for the people with trich, we feel like we are SO ALONE sometimes because people just don't get it. I mean, I've been to doctors who haven't even heard of it! Crazy! Thank you for your support & for being here... please let me know if I can ever just be an ear during the hard times :) I love to type when I feel the urge to pull!
Amanda, I'm right there with you, sister! When someone offers something that's different than what I do, I'm immediately drawn to it. I think that's why I follow so many blogs!
Thank you, Allison! You DO have a friend in another state and she is me!!
Sarah!!!!! I'm so excited to read your comment! Do you still live here in Boise? Congrats on going so long... you're only 4 months away! Oh my gosh! Good for you, girl. Thank you so much for reading... I really, really appreciate it!
Kiki, thank you so much! It comes from the heart every morning! Half the time when I sit down to write a post, I have no idea what I'm going to write! And yes, I think we are all drinking the blog water lately, saying "is it worth it?" For now... YES! :)
AH! Well this comment inspires me!! Thank you! I always try to engage people. If I get a lot of comments... that's great, and even if I get only a few on a post--that's OK too! Just reaching out and talking to someone is so fulfilling... so thank YOU for always reaching out and being there. It means a lot!
I love you right back, Lily. You are such an inspiring little lady to me. 16 and SO FULL OF LIFE. You're going to change the world, and I love that about you. Also, give yourself more credit... your prayers helped save me, and that's a miracle!
Oh wow, thanks so much, Tessy! I had no idea that that would pull results for my blog. But I'm sure glad it did because it's great to have you here. And guess what? I ran out of hairspray about a month ago and haven't bought a new bottle yet! Hip-hip hooray!
Stesha, thank you so much! Worthwhile is a good thing to hear... I really appreciate that! Also, I LOVE Boise. 4 seasons, hot in the summer, good for winter snowbirds... it's just a nice place to live. Not to mention that everyone is friendly, the schools are great, and don't even get me started on the family-oriented neighborhoods! If you'd like to email me ( auniesauce-at-gmail.com), I'd love to chat with you about it!
Thanks so much, Sil! Sometimes I worry that my topics are TOO varied (and kind of out there), so I really appreciate that! Also, I'm glad you like the running and fitness stuff... I am so passionate about it and can't believe I waited so long to share about it!
Thank you, Madeline! It IS starting to feel long... slowly but surely, right? Thank you for your nice words... I never know if people are so-so or really into my stuff, so reading your comment made me smile! I appreciate it!
Thank you, Katie! I totally value living... and just BEING PRESENT ... I'm so glad we have that in common! I mean, I do have a job, a DESK job, no less... and I went to college and all that stuff. But I just mostly do it to help pay the bills. Because above all, I want to be a woman of God, a good wife, and someday a rockin' mom. Thanks for being there!
Whoa whoa whoa, calm it down.. you're making me blush here! Thank you SO MUCH Cassie. And... I always feel like my fash/style posts are just MEH so thank you for restoring my confidence!
Love you right back, Yuli! You're all those same wonderful things!
You know, I really wonder how those style bloggers do it. They must have doctor/lawyer husbands or something, cause I can't afford to step foot in the places they shop! But give me some clearance racks and a Goodwill, and I will have a hayday.
I love that we've become friends too, pretty girl :)
I think you're doing a wonderful job. And thank you for the blog comment!! :) Definitely a highlight of my day!
same here. I guess that's why when I try to cut down on the number of blogs I read I just can't!
Thanks, Anna! I have a lot of blogs that I follow for that same reason, too. I just like hearing what people have to say! If there's a bunch of "haha" or run-on sentences, or exclamations points scattered way too often through their posts, I don't follow for one second longer. It's all about what's on that person's heart, and you can always tell when it's genuine :) so thank you!
Laura, I appreciate you and our friendship so much. Thanks for always being there for me! :PS> Castle is my very next read! Just need to finish Under The Banner of Heaven (which is amazing BTW) and then I'm onto Heat Wave!
Chelsea, thank you so much! I really really appreciate that. To be honest, I could care less about what goes on in the fashion world, what's "in" right now, what crazy things celebrities do (or name their kids), or what sales are going on. I write a lot about me because it's a way for me to look back at my life through photos and words. Thanks for not thinking I'm narcissistic! :)
Vicki, thank you so much for picking up on that. I don't try to be a popular blogger, but man I sure do appreciate that you're here. Your comments always make me smile!
Thank you so much, Hannah. I've appreciated your support with trich from the beginning. It makes it better to know I'm not alone! I know a lot of people don't love reading about trich stuff, so when I read something like your comment, it makes me feel better! I really appreciate you.
Thanks, Stevie! I'm glad you do... I haven't ever heard that before... so thanks!
Rebekah, I really appreciate that! I always always try to be as honest as possible (without hurting feelings, of course). Thank you so much for being here!
Well, I really appreciate you, Kelly. I think you comment almost daily and they always make me smile!
Hallie, that means so much to me to hear that! Thank you so very much. The thought of being inspiring is very encouraging!
I really appreciate you, Julie. You were one of the first people I remember connecting with and I won't ever forget your kindness!
Thank you so much, Erin! I try so hard to keep it all under wraps, and sometimes it wriggles out of my control... but the working out is something I can HANDLE! Thank you for being so nice!
Lesley, I really, really appreciate that! I don't consider myself a big blogger. I never felt like I fit into that category, but if you say so, I'll take it! :) Thanks for seeing the real me. That means a lot!
I'm like you... and I totally think taking a break every now and then, like you've done, is a great idea and very needed! I vacation often, so my breaks are always very refreshing :)
Chelsea, you're so wonderful. I'm not stopping (yet--not even close), so don't worry. Thank you a bunch!
Thank you so much, Kateri. Strong, confident, driven... wow those words are making me blush... and feel EMPOWERED! I am so glad we are friends :)
Cindie, thank you so much! You're right... I don't feel like I look like every other fashion blogger. I've got normal legs, a normal bod & normal hair. Ha! I'm so happy you like Yes To as well... I have gotten rid of so many of my old things because I love theirs so much. Thank you SO MUCH for making me feel uplifted!
Julie, thank you! I definitely share all of it... the good the bad and the ugly. I'm so happy you're here to read it.
I fully think we would be great friends in real life. Now all I need to do is track down your moving truck and follow you to your new place! In addition... yes you will NEVER get the "sorry not sorry" from me. I don't apologize if I don't mean it! :)
Cody, thank you so much for being my friend. I am so happy to hear that you feel inspired to try your hardest, and even happier to read that you know it's OK if you make a mistake, but you've just gotta try again! That's the beauty of it. I mess things up ALL THE TIME. But I'm right back at it the next minute trying again! And yes, I try to be as open and honest as possible, while still respecting my family, my husband, and the things that everyone wishes to keep private. I don't blog about fights. I don't post a ton of photos of Daniel. I don't talk about moving, much about my job... you know, things that are OK being left out of this space. And thank you for understanding that! I've got to leave a couple things to the imagination, right? :)
I do love Jesus! You are right about that one. And I have so many weaknesses. Thanks for coming back even though I'm not perfect :) It means a lot!
Chloe, that means so much to me. You WERE the first person I connected with and I still check up on you, too. I just appreciate you, your beautiful self, and your constant words of encouragement. You are amazing, friend.
Thank you so much, Katie! It's been such a pleasure getting to connect with you and getting to know you better. And boy, am I vulnerable! I honestly find that I don't cry as much anymore because what do I do instead? Get on here and write! Ha! Thank you so much for being there for me :)
Cynthia, that means a whole lot to me! I always say how much I LOVE sharing travel posts, or on my heart posts, or whatever is on my mind that day... but to be honest, just sitting down and writing it out is my favorite part! It doesn't even matter what it is (as long as it's my own content, that is!). I appreciate you always coming back to read whatever it is that comes off my fingertips. You are wonderful!
Thank you so much, Martha! Yes, there sure is a real person sitting right here. I'm the same person who goes to church, who goes on those runs with my mom and who does... well everything else. I don't change just for the blog, so thank you so much for seeing that!
Thank you so much, Janna! You're absolutely right, I'm about as much of a non-scheduled writer as you can get. I appreciate you (and your blog!) so much!
I agree with you! I know a lot of their products are c/o... and hey, a fair amount of mine are, too... but still! Give me some of that! :)
Well that's incredibly nice to hear! You know, sometimes people don't include their blog links with their Disqus profile or below their comment, and I think they're crazy! I love visiting the people's blogs who leave comments here. That's my way to find out more about you! :)
Me either! This might sound bad, but every once in a while I try to go through and do like a "spring cleaning" of my daily reads list, and even after I unfollow, I usually end up following right back very soon thereafter because I miss hearing about their updates! I just can't cut it down!
Your welcome. It's nice to have some privacy. I don't see the point of posting everything-especially fights.
Me either! Thank you so much for understanding :)
104 comments, holy cow! Good for you :) I've commented a few times, sometimes regularly AND we've exchanged e-mails before, actually. And I have actually actively thought about why I read your blog before and I'll tell you why:
I keep reading your blog because I enjoy your positivity, your kindness and your drive. I like the voice you have when you write. There was a time when I thought about why I read your blog. It's mainly because I read some of your posts about your religion. I am not a religious person, I'm probably the furthest you'll get honestly. But there was something in the soft way you talk about it that made me very interested to know your story. I think I have experienced feelings and emotions similar to those you feel about religion in my own way. But over all, I get great motivation from your stories and find your life very interesting :)
I follow your blog because you inspire me and I hope to some day be "pull free" too! I don't remember how I found your blog, but I remember the exact moment I read that you too have/had trichotillomania. It's something I've suffered with "alone" since 13 (now 29). I've NEVER met anyone else with it, and reading your stories makes me hopeful!! For that, I thank you! :-)
Samantha, THANK YOU! I am so blessed to read this. I am totally sending no-pull vibes your way and 100% believe that you can do it! I am here for you anytime you need to send an email. Sometimes it's easier when it's someone you don't know... that's why blogging was so essential for me in the beginning. Thank you SO MUCH for being here!
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