tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post2840760264743780394..comments2024-03-18T03:03:42.559-05:00Comments on IHeart Organizing: IHeart Blogiversary - Six Years LaterIHeart Organizinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05084013302005288836noreply@blogger.comBlogger344125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-52285731390126876392016-08-26T11:31:59.150-05:002016-08-26T11:31:59.150-05:00so, a few things: 1- it was interesting to read so...so, a few things: 1- it was interesting to read some of your thoughts about the last year. every time I read, I'm wondering "so they change stuff ALL the time in their house, do they EVER enjoy their house?!" and then you finally said it. 2- definitely don't quit the blog. you have THE best out there!!! 3- kudos to you for taking a step back to evaluate. honestly, I have no idea why the "thing" in the blog world is to post content everyday. I know they say it's what makes a blog successful, but that would just make me stressed out! take the time you need! and 4- I love ALL of the new post ideas you mentioned!Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01870121959409841146noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-70753880801378538532015-12-29T15:39:38.066-06:002015-12-29T15:39:38.066-06:00Hi Jen-
I'm not sure I have ever commented, b...Hi Jen-<br /><br />I'm not sure I have ever commented, but I have been reading for several years now. All of the ideas in your "Content" list sound great to me- a mix of projects/ shoppalble items / solving readers dilemmas, etc... would be interesting. And I am also happy to read about projects in real time, so that you don't spend ALL those hours on a single project and it is all in 1 post. Get it girl!Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13713000050879338851noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-74643501910191278462015-11-17T08:24:10.054-06:002015-11-17T08:24:10.054-06:00Hi. I've been reading your blog off and on for...Hi. I've been reading your blog off and on for the past few years and than you very much. I used to be a hoarder packrat and now my home (almost - middle of a renovation) looks like something out of a magazine. Thanks to you and a few minimalists I (and my family) am a lot happier, content and actually love our space. I am officially an organizing freak (I was always a "all or nothing" person - it used to be nothing, now its all). Thank you very much for your dedication and the inspiration you gave me on so many levels. Have a constructive year. Thank you again.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-22325217336049782022015-11-05T13:30:26.422-06:002015-11-05T13:30:26.422-06:00I never post comments online for anything, but you...I never post comments online for anything, but your raw honesty was so refreshing and really touched me - I felt compelled to respond. I started reading your blog while on maternity leave with my first baby, and have been faithfully following your journey since. Congratulations to you ... I am looking forward to whatever you decide is next!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-24250566387478482542015-11-04T16:41:26.329-06:002015-11-04T16:41:26.329-06:00Ooh! I've often wondered about this very thing...Ooh! I've often wondered about this very thing! I do not have a blog because frankly I don't think I could manage the time to make it successful. But I often think that I have so many good ideas and no outlet for them. If there was ever a platform for this type of thing I'm there!<br />It's ironic to me that my house looks nothing like yours but I love everything you've done. You are so fortunate to have a husband willing and able to customize with you. Some of our guys just aren't inclined to work with their hands or already have a lot on their plate. So, I get that the constant large projects can be unrealistic.<br /><br />I for one love all your posts, of whatever type but the large projects are too large for me, fun to read but only for my dreams. The little projects often ring truest for me, and are things I can mimic/use. <br /><br />I love contributors too because although we come for you Jen, they offer some variety & freshness.<br />In any case, nothing is worth losing yourself or quality family time over. Sleep and downtime are precious tools in our toolbox to keep us moving forward and successfully equipped for what lies ahead. <br />I can't tell you how much I love your planners by the way! I continue to LOVE mine & am already restless to work on next years! I've implemented several things I've learned from you, and your site is a bright spot online to linger in for a bit.<br />Thanks for sharing with me!Bekahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08962828443166768523noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-24984727948749118432015-10-30T08:31:58.379-05:002015-10-30T08:31:58.379-05:00Hi Jen
I am a longtime reader and also writer of ...Hi Jen<br />I am a longtime reader and also writer of a (tiny) blog for friends and family mostly.. and yet I completely understand the pressure to delver new and fresh content...I started my little blog to keep my friends and family updated on my work and life in the Middle East and now a few years later, I can really only post sporadically due to time constraints...I have literally no idea how you do it with a family to take care of. <br />What I do know is that I am constantly inspired and in awe of your lovely blog, the beautiful photos and your commitment to your subject of organisation....should you wish to slow down or, perish the thought, give up, you will certainly be sorely missed!<br />Congratulations on your 6 year milestone!!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-29748705801038602622015-10-29T08:59:30.149-05:002015-10-29T08:59:30.149-05:00Hi Jen,
We've never met but I've been a l...Hi Jen,<br /><br />We've never met but I've been a loyal reader for years. As a fellow overachiever in a completely different world (academic research) and mom of two (not three) boys, your blog has been a respite over the years to pull me out of the completely abstract world of my research into the concrete and tangible output of decorating and organizing. When I was writing my dissertation and a blog post would come through my email, I had to stop and read it. That moment gave me such a wonderful break. It also helped me gain the momentum to tackle a few organizing projects over the years in my free time. Although we are strangers, it pains me to hear that you've been struggling with burn out. I want you to know that every successful person I know struggles with that at one point or another. You are not alone. Take the time that you need to feel refreshed! When you're ready, I would definitely love to hear your thoughts on tackling reader questions. As a rudimentary organizer, I must have a 100 questions in need of answers!Kristenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16252356932117706005noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-75226048967784833222015-10-26T10:34:54.022-05:002015-10-26T10:34:54.022-05:00Happy blogiversary! Thank you for sharing your tho...Happy blogiversary! Thank you for sharing your thought process with us. I just wanted to say that I would always rather bloggers post less often and not burn out/feel the need to create posts just because. I am always behind in my blog reading (hence this belated comment) but I really enjoy all of the different blogs that I follow. That said, I am fine with fewer posts per week - I think it can be difficult for readers to keep up with all the posts just like it is difficult for bloggers to write them. Thanks for all you do!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-53254537398448865952015-10-12T11:18:08.901-05:002015-10-12T11:18:08.901-05:00Your blog is my absolute favorite out there. I lo...Your blog is my absolute favorite out there. I love the content, but mostly I just like hearing from you. I am a writer/content manager for a living, so I couldn't resist the chance to brainstorm and share ideas with you. I think you could do some more diverse and simpler posts, and your readers would love it just as much. Things like...<br /><br />- Fashion from an organizing perspective - you always look cute, and knowing that you do it with somewhat of a streamlined wardrobe is really impressive. I know I'd be interested in tips on shopping or building a wardrobe for the organized girl! <br /><br />- Products you love - some of my favorite posts are when you link to a new product you love for organizing, cleaning, decorating....you could do short posts with a couple new products you've found and love lately. Even things like clothes for kids or new grocery products would be interesting.<br /><br />- monthly goals - another blogger I follow does a list of 5-10 "goals" for the month. It usually reminds me of something I should do (like start planning for a holiday). She usually never achieves all of them, but its the idea sharing that's interesting.<br /><br />- Friday favorites - most bloggers I follow do some sort of "favorites" or "five things" or "on my radar" on Fridays, with a bunch of random stuff that they did, or they found, or liked that week. I'm not a blogger, so maybe its not as simple as it looks....but they seem pretty easy to throw together, and they're always interesting!<br /><br />Hang in there....your readers will continue to follow you no matter what! As a fellow perfectionist, I know its almost impossible to "relax" - but just know that we appreciate hearing from you - no matter how often or what the content is!unknownhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13364705898158846116noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-55035315201939826442015-10-10T19:53:21.639-05:002015-10-10T19:53:21.639-05:00Big hugs to you Jenn, thanks for sharing your hear...Big hugs to you Jenn, thanks for sharing your heart with us. Just wanted to say we love you so much and support you. I'm so happy to see so many people reaching out and voicing their care and concern and genuine love for you! Megan // Honey We're Homehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06786515224193334674noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-73938099624434362562015-10-10T08:47:14.069-05:002015-10-10T08:47:14.069-05:00Hi Miss Jen :)
I'm on the late train with thi...Hi Miss Jen :)<br /><br />I'm on the late train with this post and I applogize for that. It has taken me a few days to decide how best to comment on this post. I wanted it to be constructive and helpful. I've only been reading your blog for a few months. I can definitely see a difference in your writings from even a year ago. Not necessarily a bad thing as people evolve and change. But I do pick up less joy and enthusiasm now. Your excitement use to be very genuine.<br /><br />You and I have VERY different tastes and when I first stumbled on your blog I almost passed right by because our styles are so different. In fact they clash in almost every way possible. For instance, I cannot stand white anything LOL. What caught my eye was you seemed to thoroughly enjoy what you were doing. I eventually came to appreciate your older posts a lot. Even though our styles are so much different, that didn't mean I couldn't learn from you a great organizing tip or how to do something I never thought of. All I have to do is add "my style". The idea itself still works.<br /><br />I would guess I'm not your average reader. I know there are several "blog rules" that bloggers are suppose to follow to make the most money and draw sponsorship, etc. But here's my thought on this, what does Miss Jen want? If your blog doesn't generate the cash like your business does, why follow any rules but your own? If you want to sit down and chat with your readers over some coffee, why don't you? You can still do organizing and DIY's but it doesn't have to be ALL about that. I am sure you don't want to put your private life all over the web and a good portion of readers would be put off by that but there's nothing wrong with talking about a nice run you had or a great photograph you took. As a reader I'm not opposed to that kind of thing at all and don't expect massive content 5 days a week. <br /><br />What I don't like as a reader of blogs is any kind of sponsored content. I live on a budget. Like it or not, sponsored content nine times out of ten is something I can not afford and anything that looks or smells like sponsored content I pass right on by. I can not relate to these types of posts because I can't achieve what the content is trying to convey. I simply can't afford it. Or don't want to afford it if that makes sense. Showing me a beautiful outdoor space that has the patio furniture as sponsored content doesn't help in any way. Thankfully you've only done a couple of sponsored content since I've been reading and as a reader I appreciate that very much.<br /><br />I guess what I'm trying to say that if the fun has been sucked out of your blog and it's not your money maker, put the fun back in. Whatever that might be. Enjoy it for what it is. Readers will still appreciate it I think.<br /><br />Best of luck :).Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01193538021570755773noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-70076700138931439452015-10-09T08:29:26.515-05:002015-10-09T08:29:26.515-05:00Please keep in mind that you are talented and appr...Please keep in mind that you are talented and appreciated. I completely understand your feeling. Though I would hate to see you leave.<br />The "What would Jen do?" idea is certainly a great one, but PLEASE stay away from the outfits series that so many bloggers seem to develop these days. People come to your blog because they love your style and your organisation skills, because you are good at it and you are adorable. So yes, you also look lovely, but there are fashion blog if this is what we are looking for, and I really don't think the confusion of types is serving us.<br />Keep up the good work, take care of yourself, and remember you are appreciated beyond what you know.Carolinehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03698698512234291439noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-13935761312489831042015-10-09T01:28:27.337-05:002015-10-09T01:28:27.337-05:00I am sooo happy to find out you are "normal&q...I am sooo happy to find out you are "normal" ie. also a mom with three boys, a house to run and life to enjoy. Please do not fall into the trap of thinking you MUST post 3 times a week, we will come back to your blog because we like YOU! Love from south africa amanda de swardthttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07949948011662429970noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-38179563228148217652015-10-08T19:56:04.192-05:002015-10-08T19:56:04.192-05:00I'm a little late to the discussion but I want...I'm a little late to the discussion but I wanted to join the chorus of voices saying Congratulations on an amazing six years Jen. I was so happy to read this post. One post or five posts a week, your content is valuable, inspiring, and heartfelt. I hope you find the balance you need and deserve. xoJen @ RamblingRenovatorshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18045745850049751098noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-70488200154582962432015-10-07T22:12:30.237-05:002015-10-07T22:12:30.237-05:00I have often wondered how bloggers like you do thi...I have often wondered how bloggers like you do this nonstop content producing cycle. I'll be honest that is nice to know that you are human and feel burnout. That being said, I'd hate to lose you, so please take your time to figure out what works best for you and your family. Personally, I'd be happy with only one post per week, then I'd actually read it on time, rather than one to two weeks late. I love when you rework a space in your house, even if you've only made small changes. When you revisit those spaces, it inspires me to think how I might freshen a place in my own home without major changes. I actually prefer the small things to the large things, because I can implement them in my home. I also think sharing other bloggers content is great. I've found a few gems that way. And your idea for a "What would Jen do?" and printables is great, too. I think all of your readers would be happy with scaled back quantity so you can maintain your quality and stamp on the blog posts. Happy 6 years blogging! I look forward to seeing how you evolve.Curatorhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04178957972147348542noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-86456175151574535872015-10-07T10:48:29.753-05:002015-10-07T10:48:29.753-05:00Congratulations on all you've accomplished in ...Congratulations on all you've accomplished in these last six years! You are so talented and truly an inspiration. Thanks for your candid post about where you are personally and as a blogger. I, too, feel so much of what you described after blogging for just one year(!) and juggling responsibilities as a wife and mother of four. And your projects are, like, 100 times more intense!!<br /><br />Anyway, I agree with all of the other comments--Take your time. I'd rather hear from you once a week or once a month than never again :) Errolynhttp://theredbrickbungalow.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-88221027280156002262015-10-06T23:57:20.890-05:002015-10-06T23:57:20.890-05:00Way to go, Jen! You're an inspiration for so ...Way to go, Jen! You're an inspiration for so many reasons but I most admire your ability to be real not only in sharing your home and life but also your thoughts and challenges. My husband jokes every time I embark on a new project and asks if, "my friend Jen made me do it." Usually the answer is yes and I have some very organized closets as a result! Do what you gotta do, we will be here. Kelly Brownhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15139461461891035645noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-10567870764040949492015-10-06T16:26:40.189-05:002015-10-06T16:26:40.189-05:00I just want to say that I LOVE your blog. Sometime...I just want to say that I LOVE your blog. Sometimes I get to check in every week and sometimes I don't, but I always go back to see what I have missed. You have inspired me more than you know and I just want to send encouragement your way. I understand burn out and difficulty finding a balance. I hope that the difficult times go away soon and that you find your happy place again. Love and prayers.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-12164062086042007262015-10-06T15:01:53.552-05:002015-10-06T15:01:53.552-05:00Congrats on the anniversary! It's huge to sti...Congrats on the anniversary! It's huge to still be doing this.<br /><br />As for all the projects... There is only so much you can do with your home! I would love to see you revisit previous projects and talk about the things you did at first, what has worked and what didn't, and what you changed to make things work better. <br /><br />This might allow a less stressful set of posts in between other things so you can focus on your and your family and enjoy life ad your home a bit more.<br /><br />Keep at it because we love the blog, but the blog won't exist if you burn out. Take care of yourselfRashadahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14169546944759199753noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-22633050460115710782015-10-06T12:33:02.066-05:002015-10-06T12:33:02.066-05:00Excellent blog. Very nice layout, and rich data. ...Excellent blog. Very nice layout, and rich data. <br /><br />Bravo Jen !!!!!!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-56183674679409309742015-10-06T09:13:28.375-05:002015-10-06T09:13:28.375-05:00Dear Jen,
My comments repeat many things already m...Dear Jen,<br />My comments repeat many things already mentioned above. I am a long time reader of your blog and a huge fan. Besides your creative organizing ideas and your beautiful sense of color and design, what I love most about your blog is YOU - your sunny, sweet, and funny personality. I think it makes sense to step back, re-assess, and figure out a plan going forward. I support you and will read as often as you are able to post. Lots of love to you from Maryland!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-39934692085536825802015-10-06T03:26:01.836-05:002015-10-06T03:26:01.836-05:00Honestly, it doesn't matter when or how often ...Honestly, it doesn't matter when or how often you blog (daily, weekly, monthly, a few times a year) - we'll all still be here, reading and listening ... and drooling. Do what you need to do and ALWAYS, ALWAYS put your family first. xxxA little bit of quiethttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12622240440401542626noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-38586680440993707062015-10-06T03:17:46.907-05:002015-10-06T03:17:46.907-05:00Oh Jen I really felt for you when I read your post...Oh Jen I really felt for you when I read your post. I have loved reading your blog over the last 5 years, but I've often wondered how on earth you maintain the pace with all the projects you guys do! I have my own Organising blog's and I know how crazy busy project time is! Especially with kids! <br />I love every single post you write, so much inspiration, but love your ideas for some of the other posts too. Whatever works best for you...and I know whatever you do next will be the right decision for u & your family. Take care of yourself :)Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17949029116429763023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-7178761954476153572015-10-05T21:21:08.470-05:002015-10-05T21:21:08.470-05:00Congrats on 6 years! I have been a longtime reader...Congrats on 6 years! I have been a longtime reader and loved all of your posts. With two little ones, and a whole house to organize, I find myself often going back to your old posts with your daily schedules and organizing systems. I love how honest you are about the amount of work it takes to be a home blogger. Doing the projects is really hard and takes a lot of time. I had to realize that doing a DIY blog asks a lot of my husband as well which is hard for family time. Thanks for always sharing. I bookmarked this when you published it and now almost a week later, I finally found the time to comment. It is hard finding balance with everything. Thank you for your honesty as always! You find such a great balance between being inspirational yet authentic. <br /><br />Annie- <a href="www.allthingsbigandsmallblog.com" rel="nofollow">All Things Big and Small</a>All Things Big and Smallhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15869472570473607875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8864666002840991252.post-33094994749059725122015-10-05T19:24:10.050-05:002015-10-05T19:24:10.050-05:00Hey Jen,
I don't usually comment, but I did w...Hey Jen,<br /><br />I don't usually comment, but I did want to comment after this post of yours. Here's what I appreciate about you and your blog:<br /><br />1. Easy going, friendly writing in an organized manner<br />2. Fun projects, a good mix of those that are easy to accomplish and more advanced. <br />3. Beautiful photography<br />4. INSPIRATION<br /><br />Truly, it does not matter that all the posts aren't huge. They don't have to be. Your site is very inspiring and that could even be as small as a little washi tape gift wrap project. Just you sharing your day to day life and the little things you do to improve you and your families life is great. That's all it needs to be. Don't put that pressure on yourself, the thought that everything has to be perfectly staged, and that is has to be a meaty post every single time. We love you for you, even if it's just one post every 2 weeks. No pressure, just a fun place to share life and creativity!<br /><br />- Paula Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com