5.07.2013

Now that we are on our way in May, it's time for monthly must-reads and the question for April (courtesy of Skylette): What is blogging etiquette to you? For example, do you comment on everyone's blog that comments on yours? Do you follow everyone with a blog that reaches out to you? Great questions!



For me, blogging has always been about connecting with others. I think anyone can post pretty pictures on the internet and have their own space in the blogging community, but what purpose does that serve unless you are connecting with an audience? I love reading blogs, and I love commenting on them because I genuinely have a passion for it. I don't see blogging as a chore. If I did, I wouldn't blog, plain and simple. I don't see blogging as a popularity contest either. I still can't believe that anyone reads what I have to say, or takes inspiration from the photos I post. I don't expect anyone to leave me a comment, but I do love them! I try to show the same kindness and respect on the internet as I show to everyone I meet in "real life". I view many of you as friends, even though we've never actually "met". If someone takes the time to leave me a sweet comment or email me an equally sweet message, I do my best to respond. I unfortunately don't have as much time right now to devote to blogging, but I try to post at least two or three times per week. I love reading and discovering new blogs, so when someone wants me to check out their's, I always take a peek. I do admit that sometimes the whole "lets follow each other" thing can seem obnoxious. It just doesn't feel organic to me, so I usually pass on responding to a generic comment where I can tell the person didn't even read my post. Just like any relationship, there has to be a certain level of respect. After blogging for almost four years, I can usually tell when someone is being genuine as opposed to someone who just wants to amass a large blog following (for whatever reason). Overall, I treat you guys like friends and that's the only way I know how. I read and comment on as many blogs as I can because I love it! I follow more blogs than I can even count! And I'm always, always open to more :)

Thoughts? I would love a discussion on this!





♥ Noelle

15 comments:

  1. Thank you for posting this. I have been blogging on and off for about 5 years. And it is hard not to get caught up in trying to get the most readers and feeling guilty when you don't post everyday. I too have to take a step back to remember that I blog because I like to as well. I do get super excited when I see people in person and they comment on one of my posts. Even though I don't have many followers I know people are reading my blog and sharing in my life. Thanks again for this reminder!

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    1. Five years is a long time, congrats! I think it's easy to compare your blog to others. I find myself doing that once in awhile. Blogging can become tedious when you experience writer's block or just don't know what direction you are going in. It's always important to just stay true to who you are :)

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  2. Haha I saw this and thought you were going to recommend some good new books. I love blogging and when I don't feel like it I try to push through and at least read others' posts. I have just now come into the whole I'll follow you if you follow me and I agree it's not how it should happen. I have no idea how I came across you but there was something that caught my attention and I love reading your blog. I do get so excited everytime I get a comment but I'm not going to clog up my reading list just to get them. I follow people who I actually can relate to.

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    1. I actually need book recommendations for Summer! I'm happy you enjoy my blog, thank you :)

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  3. And that's why I love your blog so much. Not only do you inspire and have great posts but you are incredibly kind as well. In fact, I really love this post!

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    1. Thank you Maria, I absolutely adore your blog as well!

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  4. I completely agree with you. I believe if someone is taking the time to comment on your blog you should show the same amount of respect and comment back. I hate when I get comments that say, let's follow each other. Is that because you like my blog or is it because you want more followers?

    Great post!

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    1. Yes, exactly! It just seems so pushy right?! "I'll follow you if you follow me." Hmmmm, that just sounds ridiculous! You either like my blog and want to read more, or you don't! Thanks Vanessa :)

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  5. Well said. I couldn't agree more. I'm so thankful for the circle of "friends" that I have met through blogging, they are the reason why I continue to blog.

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    1. I loved your response too Danielle :) I think we are on the same page!

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  6. Love your answer Noelle - you write so well! I'm still trying to put my thoughts together for this month's question LOL!

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    1. Thanks Ella, I just spit out a bunch of random thoughts and then edit them! I can't wait to read yours ;)

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  7. Cool! Love this idea for a post! Hugs from Cali! xx The Golden Girls

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Thank you for commenting! I read each and every one, and do my best to answer questions or return the favor on your blog.