Let’s be really really real. Do y’all come here because you enjoy reading what I write, or are you here because I comment on your blog frequently and you feel obliged to return the favor? (I’m not asking that in a fishing-for-compliments kind of way- I’m really on the fence about my content here.) I pick the blogs that I read based on what topics and writers interest me. Some bloggers teach me about new places and things (Stephanie, Olya, Alexandra) and some make me laugh out loud every single time (Mattie, Erin, Nadine) and some make me think about things I’ve never considered (Carolann, Erin, Chelsea, Steph) and some are just super uplifting (Rebecca Jo, Chelsea, Lindsay). And then there are a handful of folks that I’ve only started reading that I really love. All that to say sometimes I questions what I’m putting out here in the blog world.
(Also, if you’re in the market for new blogs to read, I recommend all those ladies up there.)
So without doing a survey, tell me what you enjoy reading most- both here and in the blog world.
I’ve said it before, but I write what I write because I like to write it- so that won’t change. But I’m always curious if people enjoy travel posts or book reviews or about me lists or wishlists or personal stories. Specifically from me, in my voice.
If you don’t care or you’re here out of obligation that’s fine, too.
So if you feel moved to comment and critique/advise me I’d be ever so appreciative. And if you don’t want to that’s ok; have a great week regardless.
I’ll end this with a Lylee+Enzo pic because we’re coming up on their “Gotcha-versaries”:
Thanks, friends ❤︎
Life as Louise 
There are some blogs I have on a list that I visit often just because we network and comment on each other’s page. Then there are blogs that I read just for content even though those bloggers never visit my page. So if I follow you, usually I’ll check out your content regardless of the subject so my advice is to write what matters most to you. I hope that helps.
LikeLike
Thanks, Karen! That’s definitely helpful! Thank you so much for taking the time to comment!
LikeLiked by 1 person
For me personally, I am drawn to blogs where I feel the person is authentic. Then, I enjoy a mix of posts. Of course, we are all different, so some posts I’m going to enjoy more than others…but I think if a person is being genuine and authentic, I still read the post. For example, I don’t really share recipes, but if that is something that a blogger is genuinely enjoys doing, then I think that’s great. I think that my blog can be random and unstructured, so I don’t necessarily need the blogs that I read to be perfectly structured and presented. I just want them to be real. And, that my friend, you are doing well. Your realness most definitely shines through your posts.
LikeLike
p.s. – thanks for the shout out!!!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Erin 🙂 Your blog is one of my absolute favorites! I really enjoy the mix of books and current events and life in general that you write about!
LikeLike
Honestly, I only remember to come by to other people’s blog [these days] when I receive a comment from them on my blog [like you did]. I’m sorry! I’m not proud of it; I do wish I had more time to squeeze in reading every blogger’s posts on a daily basis, but I don’t have that luxury of time since I’m working full-time and also attending online class.
In general, I’m more drawn to blog posts that are either travel-/beauty-related or those I consider thought-provoking/inspiring. I do love a blog that shakes things up every now and then, but only to a certain extent. 🙂
LikeLike
Girl, I think you’re doing a great job as far as blogging and commenting and reading goes. (And working and learning, too!) Don’t put too much pressure on yourself- this is all for fun! 🙂
I feel like there are a bunch of quality travel & beauty blogs out there for you to choose from when you’ve got the rare down time 🙂 Thank you for your comment!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re too nice, Louise! Thank you! I do follow several travel-/lifestyle bloggers that are totally relatable (if only I have the luxury of time to read each and every post they publish)!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve never really worked out why I like certain blogs and not others (well, except if it’s just not stuff I enjoy like beauty related things). I always go for blogs that are like mine. They are about life. I get a bit of this and a bit of that. Maybe I skip the odd post, but that’s rare. I usually read and comment every time, except the last month as I’ve had other things going on. Because of this, I do keep my list of blogs I read quite short (maybe only 20 or so).
I really enjoy your space. I like your humour, I like hearing about your life and I like dogs. I like to read blogs for fun, not really to know stuff or to be “enlightened” about life. I don’t care for things like that. I’m only here for the stories.
Although, lately, the blogs that I enjoy the most are getting harder and harder to find and a lot of the blogs I loved to read have stopped blogging… It can be a bit disheartening when you want to blog and read for fun and everything else tells you what you’re doing isn’t the right way to do it.
I sort of see myself in the future writing and sharing stories, but probably not reading other blogs so much… which I guess is where I am now. I try to make connections with people in the comments instead.
LikeLike
There are a lot of factors that contribute to who I read- I guess I didn’t expect folks to pinpoint one exactly 🙂 I really appreciate your thoughts! (And thank you for the kind words!)
You’re really good at engaging in the comments sections. Some blogger just leave a line or two (which is fine) but I’ve noticed that you tend to really connect in the comments section. I think that’s great!
LikeLike
I used to comment back when someone commented on my blog, but at some point I stopped caring about etiquette and now I only comment when I’m interested. Even on my favorite blogs. It feels so much more genuine to me than commenting just for the sake of commenting and it leads to many more real conversations.
I absolutely don’t think you should change your content based on what I, or anyone really, thinks, because a good chunk of the enjoyment of blogging is the freedom to write whatever you want. That being said, my favorite posts are ones about social issues, books, and animals. ❤
LikeLike
Thank you for the thoughts, Jenn! I find myself visiting many blogs but only commenting when I feel myself having a thought or a reaction. I think that’s more genuine and honest sometimes. That said, I do forced out a comment here or there fore blogger that I absolutely love- even if I’m not totally into their post that day, haha.
I’m a fan of those topics, too!
LikeLike
I like reading your blog because you seem genuine as a person, and you’re blog seems authentic. I also appreciate that you’re positive but not in an overbearing way. I want to know about your life!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Elyse! You’re so kind and encouraging! 🙂 I really appreciate that! Your blog is so fun for me to read because I love seeing what life is like across the border, even if we are in somewhat similar countries!
LikeLike
Hey! I actually read and follow your blog because I love your content. Its very personal, funny and sometime thought provoking for me. i just started blogging and I look to you a lot to get my creative juices flowing so thank you for inspiring me.
LikeLike
Oh my gosh, you are seriously too sweet, Pam! Thank you for saying that! The blog community never fails to get my creative juices flowing and I’m glad you’re experiencing the same thing! Thank you so much for your comment!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve been doing some serious blogging reflection lately and trying to replace advertisements with actually content. I do struggle with commenting though because I still have the fear of not being a good enough blogger to warrant “advertising” my blog. Reaching out to people is scary to me, especially when it’s a well established blog. When I first started blogging I somehow managed to find bloggers who were also just starting out. I’m familiar with quite a few of the bloggers you mentioned but I am totally going to check out the rest of them now. Thanks for the recommendations, and the invitation to comment. Have a great week! 🙂
LikeLike
Oh my gosh, Donna! Feel free to comment ANY time!
I know that somewhere out there in Internet-World is a very ugly, competitive, troll-y world of blogging, but I have yet to experience that! Any of those ladies I listed up there would LOVE to get a comment from you- never second guess your presence here!
Thank you for the comment! I hope your week is going great!
LikeLike
There have certainly been blogs in the past where I just wanted to comment and return the favor because they commented on my blog. But the majority of blogs I read because I enjoy them. I just honestly don’t have a lot of time to keep up with reading and commenting like I used to, which makes me sad. I enjoy reading confession session type posts, and I like book reviews (although I’ve been slacking on my reading lately!). I really want to find more blogs written by working moms but those are hard to come by because we’re all so busy (totally get it obviously!). I’ve never been a fan of weekend recap posts. I’ve never found one that isn’t boring unless it’s about one specific event or something. Otherwise I tend to skip them or at least skim and not comment.
LikeLike
I fall into the habit of returning the read/comment when I’m unfamiliar with a blogger. That said, I have a list of people I tend to check in on throughout the week to catch up on new posts.
You’re balancing A LOT. No need to get down on yourself about missing a post here or there or skipping the comments section 🙂
There really aren’t too many working-mom-blogs out there. Reading about the balance would be very interesting, though! I’m always impressed when you blog about it!
Thank you for commenting!
LikeLike
I came to your blog the first time because you commented on one of my posts and I always try to visit a new commenters blog to check them out. I am always looking for new blogs to read and hope that it is one I will enjoy. I come back every post because I enjoy reading what you have to say. You are genuine and real life and that is all I really look for in a blog. Whether you are talking about a thought you had, what you did lately, the books you read, whatever….I enjoy reading and you are on my daily read list.
LikeLike
Holy cow, that was so flattering to read. You’re on my daily read list, too! 😀
I tend to do the same thing- follow up on blogs that I think look/sound interesting, then I’ll stick around if I like their voice or content.
Thank you so much for commenting, Nadine!
LikeLike
This is going to sound like I am avoiding the question but I really do love reading everything on here. I think the posts I most love to read (in general) are the posts where you can tell someone wanted to write them. I least enjoy the posts where it’s obvious someone felt like they HAD to blog that day, so they did.
LikeLike
That’s not avoiding the question! I totally agree with you- especially when people get fired up. You know that they just felt so called to write those words. I think it makes me look at bloggers with new eyes. (I loved your post-election post about teachings for Jack!) Thank you so much for contributing your thoughts to this, Chelsea!
LikeLike
Well, I’m a bit of anomaly since I just started reading your blog. 🙂 I’ve commented on your Show Us Your Books posts because I try to comment on everybody’s post, not because I’m such a great participant but I’m book greedy. 🙂 Jenn brought me here after the election and I’ve stayed because I have enjoyed what I’ve read so far and you’ve made me feel welcome. Not only by visiting/commenting on my blog, but some blogs don’t always make you very welcome. Like you’re not a part of their squad. and go away. I’m not overly familiar with your content to comment on what I like, but I am drawn to people who are authentic. They share triumphs and hurts. They don’t pretend to live perfect Instagram lives. They are funny, witty and compassionate. So I think if you continue to do those things – people will always read.
LikeLike
Thank you, Tanya! I’m glad you found your way here! 🙂 I DEFINITELY do not have a perfect Instagram life, haha 😉 I think it’s just as helpful to have some advice from a new reader as it is from someone who’s been around a while. I appreciate you taking the time to comment! Hopefully I can come up with some funny, witty stuff for the future- it’s a struggle for me! Haha!
LikeLike
I choose the blogs I read both because they interest me and because they comment to me. Not just as a return the favor thing but because I feel, like with you, that with all the comments back and forth that we’re friends now and I read what you post because I like YOU, and whatever take you have on a topic would be of interest to me. If I don’t feel like I connect with the blogger as a person, I won’t read regardless of the topic.
In general throughout the blog world, I love posts about pets the most, let’s be honest 🙂 I also like reading favorites posts, things about minimalism and organizing, thoughts on life and current events, anything related to holidays. I find new topics I enjoy every day. The only ones I generally don’t read are weekend recaps, but I know lots of other people like those.
LikeLike
Thanks, Stephanie! I feel the same way- both about needing to feel that connection with another blogger and that I feel like we’ve formed a friendship through blogging (and dogs and cruelty free products and other stuff)!
I don’t ever really plan on changing my style here, but I just wondered what other people look for in blogs and what posts they find most entertaining. I’m a big fan of holiday and pet and current events posts, too!
LikeLike
I loooove your blog for the content! 🙂 Those comments that you can just tell are obligatory “you-commented-on-mine-so-here-I-am” comments are horrible. I read plenty of blogs just because I like the blog and don’t expect a comment back. I’m actually more likely to stop reading that other blog (or at least stop commenting) if they leave those types of comments instead of just not commenting at all. My favorite posts are probably the funny ones and the opinionated ones. Oh, and dog pictures are always appreciated. 🙂
LikeLike
Haha, thanks Mattie 😀 Most days I find myself hilarious but I’m never sure if it comes across in my blog (or if I AM actually funny… hahaha- K doesn’t find me as amusing as I find myself). I tend to return comments to first-time-commenters, but after that I look to see if their posts actually connect with me. The dogs pictures will always be a thing here so no worries there.
Thank you for offering your thoughts!!
LikeLike
I can’t remember how we found each other’s blogs. Was it the travel linkup? Anyway, I keep coming back to your blog for a few reasons. I think that you are a great writer and you always post new things. I loved your post called “I am a woman and that’s okay,” because a lot of women, including me, are afraid to take on hard topics like that. Recently, I loved your post about how to be happy and your post about catty women and aggressive men. So, I guess I’m saying that I like when you look at things in new ways and I like that you speak your mind. I also like your book reviews! Also, you are very sweet and I enjoy our blog friendship. I don’t read many blogs because I can’t keep up with too many. But the ones I read are the ones that I connect with, where I feel like the blogger is more of a friend than a random internet stranger, and where I feel like I am getting something out of the content they post, like I am better off for having read it. If someone doesn’t get personal or deep or thoughtful on their blog I probably won’t stick around for long. I hate the idea of someone only commenting on my blog because I comment on theirs!
LikeLike
Oh my gosh. I have no idea how to respond to comments like this because it’s just so nice of you to say these things. I really appreciate you taking the time to comment, Carolann! I can’t think of how we found one anothers’ blogs either, but I am so grateful that we did! It’s so fun to connect with someone who lives an entirely different life than me (military wife, HAWAII!) but is so relatable! I really appreciate your thoughts! Thank you so much ❤
LikeLike
First, thanks for calling me “uplifting” – that made my day.
I love coming here because I enjoy YOU. I love hearing about your life, how you view things. I like your perspective. You to me are very REAL & I appreciate that in a blogger.
LikeLike
Thank you, Rebecca Jo! Um, you are SO uplifting! I can almost always count on you to have a daily dose of positivity radiating off your blog!
You’re making me blush 🙂 I’m so appreciative of your thoughts and comment!
LikeLike
OK… did my other comment post? I’m not used to it signing me in as a Facebook account… wHATIS HAPPENING?!?!??!
LikeLike
This was the first time in a LONG time that I had to actually approve your comment. Odd!
LikeLike
Oh girl, I totally get those feelings of do they actually want to read my blog, or do they feel obligated to comment since I did? I read your blog because I love your voice. You are so authentic. I feel like if we lived in the same town, we’d be friends! 🙂
LikeLike
Thank you, Olya! I try not to second guess myself but sometimes I wonder why people hang around 🙂 Oh my gosh, we’d definitely be friends if we lived in the same town! I kept telling K that next time his business takes him to TX I’m tagging along so we can meet! Haha!
LikeLike
i like your stuff because it’s real life. i like that in a blog – relatable content and not one that’s ranty or negative or trying to shove their opinions down your throat…so keep doing what you’re doing!
LikeLike
Thank you, Kathy! I really appreciate that. It’s helpful to surround myself with other creative folks who are doing the same things- your post today is especially honest and personal. I like being a part of that kind of online community.
LikeLike
I tend to catch up on blogs in chunks because… BUSY! Yikes. I’m also awful at remembering to add people to my feed, so sometimes I read three or so posts at once and leave a bunch of comments. I like your posts because they are real! Seriously, you’re you, and I love it! I obviously love trip posts, book posts, goal posts, etc. because I blog about that! I loved your scrapbooking one too. Even the dog post (about getting one) was great! It was so incredibly informative. Plus I love a good snarky ranty post from time to time too! hhee So I think you should definitely do whatever works for you. Thank you for sharing my blog lady!! 🙂 That’s super sweet! XO – Alexandra
Simply Alexandra: My Favorite Things
LikeLike
I think we all approach blogging a little differently- especially when it comes to keeping up with ones that we follow! I never mind the chunks of comments 🙂 Thank you so much for the kind words! Dogs and the occasional rant will always make an appearance here, hehe. I’m glad you liked the scrapbooking post- I don’t usually do them but it’s something I enjoy so it’s fun to hear when other people connect with that!
Thank you so much for commenting on this!
LikeLike
I found your blog when you left a comment on mine, and I’m so glad oh did. I love you & your writing and whatever you share I will happily read! (That said, if you were looking for topics and post ideas I would gladly help brainstorm. But if that’s not what you were looking for, then just rest assured I and the many commenters above me love your blog) ❤️
LikeLike
*so glad YOU did* not oh haha
LikeLike
You’re so sweet, Julie. Some people are just so naturally uplifting and kind, and you are definitely one of those people! Thank you so much!
I’m always up for new blogging ideas (or collaborations!). Above in my post I just wondered what made people stick around, but I love your offer!
LikeLike
Your writing voice is so authentic, and I always really believe that you are writing about things because they mean something to you, whether it’s your husband, your pets, racing or random thoughts you have. Nothing feels forced here, and that’s the type of content I love, doesn’t matter what the topic is. Sometimes I won’t comment because I don’t feel moved to, but I love reading regardless.
LikeLike
Erin, you are seriously the sweetest soul. I really appreciate your thoughts (and encouragement!). I hope people never feel obliged to comment here- I’m just glad I have this space to connect with so many other wonderful bloggers! Thank you!
LikeLike
I love the personal stories. I’m all about those. And book reviews, obviously 🙂 just writing about life, thoughts, whatever always interests me most. I love that you’re not scared to shy away from politics.
LikeLike
Thanks, Michelle! You are the QUEEN of personal stories- especially ones that have me crying from laughing. (Only the ones where you end up laughing, too. Not the truly horrible-bad-day ones!) I really appreciate the comment 🙂
LikeLike
I just love your blog & outlook on life (unfortunately my spates of blogpost reading tend to coincide with remembering to answer the comments on my own blog! It’s pure coincidence!)
LikeLike
Thank you, Emma 🙂 How I WISH I had the arsenal of travel experience to blog about like you do! Nothing wrong with letting comments remind us to read or comment- we all have our ways of remembering! Thank you for the kind words!
LikeLike
First off, thanks for the mention! That means so much to me because I don’t always feel like I’m an “uplifting” person, but it’s something I’m working on.
I discover a lot of blogs because they leave me comments. I won’t lie – I find most bloggers that way. I wish I had time to read 100 blogs a day because there are so many great ones out there! I read some blogs because I enjoy their tips on putting together an outfit and their home/beauty-related tips. Look – I like pretty pictures and I’ll never lie about that! But then I read some blogs because I connect with the blogger. It’s not always their content I’m there for… I know not everyone likes or watches Gilmore Girls, but some people read my posts because we have built a “relationship”. I don’t think it’s obligation, more that I enjoy what you have to say, even if it’s not something I’m into. It’s a great way to learn. Your blog is for YOU and I think we lose sight of that as we’re all pushed to monetize and promote. If you’re not writing what makes you happy, it will show.
LikeLike
Thank you so much for the thoughts, Lindsay! I 100% agree that if I’m not writing about something I enjoy or feel passionately about it’s going to show in my work. This really is a fun outlet/hobby for me, so I won’t be changing anything. I was just curious about what drew people here! 🙂 I think your blog has actually gotten me MORE into beauty- I’ve used so many of your suggested products!
LikeLike
I always look forward to reading your blog. It always makes me smile and gives a little insight. I’m probably a little biased but I love your writing style 😉
LikeLike
Hahaha, thanks Gail 😉 I don’t know what makes you think you might be biased, but I’m willing to overlook that! ❤
LikeLike
I know we’re new-ish blog buddies but I’ve really enjoyed your blog and always like seeing a new post pop up in my Bloglovin! As far as content, I think my favorite posts from people are the more personal ones that let us get a glimpse into who they are and what they’re up to like currently posts, Five on Friday, and just random thoughts they’re having! 🙂
LikeLike
Thank you for the thoughts, Steph! New-ish blog readers’ advice is certainly welcome! I agree that I usually look forward to life updates, especially from bloggers that I feel have become my “friend” via blogland.
LikeLike
I’m late to the game, but quite simply I like to read things that are real. What really happens, what you really think, etc. Life is in the details, and I like to see everyone’s take on the details. That’s the writing where the personality comes through – the turn of phrase, the humor. I love that stuff even if it’s about freaking laundry. I’m not much for curated and perfect blogs, and I don’t necessarily like how tos.
LikeLike
I have no issues with delayed responses 🙂 Thank you for your thoughts! I agree with you- I tend to love the personal/funny/heartfelt stories more than the how-tos or posts about blogging/followers/the perfect picture 🙂
LikeLike