Be helpful or entertain.
Somewhere along the way I read that this was the hard and fast rule of blogging. It makes sense, right? We all have busy, full lives so if you are going to take the time to read another’s thoughts online, you’d like it to serve some purpose.
Help me with a problem I have. Whether it’s simple (how do I roast sweet potatoes so they’re crispy?) or more complex (how do I hold on to my identity once I become a mom?), finding a solution would be a valuable use of my time.
Entertain me. Make me laugh. Make me think. Enlighten me on a new topic of discussion. These are all things that feel like a good use of my time as well.
I totally see this as a blog reader, but as a blog writer, it can sometimes feel like a weight on my shoulders. Helping with a problem, even if it’s area in which I feel fairly confident, can come across as arrogant, which is honestly one of my least favorite qualities a person can have. Entertaining, well, I wouldn’t actually consider that my strong suit. I’m not inherently funny (until after a glass of wine, in which case I become hilarious).
My passion and strength is in sharing and connecting. It’s where I pull my energy from. I love people. I love discussing ideas. I love different viewpoints. It’s probably why it feels like I’m so often waxing poetic towards you (thank you for reading; I love y’all; etc). Because it’s true. The best part of blogging for me is connecting with you and sharing my joy, viewpoints, and struggles of life with you.
As I do my usual year-end overview of the blog, I’m trying to dig into the data to find what works and what doesn’t in this space: topics, engagement-wise, visually. Those results (page views, high engagement, sharing of posts) coupled with the topics I most enjoy writing about is helping me focus in on areas I should keep writing about and those I should leave behind.
I also want your input. I’m not going to be putting together a survey, but in the comments, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the following:
- Why do you visit blogs? What are some of your favorites? Why do you love them?
- Do you have any specific topics or questions that would make for interesting blog posts? If you leave a specific one, I will put it on my 2017 list, as I’m hoping to make a reader request post a regular thing. Again, conversations with you are the best.
I know the popular response is to say “write about whatever it is you want!” I think that is admirable advice but writing posts 4 days a week means occasionally (often) I have a blank mind (can I blame that on the kiddos?) and there are only so many pictures of day to day life I can share before your eyes roll back in your head. Hearing feedback and making it feel more like a conversation with a friend ignites my excitement in writing and sharing. So I’d love specific thoughts on topics you find engaging to add to my 2017 brainstorming, which is officially scribbled down on a legal pad. I’m high tech like that.
And because another “rule” is all posts must have an image, let me shamelessly share another from our fall family photo shoot.
Thank you and I hope you are all having a wonderful week!
Ali says
I like informative blogs. How to do this. How you solved that. Why do this. Why pick that. I love photos too. I like the occasional “Hailey at 5” and Kaitlyn at 2 type of posts because I also consider that informative because you get to see what other people are doing with their kids at a similar age.
I love your cooking posts β¦ How to make a dish or a meal etc.
I like the ones what to do when you’re in this city or where to stay or how to do something that is kid friendly. Kind of like your cruise post.
Most of all, just love YOU
John J. says
“Write about whatever it is you want”. Oops. Keep doing what you have been doing. The strength of your blog is that you are real – refreshingly open. Your passion, interests, perspectives, fun loving style, and advice ring true and invite the reader to connect with you, and hopefully, with self to determine what fits. You live a life of integrity, focused on being healthy for yourself and your adorable family. You are a good role model! Keep ’em comin’!
Josephine sharpe says
I’ve got to agree with your Dad on this. I love reading your blog because it’s real and I can relate to it as I am in the same stage of life (raising children) and I enjoy the variety of posts about recipes, your weekends, advice, family photos etc. I tire of blogs quickly where it is all artifice and perfect and trying to sell me whatever. I’ve followed your blog for years because of your unique voice it just keeps drawing me back.
Kate says
I have to agree! I’ve been reading blogs for year – and yours is the ONLY one that I’ve read for all those years. Others were interesting for a while, but there was no real connection or authenticity that kept me interested for longer. I like that you cover several topics. Personally, I wouldn’t be interested in just recipes, because that’s not how I cook. I never read past the ingredients… π I love to see the kids and parenting posts, but then again, only those wouldn’t keep me coming back. It’s the mix, the occasional coffee date post, the weekend posts, and the “helpful” posts. Keep it up!
Dana says
I so agree! I read your blog because of your authenticity. I love the variety of your posts, that is why I keep coming back. I love the “mix” like Kate said….the recipes, weekly meal plans, parenting tips, loving lately posts…its not all the same all the time which I love. Thanks for always keeping it real and keep doing what your doing π
Jessica says
I go to blogs and read blogs where I fee like I can connect to the writer. Whether that be diy projects, information about something, fun activities, or just fun with family I like to feel connected. I enjoy how you write your blog and what you write about, so I’m not helpful because I say keep doing what you are doing. π
alexis says
Hi Brittany,
I’ve been reading your blog for a year or two although I’ve never commented (sorry! there have been many times when I’ve been inspired, so thank you!) I’m also a mom of two little ones, and I love hearing stories from other moms. I wanted to say that for me, the advice is just a bonus, but not the core of a blog. Sure, I’ll stop by blogs that are full of good advice, but to become a loyal reader, I like to feel like the person writing the blog is a human learning simple life lessons through everyday experiences, just like me. I think your blog does a great job at this.
Melissa says
Authenticity! This is why I like your blog, I feel like I’m getting to know the real you and that you aren’t always promoting products. I have a 2.5 year old and one on the way so I love to hear how your girls are doing, how your organize your days etc. I would love to hear more about your homeschooling activities. Love the blog as is ! π
Dale says
I would love to see a post about where to START making your family healthier. Back before kids I used to eat pretty healthy, exercise, etc. but after having three kids in five years I’m afraid I’ve fallen so far off the wagon I don’t even know where to start getting back on! I still follow a few “healthy living” blogs from back when I used to actually BE healthy, but now everything seems too daunting. Kale salad?! I’m lucky if I can throw some romaine in a bowl with ranch and get that on the table. Many nights lately I’ve realized I’m not even serving a vegetable with dinner!! I hope I don’t sound whiney and pathetic, but I would love some tips for starting a healthy lifestyle from ground zero. (I also think this would be a great post for around new year’s resolution time!!) Thanks for all you share, after many years your blog is still one of my favorites!
Brittany Dixon says
Hi Dale- I love your post suggestion! Would you mind if I used your comment in the introduction to a post on this topic?
Dale says
You totally can! Thanks for asking π
Michelle G. says
House tour!
Also, your thoughts on your house. Is it too big, too small, or just the right size?
Brittany Dixon says
Hi Michelle! I’m scrolling through these comments for post suggestions and just saw your question. We really love our home, but will probably choose a smaller house whenever we get to the point to buy another one. It is working well for raising kids but eventually I’d love a smaller home with more character and a cozier feel (and lower heating/cooling bills! ;)). Fun question- thanks!
Kerry says
I read mostly healthy living blogs, so I appreciate things like healthy recipes and meal planning inspiration. But I have to tell you, lately I have really been appreciating your parenting topics as I’m about to become a new parent myself. I really admire your dedication to raising kind, motivated, generous, problem solving children. It’s something I’ve thought about before, and it’s something I want to make a very conscious effort to do, but it’s so overwhelming to think about and I had no idea where to start. It’s so helpful to hear your advice and specific ideas for this type of thing. Any other parenting topics you want to approach will be appreciated over here!
Krista says
I’d love a post on how you and David prioritize your relationship while having two young kids. How often do you do date nights? Do you do couples therapy? How do you manage to create “me time” for one another?
Sue says
I am a long-time reader and first-time commenter (maybe second?). Itβs so refreshing to read a blog where it just feels so authentic. I love reading your blog to get insight into your life β family, fitness, parenting, meal planning, etc. Your style is so in line with how I want to and try to live my life. My husband and I donβt have kids yet, but are planning to in the very near future. I love all of your posts relating to that β kids, family, marriage, etc. Sorry I couldnβt be more helpful in what Iβd like to see from your blog going forward! I simply love it as is. π
Heather says
I love all of your posts – so well thought our and written. If I had to pick a favorite topic it would be anything surrounding raising H&K. This is probably due to the fact that I have a 2 year old and I love seeing what works and what doesn’t work for other moms. I also love anything surrounding kids and food, growing up as a little girl, raising mindful kids etc. OK so basically anything I can relate to! I guess they selfishly have more meaning to me π Don’t get me wrong, I am always down for a little Day In The Life as well. Just keep up the good work girl!
Allison says
Hi Brittany! I’ll do my best to be brief. 1) I follow many blogs, but mostly cooking blogs. I used to write one myself, so I still follow quite a few food blogs to fuel my love of cooking and connecting over healthy meals. And because I am now cooking for a 3 and 1 year old, so I’m constantly looking for inspiration! I also follow a small handful of lifestyle/motherhood blogs (read: 1-2), including yours! I used to follow more, but as time went on, I weeded out those that I felt were preachy, arrogant, and just overall not in alignment with my feelings on inspiring others to take care of their children the best they can in any way that is important to them. The main reason I continue to follow you is because you AREN’T arrogant! You seem so real, down to earth, and tolerant of other people’s opinions and methods, and I respect that. But, honestly, you’re my daily dose of mommy optimism! Keep up the good work!! And 2) I’d actually really love to hear more about your relationship with your husband from a parenting perspective. Did you/do you always agree on parenting technique? Are there things that you prioritize (i.e. screen time, snacking, bedtimes, etc) in a certain way that he doesn’t necessarily prioritize the same way, and has it ever/does it cause you to clash? How did you/do you compromise? For me, this has been one of the hardest parts of parenting! My husband and I treat each other as equal partners, but we were raised differently (read: not wrong!) and each prioritize certain things over others, which can affect the way we prioritize these things for our children. I’d love to hear your take on that!
Laura Lynn Stubbs says
Your blog is the only blog I’ve continued to read every day (for over 5 years now)– so you are doing it right! I appreciate all of the topics you write about and your authenticity! I look forward to reading your posts and I frequently pin or bookmark them and look back for advice. Thank you for sharing your stories with us!!
Erica says
I have read a lot of blogs over the years, but as life has become busier and my values have become more clear, I have wittled down the list to the bloggers I connect with the most, even if we have never met (And I have been fortunate enough to meet a blogger who I now consider a good friend!). But the common theme is that I mostly read blogs about people trying to live their best life, full of intention and integrity. That, I think, is the major goal of adulthood, right? We all have bad days, and it’s good for me to see other (mostly) women struggling with that and their desire to do better while having self compassion. You really hit the mark there. So I really appreciate your honest posts about life and parenting. I truly enjoy all of your posts.
As for the posts of yours specifically that I like ….
– meal planning and kids meals
– the disney cruise reviews were helpful and inspirational
– parenting realism and optimism
– toy reviews / suggestions. I have a son and always turn here for suggestions for girls
Erin says
I love your blog and the authenticity behind it. And even though you might feel like a reader would tire of the day to day type stuff because it’s not “new” or a new recipe or how too (even though that stuff is awesome too) I think the value is in the genuineness of the relationship you build with readers by showing up as your authentic self. It’s just like if I talk to my best friends or my sisters about what’s going on in their lives and kiddos etc, I don’t want them to stop telling me about it or I don’t get bored of hearing about it because I’ve heard about it last week. I’m invested in them and love the continued story. I also love the coffee date type posts and day in the life posts. I’d also like to see some more “where to start” type of posts as someone mentioned earlier. You have an amazing blog and I love to read it!
Allison says
First I love your blog, its great to see updates about your sweet family ect! However what i am most drawn to is the FOOD. I honestly feel like you give your kiddos food they want to eat vs wanting nuggets and fries (which of course happens!) I would love more on meal planning, with a focus on what all goes together. Is that weird? I often seem to roast a TON of veggies so we end up with a protein or pasta with randomness. Example: last night we had baked ravioli and roasted broccoli. I thought it was fine, but it didn’t really GO together.
I also would love to see meal prep you do for the week and how much TIME things actually take you (you know wrangling 2 kids and trying to make dinner;)) And any tips and tricks you might have for mamas of all age kiddos (I have a 13 mo old so “go play” doesn’t work for me yet!)
This might be a touch personal so I totally get not talking about it on the blog but I do enjoy the parenting post but would love more on how you and David deal with disconnects. I love my husband but man oh man since having a kid we just seem to have silly fights about well random stuff. I would love to see how you balance out your relationship- WITH the kids now in the mix.
I do really enjoy your blog, I think you do a great job with a mix of everything!
RANDi says
I enjoy your blog because my daughter is just a bit younger than yours, so it’s helpful to see how your days look and what activities you enjoy. Also, in general, I enjoy blogs where I see shared values (health,family, balance, etc).
I wanted to comment that it’s the little things that can be helpful, like how you entertained the kids while making dinner, WHAT to make for dinner, the little things that things I might be grappling with that weave in and around your authentic and open posts.
Do what your heart desires and what feels right. The readers can hear authenticity more than anything.
Anna B says
I’d like to hear more about ‘how to teach children to play independently’ and other things that are helpful in raising young children/toddlers (i.e. alternative methods to correct/discipline besides spanking)
I also would like to see more quick/healthy meals. I’m a working mom so I need super quick meal ideas.
AND baby led weaning. I know you have some already but anything helpful would be great
keep up the hard work!
Jeannie says
I love everything about your blog and it’s my fave blog to follow. Love bloglovin, Instagram and snap. Love seeing and hearing real life. Love the posts related to ..motherhood and parenting, Friday faves and scenes from the weekend or vacations, recipe ideas for kids and adults and what I ate in a day posts, things to do around the holiday or arts and crafts with kids, homeschool and kid projects, book ideas and movies, outfits and accessories and shoes ideas, date nights or day date ideas with hubby, how to prioritize exercise and meal planning and meal prep and juggle it all. Love seeing the kids as well. Basically I love it all and gives me ideas that I can steal. π
Heather says
I really, really enjoy reading your blog. You just seem very authentic and true. So many blogs just seem very curated, and like there is such an obvious attempt to monetize and get clicks. I recognize that you have a very successful blog, but I feel like you have a more subtle approach than some. I like that I can relate to you, and as a working mother it can be hard to connect with some of the bloggers out there. You also have some diverse topics that I enjoy seeing, but I also just love reading about your day-to-day life. Whatever you are doing, keep it up!
Jennifer says
I found your blog about 3.5 years ago and have been following pretty much every day since! Your the only blog I follow every day although I scan several other food blogs. My favorite posts are your meal planning posts because I love meal planning and reading how you feed your family – we are a family of 5. Call me crazy but I love seeing what you put in your Whole Foods Cart! I enjoy your healthy mind set and everything moderation attitude – since I started reading I have finally been able to achieve that lifestyle attitude and I’ve never been happier! I also really enjoy your product reviews, we ended up buying BookRoo after your review last year! π Also I liked your review of the Disney Cruise because it gave general trips on traveling with kids. We will never do a Disney Cruise personally but just the kid tips in general were great when we went on our first family vacation over the summer. I also enjoy your clothing/personal style reviews for Moms too. I also like to see what activities you do with your kids since I have kids the same age.
Taryn says
All the blogs I read are moms of small children. I feel like I can relate to them. I like hearing about their struggles and successes, because it makes me feel like I’m not alone in my own struggles. I like reading about day-to-day life. I like day in the life, what I ate in a day, etc. I think because this gives me little tips/tricks when the blogger isn’t necessarily trying to do this (oh, they load their kids in the car first, then go in to get the rest of the stuff? Genius! Best way to keep the kids entertained while the mom is preparing dinner. Those types of things).
I also LOVE meal and snack posts. I actually made your black bean soup over the weekend and have been eating it for lunch this week. I made these amazing pumpkin muffins from another blog over the weekend as well.
I also enjoy posts where people go inside and share more “deep” topics. I’m brand-new to the blog world (started in September of this year) and try to incorporate at least one “deeper, more meaningful” post each week.
These are the bloggers I follow on a regular basis. I also visit blogs randomly for DIY stuff. But these blogs I will visit once and not go back. I like more of the lifestyle/healthy living blog for daily reading. Good luck planning for next year. Love your blog and have followed for years!
Liz T says
I enjoy your blog a lot. I read a variety of food blogs, parenting blogs and a couple royal-following blogs (a cup of jo, mix and match mama, lauren’s latest, what’s good at trader joe’s, the royal order of sartorial splendor, to name a few)
My favorite posts of yours are the meal/menu recaps with shopping lists, the life lately, tea talk and then seeing the girls at different ages and general parenting posts- so most all of them! While I understand monetizing the blog is a priority, I tend to not like the “sponsored” posts as to me they seem innately inauthentic or canned.
Thoughts for posts for 2017… I love your perspective on parenting, especially raising kind and compassionate kids. One thing I haven’t seen you address is the privilege and even specifically white privilege from which your family benefits. I’d love to hear if and how you speak to your girls about their privilege and how being in a position of power/privilege also obligates one to use that privilege for the greater good in whatever ways possible. Race, privilege, diversity and people’s differences are topics I think about often and wonder how to best address with my kids and I’d love to see posts about tricky subjects like that.
Other ideas would be… I enjoyed your post on Boone (and Disney!). Also being from NC, I’d love to see more posts about different sites in the state that y’all visit with the kids and how it goes, tips, etc.
Cassie says
This year your blog has become one of my favorite to read! My favorite type s of blogs to read are ones that show the not so perfect sides of life! It’s easy to read a blog and feel like why can I do that? So, really, I love a more behind the scenes look of a blooper. I dentify best with with moms that write about their kid screaming mom the ENTIRE way home from work, tantrums, stress in picking preschool, staying sane, etc…
Love reading!!
Heather says
I follow A LOT of blogs and often for different reasons. Most importantly, though, there is something that I connect with, more often than not parenting and day to day life with kids whether that be how moms balance their time with their kids, what moms cook when they’re busy with kids or moms who are downright funny. I enjoy when bloggers are real most of all. As I try to make more time in my life I’ve stopped following some blogs and usually it’s because I feel like they’ve lost their luster. Some bloggers have sponsored posts ALL the time and it often just feels so fake. I’m all for sponsored posts, but it has to feel somewhat real. I also love photo heavy blogs – I’m a visual person. Haha. So… ultimately I like honesty, food, tips, parenting, family, health and wellness, pretty things, creativity and kid stuff in the blogs I follow. π
Kim says
I echo others…yours it the only blog I have stayed with for all these years. You are real and the make me wish you lived by me, you’re the type of person I know people will turn to for advice and be there with a cup of sugar and wine in hand π Love the reviews, receipes, day in the life, how to’s. Would love a house tour too!
Lisa says
Hi Brittany! For me, your blog is my absolute favorite for many reasons. On the mom front, our girls are super close in age (mine are 4 and 7) so, much of what you’re doing with your kids, cooking for your kids, giving them for snacks, gives me such great ideas and meal inspiration! I completely agree with you on all things food. Don’t restrict, enjoy a variety of healthy, nutrient dense foods, and when you feel like having a treat, enjoy that too!
I also love your posts on the things that recharge us as women. Your time with your friends and husband, your trip to Sephora, and posts or pictures reminding us to slow down when needed. Make that cup of tea and sit and have some quiet time instead of folding the laundry when we need a break.
I would say, don’t change a thing! I enjoy it all. That being said, I can totally understand how a girl can need some new ideas when writing 4 times a week! I like the idea of a house tour, those are always fun. I also enjoy hearing about what a person’s “staples” are at the grocery store. You could do a “meal-prep with me for the week,” where on Friday you can share with us some things you like to prep over the weekend to get your family ready for the week ahead. And I LOVED your New Year’s challenge last year (or maybe it was the year before!) where you chose a list to go from that helped you in each area of your house to clean it up, declutter, and have it functioning better for the year ahead.
As for other blogs I enjoy, I love Enjoying the Small Things (Kelle Hampton) Beautiful photography and extremely sentimental and sweet. Dig this Chick, again, beautiful photography and such a fun insight into Montana living.
Okay! Thanks again for all the work and love you put into your blog. Its the best!
Morgan says
I love pictures. I’m a visual person so if a post has no pictures throughout, I loose interest quickly.
As a new mom I love seeing posts about your daily life with your girls…really about anything.
I also enjoy real conversations, struggles, things that you learn along the way in life. I feel that reading these types of post help me not only connect with you as the writer but also help with other areas of my life whether your topic necessarily pertains to me or not. It’s all about perspective.
I will say that one area I am really interested in is time management with kids.
I only have one (she’s 8 months old) and I struggle to find the time to do ANYTHING. I really don’t know how other mothers do it. So more posts like that would be very enjoyable to me.
Emily G says
I honestly started to read blogs while searching the internet one day at work when our volumes were low and we were struggling with keeping busy all day. But I have continued because it’s nice to read and know I am not alone – that others are facing some of the same things I am in life π What I love most about yours is reading your updates specific to your youngest as my daughter is just a few months younger so it’s nice to know what to look forward (or not sometimes lol) to and any “tips/tricks” you found helpful during that phase of toddlerhood π
Kathleen says
I think I’m going to echo almost everyone by saying yours is one of the only blogs I follow and I love it because you’re so genuine in letting us have a peek into your life. The only other blog I follow consistently is Renegade Mothering, which is another very real mom I can relate to. I love the day to day posts and am always amazed at how much you manage to get done- so maybe some time management tips! I also appreciate how much time and research you put into your informational posts on health and education, I always feel confident that the information you’re giving us has been well researched and it’s always helpful when it comes time to make decisions for my own family. I agree with some of the other commenters about liking the posts about your relationship with your husband in regards to parenting-although I know that putting marital stressors out for the world could be too personal. And I never think there are too many pictures-keep em coming!
Also, thanks for being so optimistic in all that you share- even on the rough days, I truly appreciate your positive outlook- Can’t wait to see what 2017 brings to the blog π
Shelley says
I read blogs for a variety of reasons – a dose of positivity, meal ideas, slice of life, seeing how others handle with ups and downs of life with grace, fashion, home decor, and pregnancy/raising children topics. I love your blog for its authenticity, uplifting nature, and sense of humor, and I seek out similar blogs. I’d love to see more of the same on your blog in the coming year – meal planning, healthy eating ideas for adults and kids, and thoughts about raising kind, responsible kids. I’d be interested in hearing more about giving back to others and how you model that and get kids involved in it.
Tracy says
Hi Brittany,
I’m a huge reader. Love to read any and everything! I especially love to read novels though. I actually read blogs mostly for daily life posts (but I also love useful content like how-to’s, fashion, recipes, etc). For me, following my favorite blogs is almost like reading a novel! A story about someone’s life. My favorite blogs are Fitnessista, KathEats, IowaGirlEats, CarrotsnCake, HungryRunnerGirl, PeanutButterFingers and YOURS! Of course π
Merry Xmas! Love your blog π
Kristin says
I used to follow a TON of blogs, but now it’s really down to 2-3 that I follow regularly. Yours is one of them. The ones I still follow are the ones that I connect with – we’re in similar phases of life, we have similar values, we like similar things, etc. If we lived in the same city, I could absolutely see us being friends, which is a major reason I keep reading what you have to say. I’m in the thick of life with 2 little kids (8 months and 2.5 years), so anything to do with raising kids/things to do with kids/kid-centric always appeals to me. I love day in the life posts, updates on life with kids at certain ages, and family-centered activities. I like when you address certain topics like teaching intrinsic motivation, family meals. I appreciate when you keep things real – especially with regards to this kids. Your girls seem incredibly well behaved, which is certainly a tribute to your parenting, but sometimes it’s a relief to know they still act like kids. You keep things optimistic, which is trait I really try to work on – I tend to focus on the negatives but that’s no fun! I’d love to hear more about the big plans you and David have for your future. You’ve alluded to it a few times, but I understand if you prefer keeping those ideas to yourself. Overall, keep doing what you’re doing!
Julie says
Hi Brittany, I think you have an excellent mix of content on your blog. It’s def one of my faves. My fave blogs tend to be the ones whose lives I’ve come to care about b/c the author is authentic, open, down-to-earth, funny, honest, etc. These are qualities I look for in my friends, & I guess that’s what my fave bloggers have become to me, in a sense. The blogs I follow tend to be predominantly food and/or healthy lifestyle blogs w/ a few others thrown in the mix. Some of my faves (besides yours!) are: Iowa Girl Eats, Fitnessista, Camp Patton, Sweet Tooth Sweet Life, Brown Eyed Baker, Cookies & Cups, Confessions of a Cookbook Queen, A Foodie Stays Fit, Peanut Butter Runner, Peanut Butter Fingers, Daily Garnish & The Hungry Runner Girl. I do really like pulling new recipes to try off of blogs, but other than that I’d say my main motivation is the entertainment factor. By “entertainment” though, I would certainly include things that you might think are “mundane” to write about. For example, I love reading about you wknds w/ the girls & David. After reading for so many years, I’ve come to care about you & your family & enjoy reading about what you’ve been up to as well as mourn along w/ you when you had to say goodbye to your dog. π So while you really don’t want to hear “keep doing what you’re doing”… π it’s really just your personality that shines through your blog, which makes it such a gem. Also, we share a lot of the same values so I really identify w/ your opinion on things & do find a lot of your content very helpful.
P. S. My daughter came down w/ a terrible cold last wknd, & I frantically pulled up your recent post on home remedies & ran out & bought her some elderberry syrup, & it was magic! So thank you!!!
Peta says
Seasons greetings to you and your family! Love your blog–thanks for writing. I love hearing about and observing your values and how you put them into action.
amy says
Love your blog as a new mom because it gives me lots of food for thought on how I want to parent, feed my toddler, activities to do with her locally, etc. Would love a post on balancing being a part time working mom, part time SAHM with a husband who has long work hours and travels a ton. I feel burned out by being the sole parent most days. Would love your take on this, any advice as I know your husband has crazy work hours too.
Michelle says
Hi! I have been reading your blog for a long time…Pre Hailey!
1. I visit blogs because I love connecting with people. I rarely watch tv anymore but I feel like when one of my favorite bloggers has a new post up its similar to a new episode of my favorite show. I like seeing how other people live, that might sound creepy but just nosy I think! Some of my other favorite blogs are PaleOMG, KathEats, CarrotsnCake and Fitnessista. HealthyTippingPoint used to be also but she no longer blogs.
2. I love the mix of things on your blog: recipes, family photos, travel, how tos. I also share your love for grocery shopping and meal planning:) I don’t have kids so sometimes I skip the specific kid related posts but I do love hearing about the day to day things that you do with the girls. I would be interested in knowing if you and David budget on a regular basis and maybe more of the mechanics of running your household. I know you have your State of the Household meeting annually and I guess I am just curious about that. Also, I like that you don’t do many sponsored posts. I understand that you put a lot of time into your blog and definitely deserve to be compensated but sometimes I think bloggers do them too often and it feels like watching a commercial. Any thoughts on getting a new pup? That would be an interesting post!!
Thanks for everything!
Haley @ Hobson Homestead says
I love following you because our kids are similar ages so all posts about kids resonate with where I am in life right now. I would love to hear more about your homeschooling going forward (the good and the bad!), fun recipes to make with kids, indoor activities for rainy/snowy days, etc. I also love the healthy living and eating posts. The nice thing about reading a lifestyle blog like yours is you get a little bit of everything, which I like!
ErikaMC says
With having a 5 year old and 7 month old I enjoy the kid posts – the day to day stuff, educational, tips, etc. I think those are both informative and entertaining.
Austin says
I enjoy reading your blog because of the variety. If I had to choose one topic I enjoy the most, it would be the parenting posts (like yesterday’s post on raising intrinsically motivated kids, your children and food blog posts, your blog posts on TV, etc.). That being said, I think I would get bored if that’s all you discussed! I come here every day first to read your blog before others and strongly enjoy the mix of content. I also love that your recipe page is clean and organized, and isn’t overwhelmed with recipes but only your tried and true best. I am sitting here thinking of what you could cut out that I would be ok with, and I can’t think of anything! One topic I am interested in hearing about (if ya’ll continue to go this route) is homeschooling and how you make it work for your family. It’s one of many options we have considered. Hope you have a Merry Christmas!
Angie says
Brittany,
I follow several blogs and I like yours, Sweet Tooth Sweet Life, and Andrea Dekkar the best. You, Andrea, and Courtney are both so genuine. While you like fashion for yourself and dressing your girls in cute clothes, I don’t get the sense that “appearance” is above relationships. That’s must be difficult to keep in check because a blog is a place where photos, quality photos are key. Your gift guides for girls help me every year for my daughter. Right now I have “Ticket to Ride” on my wish listπ€ I enjoy your meal plan, seeing what is in your shopping cart, and sharing recipes. Keep posting about your weekend, family adventures, and vacations. I like reading about your family life. I would love to hear about women’s struggles like difficult friendships, not comparing yourself to others, or setting goals. Thanks so much for opening up and sharing yourself and your life with us!
Ange says
Hi! I just discovered your blog this year and it has quickly become a “must read” in my Feedly reader. I love how you’re not all about sponsored posts! It’s nice! I read a range of blogs but gravitate mostly towards mom blogs, like Daily Garnish (but it’s way too sponsored now) lifestyle blogs like Cup of Jo. Have you ever written about your family’s budget? I love anything around that topic. I really like your weekly meal menus too. I just recently baked sausage/sheet pan recipe.
Beth says
Totally agree with your dad and many of the other readers here. I really, really enjoy your authenticity the most. And your down-to-earth normality.
I do not have kids yet but am hoping for them soon. So right now, your blog is like an (entertaining) sneak peak into what it might be like to have kids. But, I also like that I can look back on it for advice on kids-related stuff.
I am very into interior design and architecture, so I follow tons of design blogs. I really enjoy that you are NOT presenting the slick, perfect image to world. It’s a nice break from the polished perfection of many interior designer’s blogs (although I love them too:)
Leah says
I enjoy reading your blog because you seem so real and genuine. You are full of positivity! Can you do a post on staying positive when life in mommy world keeps throwing you curve balls? I first found you years ago probably due to health and food topics. I love seeing new meal ideas. Reading how you balance it all with kids. You are one of my favorites. It’s fun just getting a peak into your life.
Emily K says
I really like to read blogs that are a mixed of fun silliness, information and discussion. I have two small kids like you are feel like reading your day to day, fears and thoughts about motherhood resonate the most with me. While I live in Texas and work 40 hours a week outside the home, it is amazing the amount I feel really relates so well to me. I think a few topics that I would love to see you explore more in depth would be:
-Homeschooling – in general, what is pulling you towards this, what you have learned over the course of the first few months.
-Relationships – keeping the spark in your marriage, dealing with outside opinions, extended family relationships
-Food – quick meals for the busy nights, slow cooker meals
-Work/volunteering – you are a stay at home/work from home mom really. I would like to know how you fit that into your routine.
I really enjoy your blog and relate to it on so many levels. Enjoy your break and I look forward to hearing from you in 2017.
katie says
I like easy recipes, i’m not going to ground up my own flour/flour alternative. I also like peeks into real life, hacks that make things easier, encouragement to workout.
Jessie @ The Acquired Sass says
Not a parent, and don’t even remember how I found your blog, but I know it was YEARS ago, before I had a blog of my own.
I do LOVE reading about parenting, even though I am not a parent, yet. You bring up topics that are things I want to instill in my future kiddos, and that’s interesting to me.
Super interested in hearing more about you & David, how you keep a strong marriage, especially when it seems he works a lot, and may not even have regular hours. I deal with the same (sans kiddos).
And since I’m a total meal plan nerd, I love all things meal planning related, including seeing your grocery lists.
Carole says
Hi! I’ve been reading your blog for about 3 years and it is the only one I follow. Having a 3 year old and 9 months old myself I can relate to a lot of stuff you write about. I really like the “day in the life”, meal planning and healthy cooking, meals and snacks for babies and toddlers (munchkin meals were great) , all the tips you give on raising your wonderful girls, what you are loving lately, coffee talks and when you do “around the web” blogs that you like. I would love if you could share how you keep a healthy relationship with your husband while raising 2 little ones, how to make time for your self and your spouse, healthy cooking for small kids that are pretty quick to put together. I love your blog and how it feels real. Sometimes life is not easy and reading your blog always put things in perspective for me. Keep doing what you are doing and don’t worry about little stuff. I am not a blogger but I know that you cannot please everyone so do what you like and makes you happy. Great job on raising a wonderful family too!
A says
I love your blog!!!! You are so personable and Id love to hang out with you haha! I would like to see less pretty pictures of food…. just for the sake of being able to see more of what you eat! I assume you dont show as much because of all of the effort that goes into plating it and photographing it. I would like to see the raw and real pictures (which is what my food looks like) of what you eat as inspiration and get a better feel for how you eat all day long.
Melissa says
I can so relate to this as a blogger and just had a “come to Jesus” talk with myself about where the direction of my blog is going since I temporarily quit for a while recently. I found that I am moving away from my blog being less about informative/how-to/helpful posts because it’s just not working for me right now. If I don’t have something truly helpful or interesting to share, I don’t want to share it. And same as you, I don’t like sharing “advice” in a way that accidentally makes me seem arrogant, like I have all the answers, just because I want to share posts with value.
I would say, share at least one post a week that has “value,” however you want to define that. For a lot of readers, I think value is determined so differently (as you can see from all the other comments!). A lot of my readers think my every day life is value enough, so I blog a lot about that more. When the inspiration strikes me and I have some advice or how to or a recipe to share, I definitely will because I love giving value, but only when it’s truly authentic and not out of obligation. I think you do a great job at your blog and have a good mix of both real life and value-giving posts.