Friday

I May Regret This . . .

My favorite part of blogging, besides all the money I make, are the people who actually read the stuff I write.


And if you are a regular reader, I'm sure you understood immediately that 'besides all the money I make' was dripping with sarcasm.  And an eye roll.

See?

We get each other and belong together.

Like peanut butter and jelly; like Barbie and Ken; like our family and the Emergency Room.

I have the best commenters in the entire blogosphere.  One day, I will print out all the comments from this blog and wallpaper my closet with them.  Wouldn't that just be a boost to my day when I'm trying to decide what to wear?

When I opened my blog to comments back in February, it was my goal to return the favor. I mean, if you are kind enough to visit and read my post, I should do the same.  And I did for a long time.  

I never dreamed that this would change.  But it has. And it makes me sad.  I'm only one little mom with three kids and a cat and dinner and laundry and a hubby and a deep love for sweet tea.  It's impossible for me to visit every blog every day.

Even though I wish I could.

But if I did, I couldn't write.  Or change diapers.  Or shop on Etsy for things I do not need.

I'm just saying.

Don't give up on me, I'm making my way around, but much slower.  And, I've been out of town most of this week at a Family Reunion and will be scheduling posts in a couple of weeks for our family vacation.

One of the things I wish I could do is answer questions as they come in. First of all, I don't know how to even do this.  I get responses from people from comments I've left on my email and I'm like, "hey, how did you do that?"  Add simple to that list about me.

So, I thought I'd open this post up to questions. Anything and everything you can think of.

If you don't have a single question, I completely understand.  But you must know, for self esteem purposes, this post will self-destruct without a question or two or 47.

Ask away. I'll get them answered in a few days.

And thanks for joining me in my blogging journey.  Blogging is a big part of my life and one of my favorite things to do.  I don't plan on stopping any time soon and I'm honored that you are a part of my world.

Oh, and Happy 4th of July.  I'm celebrating with my in-laws in Oklahoma and I'm trying not to burn myself with a sparkler.

56 comments:

Karen said...

I don't have nearly the traffic that you do and I can't keep up with the reading and commenting. I've no idea how you do it. I won't even ask.

MT said...

Hmmm...

Well, here's an easy one: does anyone else in your IRL circle of family and friends blog?

And, just for fun, a follow-up, do you talk to IRL folks about your blog?

I ask because I have one friend who blogs here, but that's about it.

And while a bunch of my friends and family stop by my blog (because StatCounter needs some visitors to track), I'm not one to chit chat IRL about my blog.

Just curious!

Oh, and keeping up with comments and all that bloggy etiquette stuff whips my tail end, too...and I know my traffic is pretty light.

Have fun watching the rockets go boom boom!

:)

Tara @ Feels Like Home said...

I don't have any questions, but I really love your blog.

I'm just saying. :)

MamaCta! said...

I'm relatively new to the blog world, I just started reading your blog a few weeks ago...and I really do appreciate that you stopped by my little blog and left me a comment! Thanks!

cherish.photography said...

Thanks for sharing the wealth!

Marcy Massura said...

No question...no answers either.
This blogging thing- that we all started to do as an OUTLET has become out and out stressful for many. You are one of at least 10 blogs I have read this month who are -breaking from commenting regularly OR breaking from posting daily all together....I understand the pressure. I have a hard time keeping up with my flesh and bloood friends let alone the hundreds I know thru blogging...but no worries I can still hear you laughing and nodding in agreement to my posts. I don't need you to comment. I don't want to be stress for you- I want to be JOY. Friend. Compadre...ya know? I love your blog...and want you to keep going as long as you can!

Michelle said...

Yes Does your family like you blogging? Are they interested what you blog about? I love reading the blogs of my favorites :-) are you feeling the love? I blog for my family so they can see pictures of DD everyday and I love to cook and bake as well so including that is a given for me..Happy 4th .And stay safe.

A Christian Mom said...

Hmm... I can't think of a question right now, lol. Don't you hate that? Oh wait... that was a question! Ha!

I don't answer back to all my comments, but the people that read my blog, are all Mom's that I've "known" for over 2 yrs & we all comment on each others blog. I'm rambling, forgive me, it's almost midnight, lol.

Oh, I have a question now. Do you read all the blogs in your blog roll & are there more that you do read, that aren't listed?

I hope you keep blogging... I love reading your posts!

Stefanie said...

Your blog is Fab! I really love your honesty. Being a Mom is sometimes horrific and gritty but man is it worth it, right? I said, RIGHT?!!

Our Crooked Tree said...

You may regret this...☺

Cassandra said...

Dont feel like you have to comment on my blog or that you have to stop by. I enjoyed getting to join in the Fro me To You this week and I am glad you commented, but didnt expect it. I am easy to get along with. No worries.

My question...how many nights do you have a hard time sleeping because you are thinking of things to blog about that you dont want to forget or just knowing you need a certain idea for this or that....I want to get more organized and have posts ready but seems like something an organized person would do and well.....i aint so organized.

So please do tell.

Threeundertwo said...

What is the meaning of life?

;-)

Bryce said...

Heres one for your closet...

This blogger from Australia often talks about you as one of 3 "awesome Christian blogging ladies that I 'sort-of-know' in America".

I think its pretty cool that you can inspire and encourage people all over the world and that you become part of their school mom conversations or church friends topic of interests.

Have a great day, you look great in that shirt by the way!

:) Donna

Anonymous said...

A question: What topics, if any, are off limits for you? Why?
And an answer: Other blogging platforms like typepad and wordpress require an email address with the comment. Only the moderator sees the address, but it makes it easy to respond.
BTW, I love love love your blog, but I can't stand blogger. The comment form drive me nuts. It's so cumbersome. It is a testement to how much I like you that I often comment. :)
Have you ever considered switching to wordpress (please)? (C'mon, all the cool kids are on it.)

Unknown said...

I really do enjoy your blog!

Here's a deep question...what's the update on the squirrels in your yard?

Wonderful World of Weiners said...

If you had to paint your toenails TWO colors (each color on every other toe) and keep it that way for the REST OF YOUR LIFE, what 2 colors would you pick and why?

Hallie

Dawn said...

When are you going to organize a Texas blog party? Since you're the "cool kid" and all, you're supposed to organize it and invite the rest of us, ya know! ;-)

Jeno said...

I came across your blog about a month ago and I love to read it everyday. You just have a great gift from God with your creative style, topics and words. My question is "where do you see yourself and family 10 years from now?"

Dawn @ simply transparent said...

What the "other" Dawn said!!!
I'd come and give you real((HUG))!

Arrange it in Austin the "heart" of TX and the center!

Joanna said...

Well, I just found your blog about a week ago. I remember coming by during a blog party a while back, but forgot to favorite it so I couldn't find it anymore. I do enjoy reading it and I have been back ever since I found it again.

I don't have a question, since I did just start reading...Although, wait, I do have a question. Does your extended family know you blog? And if so did you tell them or did they run across it?

Ok, that's it! : )

Happy 4th!

Valarie Lea said...

Good grief, it took an act of congress to finally get to leave a comment on here. For some reason my computer was considering it a pop up to leave a comment. Anyway.....

What is your favorite color?

Were you born in Texas?

What does you backyard look like?

Does the inside of your car stay clean? Mine doesn't, so just wondering :)

If you were on a deserted island and could only have one thing to drink what would it be? Oh nevermind I know the answer to that

Hmmm if I think of any more random questions I will come back and leave them.

By the way if there are any blog parties happening, let me know so I can fly out to Texas. I have family out there ya know, so I could come and bring the Alabama Peeps. :)

Wifeof1Momof4 said...

No questions, great blog, you are funny. That's it! Have a great fourth!

oh yeah ...

You don't have to comment, but thank you when you do, it can become stressful being so "available" and no longer any fun for you .. and I am sure daughter WANTS her diaper changed every now and then! hehehe

No worries man. (in a Jamaican accent)

Jerralea said...

I just found the blog world about 6 weeks ago and am so enjoying it. I love to read Christian blogs that are humorous. My question is, how did you learn all the technical stuff. I have very little on my blog now. I did manage to post a few pics on a post but that is it so far.

You do a great job, keep up the good work!

One Salty Gal.... said...

I was actually introduced to your blog by a sweet friend of mine who commented on your blog, on her blog, about sweet tea...and how it is made...LOVED THAT! I too am a part of the GRITS community....Girl Raised In the South....love me some GOOD sweet tea..and although I am not on a first name basis with the local chicken joint...hahaha....I do frequent our Sonic...who happens to make a pretty MEAN glass of Southern Wine!!!! I am new to the blogging world. I decided that I needed to write. I have a lot to say...and my hubby is exhausted with the word count I use on him in a normal day....so I write....then I read it to him! haha...so he is REALLY EXHAUSTED! Thanks for being so transparent...I enjoy reading about REAL people! I guess I don't really have a question, just wanted you to know I am out here...enjoying hearing all about you and yours! ;) April

Betty said...

I just started reading a while back also. I love your blog and have added it to my blogroll.
My question is simple. Has anyone recognized you on the "street" from reading your blog? Everybody writes about the weirdo´s out there and I think there is more paranoia, than actual truth to this fear. Of course we do have to be carefull not to reveal too much of ourselves, but I can´t stand blogs where the person makes such a big deal of "not revealing" there face or eyes. That´s why I like yours! You stay REAL!

Anonymous said...

Your adoring public understands that you're busy! :)

My question is, would you opposed to emailing me your address if I wanted to send you a surprise in the mail? In not, I understand, but I have a compulsion to do something nice for you besides read your blog all the time. :)

Anonymous said...

A question for you: Sometimes things happen (Like leaving the bathroom door open when I'm peeing. Inevitably I'll have to holler answers or instructions to somebody. Then when we have company and I leave the door open....)that I think are so darn funny. And you know what? Face 2 face, I'm pretty darn funny too. You'll just have to believe me on that one. 'Cause in print, I'm as dull as... a dull something. See what I mean? HOW do you write Funny stuff? And could I just send you my life, and you write it for me? PLEASE.

And for you & other mommies - you know that strong willed child in your family, & mine? What if they try to "run away" at 8 years old? I mean it was a whole 120 seconds... but still! Uggg. Parenting is just so darn hard sometimes!

Mommy to those Special Ks said...

No questions, I just wanted to let you know I read and I love your blog! :)

Jessica D. said...

NO questions but love to read about your adventures!

Erica said...

Hi! My question is about the last DIYP: do you know of a way to "finish" the plate so that the picture is not just taped onto it? Like a glaze or glue or something that would make it more permanent and nicer looking? I love the project but just want to take it to that next level. And I LOVE your blog; you're one of my must-reads. Thanks for giving me something to look forward to each day, and God bless!

hannahbro5 said...

I'm new to the blog world, but I do enjoy reading your posts. :)

Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality said...

Hi, Kristen, I've seen your little 'fro label out there, but have never been by to visit you. Your blog is precious & I enjoyed reading some of your old posts. I know what you mean about visiting everyone. I'd love to be able to do it regularly too, but I have so many bloggers on my list, it's impossible.

Just wanted to say Hey! Nice to meet you & I think I'll add you to my bloglist too.

Rhoda

World's Greatest Mommy said...

That's okay! I enjoy reading your blog so much and when I do get a comment from you it's like a nice surprise that you were able to drop by.

Questions: What are your goals in blogging?

Icedream said...

Well I love your blog and visit every day. I appreciate that you did stop by to say "hey" but don't feel that it's always necessary. I know what it's like to be a busy mom! So here is my quesiton as a huge reader:
What are some of your favorite books? What have you read lately that you would recommend?

Anonymous said...

Your funny, down-to-earth and seem very honest about how your life is at times. That's why I check in on your blog as often as possible. I'm always amazed at the amount of comments your posts generate and I think it's great.
There's no way you could reciprocate. I think people understand.
Keep on posting. You make us all laugh!
Happy 4th of July.

Darla said...

I think you do an amazingly good job of getting around to blogs and commenting.

I always smile when I see your name. =)

Joy said...

What? You don't visit my blog every. single. solitary. day?! Ahhhh... it's okay! You're so hilarious that I can't help but check in here everyday!

But there's something I'd like you to do that may save you time:

Check out my blogroll. There's a new blogroll feature that will show you the last date someone posted something. That way I can check 3-5 blogs a day as opposed to clicking on EVERY SINGLE ONE just to find they hadn't written anything new.

As for a question for you......... what is the most annoying thing about being a mom?

Rachel said...

What? You aren't making thousands upon thousands of dollars monthly? Shoot.

Happy 4th. I hope you didn't burn yourself. :-)

Liza on Maui said...

I enjoy your blog greatly so I am glad you are blogging. I do not comment as often, because I have very limited time (and I am slow in typing). I too am honored that you are part of my world, an e-friend so to speak. (My husband calls my blogging friends my digital friends :)

Liza on Maui said...

So question ... how much money do you make in blogging? ha! ha!

Happy Mommy said...

Kristen i really enjoy our blog friendship! I can only find time to read a few blogs daily and you are one of them!

As for a question~ What's your favorite color? What's your favorite dinner? And what flavor of ice cream is your favorite?

Lisa said...

Where in Oklahoma are you??? You should have run by my house and grabbed a bite to eat and shoot shome fireworks. Hope you had a good time. The weather was great here for us, hope it was good for you.

Vivian M said...

I have a question you probably have already been asked or have posted about:
How do you make sweet tea?
There ya go!

Mel said...

You and your blog rock!! Definitely one of my favorite reads. The great thing about mommy bloggers is that we all get how busy we all are so no worries about commenting. Sure comments are great, I'm no liar, but sometimes there just isn't enough time. I have been trying to reply to each comment left on my posts, but honestly if you don't have your email address attached I don't have the time to go hunt you down. Blogging should be fun, not stressful so just do what works for you. Happy Weekend. Oh and by the way I gave you a bloggy award over at my place!!

Amanda said...

I don't think I have any questions at the moment.... actually, yes I do!!! Have you started building your book on Blurb? I haven't started yet and it's my goal after I get some tax stuff done.... work irritates me when it gets in the way of my blogging. My husband doesn't read my blog, he says he waiting for the book to come out. I wonder if he'd like me to do a book signing special for him? LOL ~ anyways... I was just curious if you've started and how the program works for you and all that.

And as always... your blog really is one that I enjoy.

Colleen - Mommy Always Wins said...

Now, I haven't read through all the other comments so forgive me if someone's asked this already. BUT - given you are the conniseur of sweet tea, what's your take on Micky D's? We have Chick-fil-a's here, but not close to my house and I ♥ McD's sweet tea. Just wanted to see how that would compare with real southern sweet tea.

Anonymous said...

Don't have any questions...just wanted to let you know I'm glad you're back and had a great trip!

Anonymous said...

Hey...was that 47 comments thing for real??? Cause I'm just now reading this on Sunday and there are exactly 47 comments. If I'm missing something- see? You're not alone!

Hmmm! No question...just don't you stress on having to return every comment. You have been a blessing to respond before. I imagine, especially the first time someone comments, it's nice to respond in kind. But even that could probably get a little crazy. I mean, for someone as famous as THAT Mama! I don't know...I'm still a bit new and have a very small following of 2.5, I think! ;)

Keep a postin'! And just relax! God is using you!

Harlene said...

Have we met? Our lives are so VERY similar! Before I found your blog I was crafting a post for mine on "How to identify if you are now one of THOSE families" We are and have been for quite a while.

Thanks for the honesty and openness. As for a question, Should I really do my 12 yr old son's laundry BEFORE i send him to scout camp for the week?

Precision Quality Laser said...

Well, I read your most recent post before I went to catch up on what I missed over the weekend. I'm sure you already got my question..lol.

As for blogging every day, I made a decision to only blog when I feel like I have something to blog about. If I don't feel like writing, I don't. Which, I guess is why I don't have such loyal fans such as your's...lol...I'm pretty boring in comparison. Especially when you realize I don't post something new every day. But I blog for me :) It's my verbal scrapbook, because I am oh-so craft impaired---ESPECIALLY scrapbooking!

As I said in my other comment, your blog is the highlight of my blog-hopping hour!

And I know you don't have time to visit and answer every comment. You cannot multitask EVERYTHING...lol!

Blessings!

Mrs. Q

Anonymous said...

Ok so there are very few blogs that I have subscribed to after visiting ONCE. I found you on a friend's blog and added you immediately.

I have 2 questions really....

1. IF it's not too personal, I would love to hear your "Come to Jesus story" I am constantly inspired by your faith. Someone already said it on another comment, but God is using you!

oh and about question 2....I already forgot! I swear I used to be smarter...:)

Alicia said...

I love reading your blog. Mostly for the laughs and unending entertainment. But also because I can relate. 3 small chidren + 1 husband ALWAYS = chaos and sometimes disaster. I'm starting to think of boredom as a luxury. And I certainly do appreciate when a big blogging fish like you stops by my little puddle to say hello. It always brightens my day.

So here's a question for you:
What sort of phrases or euphamisms do you use on your husband and children that your parents used on you? Are you becoming more like your mother as you get older? If so, does it scare the be-jeebers out of you? 'Cause sometimes it scares the heck out of me. But most of the time I'm really happy about it because I had a great mom, even though she had her moments.

Tanya said...

I've had to make a conscious decision to release blog guilt. I would feel tremendously guilty if I had missed a few days of blogging or if I didn't respond to everyone who left a comment, but the truth of the matter is: this is supposed to be fun!! It's not a job and we don't need to treat it like one. The irony is: the less I feel obligated to blog, the more blogging I get done. Family comes first. We all know that. Blogging is just the frosting.

Luke Holzmann said...

"...like our family and the Emergency Room..." [laughing] So, so awesome!

~Luke

Anonymous said...

How much time do you commit to your blog or reading other's blogs?

Any tips for managing your time online?

AND - what was your purpose when you started and has it changed at all since you started blogging?

The Fritz Facts said...

I am just finishing this too! Head over if you haven't yet.

What two things (besides the kids and hubby) can you not live without?