You know I try to keep this a happy & positive place, but something has been bothering me for months now and I really need to say something.
I recently noticed some, what I considered odd, activity on my blog and found a persons blog who’s blog is really nothing more than using other people’s ideas and I mean EXACTLY with no change whatesoever as if they were her own. For a moment I thought she used one of my pictures as her own, the project was so exact. Not only did I see projects that I have done, but I saw projects that I know others have done. Recent projects and older ones. Without even saying…. I was inspired by…., I got the idea from….., nothing. Project after project. No link back, no I saw it on so and so’s blog, not even I saw it on a blog but I don’t know who’s. Nothing. Just post after post of projects as if they were all her own ideas. And from what I could tell she had no original ideas. She does do all the projects, she just never mentions where she gets all her fabulous ideas. And she’s not the only one who does this.
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There’s absolutely nothing wrong with doing a project you’ve seen on another’s blog and yes more than one person can have a similar idea at the same time. I’m also not saying you have to ask permission to use an idea because that would just be crazy! I also understand not keeping links to everything you’ve ever seen that inspires you. But, when you are systematically going through blogs and using idea after idea without giving credit. Post after post. I have a problem with that. Because that’s obviously your plan of how you are going to operate your blog and that is just… wrong.
I know that people may have time constraints and can’t always take the time to find the link and insert it in a post. But I think everyone would appreciate a mention if not a link back if possible. To me that’s just common courtesy.
I used to think we were all here to inspire and motivate each other. But I’ve noticed that with the advent of the whole “Followers” thing that the atmosphere has changed in the blog world. Are we really so anxious to have the most “Followers” that we’re willing to do anything? Is making money off your blog really that important? Is being a “popular” blog what you really want? Is blogging that important in your life? Should it be that important?
One more thing about “Followers”, why do “Followers” always get extra entries in giveaways? Why aren’t other subscription services included? Why is it only important if I “Follow” and not if I read your blog on Bloglines, Google Reader or get your posts emailed to me? Is it because that’s the number that’s available for the world to see? If you want to reward people that subscribe to your blog shouldn’t it be ALL the people that subscribe? I could do a whole post about the whole “Followers” issue! It took me six months to even put that widget on my blog and I’m seriously considering removing it.
I’m not perfect. I have forgotten where I’ve gotten ideas from or I can’t find the link, don’t have time to look etc. But I don’t do it all the time. I do my best to give credit because I don’t feel it diminishes me as a creative person to be inspired by someone else. I don’t feel like I have to have all the great ideas. Also, I’m happy if you like my blog enough not to want to miss a post and subscribe but I’m not going to be in the depths of despair if you don’t.
Let’s try to be supportive of each other and not be so competitive and everything that goes with that. Be kind, be courteous. Treat others as you would like to be treated in real life and in the blog world.
O.K. glad I got that off my chest! More Christmas decorating photos on Thursday.
Hi Manuela. I read your blog in google reader and hope that makes me valuable even though I am not a "follower" 🙂
I don't know the blog of which you speak but I have gotten the same feeling, like for many blogging has turned into a big competition to get the most readers or the most features somewhere, almost like instead of doing something because it makes a person happy, they do it just to get noticed. I don't know, I think we all have our reasons for being part of the blog world and I am sure I've made mistakes. But where blogging once felt like one big community of support, there does seem to be competition more, and where people don't want to link or give credit to anyone else because they want all the readers and credit.
Thanks for posting this, I think it's important for all of us to remember why we are here and that it's a much more fun place when we support instead of compete.
Good post.
As always love your blog!
Beth
Oh my goodness! Did you contact them about acknowledging your work? I admit to following a few blogs that just link to other blogs but they always give credit. Continually trying to pass off someone else's work as your own is just wrong 🙁
I'm sorry it happened to you!
Amen sister!!! I so agree about the
popular blogs. I was just talking to a friend of mine the other day just about this very thing. I could never do as many crafts and decorating as some of the people do on thier blogs I don't have the time with my children. My blog is mostly about my children. I know a lot do not care to read about that but I really blog for my children. I hope day I can put my blog into a book for my children to have if not they will always have my blog to read as my 9.5 year old does already. I do like to get idea's from blogs and you know I love yours but I will always link back to the blogs that I got that idea from. I guess in the blog world it's like the real world in someways most want to be the most important.
Hey, it's Tuesday and it's raining. It always rains on Tuesday!!
Ally
Hi Manuela. You have good points there. I hope I have never offended any of the bloggers I follow. I do want to speak up about the "follower" thing. I for one, didn't know that there are other ways to follow a blog. I really didn't. Maybe that is the same reason for others? I have also had giveaways for my followers because I am truly humbled that I have followers, kwim? I appreciate them so much that I just like to reciprocate by having giveaways for them. I wouldn't know if someone reads my blog thru reader or any other way. Really I don't.
I hope I haven't offended you or anyone else.
God Bless.
Sandra
Manuela, you are so right on your points! I love following others blogs for the ideas but when I find a gem I use, I'm more than happy to acknowledge the source and thank them for sharing.
Sharing is what the gist of blogging is about, isn't it? Not stealing and certainly not passing others talents off as your own.
So let's play nice in blogland and give credit where credit is due!
This is a great post… I feel so much like you on this topic. Infact there is a girl that has her blog now private… therefore really getting the credit for someone elses ideas. Well that is what I think anyway. I like her blog but I HAVE noticed this girl post crafts and things she makes that I have seen across blog land… it bothers me that she never links or tells where she got the idea. Anyhoo, I love doing DIY, CRAFTS, DECOR ETC. However, I am so glad that for me personally I blog about everything… my family, life, pics. of my children etc. So for me its not a competition on popularity and the best craft idea. I will say however, that having followers is great, and to some degree we must admit that we love to see our follower numbers go up, and we love to get comments too. If we didnt' then we would remove our comment button and our follower widget. However, being supportive has allot to do with followers, and comments. Welp, now that you blogged about this I HAVE TO KNOW what blog you are talking about… is that terrible? please do tell… he he! [email protected] I have to read and see what you are talking about. Have a good one!
Hi Manuela. I don't worry about it too much, in fact very little. I figure if that's the way they want to go about it, they'll do it. I've had people copy some of my work or so called art work, that is going to happen when you post and add pix and stuff. I'm pretty much the type that always gives credit where credit is due. Like your black'white theme Iloved so much and told you I was going to "copy" you. We did our bathroom in b/w theme because I like the idea of it and how it looks and you inspired me and if I didn't do a link, I'm sorry. You know that I would always give you credit. I'm sorry someone is taking your ideas, but look at it this way too. They must be pretty good ideas for someone to want to use them. It is a compliment as well. But boo hiss for the thieves and we have a lot of those online. Take care.
(I deleted my previous post cause I also would like to know who did this to you? 🙁 [email protected])
Just wanted to add that I love love your blog. I always find your posts full of inspiration. I don't have alot of time to do crafts either. My boys take alot of my time. :)Thank you for having such a wonderful blog I really enjoy.
Blessings,
Sandra
You are so right! I was doing the whole if your a follower you get an entry to win one of my signs. (thought that was the norm) BUT then I realized too that I want people to come to my blog because they want to not just because they think they might win something, which is nice too. It is sad that people don't give credit where credit is due, I always try to and if I don't I hope somoeone calls me out on it!
Good post Manuela with some wonderful points. I hope I have never inadvertantly forgotten to give credit where credit was deserved as I would like someone to do the same for me.
Big hugs! xx
I ditto Sandra's post.
I add as well that I think you should contact the person and ask if she is aware that it is proper etiquette to give credit where credit is due. Is she a new blogger? Do you see links to other things on her blog-meaning, does she understand how to input a link?
There is a post on the HGTV General Decorating board about this very thing yesterday. One blogger noticed that someone else had used her picture and claimed it as their own. Yet another poster thought that a blog (MINE!) had posted a picture that belonged to someone else and gave the wrong person credit for it. Turns out after a little investigating, the person whom she thought owned the picture said it waasn't her picture at all. There was a whole thread going about how this picture had been misrepresented on someone's blog because the poster 'thought' she remembered a person from the boards posting the same pic last year and telling that it was hers.
I'm just saying that it's best to be sure first. I'd definitely contact her to see if she understands and to ask her to give the credit or remove the 'assumption' that she is the creator of the projects. She could simply post a static post at the top saying that she found these projects in blogland, and that they are not her own creations.
If she does know that what she is doing is wrong, then that's a very different story, and I feel like her blog should be outed publicly so that others may see if their own projects are there, and request that they be omited.
Godo post!
Wow! I can't believe someone would do this on a blog. I've had people copy my website and I've dealt with that, but never thought it would carry over to blogs. How stupid ~ do they not think that at some point the original poster is going to find out about it? Do we have to put a copyright on our blog posts now?
I also didn't know others could follow you any other way than "follwer". The only reason I like to see I have followers is because it lets me know there actually is someone out there reading what I write! : )
I do think it would be a good idea if someone sees something that they absolutely know belongs to someone else, that maybe they could give that person a heads up that it happened. I don't think I've come across this yet myself, but I also never thought someone would copy my website either.
Very well said! I guess it's easy to pretend to be something you're not in blogland or internet…period. It's really nice when you find someone who enjoys being themselves and enjoying THEIR life and sharing their happiness and joys with others, and not worried about numbers and comments. Although, receiving a comment from you a couple posts back on my slipcover made my day 😉 But that's because I just plain admire your talent for decorating!
Have a wonderful day~Aubrey
That is amazing! I am often guilty of not remembering but I try to always say, if I got this from you, let me know!
Since I am a private blog, I don't worry about the followers. At first it bummed me out but now I am happy with my core group of readers. I am sorry I don't get to meet more people but hey, it is the choice I made.
I think you are very right in your points. It happened to me too, and I am pretty new to blogging. Someone even took a digital scrapbook layout that I did with a picture of my daughter in it and put it on their blog as if they had done it! The same person took one of my decorated cakes and claimed it as her own. I ended up taking all the pictures of my children down, as I found it wrong and a little creepy … she mentioned my daughter's appearance as if this was someone she knew. I had to send a very strongly worded message and they took them down.
Keep up the good work, we love what you do here!
Very interesting points you have brought up. I know I have followers on my blog, but I honestly don't know how they got there. They just showed up one day. That may sound naive, but I don't claim to be a computer whiz. LOL. I don't have a clue how to use google reader and don't know what bloglines is all about either. I just do my occasional posts and visit others by clicking on them in my sidebar or favorites. I do agree with you that the followers issue seems to be a popularity contest on many blogs.
Well said. I use my post as venting outlet so not many ideas there but I've seen this done to the people that inspire me so much.
I also agree that it should be one entry per giveaway. It just bothers me that some people may get 4 entries and others just one. Doesnt seem fair to me. OK, getting off my soap box now. carry on 🙂
I love this blog vis'a'vis the notion of blog competitiveness..it drove me crazy at first that for some reason the Followers button didn't work on my blog: I couldn't get it to work no matter what, so I have no Followers widget, and though it is mildly annoying, I wish I had found my flag counter (for countries) and my ligit widget which tells you the city, state, and country of your page viewers, earlier-lots of fun, and I even have my own personal OCD person who obsessively "signs in" trying to fill up all the available spots…rather interesting!
I wouldn't even consider advertising, except for charities…carry on, and know that you at least are appreciated!
I have heard that there are blogs out there that "steal" everyone else's ideas and even full posts acting like it is their own. I really, REALLY just don't get it. I think blog-land is a place to inspire, create, see lovely places, meet new people, recipes and if you get inspired to create something you have seen…..do it. But don't act as if it was yours first when you have clearly seen it somewhere else!!
I love your blog and hate to think someone is just taking things you do and using it as their own. That just isn't right!
I don't normally do the crafty things. In either sense of the word…
I do sometimes copy recipes from other peoples blogs but I always mention where I found the recipe and when possible I post a link back. I also normally comment and let the person know that I am going to copy their recipe and include a link on a post.
I like the follower thing. I can understand what you mean about it taking on to much importance. I use it as a sort of social thing. I scroll down on my follower list on my dashboard screen to see who has posted recently. In fact that is how I saw your post just now.
I think there will always be folks who do things in a backhanded way…perhaps it's best just to let it go. We can't really control what others do anyway and it only puts us in foul moods.
I don't want you to remove the followers feature because then it will be harder for me to see your posts.
Manuela, I agree with you wholeheartedly. Thank you for sharing all that and I hope those who have 'borrowed' ideas in the past will start acknowleging where they got the idea from! As for Followers, I agree with you on that point too. Some put way too much stock in how many followers they have. I'm happy to have readers! I hope I never pressure anyone into following my blog. Have a wonderful week and Merry Christmas!
Christmas blessings,
Sandi
AMEN. SOMEONE FINALLY SAID IT.
Manuela,
I'm so sorry you've found others copying your lovely ideas and not acknowledging them. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but giving credit where due sure wouldn't hurt, either.
I added the followers tool to my blog quite a while back but could never see why anyone would use it. I don't "follow" any blogs because I couldn't see an advantage to that over using Google reader. I just wanted to make it available. It does seem like it almost becomes a high school popularity contest when becoming a follower gives one more entries for giveaways.
Enough of my rambling. Your post struck a chord with me, I guess. 🙂
I guess I know that there are people that do this, but I cannot believe that they have the nerve to do so. I agree with you on lots of your points….about the followers…..I cannot even believe that many people would want to keep coming back to my blog to see what I have to say! :0
Oh, well, I am always glad to share recipes, hardly ever copy craft ideas, do sometimes copy decorating ideas…..but agree that if I make it public, I should say I saw this on someone's blog, etc. I'm so sorry this has happened to you and upset you so. It's not worth the stress…..especially right now. take care, friend.
Suzanne
Ya know sometimes I think that this whole blogging thing can be like a trip down memory lane… right back to junior high school. It is so easy to get caught up in the whole "who's the most popular" (has the most followers,) and the whole A-crowd kinda nonsense I should think we'd have all grown out of by now. Even when one is a mature individual… ahem… it's so easy to slip back into that whole mindset. It's so sad really, and it can ruin the fun for all of us. I have often wanted to post about this myself, but I guess I just didn't have the nerve to possibly ruffle any feathers… thanks for having the guts to do it Manuela♥
And about the whole copying ideas etc thing, I have had that happen over and over and over to me. Even my blog intro, which is a highly personal piece has been "tweaked" a bit and reposted as someone else's work. I had someone who I considered a blog friend who would post my homekeeping ideas and strategies as if they were her own. Another "big" blogger started reading my blog, then would occasionally repost my thoughts or copies of my photos at her place, with no mention of her inspiration. I suppose she thought that no one would notice since my blog is pretty small time. It is sad and frustrating… not quite sure how to handle it so I just leave it in the Lord's hands♥ I guess in the end I have to remind myself of why I am blogging in the first place… for fun, fellowship and to encourage others (especially other single moms like me!) When I can keep myself from being emotionally sucked into the whole "popularity whirlpool" I am a happier blogger, lol.
Blessings to you dear… I think you are a groovy gal and I adore your place☺
I agree with you Manuela, especially the part about followers. I have followers and it is sweet that they like to read my blog, but I don't blog for them, I blog for me. I like a place where I can share my thoughts etc…and we have family all over the states and Africa as well, so it is a cool way to keep in touch. I certainly don't look to increase my followers.
I do have a friend who blogs and she used to comment about trying to get more followers than me etc…I thought it was weird! It took me a few days once to even notice that I had a few new followers.
Thanks for sharing these thoughts…hopefully people will learn.
Hello Manuela,
I have heard of this happening but I personally have not seen it yet. I do wonder sometimes if entire posts of mine are being posted somewhere else as their own. Hmmm….I'm so not "crafty" so I don't have to worry about that happening to me though. I'm sorry it happened to you. You are so talented and I do enjoy all of your ideas. Keep it up!
As far as the whole "followers" button goes. It's a tool designed by blogger to help a friend read your blog in google reader. NOTHING MORE. I don't really understand the popularity thing some seem to attach to it. To be perfectly honest it never even crossed my mind Manuela. I do not like receiving constant emails notifying me of others new posts. I tried it out and I will not use feedburner and the like again. I really enjoy using the follower feature and will not read a blog any other way. That's just me.
Have a blessed day my friend!
~Warmly, ~Melissa 🙂
Great advise. Maybe we all should have to take a "blog etiquette" class before we are allowed to post, comment, or use the 'follower' wiget, LOL
wow…speaking of followers, you have so many! i know that everyone loves you and your blog so i hope they listen to what you have just said. i don't want followere unless they really are there to be a friend..thats what followers means to me..a friend!
There is too much copying, I agree! It reminds me of the little girls in elementary school who have to do all the same things as the others girls to be excepted by the other girls. It's too bad because each person has something to offer if they'd just "keep it real"…thanks! Come say hi 😀
Something similar happened to me though it wasn't with a project. It was with a memorial blog I made in memory of my son who was stillborn. A "friend" stole pictures and my story and shared it with her other friends to gain sympathy. Someone told me about it and I was very angry. She used my son's pictures and claimed them as her own.
I love getting ideas for things but love giving the credit to whom it deserves. Sorry someone "stole" your idea and made it their own. I think I will go through my blog and make sure I have links added to ideas I took. I would hate to do that to someone. Thanks for this and I hope it is a great reminder to those who do blog and gain inspiration.
As a relatively new blogger I have to agree with Persuaded, that it seems to be a bit like a junior hight popularity contest. I am thrilled to have followers in the sense that it lets me know that my content reaches others and means something to them. I too get exasperated when I see a giveaway with several different ways to gain entries. I am happy with entering one comment and leaving it at that. Of course I do not have the traffic or view count that some other blogs have, though I am thrilled with the amount that I have in less than five months.
It is a tragedy that there are those that feel they must "borrow" without credit from those who have done the work. I try to be a good steward and give credit where credit is due as this is the best thank you I can give someone who inspires me to create beauty and lovely decor in my home.
Thank you for your post, it brings to light a serious situation.
oh my gosh i agree with you 100%! well said!
Definitely well said! I don't know why someone would do such a thing. I do my best to give credit to anyone's idea I copy. I'm sorry you had that happen to you.
I haven't come across any stolen posts of mine or anyone else's, but I've read about it happening, and I'm so sorry you've had to deal with this Manuela 🙁
The follower thing…I go back and forth. I enjoy knowing there's folks who read my blog as it helps motivate me to be my most creative, both in my crafts/decorating, but also in my writing. Blogging is an art form. So seeing that I have followers is encouraging to me, BUT I must mention that I have clicked 'follow' on many, many blogs that I don't visit anymore. I don't use Google Reader anymore either (which I could rant about!). So I realize that the number shown as 'followers' doesn't necessarily translate that those people read are truly reading (and interested in) my blog.
I try to give grace to those who pander for followers (except those with gargantuan follower numbers already…I hate that) It is nice to feel appreciated for the work we put into our blogs, but I love seeing comments more than 'followers'. Like you, I've considered removing that widget too, for the same reasons.
This is long, but one other thought. When I stumble onto a blog for the first time, I often look at the number of followers and the length of time they've been blogging to give me some perspective on whether it's a place I can see myself visiting regularly. That hasn't always served me well….sometimes a blog has few 'followers', but supremely wonderful content and I miss out. Other times there are some out there with huge numbers of followers, but eventually I'm bored with the content so I stop visiting. But generally, it helps guide my choices in how I spend my blog-reading time. Not sure that made sense.
Just happened to stumble across your blog and wanted to say THANK YOU for your HONESTY!! So refreshing. We agree. The Twins
Manuela
Amen, my friend and inspiration…..
Don't know if this has happened to me. As for giveaways and such, I have just about decided to do away with that. I really don't care for giveaways where you are asked to follow, etc. If someone is following just to gain entry to a giveaway, then you don't know if they like your blog or your giveaway. I don't enter a lot of giveaways, because if I'm not a regular reader, it somehow seems wrong to do so. Sometimes I will just send another blogger a gift I find appropriate for them, and leave it at that.
Brenda
Wow! Great post, Manuela! You have said what I have been thinking for a while. I always try to give credit and openly admit when an idea is not mine. You have so many wonderful original ideas! It's a shame it has come down to stealing ideas and worrying about how many followers we have. I like to think that blogging is a way to enhance REAL life and not a life within itself! Thanks for saying "out loud" what many of us have been thinking!…hugs…Debbie
I have heard of a few instances where people actually took a bloggers pictures and used them as if they were their own!
Excellent post, I agree with everything.
When I click on another blog that simply uses someone elses pictures I move on. Really..what's the point in that? I've already seen those pictures in Better Homes and Gardens. Sorry..I don't want to step on anybodies toes but it's true.
Heck, I don't even have a blog, and I don't know what it means to be a "follower." I just bookmark the blogs that I like and I read them a couple of times a week. As a non-blogger, I do get tired of the giveaways sometimes and also the constant push to get more followers. So when I see something like that on one of the blogs I read, I just don't even bother and click to another one of my favorites.
I love your blog and will continue to read, although I doubt I'll ever become an official "follower."
I don't know who you are talking about, but there are some in particular that I use to read regularly – now I rarely open their posts. I am pretty sure I have linked to and/or mentioned where I got an idea and if I failed to, I hope someone would remind me.
I just had a giveaway and included the follower thing (I call them "Readers") – it seemed to be the way it was expected to be done. I apologize if I offended anyone. If I blogged to see how popular I could be – then I would have stopped long ago. I am sure there are a lot out there that probably think I am pretty boring. So be it – I am enjoying it!!
I am curious if you are talking about one in particular.
glen943gmail.com
Glenda
Well said…and very good advice!
Blessings!
~Nadine
I'm so sorry this has happened to you! I have to admit, I am fairly ignorant when it comes to all of this blogging stuff. I only do it to have fun and have a creative outlet. I even thought you had to have a followers widget- like you couldn't choose not too. Duh. I guess I would jump off a cliff if all the other bloggers were doing it.
I do think the followers button is fun- to look and see who is this person I have never met before who is "following" me? But I have also noticed that it seems there are some people who only follow or comment if you comment on their blog first and that feels pretty hollow.
It's too bad people are using blogging for the wrong reasons instead of as a platform for sharing and gaining creative ideas with like minded people.
Occasionaly I post something I saw in blog land but always qualify it by saying "I saw this on xxx's blog- or if I dont remember where I saw it I beg for someone to reply and let me know where I saw it!
Now I am just hoping that I havent naively given credit to someone who didnt deserve it. It makes me a little nervous knowing that there are bloggers doing this and I dont know which ones. I hope it isnt anyone whos' blog is a favorite of mine.
I know the feeling: have I got some more followers? Isn't there anyone who likes my blog? But in the end it really doesn't matter. Most of all I feel that the blog is a place where I can be creative and take pleasure in that. It's great fun to get comments and "get known" to other people with the same interests, that's better than having followers.
I don't know which (I hate to write that word in English, because I'm never sure if I write it right, but I think it's a T in the word when it means such ladies who was burned ages ago…;) )blog you are writing about, but it sounds like a bad thing to do. As you say: when it's post after post. Would have been different if it happened now and then.
Manuela, this was so well said!
I've never seen anything like this or at least not noticed. I've heard about it, though. I will keep my eyes open.
I would feel so silly, not to mention guilty, if I took someone else's idea and claimed it as my own. That is just not right! Especially if they're doing it for financial gain. I'm not a registered follower to your blog, but I hope you don't mind me visiting often. "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery" (I did not come up with this quote). Maybe not when proper credit isn't given?! Like you said, I'm sure there are times people come up with very similar ideas, but to even post your work without asking you? Where is common courtesy? I started to blog as a way to feel creative. You have to wonder why a lot of people do it. It does seem many do it as a popularity thing. It never ceases to amaze me how many adults still act like they're still in Jr. High. Hope you feel better getting thing off your chest! I know I would!
Pamela
This is a very good point, and I'm glad you said something. I follow another blogger who is an essayist. She writes mostly about her own life with touches of wit and humor. She is very talented. She discovered that someone out there was copying her posts verbatim, only changing names and city references, and posting them as her own. I don't know how it was handled, but the copy cat deleted her blog completely.
On another note, if you would rather not your pictures be used, there is a way to disable right-click capability. I can't remember how, but I'm sure it's easily found if you google it.
I'm sorry someone has done this to you…I just can't see the point of it all…why would they not give credit?
I like the followers button…for those I am following to know there is someone who appreciates them, and for myself so I can visit their blog. I don't want it to be a popularity contest!
Very well said. I'm so sorry this has happened to you and others. I would assume that even if you weren't terribly familiar with blog etiquette, common sense would tell you not to claim someone else's ideas and content as your own. I'm glad I haven't run across these blogs (at least I don't think I have!).
As for the contests, I get what you're saying, but had never really thought much about it. I figure the blog owner can run the contest any way she/he wants. However, if I'm asked to jump through too many hoops to win then I skip it. I figure I don't want anything badly enough to do all that and I refuse to sign up to follow blogs that I don't want to follow.
As others have mentioned, sometimes blogging can seem like a junior high popularity contest. However, some people do blog as a business and followers are extremely important to them. For example, I have a friend who has an ultra popular blog that is also her business. Her family genuinely needs the revenue it brings in and during a time when her husband was out of work, the blog income paid the bills. Followers, subscribers and the like are certainly important to her from a marketing standpoint (and for other reasons) so she's not really trying to be the most popular, she's trying to sustain income for her family. I'm just sayin' because I don't think we can lump everyone together and assume it's always about popularity. Not that you even mentioned any of that, but some of the responders did.
Thanks for saying what needed to be said!
This is also common with blogs on other topics. A food writer explained on her blog she was going to do only partial posts (you had to click on title of post to finish reading it).
She did this because someone was copying her whole blog onto their blog, as each post was written – including the picture, recipe, etc.
When someone gets the picture and the post and the idea then that is flat out a copy.
Some bloggers also 'watermark' their photos with the blog name as a deterrent.
I do like the followers idea but also have noticed a lot of giveaways now involve becoming a follower. Thank you for bringing this up of how common this is getting.
Well said. I was inspired by your post about using scrapbook stickers for white craft pumpkins. So when I shared the craft pumpkins I painted on my blog, I gave your name, the name of your blog and a link back to your post. It seems only right to give credit where credit is due!
Excellent thoughts, here Manuella! I think a series of blog ettiquete posts could be done! There are quite a few things that are, well, rude. I think people feel they are hiding under a bit of anonymity.
Bravo, well said. I quit the blogging world (as a writer) because it seemed to me it was more about how many followers you have than what you have to say. And I don't know anything about google reader or RSS or whatever. I do it the old fashioned way – I look you up! And I read yours because I just flat enjoy it.
Hi Manuela
You have such wonderful ideas I can see why someone would want to copy them, but not giving you credit is very wrong. I agree with all that you said in this post! Perhaps it would be a good idea for you to expose these people in a post so that they won't do it again?
Hugs, Rhondi
Good post Manuela,
I always try to link back to the original person. What good points you have made!
As far as followers, I like to go over and see someone's blog who is following me. I love the relationship aspect of blogging and making new friends and when I have a giveaway I am able to give an extra entry to people I consider friends who come over often. I have to admit that I am not sure how to track people who follow me on google reader or other ways. I am a little technically lacking. Is there a way to find this out so when I have giveaways I can include those people?
I have often thought of taking down my followers button because I have gotten many anonymous mean comments and I think it is from other bloggers who feel competitive. I just want to meet other creative people who inspire me and meet new friends. The negative aspect is very sad.
XOOX
Jen
Although to me blogging can be fun, it has a lot of not-so-nice sides to it too.
As much as I've tried, blogging just isn't for me. Even got rid of my blogger account. My life is simpler for it!
Never liked the "follower" thing either and I REALLY don't enjoy bloggers who can't blog without making a buck or taking a freebie. SO tired of that…I find that to those bloggers – people = money and stuff and that's about it. I digress, but just want to say I understand how you feel.
I'm enjoying just living my life and spending less time online in general.
Hope you have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Lyn
That is a great point Manuela. I am totally dying to know what blog you are talking about. To me blogging does seem a little different than when I first started blogging over two years ago. I like the followers thing because it's an easy way to subscribe, but I do think it's become a popularity contest.
YES! Thank you for saying this! So very true… in the academic world this person would be not only withdrawn from class, but expelled from the university. Personally, I vote for having to write a letter of apology to everyone who has been misrepresented!
Thanks, Manuela, for taking on this topic!
Warmly,
Matty
YES! Thank you for saying this! So very true… in the academic world this person would be not only withdrawn from class, but expelled from the university. Personally, I vote for having to write a letter of apology to everyone who has been misrepresented!
Thanks, Manuela, for taking on this topic!
Warmly,
Matty
Hi Manuela.
I am so sorry this has happened to you. I have only blogged for a little more than a year now and this makes the third time I have heard of such behavior. The other two blogs (that were being copied) are very well known and two of the kindest of ladies. It made me disappointed for them as well.
I link back to everyone and to be honest, I am afraid I may do too much linking back. Like with the fun project you showed us all how to do with the rosettes. Good grief I think I mentioned your name a half dozen times! :o) But the way I see it, I would not have known how to do it without you and I definitely want to give credit where it is due.
I have been extremely blessed through the blog world and I pray that this experience you have had will not take the joy you have for blogging, away. There are so many kind and real ladies out there who would never dream of doing such a thing.
It is funny about the followers. Most blogs I go to have hundreds of followers. I guess they are just better known and more popular out in blog land. But I would rather have 3 new real friends met through blogging, that are like minded, than hundreds of people I have little to no idea about.
Then again, you will see I don't have hundreds of followers either. :o)
It just dawned on me. I have seen blogs that put their name across their photos when they are posted. Of course that is an extra step. But something to consider. I may start doing it too. Not that anyone would steal my ideas. :o) I would mainly want to post over the top of my family pictures.
Anyhow. I love your blog and said all of that to say … please know there are so many of us out here who are encouraged to be more creative because of you! Can you see me lifting my hand way up high!! :o)
Have a great evening.
Sincerely ~ Tricia Anne
Hi Manuela,
Wow, great post.
I know how frustrating it is to be "borrowed" from without credit.
As an author, I've seen my own ideas being used again and again… without any credit given to the source… throughout the years. One women even self-published a book called "Enjoying Frugal Luxuries" about living well on less (several years after my first "Frugal Luxuries" book came out in 1997). That being said, I've learned from experience that you simply cannot let it get to you. Oftentimes there is very little to be done about it. In my case, I have spent thousands of dollars just registering Frugal Luxuries and its derivatives (i.e., frugal luxury, frugal luxuries by the seasons and the like) as a protected trademark. Even with that, if you do a Google search you'll find blogs and dot.coms that are in NO WAY affiliated with me using the phrases. And that is just our NAME/TITLE!
IDEAS that were unique to me and my work when I first started publishing in 1993 have been/ are being attributed to a plethora of others (including some VERY high profile designers artists writers and / or businesses…all of which will remain unmentioned at this time). Oh my friend, I could tell you a multitude of horror stories.
What of value have I taken away from all of this? I've learned to consciously avoid the bitterness and frustrations this unethical behavior can provoke. I've learned that constantly worrying about my ideas being stolen/borrowed erodes my pleasure in being creative.
I've tried to reconcile myself with the fact that I put the ideas out there (via books/newsletters/blogs) to (hopefully) enhance the lives of others who are going through similar hills and valleys of life. The way I see it, we kindred spirits are all on the same team and I want to continue to add my share, in my small way. I choose to believe that most people are amazing, good, kind and honest souls would never ever stoop to the type of behavior you've describe. It is only a few greedy types that need to feed egos and/or pocketbooks. Thus, for what it's worth, I've decided to continue sharing what I have, to the best of my ability.
Sorry to write such a long post. You did touch a nerve!!
God bless you my kind friend. Please do not let this inhibit your amazing creativity. I am thinking you don't realize how inspiring your blog is. It's an honor to know you and share in your charming mindset.
With love and appreciation from…
Tracey.
xxx000xxx
P.S.
I have to tell that my mother's voice keeps echoing in my mind, "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery." xox
Hi Manuela,
This is a great post and very well said. My question is, how do you know if someone is copying your blog? Is there a way to check? Someone could be very quiet about it and be copying content and photos for a whole different audience. It's kind of a scary thing.
There will always be those who are rude, in real life and on the web.
Lorrie
well said… and even though it's not right, I hope you are flattered that people are copying you! I love your blog!
I am new to blogging and I have never thought of copying someone elses idea and passing it off as mine. My mind just doesn't think like that. I love reading blogs and have made a lot of friends in the process. I subscribe to the ones that I really care about reading. I want people to read mine if they like it. I am still learning but I am doing the blog for me, my family, and friends to keep up with our daily lives since we moved so far from home. If I make some new friends, then great. I am not doing it to make money although I know some people do. I think everyone should do their own thing and not copy. That stinks.
I read your blog all the time. Mostly from my Google Reader. I comment when I can. I love all you do. And would be pretty upset if this happened to me. If I see something I like on another blog, like a cute picture or something, I always ask if I can grab it. Always. Hope whoever is doing this reads all these comments!!!
Thank you so much for this post! It makes you wonder how someone would even think they could get away with using someone else's picture or idea when a blog is open to the world wide web. It will be found out.
I have used a picture and a recipe once, but before posting I emailed them first to make sure it is okay to use. I then linked it to back to them, they deserve the credit. I just assumed that everyone else did the same. It is awful to think that someone would even try to pass something off as their own.
Very well written!
Wendy
I agree, I think if you see a project on someone else's blog and want to take a crack at making one and post about it then that's fine, but you should give the link or links of the people that inspired you. I think it's ridiculous when people post pictures of stuff on the internet and then get mad because other people are making them!! (I'm not talking about you) If that's the case and you don't want anyone to ever try to make one of your "whatevers" then don't post pics on the net. I find that alot on crocheting blogs… I love visiting other blogs for inspiration but I certainly would give the person credit if that's where I got the idea!
And don't even get me started on "the popular blogs" subject!! LOL! My sister-in-law and I were just laughing about this last month… Some of those blogs are getting so ridiculous!!! It seems like it's nothing but a popularity contest! They make their lives sound like they have perfect husbands, perfect kids, perfect houses etc… sometimes I think reading some of those blogs can make you feel bad about yourself because you don't craft something unique and awesome every week, and have a home where every room looks like a picture from a magazine, and you don't sew all new slipcovers for the furniture while the homemade bread is baking and the new recipe you came up with for dinner is cooking on the stove. Or worse some of them post a pic of their morning cup of coffee or a bowl of cereal and everyone goes crazy posting 40-50 or more comments!! lol!! I don't get it…. what is that?? lol. Crazy…. I don't know….
Ok, I'm stop talking now… Some bloggers make me crazy too but whata ya gonna do??? There are alot of blogs that I do enjoy very much though.And this is one of them.
Hi Manuela! I remembering bookmarking a blog that mentioned ways to protect your blog – it is
http://scribbit.blogspot.com/2008/09/readers-panel-how-to-protect-your-blog.html
You might see if any of her information may help.
As to the follower thing I am with Melissa in that I do not like getting emails stating someone has a new blog entry . I used the follower button when I first started and haven't switched over to anything I think is better. It is fun to see that I have a new follower here and there but it certainly isn't there for anything but convenience.
I do agree that I wish the giveaways would be just leave a comment- not dependent on being a follower etc. Makes for a lot of confusion.
Looking foward to seeing more of your Christmas!
blessings
mary
Amen, Manuela! I agree. Some bloggers are even asking you to become a follower! I do think I would have said something to that person about what they were doing. Maybe you did. That's just not right, is it?
I love your blog and try to comment each time I come by. That's another thing that drives me batty. Visiting and commenting over and over on the same blog and that person never replies! I know we can't always reply to every comment, but some of the so called 'popular ones' seem to busy to reply to us ordinary bloggers. Do you see that too?
I am always inspried when I come to see you! You are most creative!
Be a sweetie,
Shelia 😉
Well said Manuela. Blogland is simply not as important as real life. Blogging should be something for the blogger to enoy and not a competition or an ego trip based on the following numbers. Sorry that this has happended to you.
Blessings
Shirley
Hi Manuela,
I totally agree. I have been guilty of the giveaway issue. I told myself after the last one, that next time I give something away, it will be just that, a giveaway…no "post this facebook, twitter, and your blog/follow me." I actually don't enter giveaways anymore for this reason. Quite honestly, I don't have the time to do all that linking, etc. Thanks for your blog etiquette tips!
Manuela,
I want to thank you for getting that off your chest. As a baby blogger, and as a 'former' teacher (all women teach till the day they die, well, good women do– degree or no degree), I patted myself on the back because I am careful to give credit to the inspiration(s) behind my projects, be it blog, magazine, Martha Stewart, etc. I was appalled to read what you discovered, and (1) I agree with your feelings, and (2) I want to be honest in every dealing of my life. Your post is one more reason to honor those who inspire me to be the best I can be in whatever I do.
Again, thanks for sharing, Manuela.
Kelley
of kelleyhighway.blogspot.com
Hi Manuela, I found your blog last month, and have entered one of your giveaways. I really fell in love with your flair for decorating, and am learning so much about both decorating and blogging from you.
With that being said, I must confess, I got caught up in the "follow me" craze just recently. I wanted to have more people coming by and seeing my beautiful children, my creative ideas, or reading about my savior. I blog what ever I think about that day. SO, I taunted that I was working on a giveaway for when I reach 50 followers. I gained ten followers that week alone.
I notice that when I link up to a Mr. Linky, I get many encouraging words, and People often respond to my comments with an e-mail. I love words of affirmation, that is one of my love languages. I am often posting something witty or crafty just so I can hit one of the linkys that week.
Recently, I started looking more closely at some of the megablogs that I follow. With Sponsers, It makes me wonder if they are mentioning things in their blog to get more hits, and therefore, more money…
Just a thought,
This comment is growing and growing, so One last thought.
I admire your creativity. I don't usually come up with many ideas on my own, I see something in the store, and think, I can make that. But then never do because I just can't start my brain on the project.
I am growing more bold since finding all these creative blogs, I will see a post, and get inspired. Then I will walk around my rooms and rearrange, pull out the glue gun, or "shop" around the house to make something new. I admit I did a quick run through your blog to see if I had copied you, (whew, not me!) and then found some new eye candy.
You truly do inspire me, and as I learn more about blogging, I enjoy your posts more and more.
Thanks for your sincerity, It is in short order lately…
Karyn
Manuela, I want to say a hearty A.M.E.N. to this post!!!
I too feel torn about having the followers thing on my blog. I put it on recently but…I'm debating taking it off. It makes it feel like my blog is a competition somehow, instead of an expression of me. Wow…voicing that makes me realize I AM going to take it off.
If I do a giveaway, i do always give extra entries to people who follow in other readers.
Thanks for being a voice for positive change. You are a blessing!
Manuela, so well said!
As a professional writer, let me point out that copying blogs word for word, taking photos, is copyright infringement. It is not only immoral, it is unlawful. And yes, people know this.
A friend of mine had this happen to her with her blog, and she sent an email to the person to cease. When it did not, she then contacted the server. The blog was removed.
Love your blog, girlfriend.
CurtissAnn
Good for you for speaking up! I've been told (several times) that others have used my photos but I've never received the link. Maybe we should start putting a water drop on each picture?
I am so with you Manuela! I do this blog thing for fun because I enjoy it. I try to keep mine just about decorating because I don't feel comfortable showing pics of me and my family. I am also not trying to make $ off it. I'm just not a salesperson as some are!
Hi Manuela!
You are so right about the bloggy plagarism going on these days! And telling myself that someone copying me is the sincerest form of flattery doesn't really make me feel any better about it.
That said, I try not to let myself worry about it much. People who read or follow me know what I'm about and Karma will repay folks who steal from me or you or anyone else. The only unfortunate thing about Karma is you rarely get to SEE that person getting what's coming to them. LOL
I write my blog for myself, in the hopes that what I write will be helpful to someone else, or at least will be something that someone can identify with. I'd be lying if I said that fans aren't pretty cool, too, but that isn't the reason I blog.
As always, I love your blog, I AM a fan and there is always, ALWAYS something on your blog to inspire me to create. Always something to make me smile and leave me with a happy little bounce in my step for the day! So, thank you for writing and don't let some of the creeps get you down!
Jami
Very well said, you know blogland is a very smalllll world. If someone is stealing ideas, it will bite them in the butt down the road xoxoxo Clarice
Love the post; love the blog–thanks for reminding us why we should be doing this. I just started blogging recently and had noticed some competitiveness out there–though I still love the support I see from most of you veterans 🙂
I enjoyed reading this post and had no idea this was going on. I can imagine how frustrating it would be for this to happen. I will be on the lookout for it from now on!
Happy Holidays!
Laura
Couldn't agree more – if I have ever used anything that I don't remember, I say just that – that "I apologize but can't remember where I saw this" Seems elementary to me..
I never jumped on that Follower bandwagon, whether to follow another or make mine public. I can't speak for others but I blog for myself. I get so much inspiration and positive feedback from this activity. I find joy in encouraging others.
I totally agree that giving credit where credit is due is so important, but, as with everything else in life, some people don't do things for the right reason. Some people don't think of others and don't care who they rip off and hurt in the process. THose of us who blog from the heart can't change that but we can keep on keepin' on so the other type of people don't win out…and they never do:) Great post, Manuela. Thank you for bringing a blog issue to the forefront. Hopefully that poor blogger who feels the need to knock off everyone else's work read this and took it to heart.
Me again! I can't believe I just did what I did. I went thru all my posts, to see if I failed to mention where I got an idea. I just found out – I am not a very "crafty" person. 🙂 I found only one thing that I did where I got the idea from someone else in "blog land" (crown on the monogram candle), posted about it on 7/31 and linked to her blog. Yay Me!!!
As far as the follower (reader)thing – That is my way to know when a blogger has a new post. I don't have time to check all my favorites constantly to see if they have posted lately. I did the "feeds" & bookmarks thing and lost my whole lists one time, and it took me months to track down some of my favorites (still have not found all that I use to enjoying reading). And like someone else mentioned, I DO NOT want all those emails coming in.
As far as the followers getting another chance on the giveaway – I thought that was sort of a way to thank them for taking the time to read my rambles and see what I have been up to (as boring as it may be). What do I know!?!?
Manuela, you said this well and probably speak for many. I remember the surprise when I found one of my own photos on someone's blog. I was scrolling down and admiring 'her' decorating, and then saw one of my pics. It made me wonder if anything on her blog was hers. Reading everyone's comments her post, I could tell everyone else thought these were her photos. Sigh.
I often star posts in Google Reader if I think I might be using an idea or recipe, etc. That way I can find it again (hopefully) to give the due credit.
~Lallee
Great post! I, too, get frustrated with giveaways that require you to sign up to be a follower. I've had 5 giveaways on my blog since I started blogging 8 months ago and anyone who was interested got 1 chance at each giveaway gift. Personally, I would much prefer my readers become followers only if they sincerely enjoy my blog, not because they want an extra chance to win something!
In case everyone isn't aware…readers can still follow any blog they chose, even if the follower widget is not displayed on the blog. I think I have a respectable number of followers for a fairly new blogger but have chosen not to display the widget publicly. How many and who is following my blog is only known to me.
Thank you for speaking out about this, Manuela. It saddens me to think that blogging, such a wonderful vehicle for inspiration and encouragement, has become for many a means of competition.
I am grateful that someone like you, who has many readers, would take the time to talk about this issue. May we all seek to follow the Golden Rule as we blog. You are an excellent example of this, and I thank you for it.
Lovely blog!
Happy Holidays!
Sandra
Wow, looks like this struck a chord with a lot of people! I agree with so much of what you say. I admit to a morbid curiosity about who you are talking about. Of course, the first thing someone wonders is if this person has borrowed anything from me! Thanks for speaking out:>)
Manuela ~
I am very sorry this happened to you
Praying for you sweetie!
PS – love all your ideas and hope you keep on doing what you are doing – you are very inspiring and please don't let people take away your shining light
God bless,
Cathie
Thank you for saying something about this touchy matter. I am relatively new to the Blog World and I've noticed the very thing you mention here on other blogs. It's horrible. And when I notice it, I try never to go back to that blog.
I found a blog not long ago that had plagerized several posts, word-for-word, of at least three of the "big name" bloggers in that niche. It's more common than some may think.
Dear Manuela,
We enjoy your lovely photographs and writings on your blog!
This latest post has caught our eye as we have the same difficulty.
Alas, someone frequently attempts, ahem, to copy my blog both in photography set up and the written word. It is not only me that she copies. She snatches photographs from other people's blogs and claims them as her own. One wonders if there is anything that is truly her own. She is trying to fool everyone, and she is cheerfully accepting comments on other people's work as if it is her own, but there are many people who know. In reality she is really making a fool of herself. Probably the same is true with your blog post snatcher.
Take care,
Diane and daughter Sarah
Manuela,
I had a long post typed out last night and it was lost. Ugh.
I applaud your post. Someone needed to say the things you did. My hubby and I were just talking about this very thing earlier in the week and then I came over and saw your post.
Ads…don't get me started. Guess I can't say that I'm completely against them and some people do it well, but more often than not it seems to change the person and completely turns me off the their blog. Some of the popular bloggers that I just loved in the beginning are just not who they were when I found them and loved what they blogged about. Every other post is now about a new sponsor or whatever and I just click them closed.
I am so sorry that someone has taken the credit for your project/s. It is unbelievable that people do that and it seems to be happening more and more. Vic and I both think it is very important to give credit where credit is due. I'm sure we have missed the boat a time or two, but it is, as you say, common courtesy. Do people really need to know blog etiquette to understand common courtesy? Crazy.
About followers…from time to time I want to take that widget off our blog too. It is a love/hate relationship. Vic and I blog because we love it and have met some great girls and blogs through it. The high school popularity contests that are happening all over blogland are for the birds. I didn't like it in high school and really don't want to do that now. We blog when we can, try our hardest to comment as much as possible and that's that. We even lost a reader early in blogging because she was upset that we didn't comment on each of her posts. It was really bizarre.
Just realized that I'm totally rambling and my comment probably makes no sense. We love your blog and will follow you whether you have a follow button or not. ; ) Vic and I were talking the other day about who we would love to meet in real life from blogland and your name came up immediately.
Great post. It needed to be said.
Its sad but you're right, Manuela. Whether its in the blog world or its in the craft world. My friend and I do craft shows and we've literally seened others copy what we've done and sell it!!! So disrespectful. Someone told me I should show how I make my bags or crafts on my blog, but I said no because sadly someone would copy and take the credit from all the hard work I did. All the hours of trial and error. Its ashame, but sadly we live in a world of selfishness, a Me Attitude. Sorry if someone did this to you, but I hope it doesn't take the joy of blogging from you. Whoever is doing that, it won't last, one day she'll do that to the wrong person. Your blog is fun, I follow you by adding you to my "Favorites".
Great post Manuela. I am always so torn about wanting to have blog visitors, but not wanting anyone to feel obligated to visit my blog just because I visit their blog. The funny thing is, when I have a giveaway, I don't want to advertise it. I don't have a giveaway to gain readership; I have a giveaway to thank those who read my blog. I'm not interested in having 150 comments on the post that is having a giveaway. I feel sorry for someone who is copying someone else's ideas without giving credit-they must have very low self-esteem, and they must not be very comfortable with who they are. How sad that they have to pretend to be someone they are not. laurie
I'm so new to this blogging adventure and really trying to learn the ropes, however, what you described is just rude and disrespectful. I'm so sorry it happened to you…and to others. IMHO, this person lacks self-esteem and confidence in their own abilities. It's sad that someone would resort to conducting 'business' in this manner. 🙁
Sending positive energy your way!
Great post Manuela. I too have had a blogger steal my ideas. She's an uber blogger that one day decided she wouldn't acknowledge me after she became THE blogger. It doesn't happen all the time, but once in a while I'll notice her blogging about certain subjects that I just blogged about. Oh, she'll change the words a little, but it just sounds way too familiar.
I don't craft much, but my posts come straight out of my brain (bad or good LOL), so I don't know why she copies me. The only thing I can think of is that she's been doing this for so long that she can't think of anything new to say. Anyway, I just stopped visiting her after awhile, because it made me so mad. She can copy away all she wants, for all I care, my post came first 😉
As far as the followers…. it's nice to know that people like reading my blog, but I don't ask anyone to follow me. I follow people privately (like you), because I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings. Kim's the only one that shows up, because everyone already knows I've practically dedicated my whole blog to her LOL
Anyway, it's turned into the biggest high school crap ever and I can't stand it. Most of the blogs that have 1000s of followers are so boring to me, I can't figure out what the big deal is. When they first started they had heart, but now most of them are just a machine to plug their friends or their goods and that's when I lose interest.
My blog is my heart and I know yours is too and that's why I'm still reading it after almost two years 🙂
(((hugs)))
rue
Nicely put…..you know how I feel about the follower thing. It is just too much. I do as one stated book mark the blogs I like then go several time a week.
Yes…. the copy thing use to drive me nuts….. but in the end NO ONE can be you. And the original is ALWAYS better than the cheap imitation…… and you my friend are a…. one and only…one of a kind… the real deal…. even if they try they WILL NOT have your heart…
HUg and love,
Linda
Hi Manuela
Vee wrote a post about giving credit where credit is due on her blog in a post and linked over to this post. I'm so shocked to read your post and many of your commenters that some blogger are stealing photos and instructions and pretending they are theirs! That is a definite copyright infringement and you should reported, as Curtissann said.
As far as "followers" I feel that is a different story, as I feel that is a personal choice issue and not and etiquette issue. It took me a long time to put the follower gadget on my blog when it was first offered by Blogger, but now I see the convenience of having it, both to read the blogs I like and hopefully for people who visit me and who want to return to my blog again to help them find their way back. I don't look at it as a popularity contest at all. It's just a "gadget" that is no more than a convenience like listing favorite blogs feeds on my sidebar or a list of blogs I like to visit.
I once had someone complain to me that she didn't like that I have music playing on my blog and that I should take it down. She said it was poor blog etiquette to force a reader to listen to my music. I was hurt at first and almost took my music down, but when I thought it through I realized that this was my blog and I should be able to do with it what pleases me so I kept the music up.
So while I heartily agree copying photos and ideas is detestable and unlawful, the issue of followers, music, blog layouts, having give aways, advertisements, etc, are all personal choices we each make and should not be judged as etiquette at all.
I do love your blog and wish I had the opportunity to visit more often. It has been an unusual month for me in many ways and my blog visits have been down for everyone. Now I have a new and fast computer so I look forward to catching up again in the new year,
I wish you and your family a very Merry & Blessed Christmas and a happy healthy 2010!
Hugs. Pat
Hello Manuela! I saw this entry of yours mentioned on Vee's blog and I jumped over.
1) Hooray for you for getting "something off your chest"! I just did a "getting something off my chest" post too, and it was a relief. 🙂
2) Since I don't do crafts, I never have to link back to something I did. But I do give Source Links for the pics I use [when they aren't my own photos]. And I get a bit peeved that not all bloggers do so. 🙁
3) "Followers!!!" Oh yes, what a can of worms that can be!!! I left Live Journal because of their having a "Friends" thing attached to blogging there. And woe to anyone who decided not to continue to read an lj blog, which one had formerly listed as a "Friend"! Hurt feelings could ensue and angst. And who needs it, in blogging?!?
4) I came to BlogSpot. Here, I follow blogs, by use of my Private Google Reader. Thus no one knows if I have their blog, in my Google Reader thingy or not. I can switch in and out of blogs, without anyone's feelings getting hurt.
5) Didn't add that "Follower" gadget for some time. Know what? I'm taking it off, now. Thank you! — Done!!! 🙂
6) I don't mean by any of what I've commented here, that I am purrrrrrrrrfect in this source linking thing. I'm sure I've "grabbed ideas," at times. But I'll try to not do so in the future, without an on-the-up-and-up click-able link to my idea source.
7) Nor do I want to sound as if I am innocent of "trolling for blog readers/commenters." That ding-dang thing of "How many people comment on my blog?" issue, is something to keep fighting off. ~~ I suppose it's human to want the validation of having a popular looking blog. But it can become a silly, time consuming job too. -le sigh-
Again thank you for being brave enough to post this entry!!!
Aunt Amelia
So interesting. I never even thought about the issue of idea stealing or linking. My blogging is different though…just sort of whatever rambles through my cluttered little mind, and who wants to steal that?? LOL! Anyway, I will definitely keep this post in mind in my future blog dealings. 🙂 Oh, and as for the "Followers," it definitely tells me (a relative newbie)you are a respected and beloved blogger when I see you have so many, and I think that is pretty neat-o! Merry Christmas!!
AMEN AMEN AMEN GIRL!!!
I had a give away in October to celebrate my one year of blogging. My thank you for those that have 'followed' along, who have subscribed. No one had to post to 'enter' no one had to bring someone along to follow me..it was a gift to show them I appreciate them. I did the random org thingie and two were chosen.
I've struggled with the whole follow button for awhile. I even took it off my blog for a month or so…
I've wondered at times,,why are they following me? I have over a 100 followers. Only a hand full comment on my post. I have quite a few subscribers. The others, I don't 'know' them…
This was a powerful post and something that has been on my heart for quite some time. I even did a devotional about it a few months back actually..ummmm, not too many responded,,LOL..might have stepped on some toes maybe…
Blessings sweet one.
Manuela, Hi I'm Diane I am not sure how I arrived here this evening but I believe it was fate, I have had that feeling you describe here on this post. And it was really bothering me today, I have been shaking it off all day. I have had my creative ideas taken and these pirates even summit them for publication. We have to above all just know in our hearts the positive good souls will prevail. Very nice to find you tonight. Hugs, Diane
Manuela, Hi I'm Diane I am not sure how I arrived here this evening but I believe it was fate, I have had that feeling you describe here on this post. And it was really bothering me today, I have been shaking it off all day. I have had my creative ideas taken and these pirates even summit them for publication. We have to above all just know in our hearts the positive good souls will prevail. Very nice to find you tonight. Hugs, Diane
Hi Manuela,
Well, I often feel like such an oddball in the blogging community, because I don't understand the emphasis on "popularity". I tend to think of my blog as an exploration in creativity, rather than as something that is a tool for selling, or gaining recongnition. I've met some wonderful folks along the way. We're all blogging for so many different reasons, aren't we? Most of the blogging community is very kind, and well meaning, but every now and then, someone needs to speak up about what is respectful, and what isn't. I applaud you for doing so, and for doing so from your heart. You will make others think about these things, and make a difference to some, I'm sure. Maybe, not to everyone, but that's ok. It all comes 'round, eventually.
Take care, sweetie.
Lena
I know I'm late to this discussion but I haven't been around in forever (hope you had a wonderful Christmas!) & I had to chime in w/ my 2 cents worth. ;o) First of all, I'm a big ole copycat but I can't imagine using someone else's ideas & not giving them credit. But the net is full of posers & not everybody plays by the rules.
As to the followers feature, I really enjoy using it…google reader is a pain to use but my dashboard allows me to "preview" w/out having to visit the blog unless I'm interested in that post. But I don't have a followers widget on my blog…I took it off over a year ago, when I first noticed it becoming a popularity contest. I still have followers…all you have to do is enter their addy into your dashboard…but noone but me knows how many. Do I get a thrill when I get a new follower? Yes, I must admit I do. But not enough to advertise or compete for them. LOL
Love that you were brave enough to put this out there…now who is that blog you mentioned? ;o)
Hi Manuela,
I'm new to this blogging world on Blogger. Very confused how everything works etc…and verrrrry slow at figuring it out. Why just yesterday I figured out how to paste a background on my very empty blog. lol.
Could you tell me how to post a link to another blog? I've actually been on blogger for nearly two years but this account is new. I've done quite a few projects, REMEMBER where my inspiration came from and haven't a clue one how to credit the original blogger. So if you could, please, instruct me. I would be eternally grateful and could get my blog a rolling. Finally. 🙂
Good for you for keeping it real when the world is so surreal. Great honesty. Keep up the good work…and the beautiful decor. Both are very classy.