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At The Picket Fence with Vanessa Hunt

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August 13, 2012

Ten Commandments for every blogger…

blogging, commandments, how to blog, bloggers, 10 commandments

Lately I’ve been thinking about what makes a successful blogger…and, by successful I’m not talking financial success, or popularity…. but someone who connects with others.  Someone who stands head and shoulders above the rest because of their integrity, their work ethic…you get the idea! I have vowed that no matter how much success or not, how much growth..or not, we experience here At The Picket Fence, I always want to hold myself to a standard of excellence! 
This prompted me to think about what are 10 Commandments that every blogger could adhere to.  Commandments that impact how they relate to other bloggers, to their readers and to themselves. When I started to write this post I realized there are some other great “commandments” out there, so these can just be added to that list…we can call it the 50, 60…100 commandments of blogging. grin! 
These by no means encompass all that can be learned about blogging or from blogging..but they are commandments that I created that resonate with me personally…maybe a few of them will speak to you as well! 

Commandment One:

You can never be too classy, too caring, or too compassionate!



Commandment Two:

Always take the high road, but know when to defend the underdog.



Commandment Three:

I may be further along or farther behind on the journey, but I am neither BETTER than or LESS than another blogger.  We are all just HUMAN BEINGS traveling together.


Commandment Four:

Imitation is flattering.  Stealing words, photographs, ideas and content are not.  Always ask before you borrow and give credit where credit is due.


Commandment Five:

Leave someone’s blog better than you found it.  A kind comment is food for a blogger’s soul. 



Commandment Six:

Don’t leave your bitterness on another person’s passion! 
If you can’t say something nice try not saying it. If you HAVE to say it, spoon it down with sugar.  



Commandment Seven:

Tribes and Communities are crucial and beneficial for blogging.  Cliques and High School behavior are not.  We are all grown-ups now, let’s act like it. 


Commandment Eight:

Controversy maybe an exciting roller coaster, but it’s usually a pretty short ride! Think about where you want to travel with your blog before you buckle yourself in.


Commandment Nine:

Content is said to be King and Photography, Queen.  If so, than other Bloggers and your Followers are Parliament.  Remember, without the support of others you can never truly “rule!”


Commandment Ten:

Saying there are too many blogs in the world, is like saying there are too many books.  Find your voice and speak! Not everyone will be the next Steinbeck or Austen of the blogging world, but some of the smallest works of literature have had the biggest impact on the world. Impact your world right where you are! 

So, these are my TEN COMMANDMENTS for blogging?  Do you agree?  Do you have any to add to the list? If so let me know.  And if you like these, please feel free to share…just let them know who said it…(see commandment four..grin!) 
Thanks for joining me today…At The Picket Fence!
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Serenity Now: Weekend Blogging Reading

119 Comments Filed Under: Blogging 101, Community, Good Thoughts

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Eclectically Vintage says

    August 13, 2012 at 12:48 PM

    Couldn’t have said it better myself! Here’s to doing our own thing while encouraging and helping others to be their best as well.
    Kelly

    Reply
  2. Nici - Posed Perfection says

    August 13, 2012 at 12:52 PM

    Thanks so much for this post. Being a new blogger, this was especially timely and helpful. There is so much beauty and wisdom out there to behold. Thank you for being a part of it by encouraging others. Have a blessed week!
    ~Nici

    Reply
  3. Loui♥ says

    August 13, 2012 at 12:53 PM

    ever so awesomely perfect!!!
    love it thanks for posting and sharing!!
    we ALL could stand a refresher dose of Blogging Reality!
    warmest hugs..
    Loui♥

    Reply
  4. Bonnie and Trish @ Uncommon says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:01 PM

    These are all so true and just beautifully written! You two definitely abide by those commandments and make our community a welcoming and supportive group to be a part of! Thanks for all that you do!

    Take care,

    Trish

    Reply
  5. Anita says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:02 PM

    Definitely agree! Hope you have a great week ahead!

    Reply
  6. Jessica Kielman says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:03 PM

    I love these! Every single one spoke to me…thank you so much for sharing! Shared on fb and twitter 😉

    Jessica

    Reply
  7. quintonwench says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:06 PM

    I love these, especially number 5!

    Reply
  8. Janel@hatingmartha says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:08 PM

    Wonderful!!! And I love these were spoke to the character of bloggers…not just the technical stuff. It’s the character of a blogger that defines them and therefore their success!! Great stuff!

    Reply
  9. Angela says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:16 PM

    Thanks, Heather!! Great perspective!!
    Hugs,
    Angela

    Reply
  10. thistlewoodfarm says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:29 PM

    Heather,

    This truly touched my heart! You are such an inspiration to so many and I am blessed to know you! Thanks for inspiring me today wonderful friend!

    blessings,
    karianne

    Reply
  11. Savvy Seasons says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:30 PM

    Heather, this was a wonderful post, loved it! Thanks for sharing!
    Happy Blogging and Decorating! XO ~Liz

    Reply
  12. {northern cottage} says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:31 PM

    what a lovely lovely post! well said!

    Reply
  13. Kathy A Delightsome Life says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:34 PM

    Well done! Heather! Beautifully expressed!
    Wholeheartedly agree!
    Have a blessed week,
    Kathy

    Reply
  14. Debbie says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:35 PM

    Excellent, Heather! I particularly like the one about bitterness and passion. I have had the most hurtful comments on some really benign posts of mine. I can’t for the life of me figure out why some folks feel that they MUST make a snide comment. Happened on pinterest too. What the heckers???

    Reply
  15. Anne says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:41 PM

    I like number 10! I’ve heard the “there’s too many blogs” line so many times. Thanks for the fresh perspective!!

    Reply
  16. Jill @ Create.Craft.Love. says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:43 PM

    So true! I LOVE this! Great reminder that there are people behind the blogs and to be caring and compassionate towards all. Thanks so much for a great post!

    Reply
  17. Stuff and Nonsense says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:45 PM

    good standards
    to hold myself to
    as i continue down the road

    thanks for sharing!

    alison

    Reply
  18. Courtenay@Creek Line House says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:46 PM

    Love them all! Some great encouragement right when I needed it! 🙂 What am I saying? We always need encouragement!

    Reply
  19. Cherished Bliss says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:52 PM

    This is awesome! Thanks for the encouragement!

    Reply
  20. Cocalores says

    August 13, 2012 at 2:08 PM

    Inspiring! Thanks for sharing =) xo Anja

    Reply
  21. Suzy www.savedbysuzy.blogspot.com says

    August 13, 2012 at 2:14 PM

    These are perfect. I love every single one, but number 10 really resonates with me right now. Thank you!

    Reply
  22. DIY Show Off says

    August 13, 2012 at 2:15 PM

    Beautifully spoken and inspiring, Heather! And I know you live by those commandments because I’ve witnessed it. 😉

    Reply
  23. Thrifty Crafty Girl says

    August 13, 2012 at 2:19 PM

    These are terrific, thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  24. Beth @ UnskinnyBoppy says

    August 13, 2012 at 2:19 PM

    Great advice, Heather! You have hit the nail on the head with every single one of these! I feel like you’ve read my mind with many of these. I adore the home blogging community because the majority of the bloggers in our niche already adhere to these rules already. It sure does make for a pleasant blogging environment. Thank you for taking the time to write them down and gently remind us! 🙂 I’m sharing this now.

    Reply
  25. marty (A Stroll Thru Life) says

    August 13, 2012 at 2:31 PM

    Perfect. Love them all. Hugs, Marty

    Reply
  26. Kelly says

    August 13, 2012 at 2:54 PM

    I certainly agree with those commandments. Wish I could think of some other good ones, but you’ve done a good job covering them yourself!

    Reply
  27. Sarah @ Modern Country Style says

    August 13, 2012 at 2:56 PM

    …and I have to say that in the time that I’ve had the pleasure of knowing you both, and your blogs, you’ve followed every single one!

    Sarahxxx

    Reply
  28. Trisha says

    August 13, 2012 at 3:13 PM

    I absolutely agree with all of your commandments, Heather! Thank you so much for your encouragement and support by sharing these words of wisdom for bloggers (especially newbies like me!) Have a wonderful week! 🙂

    Reply
  29. Barb @ The Everyday Home (formerly Grits and Glamour) says

    August 13, 2012 at 3:45 PM

    Love these Ten Commandments. Just love. I could not agree more. Shall I add these to the SBC Booklet? 😉

    Reply
  30. Anne Lorys - Fiona and Twig says

    August 13, 2012 at 3:54 PM

    Love, Love, LOVE!!!

    Reply
  31. Helen's Decor says

    August 13, 2012 at 4:06 PM

    Heather, thanks so very much for posting theses great thoughts. Your words reminded me that I should always reply to comments left. I was about ready to stop taking the time to do so. Seems many don’t do that and that’s where your reminder helped. Thanks for your sincere kindness and concern for others. Helen

    Reply
  32. Christine @ First Home...Love Life says

    August 13, 2012 at 4:07 PM

    Thank you for this post! I could not agree more!

    Reply
  33. classic • casual • home says

    August 13, 2012 at 4:08 PM

    This is AMAZING…. you are the best and I benefit from you two every time I visit. One of my best friends told me (just as I started blogging a couple of years ago) that there were already too many blogs. I wish I could have given her your final commandment.

    Reply
  34. Susan @ Our Family Eats says

    August 13, 2012 at 4:41 PM

    Lovely words and ideas for reminding everyone that we’re all in this together. We all need reassuring every once in a while and this post did just that for me. Thanks so much for sharing.

    Reply
  35. Laura from Top This Top That says

    August 13, 2012 at 4:59 PM

    Amen to that sista!

    Reply
  36. Ann from On Sutton Place says

    August 13, 2012 at 5:03 PM

    The too many blogs/too many books metaphor really hits home. I have been feeling like a needle in a haystack and wondering how to get noticed. I’m just going to forget about it for a while and do my thing (whatever that is!) Loved this post and I adore your graphics. Well done.

    Reply
    • Sandy says

      August 15, 2012 at 5:53 AM

      Your followers love you, Ann. Keep the faith and keep blogging.

      Reply
  37. Thoughtfully Blended Hearts says

    August 13, 2012 at 5:07 PM

    Brillance…

    Reply
  38. Carmel @ Our Fifth House says

    August 13, 2012 at 5:12 PM

    Boom – perfect – love these! Well said girls!

    Reply
  39. lynnmosher says

    August 13, 2012 at 5:21 PM

    Amen! Well said!

    Reply
  40. Shirley@Housepitality Designs says

    August 13, 2012 at 5:23 PM

    Heather…this is amazing…all I can say is Amen!…You are the best!

    Reply
  41. Stacy Curran says

    August 13, 2012 at 5:39 PM

    TOTALLY agree!! Here’s number 11 — take comment word verification off haha 🙂
    Stacy

    Reply
  42. Kristin @ Simply Klassic Home says

    August 13, 2012 at 5:40 PM

    Each word was eloquent and humble. Brilliant and timely post my friend. I think my favorite is number 7. 😉

    Nice bloggers of the world UNITE!!

    Reply
  43. Elizabeth (Blue Clear Sky) says

    August 13, 2012 at 5:50 PM

    Well said! Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  44. Katie Goldsworthy says

    August 13, 2012 at 6:29 PM

    I love it! What a fantastic post!

    –Kaite

    Reply
  45. Erin~Just*Grand says

    August 13, 2012 at 6:43 PM

    ThEse are excellent and thoughtful! Thank you for posting this!

    Reply
  46. Jane@Cottage at the Crossroads says

    August 13, 2012 at 6:50 PM

    Loved this post and your beautiful graphics! Thanks for the encouragement you’ve given me with commandment #10. Sometimes I feel like a very small fish in a large ocean!

    Reply
  47. Leslie says

    August 13, 2012 at 6:54 PM

    Well said! I couldn’t agree with you more!! 🙂
    Blessings,
    Leslie

    Reply
  48. Kristen {Ella Claire} says

    August 13, 2012 at 7:11 PM

    This is so perfect! I have been thinking about this a lot lately, too. It is one of the reasons I didn’t have a blog for so long… I really don’t like the “popularity contest” aspect of it. But, there are so many wonderful, amazing bloggers like you who are so uplifting and wonderful! Thank you for your kind example 🙂

    Reply
  49. Debra @ Common Ground says

    August 13, 2012 at 7:15 PM

    What a perfect analogy of the most important aspects of blogging. thanks for taking the time to share them!!

    Reply
  50. The Other Me Is Sane says

    August 13, 2012 at 7:16 PM

    I love your ten, but wish you’d add one more. Commandment no.11: Thou shall not re-post the same post again and again. You may want more traffic, but it’s not fair to make it look like you’re posting a new post when it’s the same one you posted earlier.

    Thanks for letting me make this statement. Thankfully not many bloggers do this, but there are a few really popular ones who do this! It makes me not want to follow them.

    Reply
  51. Betsy@ coastal-colors says

    August 13, 2012 at 7:17 PM

    Amen! So elegantly stated! I love these!

    Reply
  52. Lauren @ My Wonderfully Made says

    August 13, 2012 at 7:26 PM

    Very well said and very timely for me! I’ve been taking a few weeks off from my blog to refocus on things that are more important in my life. While I adore blogging, it can take on a life of its own and take over my life so I’ve been enjoying stalking, visiting, commenting and pinning as well as not feeling pressured to produce the next post! I so love your blog and all it stands for and the encouragement you put out in each and every post — truly one of my favorite blogs! Can I say that? LOL

    Reply
  53. vikki says

    August 13, 2012 at 7:53 PM

    I loved them and agree whole heartedly. I haven’t had too many nasty comments on my blog, I would say 99% of comments are nice but I have seen some zingers and always wondered why that person had to unload her nasty feelings on someone else. I have really enjoyed your blog, you have helped me in many ways that you may not even know. I agree as a blogging world everyone has their own niche and voice. We are a motley crew and all different just like the world and there is a spot for all of us. Thanks for having such an uplifting voice.

    Reply
  54. Gina says

    August 13, 2012 at 8:07 PM

    These are really great! Perfectly written & spot-on.

    Reply
  55. Bounced Blessings says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:09 PM

    Beautiful & Encouraging!

    Helpful & Inspiring For A “slow-starting, remedial” blogger, like myself.

    I am still searching for my niche. . .my passion for creating children’s clothing is just not lining up with the things I feel lead to blog. . . God Will Lead & Define, this I know, in the meantime…I figure the blogging community thinks I’m a Froot Loop. But, hey, that’s okay. . . I like Cereal 😉

    Thanks again for all you share At The Picket Fence!

    Reply
  56. Gabby says

    August 13, 2012 at 8:22 PM

    These are great, and I completely agree! I am the absolute worst person when it comes to dealing with awkward moments and drama. I could never relate to anyone going around and leaving hurtful comments. Glad to have met kind and thoughtful bloggers such as you and Vanessa!

    Reply
  57. Heidi @ Decor & More says

    August 13, 2012 at 8:38 PM

    Wonderful words of wisdom! And great reminders for those of us (me) that kind of lose our focus every so often. My mantra in blogging, in life, at home is that we must build each other up. I choose to camp out in positive territory. Cuz I can. 🙂
    Thanks, ladies — this is worth a tweet/pin/share!
    xo Heidi

    Reply
  58. Courtney ~ French Country Cottage says

    August 13, 2012 at 1:50 PM

    I love your commandments Heather. So true and so simple. So happy to have met you out in this big ol world of blogging!! 🙂

    Reply
  59. Amanda @ Serenity Now says

    August 13, 2012 at 9:14 PM

    Bravo!!! Well said, each and every commandment. 🙂

    Reply
  60. Designs By Pinky says

    August 13, 2012 at 9:37 PM

    Very well said! You could do a printable so we could all hang it above our computers:) xO, Pinky

    Reply
  61. cathywhatisoldisnew says

    August 13, 2012 at 9:38 PM

    Your commandments are so heartfelt and meaningful and I thank you for sharing them with the blogging commmunity.

    Reply
  62. JOY 2 JOURNEY says

    August 13, 2012 at 9:57 PM

    After all your help to me last night on Blog Talk I know that you are true to what you say! Thank you again!!! Thank you for the reminder of how we are to act 🙂
    Hugs,
    Bj

    Reply
  63. Dewdrop Gardens says

    August 13, 2012 at 10:01 PM

    Right on! These are very well written, I agree with all you’ve said! Thanks for letting us share, I think these need to make the rounds.
    Debbie 🙂

    Reply
  64. Linda@Coastal Charm says

    August 13, 2012 at 10:42 PM

    Very well said Heather:)

    Blessings,
    Linda

    Reply
  65. Mecky says

    August 13, 2012 at 11:50 PM

    Excellent!!!
    Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  66. Aimee - ItsOverflowing.com says

    August 14, 2012 at 12:00 AM

    Well written Heather! XO, Aimee

    Reply
  67. Sandy says

    August 14, 2012 at 12:13 AM

    Words to live by and I thank you
    for your post!
    Sandy

    Reply
  68. Abbie @ lovinourchaos says

    August 14, 2012 at 12:29 AM

    Wow! This is perfect for what we have been talking about on the CrafterMind Mini board. Going to pass this along. Thank you for the reminders!

    Reply
  69. Steph @ The Silly Pearl says

    August 14, 2012 at 12:32 AM

    Such a beautiful, eloquent way of putting what so many bloggers want to say!

    Reply
  70. Jenn "Rook No. 17" says

    August 14, 2012 at 12:38 AM

    Absolutely beautifully done and perfectly said!

    Reply
  71. craftythriftydecoratingwifemom says

    August 14, 2012 at 12:53 AM

    Nicely done.
    Janet

    Reply
  72. Joani says

    August 14, 2012 at 1:18 AM

    Well done. I love how you put the words with pictures. I love #6. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  73. Debbiedoo's says

    August 14, 2012 at 4:43 AM

    NICE! I love all these commandments! I plan on abiding by all:)

    Reply
  74. Natalie Dixon says

    August 14, 2012 at 5:10 AM

    I’m almost in tears because these are so right-on and what I needed to hear. Thank you for taking the time to write this and for adding such pretty graphics. This post will be saved and re-read when needed!

    Reply
  75. Rainbow Gatherer says

    August 14, 2012 at 8:17 AM

    you have a lovely blog and I’ll be happy if u check out my blog too=)

    Reply
  76. JannYvette Angel-Byrd says

    August 14, 2012 at 11:38 AM

    Being new to the blog world, I’m always trying to learn more about blogging and getting advice. You did both in a very creative way – Thank you – Please visit my blog and give me some tips if you can. Best Wishes

    Reply
  77. Dear Emmeline says

    August 14, 2012 at 1:00 PM

    🙂 sounds like a pretty good list to me!

    Reply
  78. Judy Bigg says

    August 14, 2012 at 1:59 PM

    Very well said. Good post.

    Reply
  79. Shari @ turnstylevogue.com says

    August 14, 2012 at 2:54 PM

    Perfection. Pinning this for all to see. Thanks for taking the time to do this. 🙂

    Reply
  80. Good Time Charlie says

    August 14, 2012 at 4:27 PM

    This is so perfect. Tweeting, facebooking this and sharing with whomever will listen. Such inspired and true words. Thank you! I just love you both, you are amazing.

    Reply
  81. Kristin @ My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia says

    August 14, 2012 at 6:04 PM

    Awesome!!!! The two of you are amazing and an inspiration to all!
    XO
    Kristin

    Reply
  82. Bethany Lee says

    August 14, 2012 at 7:07 PM

    I love this! I was worried when I saw the title because a lot of people do posts like this where they come off as “better-than.” Y’all really did this in an encouraging, uplifting way!

    Reply
  83. Meegan Fast says

    August 14, 2012 at 7:08 PM

    Love love love these commandments!! Thanks for sharing with us. You are amazing Heather and Vanessa!
    Meegan

    Reply
  84. Jill Robson says

    August 15, 2012 at 2:29 AM

    Great list. I have just started blogging, and you have really reinforced what i am trying to achieve with my own blog, and given me some food for thought.Thank you.

    Reply
  85. Lisa @ Before Meets After says

    August 15, 2012 at 3:03 AM

    Well said as always ladies 🙂

    Reply
  86. Anna says

    August 15, 2012 at 8:25 PM

    I love this. I think you should write an eBook based off of these 10 commandments because every blogger needs to live by these. 🙂

    Anna

    Reply
  87. Dusty @AllThingsG+D says

    August 15, 2012 at 9:19 PM

    I loved this, Heather! Thank you for your insights – so well-said!

    Reply
  88. Darleen@Places In The Home says

    August 15, 2012 at 11:36 PM

    Insightful & inspirational words of blogging wisdom, Heather! I know how I appreciate every word and thoughtful opinion left in my comments. I realize how valuable a reader’s time is. When he or she takes time from their day to drop me a note I realize the value in that. Comments are little gifts of one’s time and their kindness.

    “Leave someone’s blog better than you found it. A kind comment is food for a blogger’s soul.” ~ One Smart Lady

    Reply
  89. portland homes for sale says

    August 16, 2012 at 8:52 AM

    That can be learned about blogging or from blogging..but they are commandments that created that resonate with me personally…maybe a few of them will speak to you as well.

    Reply
  90. Elizabeth says

    August 16, 2012 at 10:59 AM

    I am new to blogging. Thank you so much!
    Elizabeth @ https://confectionsbyelizabeth.blogspot.com/

    Reply
  91. karen@somewhatquirky says

    August 16, 2012 at 2:50 PM

    Wonderful words of wisdom. Thank you.

    Reply
  92. Richella says

    August 16, 2012 at 3:38 PM

    Yee haw!!

    Sorry–I just let a bit of my Tennessee roots show. 🙂

    Your ten commandments are wonderful, Heather, and I bless you for writing them and sharing them. I wish more people would adopt this attitude! 🙂

    Reply
  93. Shannon Madigan says

    August 16, 2012 at 8:31 PM

    Love, love, love these! Great points and beautiful graphics, too!)

    Reply
  94. Taryn @ Design, Dining + Diapers says

    August 16, 2012 at 10:27 PM

    Love love these!!! You did a fabulous job Heather! So true!

    Reply
  95. Reannah @ {Shaped by Grace} says

    August 16, 2012 at 11:50 PM

    Oh Vanessa and Heather – I’ve been reading your blog for a long while and you get me every time. You two live up to these standards beautifully. Thanks for sharing and putting it out there for all of us to benefit from. Great job.

    Reply
  96. Bonnie says

    August 17, 2012 at 12:26 AM

    So well said. I have wanted to thank you again for the great tutorials on blogging and the great recaps of Haven in Atlanta. I read and learned so much but I knew I needed to reread and reread and study to GET EVERYthing! Young minds absorb and remember quicker and longer! I am in the older generation! Also, LIFE does happen! So often, I beat up on myself and wonder HOW do they do it? How do they blog everyday or several times a week!!! I have to maintain a balance and my life is so full I don’t ever want to compare myself to others. Some can pelt out words like I can speak them, some can paint and refinish furniture every week, some cook all the time…..but we each have to be ourselves. We should enjoy and feel the blessings we have and be thankful. I am thankful for all the blogging friends I have made. I am thankful for all I have learned from blogging. Blogging is a complex world but I am blessed to be a part of it. People like you with uplifting and positive attitudes encourage and teach so many life lessons. Thank you.

    Reply
  97. Jill Flory of Sew a Fine Seam says

    August 17, 2012 at 12:30 AM

    I like. a lot! Very well said!

    Reply
  98. Katie says

    August 16, 2012 at 6:15 PM

    I love this! Wonderful words of wisdom my friend–everyone should live by these!

    Reply
  99. Kristi @ Addicted 2 Decorating says

    August 17, 2012 at 1:31 AM

    Love all of these! What a great list…and beautiful presentation. 🙂

    Reply
  100. Liz says

    August 17, 2012 at 11:51 AM

    I LOVE LOVE LOVE this!!! Excellent list, ladies! XO~Liz@NaptimeDecorator

    Reply
  101. www.inspired-housewife.com says

    August 17, 2012 at 12:34 PM

    This is timely as I am a new blogger (8 months) and recently found out another blogger bigger than me took some content of mine and did not ask. Made it sound like they came up with the idea and now they are getting pinned like crazy. Frustrates me because I work hard to be original and give credit where credit is due. I did contact said blogger, but have had no response from them. Wish I could get post taken down, but ISP says no it is in grey area.

    So thank you so much for this post as I will pin it and share it every because you hit the nail on the head for blogging! Thanks, Amee

    Reply
  102. melissa @ daisymaebelle.com says

    August 17, 2012 at 2:47 PM

    Beautifully said!

    Reply
  103. Nine Red says

    August 17, 2012 at 6:38 PM

    Fantastic! Very good comandments, especially the credit where credit is due. I mean, it’s not that hard if you are going to showcase something someone else did, that you like, it’s NICE to share with with everyone, but link up! Thanks for posting these, they’re great.

    Reply
  104. Emily says

    August 17, 2012 at 8:50 PM

    All great and all so true. I wish everyone believed as you do. I hope this spreads.

    Reply
  105. Jen @ The Decor Scene says

    August 18, 2012 at 1:29 AM

    Thank you, thank you. These are great! I hope these words spread and others listen. Thank you for sharing! Have a great weekend!!! 🙂

    Reply
  106. Shabbyfufu says

    August 18, 2012 at 12:13 PM

    Wonderful….someone sent me here to look at this and I agree with all, KUDOS….
    As a Facebook enthusiast & published photographer I applaud you for #4 and can’t believe the non linking going on over there!

    Reply
  107. Mary @ A Happy Wife In NOLA says

    August 18, 2012 at 5:14 PM

    These are perfect! Couldn’t agree with you more!!

    Reply
  108. Angie Granata says

    August 19, 2012 at 1:31 AM

    I love this. Thanks for sharing these words of wisdom.

    Reply
  109. Kim says

    August 19, 2012 at 7:00 PM

    Heather, each of these is just perfect! I will pin and read and abide. We all need reminders and improvements in these areas.

    thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  110. Linda @ it all started with paint says

    August 22, 2012 at 12:57 PM

    Love, love, love this post and these commandments! Each and every one rang so true to me … I will read and read again … and commit to memory … and share!

    🙂

    Linda

    Reply
  111. Christina says

    August 23, 2012 at 5:15 AM

    great reminder! especially the one about is there too many blogs. sometimes it does feel like that but need to remember to not think that way.

    Reply
  112. Marty Walden says

    August 24, 2012 at 12:37 PM

    I think these are great! My one issue as a blogger is with those who comment and say hateful things in a personal attack. There’s no reason for that except jealousy and anger and they should just go visit another blog! I do feel sorry for people like that but it doesn’t make it any less comforting when attacks are made. Encouragement should rule! Thanks for sharing this.

    Reply
  113. kristi@ishouldbemoppingthefloor says

    August 24, 2012 at 9:11 PM

    Wonderful list, Heather!! We can all learn so much from one another. Thank you for taking the time to put these together….and in such a pretty way, too! 🙂

    Reply
  114. Erin { Home Everyday} says

    August 24, 2012 at 10:12 PM

    As I am new to blogging, I am very grateful for this post! Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  115. Debbie says

    October 3, 2012 at 12:55 PM

    this is a wonderful entries. all things i think about before i post. i try not to make my entries too wordy, where the reader might loose interest. i love pictures, color and fun.

    and, save the dramma for you momma. i don’t want to read about personal conflict in your life!! xo

    Reply
  116. Nico Saich says

    October 4, 2012 at 8:29 AM

    How lovely, I very much enjoyed this post and your blog!

    -Nico

    http://www.SatinandSalt.com

    Reply
  117. Belinda says

    February 25, 2013 at 10:00 AM

    These are fantastic guidelines and I just LOVE your graphics, made it much more fun to read! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply

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  1. 18 Must Read Blog Posts for New Bloggers - Marty's Musings says:
    February 23, 2013 at 9:20 PM

    […] 10 Commandments for Every Blogger Excellent post on not only being a good blogger but a decent human being as well. […]

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I just went to make my mid-morning protein shake a I just went to make my mid-morning protein shake and grabbed a banana out of the freezer and was about to put it into my shake before I realized it was a frozen egg roll. Sooooo that's how my day is going so far! 🤪How about you?

It's honestly fairly representative of my state of mind these days as I can't seem to make the date on the calendar match the date in my spirit because it feels like it should be January 45th. Every year this month drags on and every year it seems to surprise me for some reason. In addition, my heart just feels heavy as I witness a lot of darkness and sadness around me. So, I'm choosing to control what I can control by making my house feel as cozy as possible, relishing the sunshine whenever it dares to peek through the clouds, gathering inspiration for warmer weather projects and, most importantly, resting in the comfort of the sovereignty of my Father.

“God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding. He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth,’ and to the rain shower, ‘Be a mighty downpour.’ So that everyone he has made may know his work..." Job 37:5-7
What if you could do something at the beginning of What if you could do something at the beginning of your day that would be a gift to yourself later on? That’s what we’re talking about on this week’s Tip Tuesday! #tiptuesday
The sun decided to make another appearance today! The sun decided to make another appearance today! It’s been such a lovely Sunday. Chocolate croissants for breakfast followed by church then naps/football/reading/etc and soon we’ll be heading out to dinner with friends. These are my favorite kind of weekends. Hope yours has been lovely too! 🌿
Yesterday was stormy and cold but today the sunshi Yesterday was stormy and cold but today the sunshine is breaking through the fog and my house just seems happier. We definitely needed to see that light streaming in through the windows and it’s a gift I don’t take for granted.

And yes, there are still twinkle lights on my mantle because those help when the sunshine goes away again. ✨
Happy weekend! The rainy and gloomy weather here i Happy weekend! The rainy and gloomy weather here in the Willamette Valley has me feeling less frustrated about my migraine forcing me to just snuggle up indoors and these flowers in my kitchen are lifting my spirits. What are you up to on this holiday weekend?
It’s time for TIP TUESDAY! This week, I’m offe It’s time for TIP TUESDAY! This week, I’m offering a gentle reminder from my own parenting experience after feeling my heart pricked with conviction about what was waiting for my daughter every day after school. I hope it will encourage you! 🌿#tiptuesday
The day after Christmas I found myself laundering The day after Christmas I found myself laundering and folding all of the linens we used the previous night as we hosted my husband's side of the family for dinner and other festivities. As I laid out each cloth napkin and folded them one by one, I couldn't help but be struck by what a simple, yet meaningful, task it was. It's such an honor and privilege to be the hostess and, at this stage of my life, I realize that this has almost one hundred percent become my role now. Our parents are in their 70's and have either downsized significantly or simply don't have the energy to take on hosting duties for a large group. I could resent this. I could feel overwhelmed by it. But, instead, I'm choosing to embrace it knowing that, someday, I too will pass the hosting torch and I hope that I will be welcomed with love and attentiveness. So, I fold the linen napkins, taking pleasure in the way all of the creases line up and how neat and tidy they look in the drawer of my dining room buffet. These seemingly simple chores are part of the lifeblood of homemaking and my attitude towards them can either be one of gratefulness or grumbly-ness (yes, I'm making up words now). 

And I’m choosing gratefulness. 

“This job has been given to me to do. Therefore, it is a gift. Therefore, it is a privilege. Therefore, it is an offering I may make to God. Therefore, it is to be done gladly, if it is done for Him. Here, not somewhere else, I may learn God’s way. In this job, not in some other, God looks for faithfulness.” (Elisabeth Elliot⁣)
Welcome to Tip Tuesday! I’m so excited to be kic Welcome to Tip Tuesday! I’m so excited to be kicking off the year with a brand new series! Each weekly installment will feature a tip for everything from your home to faith to parenting to family life and so much more. My goal for 2023 is to have far more personal interaction with this community while continuing on with the mission of weaving together all things heart and home. I hope you enjoy this first tip and I’d love to hear from you about whether or not you decorate for winter! 
#tiptuesday #organizing #winterdecorating
“He has made everything beautiful in its time. H “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” 

Here’s to beginnings. Happy new year friends! May you experience the majesty and sovereignty of the Lord in 2023 like never before! ✨
Oh how I love this week each year! It’s my favor Oh how I love this week each year! It’s my favorite for sure. Everything is still festive and decorated but there’s none of the stress of the cooking and wrapping and making preparations. It’s the week where we get to take everything slowly and simply enjoy being together while the house still has twinkling lights and we can just be cozy.

What about you? How will you be spending this week? ✨
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