What Do YOU Want??
Usually in January I take it a little easy and think about what I want from the year ahead. But I’m finding it hard right now to just think and not do. I want to do all the things! Take all the pictures, write about all the bloggy things, be more creative and productive, do more video, be on Instagram more, I want to do everything! Obviously with a full time job, this is challenging, BUT I WANT TO DO IT ANYWAY.
I want my blog posts to be more creative and more…personal? More emotional? With more feeling? Ha, I feel like I already tell you everything, but…do you even like that kind of post? I always hear how content (whether blogs, Instagram, Pinterest, whatever) should be either informative, inspiring, or entertaining. I’m not exactly sure which of those I hit, if any. And you all are so lovely to keep coming back anyway, I could not BE more grateful. But seriously, why are you here? Ha ha. If I created a survey for you to fill out anonymously so I could get a handle on exactly why people are here, what they really want to see – would you do that?
And while I’m asking for favors, would you also go here and fill out a “follower testimonial”? That could really help me be more desirable to brands as far as getting paid work.
But yeah, do you prefer when I just share my everyday life, whether in words or pictures, or when I talk about things like organization or how to create a wardrobe, or, more recently, being mindful of how our wardrobes and shopping practices affect the environment and others? I like sharing the everyday…but I also really want to teach and inspire. I also love sharing my outfits, even when they’re really nothing special – like in Workday Wardrobes. I think seeing amazing outfits is fun…but I feel like seeing ways to create more everyday outfits from “normal” clothes is more valuable information for most people.
I’m really trying (oh alright, I’m not REALLY trying…I’m really PLANNING to really try!) to be a more conscious, responsible shopper and to share that with all of you. And I don’t know if it’s coming across in the manner in which it was intended. Last week’s post on “creating a responsible wardrobe” was one of my lowest viewed posts in a long time. Not that I’m all about the numbers…but it surprised me just how low they were that day.
I LOVE creating content for the blog. Once in a while, my mind goes blank for a day and that’s when you get “Here’s me wearing a red shirt. Bye.” Ha ha. But usually, I’m bursting with ideas – for stories, pictures, outfits. I just don’t have as much time as I would like to implement all those ideas.
I know the blogs I love the most and never tire of reading are the ones where I feel like I’m hanging out with the blogger all day cuz we’re friends. Something specific drew me to the blog in the first place – fashion, art, squirrels – but I stay because I really like the person. And I want to know and see everything they do. I know it’s voyeuristic, but…don’t we all kinda like that?
I keep hearing that blogs are dying. I don’t believe it for a second. Or I won’t. I love Instagram. But Instagram doesn’t love me 🙂 But with my blog I feel like I’m part of a COMMUNITY. YOUR community. We’re all friends who visit with one another once in a while or a couple times a week. So while I want what I want…I also want this place to be what YOU want.
What do YOU want??
So. Yeah. That’s it. And here I am wearing a red shirt. Bye.
What I’m Wearing
- Red Plaid Sanctuary Blouse, size 3x.
- Sanctuary Curve Lenox Leopard Cardigan (hey, I just realized both pieces are by the same company), size 2x
- Black Refuge Jeans from Charlotte Russe, old.
- Black Ankle Boots from Avenue, old.
This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission if you buy something as a result of clicking that link, at no extra cost to you. I appreciate you shopping through my links.
Iris
Okay, “I think” you’re overthinking this stuff. (Please don’t be mad) I’m not a very fashionable person but I have learned a lot from you and gotten some really good ideas – like the outfit today. I would never have worn that sweater with that shirt – but it works (and I love the whole thing). Especially like your shoes too. You’re always so put together and good about talking about it.
I like personal stuff – I’m pretty picky about the blogs I read – and am almost always running behind (good for me this time). I don’t think blogs are dead – they’ve been around a long time and while things move on – not everything has to die. I’m not crazy about Instagram. I’m there – I read more than I post – it’s just one more thing I don’t have time for.
So, I’ve written a book here. Sorry. Your life is so vastly different from mine and I truly enjoy reading about it.
Grace & Peace,Iris
http://www.IrisOriginalsRamblings.com
bettyewp
WHAT? ME? OVERTHINK?? Ha ha. I am the QUEEN of Overthinking. I have CRIPPLING overthinkitis. Truly. The things I DON’T SAY because I overthink all the possible reactions…the things I don’t DO! The amount of time spent TRYING to do something, because I have to over-analyze Every Detail from Every Perspective (as if I could KNOW every perspective!)!
The internet is truly one of the “safest” places for me because I can be a little more ME and a little less “thinky.”
I’m not mad! How could I be mad at a friend offering her opinion on something I asked about?? xoxo
I think about the blog ENDLESSLY. I always have One Thing in my life that’s MY THING. If it’s not a relationship, it’s one of my many projects – gardening newsletter, ebay, photography, blog. I’m grateful I have interests like this because what else would I be doing with my time?? But I know I do get just a tad 😉 obsessive about things and they can easily take over my time and my life.
BUT – each of these things has been not only a passion, but a (hopeful) source of income. The blog has really not been that YET. But my goal is that it will be by the time I retire. So it’s Very Important to me. Not just because I love doing it (which I do – you couldn’t spend all the time I have over the past almost four years without making any money WITHOUT loving it), I love all the people who come here, but I do need to start moving it towards being a money-maker. So I do want it to be the best it can be. And how do I do that? BY OVERTHINKING!!! Ha, my special gift.
xoxo
julia
So, you are all three of those descriptors in my opinion. What do I like about this blog? The photos, the writing and your observations of the world. I like to see your outfits but not as much as I like hearing about your life and your activities. Honestly, it’s reading about your view on life and the world and friends and pets that I enjoy most. Plus your photos are beautiful. I filled out the Fohr thingy.
bettyewp
Thank you, Julia, thank you! For reading, for commenting, for the kind words, and for filling out the Fohr thingy!
Pamela Gray
You are my favorite blog of all I subscribe to. Because…you share your thoughts like a friend would, and without over sharing or being pretentious. You are just like me- a working schlub who loves fashion and tries to do the right thing and LOOKS LIKE ME. Your photography is amazing. The whole sustainability thing is starting to be overdone IMHO, what I appreciated about your post was you didn’t say- go buy some Everlane and save the planet! You actually pondered what sustainability means and how you play in to it. Rant over LOL.
Keep on being your fabulous self! 💚✨
Ps I messaged you my Facebook email so I can be in your Group. TIA I hope!
bettyewp
“You are my favorite blog of all I subscribe to” 🙂 I’m flattered.
Ha, if ONLY saving the planet was as easy as buying something from Everlane 🙂
“Ps I messaged you my Facebook email so I can be in your Group. TIA I hope!” Oh, maybe I missed it, sorry – I haven’t been on Facebook much lately…I’ll go check for it now!
joan
I think you have a good balance of types of posts — I can’t think of anything I would really suggest changing. About the sustainability thing: I really like the idea of focusing on buying things that fit well with your wardrobe and lifestyle and that you will wear over and over. I hate it when I buy things that I don’t end up wearing. But as a size 18/20 , it’s hard enough for me to find things I love without having to also reject many brands because of their labor/supply chain ethics. Some of my most worn/favorite/longest lasting clothes are from places that aren’t exactly leading the way in that area.
bettyewp
“it’s hard enough for me to find things I love without having to also reject many brands because of their labor/supply chain ethics. Some of my most worn/favorite/longest lasting clothes are from places that aren’t exactly leading the way in that area” And THAT is on the industry. But wearing the HECK out of what you have – whether it’s fast fashion or sustainable/ethical – is a GREAT way to be part of the solution.
Sue
What do I think of your blog? I love it! All of it! The outfit pictures. Stories about your life. The everyday things. I have started unsubscribing from a lot of blogs I used to read, but not yours! And I don’t do instagram. I do feel like reading a blog is like visiting with that person! Keep up the good work❤️
bettyewp
Thank you, Sue!
“I do feel like reading a blog is like visiting with that person!” Yes! That’s how I feel, too!
Gabi
I enjoy reading your posts because I like your style of writing. The way you connect everyday observations, fashion, your life….. in a very friendly manner without criticizing other people .
bettyewp
Thanks, Gabi!
Sue Sommer
You are a wonderful, personal, vulnerable writer. I don’t care much about the clothes but I care deeply about YOU. Keep on keepin on.
bettyewp
Oh, Suzy! I just love you!
Linda Root
I’m thinking I got hooked on your blog because I like your “day to day” outlook. I like spontaneity and variety! I like seeing and hearing about your beautiful corner of the world. Also, I just read the first four comments and I can relate to women in your blog community. I am entertained and inspired by your writing style. Yesterday, I started my closet clean out. I feel I am a responsible consumer with limitations (my budget, sizing). The clothing styles I prefer are often in poor fabric choices or not in my size. The search continues! I’m thinking you and your readers have similar challenges. I don’t have any suggestions since you do expand on entertainment, inspiration and organization.
bettyewp
“Yesterday, I started my closet clean out.” Ooh, fun! I’m not being sarcastic! I’ve always loved a closet cleanout. I wonder where that comes from. Probably from my mother who was a tad bit of a hoarder (#UNDERSTATEMENT). I think a lot of people try as hard as they can to be as UNLIKE their parents as possible. She never got rid of ANYTHING. So I think part of the joy I feel in getting rid of stuff is based in LOOK HOW NOT LIKE MY MOTHER I AM.
Thanks for your comments!
Linda Root
About this closet cleanout you inspired… three trips to the thrift store. No, I’m not done! You know those bloggers who count hangers/clothes ? I thought that was a bit over the top until I counted. I’m a pack rat. It is genetic. At age 58, I’ve got to get a grip. A small water leak in my closet floor from the laundry room caused chaos. Thanks for the inspiration. Your “over thinking” is funny ! I completed the survey, it was easy.
bettyewp
I count OBSESSIVELY. I keep thinking I should buy x amount of hangers…and once they’re all full, that’s it. Nothing more until a hanger empties cuz it can no longer be worn or I sell it. But I don’t think just picking an arbitrary number is the best way of going about that. I see the number 33 a lot as the “ideal” number of clothes (per season). But it’s going to be different for everyone! Do you work from home? 33 could be way high. Do you work at a corporate job by day and teach art by night? 33 may be not nearly enough. But I think everyone could figure out “their number,” based on how much repetition they’re comfortable with, if they also like a “third piece,” or if they wear a lot of one and done dresses?
But it’s good that now you’re paying attention to it.
Thanks for filling out the survey!
Rhonda
I am in agreement with all of the comments above! I love reading your blog because I feel like you are my friend. You are real in your opinions and don’t mince words…your honesty is what makes you relatable. I absolutely LOVE your photography and seeing your beautiful surroundings. You are entertaining and I love your sense of humor…much like my own…😂! Your outfits are inspiring no matter what the size, and I very much look forward to reading your blog, no matter the direction or topic.
bettyewp
Thank you, Rhonda, for the very kind words.
xoxo
Marceline Miller
I love your blog – everyone else has already expressed why in better ways than i can. You really are a friend to us. About that “responsible clothing” post with the lowest views – i almost commented that day, but i was too cowardly. Afraid that you and the community would find me ridiculously shallow and uncaring. But it’s almost like you noticed me, so here i go: i didn’t care for the post. Even that day, i asked myself, “why this negative reaction? Bettye is trying to highlight important issues here” I think the main reason is that i just don’t want another finger wagging in my face. I regularly follow some information / people because there is data or policies that a responsible adult has to know, but it’s kind of like a daily dose of medicine. I look forward to Fashion Schlub as some of my inspiration and relaxation.
The other thing is that i’m a lifelong fat person, now age 59. (i know, i bring up my age a lot – haha) “Back in the day” there was SO little out there for a young woman to wear. Plus I was low income. Still not rolling in tons of dough. LOL The explosion of plus-size clothing at lower prices in recent years feels like Santa Claus to me.
The points you made about the environment and the plight of workers worldwide are not small. I get it. I know it’s important. Heck, for a short time I myself even worked in a clothing factory (obviously that was before it all went offshore). I certainly don’t pretend that my (mostly positive) experience compares to the situation elsewhere in the world – my point is i DID get a tiny taste of being a garment worker. So i really can have some empathy.
I give you SO much credit for all the research, and just for being the type of person who gives a d*#nm. I know you want to do good things by being out there on the internet, and you do. You bring a lot of enjoyment, and you teach us, and you help us feel better about ourselves. Those are not small things, either, my friend! Thanks for tolerating this long comment!
bettyewp
I hear ya, Marceline. I don’t like the waggling finger either. Which is why those posts have been uncomfortable me to write cuz I don’t want anyone to feel like I’m telling anyone what to do, or that MY way is THE way or anything. But it feels so important to me and I just feel compelled to get the message out there. SPOILER ALERT: There’s one more in a similar vein coming on Tuesday. And I haven’t even gotten to the BRANDS’ side yet! But I’ll give it all a little breathing room for a bit and come back with more after a little break.
Ha, I bring up my age a lot, too. I’m kind of excited (but amazed) that I’m in my final “50” year and that I’ll be SIXTY this year – seems UNBELIEVABLE!!!
“The explosion of plus-size clothing at lower prices in recent years feels like Santa Claus to me.” Oh, I hear THAT. Between the greater availability, the fact that clothes are fitting me better now, AND that there is finally a little discretionary $$ in my life, after SO many years….it’s like wait, I can finally HAVE things…but now I’m just learning I shouldn’t REALLY have things?!? Guh. I stamp my foot and mutter IT’S NOT FAIR and then I realize how spoiled I sound. This is so not a real life problem. I should be happy I have what I have. (SHOULD, ha)
It’s so HARD to be good!!!
I appreciate ALL comments, Marceline – long or short…complimentary or critical. I’m just happy knowing people are sticking around, reading and thinking about all this!
xoxo
Marceline Miller
oh btw, i responded to the Fohr Bring on any and all surveys and whatnot that might help you – i’m happy to gush about your blog!
bettyewp
THANK YOU THANK YOU!
AL
Oh Betty, I love your blog.
I have only recently discovered you and I spent Christmas and New Year reading from the beginning. I actually found it very emotional at times, you have come a long way and you’re still smiling. Whether it’s your gorgeous photos or the descriptive narrative of your daily life, it’s a wonderful blend. And as a Plus Size Mature Woman 😄 your outfit images are natural and faff free, I really appreciate the lack of large accessories other bloggers deem to be necessary. Large tote bags in co-ordinating colours, boots or shoes I could never actually walk in. I for one appreciate you keeping it REAL, you look good girl. You taking the time to post images and information helps me and others to feel confident to try new or existing items of clothing in different ways. You rock that check shirt and leopard print jacket, who would have thought!
Love from the UK
Al x
bettyewp
“I spent Christmas and New Year reading from the beginning.” Oh. My. We need to get you a hobby! I mean, *I* do that with OTHER people’s blogs and vlogs but…it feels weird that someone would read all mine like that. But thanks 🙂
“I for one appreciate you keeping it REAL” thank you so much for this. I feel like I’ve finally kinda hit my fashion stride and have a good feel for what sorts of items I feel good in…and feel I look good in…they’re not sloppy or too casual but they’re also not fussy or fancy (or as you said, “faff free”) and I just feel RIGHT in them. And it only took me 59 years! I hope everyone can feel good in their clothes and appearance!
Thanks for your lovely comments, really. xoxo
Karen
I agree with all the comments above. Maybe not the issue of sustainability because I’m very concerned about that, which is why I buy all my clothing used and thus cannot be influenced to go out and buy a particular pair of jeans or shirt from a recommended source. (I know it’s a bit of a cop-out, but if somebody has already purchased a dress from H&M and I buy it at the thrift store, what difference does it really make?) I love your photographs, your comments on the books you read, the activities you do and sometimes the lack of them. (Especially that! I love a woman who is willing to admit she did nothing productive for a whole day!) So, as a new reader, your blog ticks all my boxes. I love that we all schlub along together. I haven’t commented more than once or twice so maybe I haven’t realized that the feedback is helpful to you. Or do you have other ways of tracking how many reads your post has had? Keep going – follow your heart. You’ve got a good one. And a good head too! If you lived in my hood, I’d be inviting you to meet me for coffee. xo karen
bettyewp
“I love a woman who is willing to admit she did nothing productive for a whole day!” Oh, well, you guys only know the half of it!!! I can do nothing productive for DAYS. Not get dressed, not leave the building, not eat a normal meal. Yup. My mother taught me well.
The wordpress statistics show me how many *views* each post gets but you can’t really tell if a “view” means people are READING.
Would love to have coffee!
jodie filogomo
Now this is about as much of “you wearing a red shirt” as my blog is only about me…ha ha, hee hee!!
I still think you need to write some posts about how you take such amazing photos. Not just the specifics, but how your brain works in coming up with the shot!! Seriously.
XOOX
Jodie
PS..But I can totally relate…I have SO many ideas and there’s SO little time….
bettyewp
Yes! So many ideas! My girlfriend always laughs when I say, “so, I had an idea,” or “so, there’s this new thing I’m doing.” Cuz that’s ALL THE TIME.
Every year I want to do the “blogger photography” post but it’s a high maintenance post. I need someone to shoot who doesn’t mind having their pictures on the blog (which lets most of my friends out) and I would like someone shooting ME shooting the “model,” so people can see the behind the scenes. That’s a lot of people to pull together. In my world, two is a lot of people. I know you have an entire entourage on a daily basis 🙂 But I will try again this year.
Shirley Horst
Well, I like pretty much everything you do on the blog! The fashion inspires me to think about how to put outfits together in new ways. I am like another person that commented she buys thrift store clothing, so she doesn’t really use the buyer info. I do use it though to spot brands that you mention and like at thrift stores. I like that you share what is going on in your life. I also have just discovered you recently and went back and read all of your blog posts. Because of health issues I am not able to get out much into the real world anymore and it is nice to read about someone who is. If I lived closer to you I would also join you for (not coffee) I don’t drink coffee, but something else. Thanks for doing what you do! You and Jodie are my favorite bloggers!
bettyewp
“You and Jodie are my favorite bloggers!” Aww, thanks, Shirley! I feel honored to be in such good company!
Andrea
You are one of my favorite bloggers, and I think it’s because of this:
“I know the blogs I love the most and never tire of reading are the ones where I feel like I’m hanging out with the blogger all day cuz we’re friends.”
I also really look forward to seeing your photos. They’re inspiring and beautiful.
bettyewp
““I know the blogs I love the most and never tire of reading are the ones where I feel like I’m hanging out with the blogger all day cuz we’re friends.” Wow, so profound! 🙂
Thanks, Andrea xoxo
nebraskadelphian
Dang it, Bettye! I, too, want to reduce my fashion footprint and become a more conscious shopper. But after admiring your Sanctuary cardigan for over a year and seeing all the ways you have styled it on your blog, I finally just clicked through here and bought it! I hereby resolve to wear it at least 30 times….
bettyewp
Ha ha ha! Yes, it’s a pretty hypocritical position to be in: Save the Earth! Buy Less! Bit first, buy this sweater I’m wearing! Ha.
Believe me, I read a LOT of controversy over the whole “influencers talking about shopping responsibly,” and I get it…but I’ll go back to one of my earliest posts and say, even the most responsible among us HAS TO WEAR CLOTHES IN PUBLIC!! Ha. So make good decisions and buy things you’re going to keep and wear for a lonnggg time!
But thanks for buying through my link. I appreciate that.
Val
Hi Bettye
I love your blog for all the above reasons but mainly because your great personality shines through whatever life throws at you, good or bad, and I hope you continue to write about whatever takes your fancy for a long while to come.
Completed the follower thingy.
bettyewp
Thank you, Val! I took a peek over the weekend and there were 25 testimonials! Thank you thank you!
Pauline Starsmore
I love your Blog, I like to read about your lifestyle, and see the pictures of your little corner of the world as it is different to my corner of England, I like to see your outfits and I think that you look so well now. I also echo some of the other comments in that I feel you are my friend.
bettyewp
Aww, thanks, Pauline 🙂
Cheryl
I love reading your blog, you writing is honest and thought provoking and your photos are beautiful. The outfits are great too and even though it’s summer here I’m learning a lot about how to put clothes together in an interesting way. Thank you for sharing with us.
bettyewp
Ooh, I could use a little summer right about now – OOH, I’m going to California next week! Yay!
Thanks for the kind words, Cheryl.
Marian
Your blog is my favorite. A big part of it is because I feel like I’m hanging out with a friend. But really, you write from the heart and you are REAL. Your day-to-day thoughts and challenges are the same as mine. I can relate to everything. You are curating a wardrobe and overcoming the same insecurities and budget constraints as many of us.
You also have a million great ideas and enjoy trying new things all the time. Your photography is the icing on the cake.
BTW, I read the “building a responsible wardrobe” post and it’s a topic that’s been on my mind a lot. I went to the site you referenced. I was surprised but they didn’t have a rating for Talbots, Chicos, JJill and some of the most popular brands I buy. However, I am starting to shop for things more often at thrift stores and I do buy from small boutiques that sell a lot of high quality made-in-the-USA brands.
Tip: Look for brands Cut Loose and Comfy USA in small shops when you visit California. You can’t get them in NY. I try to buy the occasional piece from the sale rack but even at regular price, they are worth every penny.
I enjoy everything you write about. You inspire and educate me all the time, as a good blogger should. And I would never have gone off sugar if you hadn’t started our sugar detoxers group. Thank you for everything!