Tuesday, January 5, 2010

This is MY Blog

Last week, I turned off comment moderation in hopes that my trolls would simply get it out of their system. Little did I know, the source of their hate was deep. Although I am not the cause of their hatred and misery, for some reason, it feels good for them to take it out on me.

For a while, it was okay. I could see my fractions of pennies adding up as everyone threw in their own two cents. But, it has gone too far. For the second day in a row, this blog has been no fun. Once again, my husband and I are discussing what it will take for us to shut it down.

In hopes to avoid shutting it down, I have reinstated comment moderation. Here are some rules.

No anonymous comments. You can type your name in the Name/URL box. If you don't have a URL, use mine, or just type in google. Better yet, throw in your swagbucks referral code. But anonymous comments will not be moderated. They will be deleted.

Be productive. Didn't your mother teach you that if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all? Well, if you have criticism, make it productive. Make a suggestion, or include a link or a reference.

Get a life. I know this may be counterproductive to my blog income, but people who are spending their time calculating calories and trying to measure my stuff may be able to find something better to do... in their own life.

Join sybermoms. Yes, sybermoms, I have finally written about you. If you can't be nice, productive or intelligent, join sybermoms for mindless chatter with like-minded people.

Lay off my husband. None of you know him, but he's a great guy, great enough for me to want to spend every day of my life with. No insults about my husband will be published.

Stay on topic. I wrote posts about what I find interesting or noteworthy. If you're interested in something else, start your own blog.

123 comments:

Simple in France said...

Seriously, good for you. This evening on my walk, I could not stop thinking about how weird some people are--to want to log into a blog and read it day in and day out and post snippy comments. It's a bummer when you're thinking about obnoxious people on a blog in your spare time--especially a blog you enjoy reading. But I absolutely think you're right--this has nothing to do with you. These people seem to have a need to hate.

I won't miss the trolls. I think getting rid of the annon comments will work--then you can bar anyone who gets offensive. It was starting to sound a little like Jerry Springer.

I'm sure it must be really annoying to deal with these kind of people, but they're not the only ones who read your blog. I'm sure you can find a way to delete their comments quickly and efficiently and keep on writing your good stuff.

Simple in France said...

Um, I just clicked your sybermom link--yipes! They don't even know how to spell their insults. I didn't even know that kind of thing existed.

Jen said...

Yay, Emily!

Maggie said...

Emily, some of the advice has been constructive, but you refuse to consider it. I think that is where some people's frustration stems from. People are genuinely concerned for your children's safety & have valid points about the Rubbermaid containers. By stating that you won't even consider them - well, it is mindboggling. Please at least give some thought to it.

Jan said...

You have to know that you are putting yourself out there, emily. You are opening yourself, your husband and your home to this critism. In doing that, you have to be able to take it.

On the other hand you are making money from these idiots! So in the end, YOU win ;)

kariwhite said...

Emily,

I'm so happy to see this post!

I thought about you all day yesterday and wondered how you were doing. ((hugs))

I don't understand people who are deliberately cruel and never will understand them.

I'm amazed at your courage and strength and hope you can find a happy medium and continue to share your family's journey by writing about it.

Mary said...

I'm so glad that you are doing this!!!
The off topic comments/rants were getting incredible annoying. Why folks felt that they could come here and make all sorts of assumptions about you and your life and then tell you what to do was something I could not understand.

Have a better day.

Kiltie said...

Since I can't post under the previous post...

Holy clutter Batman! I couldn't do it. I live in my house too and I am not really OCD about anything, but living in a clutter-free house helps me. I would get so stressed out otherwise, but that's me not you.

The only thing I "grosses me out" or that I "can't stand" about what I see in your pictures are the shoes on the shelves net to the table. That's it.

I digress, keep on blogging!

Amanda said...

Emily,
I don't always understand your way of life, but I find it fascinating. I love to hear about how you save money and make your own stuff and on and on... and I'm a lot different than you in terms of housing, debt, faith, etc...

Anyway, I just want to say to ignore the ones that have this hate for you. I think there must be something in their life that they aren't doing as well as they want, and they see you doing exactly what you've set out to do - and they are jealous. Because why else would they spew this hatred on you? Your family is healthy and happy, and that's all that matters.

vm said...

Make this blog safe for you--it affects you most.

Aiming4Simple said...

I am very thankful for the beneficial ideas that you have shared in your posts. Lately I have been wondering how long you can endure the onslaught of negative comments. May God direct your paths and grant you peace.

yo said...

Don't let the haters hold you back.

I say let the comments stay. You erasing them shows that they won.

Meg said...

Good for you! I've always thought that a blog is an extension of your home and you are allowed to make rules for you own home.

Keep up the good work! I love the blog and your attitude toward everything. Hopefully, these people will get the hint and just leave.

Roxanna said...

I do have to agree that when you have a blog you are opening yourself to the world, and even more so if you are posting pictures of your home.

I udnerstand why you are turning off the comment sections but you were making money of them and that is helping your family. I don't think there will be as many clicks on your site without the trolls so that means less money. Its something to consider.

Angie said...

Oh, Emily, don't give up and shut this blog down! You're a great source of ideas. Nevermind those that don't have anything better to do than criticize you....

On the last post, someone commented about mold or something from drying clothes indoors.... I must say, I live in east-central Indiana where it is cold in the winter and we haven't used our dryer for almost 3 years. Not once. In nice weather the clothes hang on the line outdoors, and when it's too cold for that we hang them indoors (using wire hangers and hanging things in doorways on the edge of the trim). They not only dry quickly but we rarely suffer from static shocks anymore. The clothes humidify the dry air! I think it's great :) We also have a retractable clothesline for bedsheets, and a couple of drying racks for towels and such.

So the only time in our climate one would need a DEhumidifier (as suggested by the poster in question) would be if one were to hang laundry indoors in the more hot and humid weather. Duh, lol!

Lyndsae said...

Right on, Emily. Unfortunately, many people think that calling themselves "anonymous" gives them the right to say anything they want, without regard to reason, relevance, or even decency. You will still hear from people that disagree with you, but hopefully now the comments will be more on-topic and "productive", as you say. Thanks.

Briar said...

Good for you, Emily. I like the fact that you've always encouraged debate in your comments--it's part of what keeps me coming back here.

But it went waaaaaay too far yesterday, and I felt bad for you. Attacking your husband is a low blow indeed; wanting to report you to CPS is quite another thing entirely. I wonder about people who have nothing better to do than count the calories they think you eat, based on the limited amount of info you share.

I don't always agree with how you go about things, but I've learned a lot from your blog, and I would hate to see it go.

Briar said...

Also, I had a few questions on your Tour post, but comments appear to be disabled there.

Guadalupe said...

Emily,

May the Lord bless you always.

Linda @ A La Carte said...

Emily, you go girl!! I was shocked by the comments I read on your blog yesterday. I can't say I always agree with you about things, but that is not the point. It is your life, and you life it as you choose. Your sharing is important as there are others that think as you do and some who don't but find it very interesting in a positive way. You have educated many and inspired even more. The negatives are not fun and very cruel. I don't like those who judge without really knowing the truth. Good luck with this blog. I would hate for the meanies to shut you down!!

Linda @ A La Carte

Tammy said...

I will be glad to not read the offensive comments!! I sincerely hope you keep your blog going. You show people so many worthy ways to "make it work and work well" with what you have. I look forward to seeing what your post for the day is every morning, and would miss you very much. Please know you are appreciated. You have encouraged me in many ways. God bless.

Kori said...

The thing is, Emily, you are just feeding the fire by posting things like this, you really are. Right or wrong, people are not going to agree with everything you say; even if you don't write anything especially controversial, peopel will find you and pick you apart. By having a public blog, you are opening yourself up for criticism, warranted or not. I am not, you understand, supporting the idiots. I am just saying that this is really how it is. You can choose to shut down the blog, which lets them win. You can choose to continue to address issues like this publicly, which also gives "them" control over your blog, or you can keep doing the comment moderation and simply not publish the comments.

I did not read any of the comments on the prior posts, but I will also add that while "those" people can be scary, there isn't really anything they can do. If they truly think a call to CPS is warranted, there isn't anything you can do to stop that, at which point CPS will come visit and then go on their merry way. I am not trying to diminish how hurtful and infuriating this kind of abuse is, but when you post like this about it, it isn't helping at all.

Emily said...

To those I am not publishing, honestly, I hope that people do leave. Notice the sybermoms link? That's where you belong if you just want to read hate about me. They always have a few threads going. If your not interested in what I am saying, you're not the kind of reader I want, even if my income drops.

And just because I don't respond to every comment doesn't mean I'm ignoring them. I said in the tour post that I was going to go through each room in upcoming weeks. That is still the plan. If people have individual questions about rooms, I can address them there, where there will be several pictures from different angles of each room. I would also appreciate it if people read my posts instead of jumping right into the comment section. I get asked questions I answered in the posts, and than am accused of dodging questions when I don't answer them in the comments. It is ridiculous.

Julie said...

Bravo, Emily.

Keep on Blogging! Let no one be your judge be God and the Good Lord Jesus Christ!

You are an inspiration to me. I take my inspiration from those that are meek and humble. We all need to learn to live simply and responsibily.

Happily Frugal Mama said...

Yay for you! There are no laws in blogging (although some people would like to say otherwise) and you do get to decide what goes on in your blog.

Not a one of us has to agree with what you post... that's not why I'm here. I enjoy reading your blog because I am interested in what you are trying to do... I may be inspired, I may learn, or I may simply just read. And that's ok!

Lilly said...

"To those I am not publishing, honestly, I hope that people do leave."

I don't understand you, Emily. I posted a legitimate comment with no hate, no anger, no anything. It was a simple response, but you saw fit not to post it. I guess that means you want me to go away.

If you only want to hear from people who agree with you, well, you shouldn't post your life on the internet.

White Winged Dove said...

I don't understand your statement about discussing what it would take to shut the blog down. Go to your admin section and take it offline, how difficult is that?

I did want to ask though, if your husband makes $1000 a month, you get $6000 from the EIC (or $500 a month if you were to budget it out to last throughout the year) and you make nearly $500 a month, isn't that $2000 a month? I mean is it legit for me to say my income is $3000, but tithe, school, and savings don't count so I'm just going to deduct that and now I happily thrive on $1500 a month? You say that because you pay for Dan's tuition and your tithe all at once it becomes a matter of budget shuffling and you're monthly expenses are less than a grand. Well, if I paid my rent a full year at a time it no longer is a monthly expense and then I'd really only need about $500 a month since it's just a matter of budget shuffling.

This comment really didn't start out as snarky, and I can see how it may sound like it is. But it's a true inquiry and I just wanted to see what your thoughts were. Because it just doesn't make sense in my mind. If you bring in nearly $24000 a year (Dan's income, your blog money, and EIC) then your situation doesn't sound like anything too special. For someone that works part-time and a stay-at-home-mom, that's pretty good money.

I agree that you have some interesting frugal tips, and that's all well and good, but the angle of thriving on $1000 a month seems less interesting when you realize you make nearly double that.

Once again, not trying to be snarky - sorry if it sounds that way.

Elizabeth said...

Good job Emily! This blog is meant to be a resource with ideas on how to live on a small bidget, in a small home, raise small children, etc. While people have the right to disagree or ask questions, they have no right to attack you, your husband, or your family. The comments yesterday were outrageous!!

On a side note, I checked out the SyberMom link and was shocked by the fact that there is a WHOLE blog for the sole purpose of bashing other bloggers/people! Can anyone say get a life?!!!!

Michele from Washington said...

Emily I'm so proud of you!! Thank you for taking a stand. I'm only 42 but when I was growing up ALL we ate was organic. My mother had a very large garden and we ate alot of deer meat. We didnt have that much money so everything was made from scratch. Reading your ideas and recipes brings back wonderful memories of my mother's kitchen.Your such an inspiration to me. Thank you for your blog. Now I think I'll go make some tortillas. Have a great day

Happily Frugal Mama said...

This is probably for the FAQ's page...

Most of us enjoy challenges... we take something and get satisfaction out of being successful in the task.

Isn't that what living on your very tight budget does for you? Many people in your shoes would definitely take assistance (WIC, Food Stamps, Housing, etc...) until hubs was done with school or finances improved. You appear to ENJOY this juggling act. I can appreciate that... I get joys out of many challenges... I wish I could find half the fortitude that you have regarding finances!

Emily said...

Lilly, I don't remember your comment. I am not publishing comments that are not about this post, though, and I am not in the most generous mood at the moment. Not sure why your comment didn't get through, but I can bet it's because I'm a little grouchy. I apologize.

White Winged Dove, I haven't seen most of the money earned from this blog, and it will go into savings. The EITC goes to additional expenses that aren't part of a normal family's monthly expenses. As long as our monthly living expenses are under $1K, the title is still valid.

Happily Frugal Mama, I will add that to the FAQ.(:

Minn said...

Bravo. You can say it better than I can. I clammed up when things bother me. For what it's worth, I enjoy reading your blog.

Esther said...

Yay!! I can read the comments again! I like to read useful questions and comments, which I can learn from, but I was going to avoid the section altogether on your blog because the insults were so inappropriate.

Perfect in Imperfection said...

Emily,
I do enjoy your blog. As a few others have said, while I personally could not willingly choose your circumstances, I love what you do and the tips that you give; you've inspired me to want to make more homemade things rather than simply buying store-bought.

I particularly like this comment:
Lay off my husband. None of you know him, but he's a great guy, great enough for me to want to spend every day of my life with. No insults about my husband
will be published.


Making things "personal" is just wrong, and shows people are quick to judge. So long as your family is living within your means, living the way God would have you live, healthy, and happy... isn't that all that matters, really??

It would be a shame to see this blog go.

PIP

Meesh said...

Emily, I think that some people were very rude by calling you names, cursing, etc. I think I have posted a comment to that effect before. However, I think you should allow comments that are critical -- that's the fun of a blog is to have that dialogue. People who are mean should not be posted, but if the concern is addressed nicely, you shouldn't filter those. (Even comments about Dan -- some of those were mean, but some of them were genuine, legitimate questions, or people suggesting resources for him.) You are making valuable money for your family doing this, and not having the comments will make people quit coming.

Diana said...

I thought you might like to know about this thread. 60 some pages all about you.
http://www.freejinger.yuku.com/topic/822

That aside, I enjoy much of your blog, and I'm not here to stir drama or antagonize you, just thought you might like to know about it.

Emily said...

Thanks Diana, I did know about that, but I didn't know they were up to 60+ pages. WOW!

That's another great link for my trolls to check out.

Esthee said...

Emily, I think you're in denial. You need to accept that your idea of the life you have envisioned for you and your family doesn't fit with reality right now and for the next couple of years. I have read most of the comments and I think they were genuine and from concerned people.
If you were saying "Dan and I plan to have 10 kids someday and have our own farm and land where we can grow a huge garden, kids can run outside..." then people would look at you differently. But instead you are saying "I WANT 10 kids, and I am going to raise them no matter what in this tiny apartment with less than $1000/month". Do you really think they will be happy? Sleeping next to the stove? Having no privacy? It's not about what you want. Sometimes, you can't have what you want in life. Think about your children first instead of your own needs. Reconsider the big family when you can provide a safe and pleasant environment for all of you.

Emily said...

Esthee, that's funny, because what I have said was that we wanted to buy a home and land and homestead. I have also said we won't be staying in this apartment past Dan's graduation. If people read what I actually wrote, instead of "selected readings" posted on forums (which is copyright infringement, by the way), they would know that.

Dori said...

It’s a shame you are trying to discredit everyone who disagrees with you by calling them trolls. Most of the posts (though many were repeats of others) had some very good questions and comments which could have been used for self reflection. I’m not saying you are not taking anything to heart just that by taking down the comments and loudly protesting suggestions, it appears as though you are running from something. From a mental health point of view it really looks as though that something is your parents and you are still rebelling against your upbringing.

Georgi said...

Great! some of the comments here were upsetting me, I don't know how you could stand it!

Amber said...

I was at work all day and missed any comments that may have been on your tour post. I understand feeling attacked and overwhelmed by the sheer amount of criticism, but please do not discount everyone who disagrees with you and the decisions you make as trolls. Surely you do not consider me a troll, and you have to know by now how disgusting I think tubed meat is!

Anyway, I do have a question about the tour, but I understand if you don't publish it. Does your son sleep underneath the crib or do you pull out his mattress at night?

Thanks :)

Jenny said...

"If your not interested in what I am saying, you're not the kind of reader I want, even if my income drops."

This is the time of behavior that makes people say that your children will not be socialized when they are homeschooled. I have read your posts and the comments on a somewhat regular basis over the past few months, and you have been very closed off to views that do not match your own. I think it's sad that you're unwilling to entertain the fact that some of these "snarky" women may actually make good points in their posts. Even if you don't like the tone, the message is still valid.

Maureen said...

But Emily, you have also posted about looking into one of those little 400 square foot pre-fab cottage things.

You are going to need space if you are planning on a large family. Every child does not need his/her own bedroom- you could do one big one for boys and another one for girls- like the Duggars :). But you are going to need a large kitchen, laundry facilities, dining space, and space for the children to homeschool (dining space could double as schooling space). And you are really going to need laundry facilities. Sure, your little machine is nice for the time being, but when you have a bunch of kids to homeschool, you aren't going to have time to be fiddling with that little kettle.

On that note, I recently switched to cloth diapering because I have three in diapers- yikes! I bought a diaper sprayer to clean off the yucky ones before putting them into a bucket. It hooks up to the toilet and sprays all the mess right off. A more frugal solution would be to buy a handheld shower sprayer and use that to spray things into the bucket and then dump the bucket into the toilet.

You have admirable goals. I would venture to guess that even the "trolls" don't want to see you fail. Sure, things are said harshly, and that is hurtful, but I think ultimately, everyone wants the best for you and your children. This is why people point out that some of your ideas are not quite feasible.

Good luck in your endeavors. I will admit to feeling frustrated when it seemed like you were not listening last night when people were giving food suggestions but I also cannot imagine how hurt you were by the mean things said by some people.

KatieK said...

I am coming out of lurker status to say that you should probably diable Guadalupe's comment. I clicked on the link and the site I am directed to suggests the commenter is a troll.

I enjoy reading your blog though I don't agree with all your viewpoints nor do I seek to adopt your lifestyle for my family. I do think you do a wonderful job of showing thoughtful ways to make a good life for your family with very little. You have given me ideas of ways we can adjust things so we are living in a more sustainable way. Oh, and you reminded me of my love of spaghetti squash :) So thanks for that!

Good for you for taking control of the situation here. This is your blog and the general spirit of it should be something you support!

Emily said...

Amber, I consider you a half troll, to be honest. Sometimes I adore you, as you know, even with your info last night, I adored you, but other times, you let your sybermom out. I do know that you are one of them, you know that, right? Anyway, I'll address that when I do the post on the boys' room.

Maureen on housing, the very next day, I posted a new idea, inspired by a reader. That's why I am saying "selected readings." Some of you seemed to have only read three (outrageous) posts and they have since been renounced BY ME.

http://under1000permonth.blogspot.com/2009/09/i-got-thinking.html

rita said...

Emily,

I really don't know what people are saying about you, I have only have been reading your blog for a couple of weeks! I don't think that I could live the way you do but I wish, I could! I have gotten so use to the way, I live that I could go back but I take my hat off to you! I find you blog interesting and I hope you keep in posting!

Kay said...

But emily, you're homestead that you want to set up is going to be modeled off the tumbleweed idea, correct? so you're not going to have an abunance of space. you're still going to confine your family to very small square footage.

Personally, I've always enjoyed the thought of living in a space that was exactly as much space as I would need. I used to devise plans on how I could move into my closet when I was a kid and I see programs on tv about super small spaces and I'm always impressed. So I don't have a problem with small spaces. I would love to live in a small space at some point in my life, but it doesn't seem prudent to do it when I have small children, or more than one child at all for that matter.

This apartment (www.treehugger.com/files/2009/05/is-living-in-a-small-space-cruel.php) is roughly the same size as your apartment and they have much less stuff than you, but it still appears small. There would be no space to play if the parents hadn't figured out a way to "roll" they're bed (which is in the living room) into the wall, and under a raised portion of the apartment where the kids sleep. It makes me wonder if you're acurately measuring your apartment because yours appears to be much bigger, even with all the clutter.

about the income that you're not counting... It's not really fair to say that you don't have to count it as an expense just because it's not a part of a normal household budget. Who's to say what a normal household budget is? I would say that a normal household budget includes some kind of student loan repayment (especially for one of your age group). So including Dan's tuition isn't out of the relm of normalcy. I would also say that a lot of people go to church and tithe, or if they don't donate to a church, they donate to something, and everyone should be putting at least a little money each month into savings.

These things should definately be counted as a month expense. Just because you pay them all at once doesn't mean that you aren't paying them.

I pay my car insurance every six months, but I still keep however much it would be each month, set aside so that I'll have the money when the bill is due. This is no different.

Lexie said...

Was your wonderwash worth buying? I was consider getting one but the reviews on it at amazon seem to be less than stellar.

hickchick said...

I clicked on that sybermoms link and now my eyes feel dirty.

Best of luck.

Heather said...

you have a successful blog which is great! what has led to that success has also led to negative ramifications. when i think of the big bloggers out there, their success does come at a cost usually in the form of opinions-some of which can be hurtful. as humans we are imperfect, it doesn't excuse the ugliness but just shows that it will likely continue. i think of dooce who for a short time "monetized the hate" and gave that money to charity. only you can decide what is worth it.

on a completely different note, as i read your posts, your ideals, the comments and the opinions that are out there...i have some thoughts. first of all, you are an adult but a young adult. i had my first daughter on my 25th birthday-you are the mom to three, so as for experience, etc. you are ahead of where i was at that age.

ten years later, i do see things differently-what i thought i knew then isn't always the same as what i know now. we grow, we have experiences (good or bad) and we continue to learn and mature. i am guessing that a big portion of your audience is older and what we'll say have learned lessons that maybe you haven't yet. you seem very self assured which is good thing-but i believe that being overly confident can backfire. perhaps that may be a source of the miscontent.

and...when i had my daughters at ages 25 and 26, i was working as a nurse while my husband was in the army. after both of the girls were born the social worker came to visit to sign me up for WIC. not sure if everyone got that visit. or i did because of my husband's army status which would give the impression that i was going to be staying at home and on his income we were viewed as poor. both times i was immediately disqualified because my own income was too much. i was annoyed definitely and felt discriminated against because i was doing a good thing and supporting myself.

i think WIC is great program but one that should be available regardless of income. that being said, i observe the life you share with us, the circumstances, the ideals and what you want to accomplish on your own. that is good really. but, i do wish you would reconsider your choice to opt out of the program. really.

as someone who wasn't able to have that benefit-my opinion is take it. it will help with the budget and will provide healthy foods. it seems win/win to me. tax dollars will continue to fund the program regardless and it's certainly a more worthy cause than some of the others that our tax dollars bankroll.

i don't really understand why you have chosen to opt out, i am guessing that it's pride? from a spiritual aspect, i believe that our Lord would prefer us to be more humble at times. you are accomplishing much, are minding your pennies which lets the dollars take care of themselves. the way i see it, you're doing what you need to do and there is nothing wrong with accepting those benefits that again will continue regardless of your decision. just a friendly, little, and hopefully helpful opinion.

Henrietta said...

Emily, you said:
"Maureen on housing, the very next day, I posted a new idea, inspired by a reader. That's why I am saying "selected readings." Some of you seemed to have only read three (outrageous) posts and they have since been renounced BY ME."

You've made it clear that you get annoyed by posters asking questions to which you think they should already know the answers, but on the other hand, you snark at people to "get a life," which would imply not picking through your blog in search of your inconsistincies.

A sweeter way to answer Maureen's question might have been something like: "Actually, a reader gave me an idea that I liked even better than the Tumbleweed, and I wrote about it the next day. ~Link~" There's no need to get all bent out of shape at someone for not knowing that an idea was "renounced BY [YOU]." You should also remember that it is okay to admit when you were wrong...

hickchick said...

Some info on alternative/historically relevant housing ideas.

http://www.nebraskastudies.org/0500/frameset_reset.html?http://www.nebraskastudies.org/0500/stories/0501_0109.html

Amber said...

I look forward to the answer!

A troll is usually defined as someone who disguises who they are to stir up trouble. I, in no way, want to stir up trouble. I do wish that you would see how nonsensical some things you do are, but I have tried of late to word these in ways that you might not consider an attack but constructive criticism. In no way do I think I'm perfect... come on over to my blog to criticize my squalorific house that I'm attempting to keep clean! I just hope and pray that some of the things people say help you.

I am a sybermom, and I know you know that. But trust me, they probably wouldn't claim me as their own lol.

Cate said...

Interesting angle, linking to sites that mock you. This way, you're still encouraging people to read your controversy and at least give you that one click per day before talking about it elsewhere.

Emily said...

Kay, no, our home will have the square footage of a trailer. As far as the budget, I feel like I have explained it ad nauseum. If people disagree, that's fine. I've been upfront about it, nonetheless. It's semantics in my mind.

Lexie, I love my wonderwash. Not sure how this turned into the FAQ section... but I simply removed the handle and tumble it. It is awesome.

heather, I do appreciate all of the good advice given, and much has been implemented into my life. I am thankful for my older and wiser readers.

Henrietta, yes, I get annoyed by people who don't read my blog and make accusations which presuppose that they do. I also get annoyed by poeple who are ridiculously obsessed with me. There is a whole group of people who fall into the middle range of normal blog readers who read, without assuming they know everything about me and without taking obsessive steps to know everything about me. You're right though, maybe I could be sweeter about it.

Lauren said...

I've been a lurker for awhile, but have never commented. Although I am amazed and sometimes stunned by your entries, I agree that some of the hateful comments were just ridiculous and unnecessary. Hopefully now your comments section can be a place for healthy communication, that includes both support and mature criticism. I hope that you continue to post comments that disagree with your viewpoints, but that don't include intentionally rude or disparaging remarks. It's YOUR blog, so I'm glad you're approving comments now. YOU own this, so YOU can control the text. Please keep promoting positive, mature, and healthy communication through your comments section.

Roxanna said...

I just thought I would tell you something I found the other day. I was searching around my home town for houses(just seeing what was for sale) and I noticed there was TONS of houses for under 50k they had a beautiful one for 25k. It was out in Eastern Washington in the country. I honestly think you could find a home really cheap with all the foreclosures and ect. that might be cheaper then building and all the houses out there have acreage.

Bubblej said...

Emily,

I have to agree with other readers, if you are putting yourself out there this much, you will get comments, not all of them positive. I enjoy reading your blog for the recipes and because I simply enjoy reading about how you do things. I have picked up tips from here. However you live differently from a lot of your readers. Some see you as an inspiration, others see you as nuts and some are very concerned for you. I think that comments should be polite etc but you will have comments that disagree, express concern or comments full of questions, like some of mine.

Moderate out the rude and innapropriate comments, but please add in the rest, even if they disagree with you or are full of questions.

Happpy blogging

Margaret said...

Good for you, Emily. I'll find it easier to read your blog if every post isn't followed by an emotional trainwreck in the comments section.

I honestly do think, though, that you don't need to answer everyone who posts. It is your blog. Perhaps you could set up a email account and direct people to ask questions there instead of having to weed through the comments section so as not to leave anyone out. I blog too, and I know it's hard to restrain yourself but the truth is, if you "feed the trolls" by defending yourself or trying to have a rational conversation with them, they will just get fat and comfortable and set up a permanent camp here.

Maureen said...

Thank you, Henrietta.

Emily, I have three children under three. Sometimes, I miss entries on your blog. I'll try my best to keep up. Seriously, no sarcasm.

Regardless of whether you are staying in the apartment, buying a Tumbleweed, or gutting a trailer to remake into a home, that is just not going to be enough room for ten children. And yes, I realize that 10 is hypothetical- it would still be tight if you only had seven. Again, you don't need a mansion. Bedrooms can be shared and they can be strictly for sleeping....

but in an ideal world, wouldn't you LOVE to have large common spaces for your family to learn and eat together without being elbow to elbow?

Amber said...

Not every area has cheap homes, Roxanna. You can't even get a trailer on land for 25k here. We paid 225k for a townhome that, yes, is beautiful and just a few years old, but is on only .25 acres and is, well, a connected home lol.

Helen said...

Emily,

I did get a glimpse of some of those posts on your last blog, before you deleted them. I agree that moderation of comments is in order.

"Some" of the comments were obnoxious, out-of-line, and occasionally vile. But the "vile" were in the minority and easy to ignore. Just a handful of trolls. Easy to edit.

The bad news is that the majority were people that were, and are, genuinely concerned and do not wish you ill at all. We care. I count myself among them, even though I rarely comment.

You have had many good recommendations from nice people, concerned people, and people who have been there and done that. People who have followed your blog for a few months. Please don't throw the baby out with the bathwater.

I admire your inventiveness, but I want to warn you about certain things.

I'm not into Facebook,or stalking, but you and Dan have to set some stuff to private to protect your kids. NOW!

Also,one of your commentators accidentally, identified your location for me. If I, the total cyber-klutz, got your town/city, from her comment, that is not good. It was a nice post. She said: My town (she named it but I will not) across the river has garden plots.

I wish you well. I think you are an intelligent young woman. I hope that you will listen to those who wish you well

Please don't ignore good suggestions. Sift the grain from the chaff. And please do not label me a Troll. I'm just a very gentle reality check.

Treva said...

Right now I'm thanking the good L-rd that you've decided to moderate comments. I don't agree with everything you say or do, but then I'm certain there are those who don't agree with everything I say or do. Differences are what makes this world a beautiful place. But you are right in saying that your blog was starting to not be very much fun. It was totally bringing me down seeing some of the nasty things people said. Name-calling from adults is simply unacceptable in my book and that was when I stopped reading the comments. Now that you are moderating again I hope to see some good dialog in the comments sections that is more focused on the topic at hand.

Razing Ruth said...

Emily, the decision to post this, or not, is yours. My only hope is that you read it. I didn't post as a troll. I posted my concerns about your diet. Like I said, you've shared adequate information to form the basis for an opinion. I wrote in to comments in hopes that you'd either add information or consider the problem I was pointing out. I was polite. I did not name call. I kept it factually based. In turn, you got very defensive and accused me of slander. As I said, if my interpretation of the data was wrong, then you have every right to correct it. I hope you will. I sincerely hope we've all misjudged the situation because you haven't laid out all the pieces of the puzzle. My secondary point was to ask how you justified your budget if there was more to the picture than your menus/recipes portrayed. I believe I provided a specific example (you claiming dinner was only $2 because there were no sides) and asked why that doesn't match your stated monthly budgets.

T said...

Hey Emily, I haven't read all of the comments, just don't have time tonight, so I apologize if these suggestions are repetitive to what some others have said. That being said...I don't even know if you WANT suggestions on how to reduce clutter, you have stated over and over that you like the way you live so who knows if this matters to you but I just thought I'd offer....

Are those all CDs that are stacked on the left in the kitchen photo? Can I suggest that you 'rip' them (I think that is the right term) to your computer? Then you can ditch the CDs. Or, if you don't feel comfortable getting rid of the CDs, you could always get a large CD book....I have one that holds over 100 CDs and behind each CD I put the book that came in the CD case. So it sits on my bookshelf (and it just a few inches wide) and I was able to throw away all of the plastic cases, which took up a ton of room. Or, if you really don't listen to them often you could sell them on Ebay, Craigslist, Cheapcycle, etc. If these are DVDs, the same could be done, transfer them over to a computer or use a CD holder to hold them and toss the outer packaging.

Books. I donated mine and I've never been happier! You could sell them and make $$ here too. I think it was either your blog or someone else's that mentioned paperback.com....you post a list of the books you have that you are willing to give away....you mail them out to people who have requested them and for each book you mail you earn one credit to get a book for yourself. You pay nothing to receive a book, you pay postage to send out the book.

Just some suggestions.

Boysmom said...

Emily, I just found your blog and I don't think that I've posted anything hateful. I actually relate to you, kind of like me, 19 years ago (I am 44.) I've lived frugally now for many years, not as frugally as you, but much more frugally than most in my area. All in the name of homeschooling, breastfeeding, attachment parenting and being a SAHM. So if I've had suggestions, I was just trying to be helpful and give you the benefit of my experience.

Lois said...

I'm coming out of lurking here Emily. I've been reading you blog since it first started. I have a totally different lifestyle to you, but in a lot of ways still try to live a simple life & look for ways to be frugal.

I have enjoyed seeing how you live, listening to your aspirations & note how you all are indeed thriving.

Some comments really do lack common sense, but are basically harmless. I'm so glad you have taken a stand with regards to moderating your comments.

Enjoy your blog Emily....as I do....& don't stop dreaming. I look forward to reading how you continue to come up with ways to achieve the goals you set for you & your family!!

X Lois

Emily said...

These housing comments have really inspired me. I'm writing a post about our housing goals, laid out cleary, for tomorrow. It's kind of last minute, but I'm excited about it! Way to bring the fun back in the blog for me! (:

Angie Gail said...

Emily, I love your blog and would hate to see it go. I am alarmed at how many people are "perfect" and have decided that it is their job to let you know it. You and your family are inspiring. Do I agree with everything? No...I am a teacher in a PUBLIC school, have ONE child, and live in a 1,900 square foot home. I budget $100 per week to feed just the three of us! However, I do aspire to keep my life and my finances stable, peaceful, and simple. Oh, and my husband can't spell worth a flip either! :)

Mary K. said...

Wow...
I have been reading this blog for a while and never really even looked at the comments, never thought about it so this is a bit shocking to me. I just went back and read several days worth of comments and I am appalled. I too am what Emily would consider a troll (probably) I got to this blog from the Free Jinger forums and I just love to look at all of Emily's ideas and things, though I disagree with most of them. I just find her life interesting and sometimes shocking, kind of like a reality show in print. But I am also a heathen agnostic observer and a young (unmarried...oooo...ahhh...) mom living on a tight budget and some of Emily's ideas are creative and useful. Some of them are a bit nutty (in my opinion...) but I don't think they warrent the hateful things some people are saying. It is not like this is someone you know and they have done something to you personally. You are attacking her about GMO meats and crazy junk like that and just have seemingly no life to the point where you have to argue with someone on their blog in order to entertain yourselves. I am on a fundie watch here too, but attacking her about stupid things is ridiculus, grow up.

Happy Hermit (happilyhiddenhermit@gmail.com) said...

OH Em , I so enjoy uour blog , i have myself and others i know lived iwth much less than you have now. I cant see what is wrong with that. I really don't. It just confounds me to think otherwise. Dont give in or up.

Maureen said...

I helped? Hooray!

(Okay, I totally admit to bringing the laptop into the kitchen to put on the counter while I am making dinner so I could keep up with the "conversation")

Can't wait to see your post about housing. From the posts I have read (more than three, ha ha), we have differing opinions on some topics, but I find you spunky and endearing, Emily.

Anonymous said...

Amen Maggie! When you're putting yourself out there like that, what do you expect? Maybe some ARE trolls, but people with differing opinions than yours should not fall into that category.

I find your blog extremely interesting, but I don't agree with most of your ideals. Like Maggie, I can see where people would be concerned for your childrens' well-being.

Buzzy Buzzalot said...

Congrats on Bobby walking. Have you ever blogged about your children's milestones? I bet they would like to read things like that when they are older.

Angel the semi-single mom said...

Ok...great post. Noticed your books. I love books to. Some I can read over & over some not so much. A friend turned me on to a great site & thought I'd pass along the site in case you wern't aware of it. If you are & just don't want to use it thats fine too. No worries. Just a nugget I picked up & thought I would share. the site is www.paperbackswap.com & its great. TTFN

manda said...

Off topic here....but as I was setting my dinner menus for the next 2 weeks, I thought of you and 2 very crockpot friendly meals that I don't remember seeing on your menu rotations....soup and meatloaf. So easy to make soup in the crockpot and a great way to sneak extra veggies in. And I make meatloaf all the time in the crockpot. I put a sheet of tin foil in the pot to line it and throw the meatloaf in there and cook for 8 hours. comes out so nice, tender, and moist! I tend to use ground turkey so my loaf is very pale when done. I dump some tomato sauce over it during the last 30 minutes to add color.

lizzie said...

Emily,

First off, apologies b/c I don't have a blog or website. I'm just another idiot floating out here in cyberspoace. :)

My .02: I think a lot of the posts here are good-natured and made out of curiousity, a willingness to share personal experiences with similar goals as yours, and sincere concern for some of the more radical parts of your chosen lifestyle that could affect your children, who did not choose said lifestyle.

Your dedication and tenacity is to be admired, but I personally would allow all comments and be willing to absorb some of the suggestions people with common experiences who have lived the life offer. Those aren't flames; they want to ensure you don't make the same mistakes they might have. IMHO, when you get defensive, it only stirs what flames there *might* be as well as frustrates the people who post here with their ideas that you always seems to discard out of hand.

Not everything you are going to try is going to work; be open to alternative ideas that you might not have considered. :)

Anonymous said...

www.bookscouter.com is a good resource for selling books too. Especially text books. I just went through one of my many book shelves and imputted every ISBN number and was able to sell about 30 books for almost $350. To be fair $150 of that was text books. But still not bad. It's way easier than boxing up individual orders for amazon or half.com orders, but you won't make as much. I still haven't been paid (it's been about 10 days), so I'll keep you posted. But it will be very nice if they come through.

Blessed said...

Emily, I just wanted to offer my own take on the words of Esthee:
"You need to accept that your idea of the life you have envisioned for you and your family doesn't fit with reality right now and for the next couple of years"

While she is saying something completely valid and logical, it is based upon a view of "reality" that is not necessarily in tune with the way most of the world lives, which is in homes a LOT smaller than the average American home.

We are a family of 6 living in a home that is 560 square feet. Yes, it is unconventional. Yes, it is problematic at times--but the problems just inspire us to creative solutions and learning to live with less stuff. And I homeschool too. So do listen to the negative--constructively critical--comments, and consider what truth might be found within them. But please also know there are others who are living--successfully--in similarly small spaces, and are not only making it work, but are thriving in it! : )

Starting this year I will be making posts in my own blog about small space living, so if there is one I think you will enjoy, I will let you know.

THANK YOU for going back to comment moderation!

Sue said...

I wouldn't reccomend paperbackswap.com for you. I started it last year and it has become one of my most expensive hobbies. At one point when I was getting a lot of requests I was spending about 12 dollars a week on postage. I don't request a lot books in return so I have a lot of unused points. It might be good for getting Dan's textbooks (especially if you don't mind getting the previous edition) or homeschool materials. But I wouldn't post all of those books you have on that site unless you want to get a bunch of requests right away that you can't afford the postage for.

Shea said...

Well said!

princessjo1988 said...

Well, I must confess that I too come from Free Jinger.

But I don't consider myself a troll. I am honest about whom I am (I use my real google a/c which links to my blog). I have been following you on and off since you were mentioned on FJ. I only recently commented because well, things got a little crazy.

To be frank Emily, criticism/trolls/varying views/questions are part of what a blog is. And as part of your role as a bloggy author is to accept valid criticism, answer valid questions, etc etc regardless of how hard it may be to do so. I don't think some of what went on in the past couple of days was valid, so I can see your concern, and think you have valid reasons to put up moderation.

However, regarding Razing Ruth. Don't discredit her opinion/research/questions off the bat: prove her wrong: answer her in depth and honestly! To be frank, if you (and everyone else) did your research, you would realise that this is a woman that comes from a place of great concern, knowledge and past experience. Trust me, she doesn't come from a place of judgement or hate.

Ad I have said in the past, I don't agree with most of your lifestyle choices, and you probably wouldn't agree with most of mine. And that's ok. We are allowed our own spaces: and we can comment on the others if we chose. In fact I would encourage you to read my blog: you might just find something on there that challenges you and make you think a little differently.

Jo
http://princessjo1988.blogspot.com/

Amanda said...

Good for you Emily! I enjoy your blog and hope that it continues (minus all the ugly comments!)

Anonymous said...

If you want to sell your books, there's also half.com.

Emily said...

I actually don't want to sell my books, but thanks for all the suggestions. When we go through books to pare down, we look it up on Amazon and if we can get a profit, we list it there. Otherwise, we just donate them. The books we have are books we use and want. Most of them are Dan's theological library which he references all the time.

Ria said...

Not that you need my approval, but you have it anyway. :) Although I can see why some comments and viewpoints of yours may not exactly be the most popular, this is, as you said, your blog, and if people don't like it, they don't have to read it. Nobody's holding a gun to their heads and forcing them to read all of your posts.

I've never understood the mentality of trolls who seem to have little better to do with themselves than waste time harassing and insulting others.

I may not agree with everything you say, but I still enjoy reading your blog, and I admire your ability to be forthright and honest rather than trying to always say the things you think everybody else wants to hear.

Anonymous said...

Way to go Emily! I think moderated comments is a great thing for your blog. When children can't play nice on their own, you have to help them with boundaries and rules to teach them how to behave, or you send them packing and not allow them to play at your house anymore.

Andrea said...

I am so glad that you are moderating comments! I have been reading your blog since you started blogging, and I often enjoy the comment section because I have found some great tips (like the bean paste in mac & cheese), but many of the comments have not been fun or overly constructive lately.

Constructive criticism is fine, but the nasty remarks and insinuations from the limited amount of information you have provided on this blog are ridiculous. Yeah, you provide a lot of information, but I am certainly not all-seeing enough to think that I could figure out exactly how many calories you are feeding your kids every day based on breakfast and dinner menus along with lists of some of the foods available in your home based on multiple posts.

I hate to skip the comments because of the tips, but it was getting pretty ridiculous. I am again looking forward to reading about your adventures, whether I agree with everything or not.

This Person said...

Geeze and wow. Really people?? I'm not too schooled on the blog world, but where does it say that in a blog manners do not apply? So since she has a blog she has opened herself to your insults or as you say "critisism"? So I would not think you would be the same people who would be invited to a neighbors house and feel free to just spouting off your problems with that persons house or parenting right to thier face. Would you? I couldn't think so. Manners are manners, Blog or not. I think this country has gotten a little out of hand with non nessecities and I like someone who can teach me something I wouldn't know otherwise. Who can look in the mirror and not come up with at least 3 things they are not happy about themselves that maybe others would not be nice to you about? My husband cannot spell. I love to save his notes and shopping lists cuz it's so cute to me. Doesn't make him have a problem. I suck at grammar and math, really bad at math, but my husband rocks at it, it makes us balance each other out. I had a blog but I realised the little bits of my life I put on there were subjest to "critisism" from people who didn't even know me.
Emily, Thank you for teaching us to live by nessesity and not by convinience. And I'm sorry for Dan, that he had to read comments by people with no manners. That was just not right

Love your blog said...

Emily,

I am truely appalled at how closed minded some people can be but I must say I am not surprised. Most people around the world from Europe to Asia Africa live in very small spaces. I grew up in a 900 square foot house with seven siblings and for us that was reality and it never occurred to us that we should be discontented. When I see people express concern about the children I chuckle because it's obvious that these people do not understand that what's important in a child's life is not the space they have but the type of parents they have. As an adult reflecting back, what mattered most in childhood was not how many toys you had or how big your space was but the joys brought to your life by your parents and sibling. My siblings and I are really close and the fact that we shared everything as children clearly contributes to this. To this day, I would not mind sharing a bed with my mother or one of my sisters.

Jena Webber said...

Emily, if you say that a blogger or group of bloggers called sybermoms has started criticizing you that would explain the large volume of negative feedback. Unfortunately, negativity is contagious and all too easy to spout. It is hard to be positive and gracious, but I think you have handled these nay-sayers with aplomb. Normally, I would not discourage comments off, but in your case, it is a must. These "trolls", as you have referred to them are no longer fighting with ideas, they are attacking you in a mean and spiteful way. I'm not even sure why. Who knows? Perhaps they'll be attacking me next. Oh my. (Then we can have group therapy) :) I have been praying for you all day.

Emily said...

Thanks Org Mommy. I couldn't ask for a finer lady to go to group therapy with. (: I've been praying for you with your class, too.

Sarah said...

Emily, I like reading your blog precisely because we have different ideas about life. Obvoiusly, we share a common interest in finances, but it's just as fun to read about all the other interests and views we don't share! The haters will always hate, and I'm sure that's difficult, but check out all the friends you have here!

Jena Webber said...

I appreciate the prayers! I love my Jesus-goggles, and I can see that what you are doing is going to turn out O.K. in the end. I also can see why those of a neo-pagan mindset would totally not "get it". We may have underestimated the ability that this level of controversy would cause your family. No amount of traffic is worth it. Peace has it's price. There was a reason the holy of holies was veiled in the tabernacle. Some things are left veiled. If Moses would have removed his veil when he came off the mountain, there would have been a blinding light of the Shekinah glory that overwhelmed those around him. In the same way, we veil that which is sacred. At 24 the veil comes off more often than it should, and others are blinded, confused and angry. I encourage the veil to remain for a while. Come apart and rest awhile..

Devon said...

I too have been following for a long time now, and I do appreciate the tips, etc. I have gotten from you. I have started making my own tortillas (I'm using a different recipe than yours, though), and I purchased a pasta roller so I could make my own (again, with a different recipe). I have made my own bread (lol, different recipe) lately, and I have pared down my grocery bill a ton. I have started thinking differently about where my food comes from and am making steps to be a more 'green' and healthy shopper. All because of ideas I got here, or from the comments.

I know you and I have differences, but I do appreciate the paradigm shift I have gotten from reading here. I still think you're a nut job in many ways (THOSE BINS!!!!!) but I will continue to read in the hopes to improve my frugality and self-sufficiency.

Cris said...

I'm rather non-dramatic. I don't see you going on to have ten children and a 500 sq ft home because of the reality of money (if still near current income) and space becoming apparent. I can see a big family in a small space happening, just not to that extreme. I can say this without judgement.

I think in some ways we're rather alike and others very different. From my own experience I see you (perhaps greatly?) modifying your current plans year by year, but staying true to the underlying beliefs.

Emily said...

Devon, I've rearranged the bins. I'll be writing about it on Storage Solutions Saturday. Thanks, though!

LK said...

Emily, you don't have to post this. This is just for you. P

lease do be careful! I'm rather worried about you and your children (and your husband!!), though not for the reasons others seem to be. If you read around on these boards, it's plain crazy. These people psycho-google-stalk you. They have your address and phone number and some have even driven by your home to "check things out." Some have looked up playgrounds where your kids might play, and driven by them looking for you! Some have walked around the stores mentioned looking for you all. They have figured out which Church you go to and drive by that as well. They follow your husband on Facebook, which shows your city and personal pictures to everyone (it might be wise to change all of the facebook security settings so only friends can view the personal information). Maybe switching to a cell phone instead of a land line or calling your phone company and getting your number unlisted (so they can't find your address through the online directories).

Please just be safe and be aware of your surroundings. I'm sure you already are when out and about, but these people are insane. If someone is insane enough to google-stalk someone and drive by their home and recreation places to catch a glimpse, they are crazy enough to become violent or a kidnapper. Sorry if I seem like I'm lecturing you about this. I'm not trying to belittle you, these wackos just have me genuinely concerned...

Cee said...

It's clear you value poverty over the health and safety of your children, and this saddens me. I hope you can get over yourself and accept help like WIC. It would make such a difference in your life.

Devon said...

Glad to hear it, girl.

crabcakes said...

I do agree, it's your blog and you have to do what works for you.

I think that people are horribly harsh at times, and it makes your responses to everyone a little off at times. It almost seems that you are attacking people "on your side" sometimes because your haunches are up.

As someone who started coming for the recipes and stayed because I enjoyed the blog...I think you need to do whatever will help you get back to your normal, non haunch-up responses.

Sometimes I'm afraid to comment, honestly, because I don't want to be scared away by a snappy comment...which you've had a lot of, of late.

I support you, Emily. I don't always agree, but I agree more than most I guess. When I don't "get" something I try to ask in a respectful way. But in anything, I defend your right to raise your children as you see fit and I guess my definition of "harm" isn't quite the same as others who would attack you is.

I know this isn't an FAQ, as you pointed out to Kay (in one of those ways that makes me afraid to comment sometimes..), but I did have to ask about the name posting thing?

I get that people have to put their names, but how does it really get you to know who is posting? For all intensive purposes, someone could type in anyone's name when they post. Make sense?

Lawgirl said...

It always makes me wonder how some of these folks treat the people with whom they interact in person if they are willing to treat a stranger with such little respect.

I am enjoying your blog and I hope you keep it open. I may not agree with or understand everything, but your life is your own and as long as you are happy, then that is what matters.

As for the others, they need to just stop reading.

Best of luck,
Lawgirl

Me said...

Emily I do think it was a knee jerk reaction but as you stated: It is your blog.
I check the blog daily and think you have some fabulous and really creative ideas. I will never take frugality to the level that you do but I have used some of your ideas.

I agree with Devon that I still think you are a nut case and partially in denial about several things but your blog is interesting.

I truly wish nothing but the best for your family. I have four young boys and know how tiring it can be. Hopefully you will be one of those bloggers who makes $100k with their readership! It would make for some great missionary opportunities.

Kimber said...

Bravo Emily!! Very proud of you right now! You rock girl!

frugalredneck said...

Emily, glad to hear you are getting rid of the horrible trolls, Ohhhh it made me angry I can only imagine how it hurt you. I love love love this blog, I talk about and reference your blog and some of the great commenters on my blog also. I can't wait to get back to good ol fashioned healthy debate and to hear your great ideas and hear about your wonderful family!!!!! Michelle frugalredneck.blogspot.com

frugalredneck said...

Ohh just wanted to add, I just noticed your button, and I added it to my blog. Also thank you so much for the idea on the neilson book review, Just got approved and they are sending out my free book to review!!!! Thanks again for the great info, Michelle frugalredneck.blogspot.com

Anonymous said...

Emily, I haven't posted a comment in a while, but I have been reading daily. As I've mentioned before I disagree with you on a lot of things, but there is no reason for me to tell you what I think you're wrong on. I don't understand those who try to change you and presume things about your life.

I enjoy your blog for two reasons: I get ideas on how to be more frugal and I enjoy seeing how others live. =]

LashyLashla said...

Oh Emily I am so very sorry that these people are causing you to lose the love for blogging. I read every post and love the simple tips and tricks i am learning along the way but more than that love to read of your faith. I do hope that you do not stop blogging or if you end up making this a private blog invite me to join. I wish you and your beautiful family (gorgeous kids and supportive hubby) much happiness.

Treva said...

Cris said "From my own experience I see you (perhaps greatly?) modifying your current plans year by year, but staying true to the underlying beliefs."

Very well put! Because isn't that the case for most us? Despite my hardcore creationism beliefs (I was raised Southern Baptist -- need I say more?) we all EVOLVE and change over the course of our lives, but I believe we stick to some basic founding principles that define who we are as individuals. The decisions I made when I was 20 years old are vastly different from the decisions I've made since becoming a parent at 25 years old. I've even reverted in some ways -- getting back to my Christian roots and going to church for worship and fellowship, for example. People change and evolve and I believe that it will be joyful to many of us to see how Emily changes over the years, should the blog stay around that long. I know I personally am interested in where she is when they have 5 kids vs the 3 they have now. Or how the dynamics of her family changes when they have a daughter.

Steph said...

I just found your blog yesterday. I still can't remember how, but I don't suppose it matters. I've read all your entries (slow night for me last night I suppose) and while you and differ considerably I do admire your ability to stick to a budget and have savings. I also totally understand how you feel about people attacking your husband. My husband has been attacked on my blog many times for really stupid reasons. I've been attacked for everything, and I do mean everything. Generally I just delete the comments and move on, though.

You might have answered this somewhere, and I'm sorry if I just missed it, but I have to ask...what would you do if someone offered you a book deal? It happened to me and I'm hardly what most people (myself included) would consider a well-known blogger.

Is that something that would interest you? (Please note, I'm not offering nor can I actually give you OR ANYONE a book deal. People seem to think if you write a book you can help them right a book. Not that you would think that personally, I'm just saying it since this is a public comment!) If you did write a book, what would you do with your earnings?

Emily said...

Crabcakes, it makes me sad to hear that you are afrain to comment at times. I see you as one of my strongest allies, even though we disagree at times and I appreciate you as a reader. It is my goal as well to come out of the defensive position. It is tiring and not fun.

Emily said...

Stephanie, I'm not too fond of people having to pay for something I am giving away. Especially since this is a low-income blog about low-income ideas, so I wouldn't want low-income folks paying for it when they could just come here.

LK, that really creeps me out. But they already know where I am and are posting it all over their forum. Any crackdown in security would be cracking down on info they already have. Now I kind of want to move.

Steph said...

Thanks for your honest answer.

Also, I can't believe I said "right" a book. I have editors, I swear. I sort of have to.

Have a good day.

crabcakes said...

What about a modular home? It's still very expensive to move but they are sort of "split in half" if that makes sense and with a modular, if you did settle somewhere for a longer time, you could put on additions.

My mother-in-laws house was modular, driven in two pieces to it's current location. You'd never know it. It looks like any other split level and is actually on a golf course :).

Jen said...

Emily, you and I will probably never agree on anything, but I will say that you have inspired my own blogging. I think this is the first time I have actually kept up with a blog. So thanks for that. ;)

Jess said...

Wow, I just checked out that sybermoms link... that site is a joke, right?

Anyway, keep up the good blogging.

dust in the wind said...

Yay, Emily!

Shan said...

I enjoy reading your blog, and read it almost daily. I don't know how you have put up with the stuff thrown at you. I get my feathers ruffled when they are attacking you for something that also would apply to me, and I don't read all of the comments, just skim.

But I do hope that you keep your blog going. Sometimes people are hit with circumstances and have to suddenly live in a way different than they have planned. Now days with the economy the way it is, you just never know. Your blog could be an invaluable resource for someone who can't fathom how to make a suddenly restricted income stretch.

And even though your income may have grown some, I understand that you are still keeping expenses to under 1000, and that name could be what helps someone desperate for help come to your blog. Keep up the good work.

Anonymous said...

I've been following along since August, and your blog definitely inspired me to start my own. I don't often agree with you but I think your heart is in the right place. I try to disagree agreeably, and share ideas and resources. It seems as though many of those ideas and resources are dismissed out of hand, though. Perhaps it's because you've gotten a lot of negative comments and you're on guard, but I think some of those comments have been with your best interest at heart, coming from a place of genuine concern, and because they're not cheering you on, they're taken as "trolls" which is just not the case.

Some of the criticism has been constructive criticism, but it all seems to come across to you as the same, and you don't address some of the genuine concerns. Saying, "I won't address safety" when posting photos that scream "unsafe for children" makes some posters want to bang our heads on the wall!

Emily said...

Savedquarter, I do listen to a lot of suggestions, including yours. I don't respond to every comment, because I just get too many comments to do that, but that doesn't mean I am dismissing it. I said that I wasn't going to address safety in the comment section because it would be addressed in the future posts that went over each room, one-by-one.

You are right that some of the negative comments have not been malicious, but some have, and I mean truly malicious. I'm sorry that it effects me, and thus my regular readers, and I am working on it.

Lisa W said...

I would just like to commend you for your blog and your honesty... I have thoroughly enjoyed reading it from beginning to end (which I managed to do the other night after finding it)... It is refreshing to see a young person (or should I say younger than my 39yo) try and save for their future and make do with what they have... I have gleaned lots of ideas from you and look forward to checking your posts often...
I myself am a homeschool mom and work hard at being a good steward of our blessings, and admire you for doing the same and being a "MOM" to your 3 boys... Keep up the good work!!

Have a great day.. =D

Anonymous said...

I just came about your blog & am reading to catch up. I had to giggle a little at this post because I came about your blog because others were discussing it & your lifestyle. But then I just saw you mention Sybermoms & that is where my giggle comes in. I was a member there many years ago but left it due to all of the negativity.

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