Friday Flotsam

By Bev Weidner on October 16, 2015 in Friday Flotsam

f R I D A y.

I almost skipped Flotsam this week.

My alarm went off this morning at booty:30 and I was like, really? Do I have to? I think I’ll stay in bed. I don’t really have anything to say. They wouldn’t even notice! But unfortunately my boss is a major b so here I sit.

Warning: this is my own personal WAH fest, so just ignore me.

But, okay. I feel like blogging has changed SO much in the five years I’ve been doing it. Back in the day when Pinterest wasn’t a thing, and Facebook was still mainly for those overzealous moms posting five million photos of their kids a day. I’m so glad I’m not one of them! …wait.

But like, everyone was all.over. blogs back then. The community was tight and churning. But these days, I just feel like readers are so YAWWWN with blogs. Or at least mine. Which is totally okay! I guess.

I mainly miss the dialogue. I yearn for the time when the blogger/reader relationship was deeper than a quick pin, a facebook like, and you’re done. Frankly, I love reading your comments. I love reading YOU.

So tell me, are blogs starting to fade? Has the industry begun its imminent fade, or am I just a clueless troll?

I was at a blog conference happy hour thingy last night and I was talking to my friend, one of the VERY first bloggers I started following way back in the day, and we actually talked (read: complained and boo hoo’d like whoa) about this. And we both agree that the platform has shifted so, so much that it’s hard to stay motivated to even do it!

It’s like, I should walk away from conferences and happy hours super inspired and pumped to make this space THEEE BEST it can be. Post more! Add more recipes! No wait, add more family stories! No wait, less toddler and more enchilada! The whole enchilada! (just kidding, I’m not even sure what that entirely means)

But . . . ugh. I can’t. I can’t figure out the magic formula for successful blogging. And even further, do we really even care? I mean I do! I love you all. But honestly, sometimes it’s like, “Beuller? . . . Beuller? . . . Beuller?”

Again, this is my internal pout gala. Please just look away.

(just real quick, this ^^^ is actually a different photo than the flowers I posted a couple of weeks ago. different colors. i’m not losing my mind. thank you. goodbye forever.)

Some bloggers tout, “You should live more to have something to blog about!” And others say, “You should blog more so you have more life to live!” And I’m just like, “What? I need coffee. And to get my roots done.”

I miss the days when blogging wasn’t such a competition. When it didn’t feel like such a lame-o-tron high school popularity contest. Because when it gets political and mind game-y I’m like peaaaaace out. I want to remember WHY I blog. I love it. And I love my readers. You. THAT is why I blob. I mean blog.

It’s weird that I just typed blob, because usually, when I make it a typo I’m typing the word BLOG instead of whatever word I’m trying to type. Hahahaha! Never mind.

Sometimes I think about taking all the ads off and blogging straight for the love. Wouldn’t that be so amazing? My page would load so much faster! Too bad I have two little bottomless pit toddler faces to feed. Gah, KIDS.

I basically don’t know what my point is, but I think I feel burned out with it all right now. A little spent. And it’s like, I don’t want to take a break from it, because I’d miss it (and you!) so much. My love for blogging hasn’t changed, but I feel like it’s become such a saturated industry that I’m starting to drown in the mix. And I don’t have the energy or frankly, the know-how to get BACK.UP.THERE.AND.HI.I’M.STILL.HERE.LOOK.AT.THIS.TACO.I.MADE.

Know what I mean, Vern?

Maybe I should just go get my roots done.

That’s all. My emotional barf jamboree hath cometh to an end. And I don’t know if there’s a fix, really. Just keep doin’ my thang, right? Keep on keepin’ on! STAY THE COURSE. Just kidding, don’t punch me.

Also, two weeks until Halloween and we still don’t have costumes! Ugh.

One more thing! Thanks for listening. You rule my face.

Another one more thing! I really need to get these roots done.

friday flotsam, life, parenthood

What We’re Diggin’! (Autumn 2015)

Italian Pulled-Chicken Sliders

125 Responses to Friday Flotsam

Simone October 16, 2015 at 7:34 am #

I certainly would notice if you dropped off the blogosphere. And although I'm not a blogger, it all makes sense. There are the haters and the comparers that will always do what they will. But then there are those of us who just thoroughly enjoy a little story with a recipe - who like to know the blogger on the other side of the screen has a very normal life (even if their normal life is way cooler than your own still). This is your internet space. I say post all the enchiladas and baby faces you want. Or don't (but you would be missed). Don't conform to who you think the readers want you to be or what a blogging conference tells you to be. People came to your blog because they like you. (Ok and your food and your babies...but that's still you). Anyyyyyyywayyyys. Happy Friday!
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- Debi October 16, 2015 at 11:10 am #
  
  I couldn't have said it better! I come for the pictures of the kiddos, the amazing recipes and the absolutely amazing way your brain works. Your writing is a joy to read.
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Emily October 16, 2015 at 7:48 am #

I check your blog every single day!!! Don't leave us!!!
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Shanna October 16, 2015 at 7:54 am #

I would mourn the loss of Bev Cooks way more than a person should! Yours is the one (I actually only read a very few) that I look forward to everyday. You make me laugh in just the most organic way, and I love looking at your pics and being inspired by they way you embrace nature. Thank you for letting us into your life. p.s. I am from Arkansas also, and everytime you take a trip there and do a post on it, I get all nostalgic! I would miss that, too :)
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Nix October 16, 2015 at 8:10 am #

I only just found you so I definitely don't want you to go - I need your CAPS talk and hilarity! Additionally, I live in Zimbabwe - I don't need more disappointment plllleeaaaasseeeee, or should I say PLEASE! ;) xx
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Morgan October 16, 2015 at 8:16 am #

I don't know exactly where this is all coming from. If some girl over there is being prissy and sticking her tongue out at you, or if your metrics are lower, or what it is that is making you feel this way. But I also understand somehow. I have a super unsuccessful "food" blog that has maybe 80 views a week. And when it's time to post, I dread it. So, I really don't know how you do it. With that said, I am beyond grateful that you do it. Because my blog will just be internet dust collecting on the internet shelf, but your blog is something special. It is my absolute favorite of ALL of the many I look at. WHICH IS A LOT. It's the perfect mix of food, adorable twins, house stuff, DIY, cool pictures, just everything. But the most important thing about this blog is how "real" you are. You're funny and honest and it shows. WHO EFFING CARES about the rules. Or metrics. Or how shiny that other girls family is. Or how many more comments. Or WHATEVERRRRRR it is that you're going off of. You have a serious fan club. If you don't feel like posting one day, don't. If you feel like posting a picture of a foot and a puddle, do it. And for the love of pete, keep the ads. Support those BEBES.
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Sharana @ Living The Sweet Life Blog October 16, 2015 at 8:22 am #

You're completely correct, blogging has changed - I feel like people who read your blog ( and mine to be honest) are my tried and true readers ... and not that I mind this, but holy-crap-on-a-cracker is it hard to spark peoples interest right now!! Mehh, how I see it - I LOVE blogging and I LOVE reading your blog so keep doing your thhhaaannng! Happy friday :)
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Ashley October 16, 2015 at 8:39 am #

I SO FEEL YOU. every single word of it. Bueller....bueller....bueller...................................................................................................................................................................................bueller?
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Melinda October 16, 2015 at 8:47 am #

Sometimes, as a reader, I feel like a dork commenting too much because I don't want to be THAT person that always has a stupid comment. I've actually started writing comments and then deleted them because I was afraid of comment saturation. Yes, there are lots of blogs, and yes, I read lots of them. But you best believe I look forward to yours all the time, and I even find your posts coming up in conversation in my nonblogosphere. Don't stop.
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Stephanie K. October 16, 2015 at 8:50 am #

Coming out from the shadows (is that creepy? Sorry...) to say that I would most definitely miss you! At this point you're probably thinking "I have no idea who this girl is..." which, valid point. But. I just don't comment because I figure I don't have a blog and am just a random person with no reason to so yea... Which is probably ridiculous. I'll be better. You're awesome. I think I should be done now...
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Nicole October 16, 2015 at 8:54 am #

I wish I had something meaningful to say, and I totally get where you are coming from, but I feel like in the new SnapChat/Periscope/Instashit landscape of social media blogs make you so much more vulnerable because you actually have to (gasp) FLESH OUT an idea and explain what's going on. It's exhausting, I'm sure. I tried to blog for a while but never could get on a consistent schedule because teacher + toddler + life + I didn't always feel like I knew what I wanted my authentic corner to be. But you- you've built something great here, and if you left I'd mourn. It matters. It matters that people can come here and read ranty musings and kitchen hilarity from someone who appears to have it all together and have a perfect life on Instagram and know that even though the pics are beautiful sometimes they can lie. And THAT's why I think blogs matter. Because there needs to be a voice behind the image and realness behind the the lovely eye candy. Thanks for being such a great mix of all of those things, and whatever you decide to do, do it because it's the best choice for you.
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- Anonymous October 16, 2015 at 9:49 pm #
  
  This was so well said. There needs to be authentic realness behind the images and that is what a blog does. Bravo!
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Jen October 16, 2015 at 9:00 am #

know what I mean, Vern? I say this in my house and no one gets it lol. No Halloween costumes here yet either. Chocolate ;)
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Bree October 16, 2015 at 9:02 am #

I love your blog! Yours is real and fun and funny! If you love it don't stop! If you can make a living off of something you love you are so lucky! Every "job" has annoying people and annoying aspects and we all have those days where we are like "hmmm what am I doing, what is life??" Just do what makes you happy, ignore the people who are trying to turn what you love into something else! AND know that you have MANY readers and supporters even though most of us don't comment much! :) x
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Kristin October 16, 2015 at 9:05 am #

So what you're saying is, I shouldn't try to start blogging more often and about more topics because blogs are SO yesterday...bummer. Now what am I going to do with my life? Haha Truthfully I love following your blog but I am definitely guilty of just giving the 'like' with no comment. Though I will occasionally comment on your FB or insta pix. For me, I love to cook so I check out your recipes but I also love that you have boy/girl twins because I do too, though mine are much younger. You give me hope that we will all survive! Ha! So no matter how your blog develops, grows or changes, I'll be here. Reading. Liking. Maybe sometimes commenting. <3
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Mo @LuckyRhino October 16, 2015 at 9:11 am #

I still have a very busy outside the house job so I mostly blog for friends and family amusement (keep them updated about the kids, transfer recipes, etc.) and even then, I often run out of new things to say. I cannot imagine how hard it is to do for a living with two toddlers underfoot. But as your reader I would say I enjoy your particular voice and point of view, and what you are talking about really doesn't matter, so just keep talking whenever you feel like it. There are certain people who have kept true to that voice over the years (Deb at Smitten Kitchen for example) that makes you feel like you know them. Yes, in almost a stalker-y way. But that is exactly what makes it interesting, you feel like you are hearing a friend's story, not just getting tacos or avocado toast pushed at you each day! That's why we come back. But we won't be mad if you take a week off either. And keep your ads, there aren't that many. There aren't constant pop ups and you don't sponsor so much that I feel you are trying to constantly sell me something. Have a great weekend.
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Sarah October 16, 2015 at 9:11 am #

You're awesome. You have a unique writing style. Your personality shines through every post. Your family is darling. Your recipes are spot on. and your playlists on spotify have been dope. Keep shining on for the sake of this reader. Please.
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Dj October 16, 2015 at 9:12 am #

Love you. Love your babes. Love your calazones.
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Christina October 16, 2015 at 9:18 am #

I don't ever comment on the blogs I read, but I wanted to let you know you're one of my favorites! I'll admit I was a little skeptical when your format moved away from mostly recipes, because that's what I love to read about, BUT! I love your blog as much as ever because of your voice, your humor, your photography and your littles ( no kids for me, but I appreciate how adorable they are!) And now that you added your monthly mixtapes, I absolutely live for the first of the month. It's my favorite! About readership: There is so much out there to attract people's attention- they live their lives through the monitor of their phones, it seems. At the same time, their attention span seems to shorten-maybe it's a "so much to read! so little time! must click on the next story so I don't miss anything!" syndrome? They have more access to social connecting like snapchat and other apps I'm sure I've never heard of...there's only so many hours in the day and there is so much available to read/photograph/share, etc. I read a ton of blogs and yours is one of the handful that I would miss terribly. Just keep posting what you feel like, without trying to guess what people want. We want whatever you give us!
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lisatberry October 16, 2015 at 9:20 am #

I love your blog...read it daily...love your sense of humor and those babies forget about it.....please explain the picture of all the fans with pictures of Jesus on them.???
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- Bev Weidner October 16, 2015 at 10:52 am #
  
  Hahahaha! Aren't those fans bizarre? I saw them at a flea market and had to take a photo. And post it because I'm weird like that.
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  - Laurie October 21, 2015 at 3:51 pm #
    
    At first I thought you were getting all religious or something - like they were in your house! Whew - I'm relieved! You know you could hold the one of Jesus in front of your face and pretend you were him - Halloween costume maybe -LOL! Anyway, get your chin up, girl. You make me laugh. These days that's sayin' something. We all have those days (weeks in my case) when we can barely get out of the bed, when life is just a cher of bowlies, etc, etc. I know what you mean, Vern. Thennnnnnnnn, things start lookin' better and the funk fades. I'm always happy to see you in my email, so keep cooking and clicking.
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Jaida (Sweet Beginnings) October 16, 2015 at 9:21 am #

Bev, I was just telling a friend the other day (who sent me a pin of your Thai Chicken Curry Soup - and I was like, Hey!! I love her blog!) that your blog is one of my very favorites. I love reading about your food AND those bebes. I follow you on IG, FB, and Pinterest. I've been blogging for almost 5 years and I am nowhere near the status that you are (i.e. barely known and make no money) but I continue anyway, because it's something I love to do :) And I hope that you do the same, because we would definitely miss you!!
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nicole @ I am a Honey Bee October 16, 2015 at 9:27 am #

I def know what you mean. I wish I had time to comment on all the blogs I read but it feels like I wouldn't be able to read all the blogs I read if I commented on them. As I fellow teeny tiny blogger, I get it though. I'd love for more interaction on my own blog as well. I think the thing that people miss is that they love pinterest, but bloggers are the ones that generally create the content, so pinners need to engage bloggers so they keep creating all the content they love so much. also, I love you on snapchat, I try to send you msgs but they don't go through. that is all.
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Holly K October 16, 2015 at 9:28 am #

I keep hearing that blogs are dying but I'm like, BUT I'M STILL READING THEM EVERY DAY SO STOP TELLING THE BLOGGERS THAT THEIR CRAFT IS DEAD BECAUSE WHAT WILL I DO FOR THE FIRST THIRTY MINUTES OF MY WORKDAY IF I DON'T HAVE BLOGS TO READ?!?!? (My employer would probably say, umm work stuff, but whatever man I have to get in a zone!) Instagram and Facebook and all that other mumbo jumbo is great but it doesn't feel as personal and insightful as a blog. Don't stop believin' or blogging!
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Christy October 16, 2015 at 9:44 am #

As a fellow busy Mom who mainly checks blogs for recipes, I will say that yours is the only blog I actually read Bev. You brighten my day with your quirky humor, and I even relay your instagram to my husband who chuckles at your toddler comments. Keep it up! ?
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Brittany | Words Like Honeycomb October 16, 2015 at 9:47 am #

Okay you are HILARIOUS and how am I just now reading your blog?! I have heard of you several times and never taken the time to stop by, but you are adorable and I am certain we would be blog besties. its not weird at all. I am still new to blogging so I simply am not in the same league as any other awesome bloggers to worry about comparison...guess that's kinda a blessing?! But I love blogging, I love cooking, I love when I get a comment every now and then and someone takes the moment just to say they enjoyed what I wrote or my pictures look delish...I love occasionally getting to help people and maybe even inspire someone here and there. This blogging thing is amazing...maybe I am still in the honeymoon phase and haven't been discouraged by others yet, as you have, but please don't stop what you love. Ignore them all and remember what you love. Take more photos...look back at old posts and see how far you have come...think about everyone you love and know because of blogging that you would have never had the chance to meet. And remember people like me, that aren't anywhere near where you are but dream of it. I love reading blogs...for the sheer enjoyment of it. And it lets me meet...err...virtually meet amazing, funny and delightful people as yourself <3 Hi...im Brittany and I am your newest faithful subscriber :D oh and your kids are flippin' adorable. #snapchatstalker
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Tanvee October 16, 2015 at 9:50 am #

I read your blog every day, I would certainly notice and miss you if you stopped writing. I look forward to reading what you have to say and drool over your recipes (and giggle at your silliness). It might seem like it's a competition, but to me, you're all amazing and each have your own wonderful style of blogging. You ALL are an inspiration to us readers, each of you with your own little spin on everything you do. What I'm trying to say is that I adore Bevcooks, so please keep doing your thing. You are amazing :)
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Rachel K October 16, 2015 at 10:03 am #

I agree with a lot of what you said above. As a blog reader, there's really SO much out there and it's hard to find blogs that have genuine content and a distinct writing style amidst the sponsored post/ad littered nonsense. It seems very few bloggers are bringing something new, unique, and valuable to the table. This is all to say that I truly enjoy READING your blog. A lot of blogs I will scroll through for recipes or giveaways, pin, tweet, and leave, but I honestly READ your blog and enjoy your writing style and candidness. Echoing others above, keep doing your thing/don't change a thing! Your snapchat also makes me LOL for real.
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Jess October 16, 2015 at 10:13 am #

Girl! Go get your roots done, keep taking pics of your beautiful babies, and do your thing!! I love your blog. You inspire me to cook and I dont cook. I have tried several of your recipes and we love them. I am a childless 38 year old coming to grips with this fact. Most things baby related make me sad but I was overjoyed to hear about your pregnancy and your pictures make me smile. I just know we would be friends if we lived in the same neighborhood ? I hope this brings you a little encouragement that even when you feel burnt out someone is reading and loves what you do! Now on to those roots!!
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Lori October 16, 2015 at 10:13 am #

I will be honest, I rarely comment on blogs because I don't "know" the person so it's really interesting to read your perspective on readers' comments. Every Friday morning I look forward to your Friday Flotsam posts - I love them. Personally, I enjoy reading the stories, etc. more than the actual recipes - I mean, I love the recipes but I like just reading the posts that go along with them as well. You have a wicked sense of humor and your kiddos are so cute - I would definitely miss reading you!
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Liz October 16, 2015 at 10:13 am #

I never comment (I'm sorry). I have been following you since the beginning. I love your blog and I tell my husband about you all the time. I wouldn't know what to do with myself if you stopped blogging (creepy, right?) You are the best! If you lived closer I would totally make you be my best friend.
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Veronica October 16, 2015 at 10:17 am #

Um, relax please.. maybe you need a breather.. but dont leave us! i just found you! and am totally like, what's bev doing? Snapchats are hilarious too! You are an asset to the interwebs, and a joy to read when you post. So, drink a glass of wine, and clink, as i try to semi diy what you just created :)
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Jessica G October 16, 2015 at 10:19 am #

Time spent reading your posts is some of my favorite time during the day! Work/life in general can get so tedious and it's such a nice break to get to read something funny and honest. You have a gift for words and a beautiful family. Please keep doing what you do, however you want to do it, and we'll be here for the ride!
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Charity October 16, 2015 at 10:20 am #

I agree. You shouldn't stop. I love reading your blogs & your recipes. I guess I should be more interactive. But isn't it amazing that some random girl in Baton Rouge, LA is reading of your escapades!? It's magic.
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Amy October 16, 2015 at 10:23 am #

So, you may have read my mind. I look forward to reading your blog EVERYDAY at lunch. I love your Friday post, I love your "what I am loving" and I have tried your recipes on many occasions. I have wanted to reply to thank you for continuing to blog post babies, and for putting so much effort into your posts. But I didn't... so now that you yelled at us, I am. Thank you for your posts. Thank you for giving me something to read while I stuff my face at my desk. Thanks for sharing in your parenting struggles (I have two littles too). Thanks for your recipes which make my husband happy. I appreciate you. I wish we could be friends. (creepy?, sorry).
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Hannah October 16, 2015 at 10:25 am #

First of all, thank you for saying "Know what I mean, Vern?" because my husband and I say that all of the time in our house! I said it to someone in their mid-twenties a few weeks ago and had to explain who Ernest is. Oye. Secondly, your blog is amazing. I read a fair number of blogs and what I find most refreshing about yours is how real it is. There's no "Look I just bought this adorable coat and you can too - it's only $1500" (seriously, if I have $1500 burning a hole in my pocket, I'm not spending it on a coat). You are funny and entertaining and you leave it all out there - from start of thought process to finish and I love it! So while I may not always comment, I'm reading and interested! And I often come back to your blog to re-look at things (ahem, essential oils cleaning supplies are my jam now)
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JP October 16, 2015 at 10:33 am #

You are the smile with my morning coffee, and you make a small but sunshiney difference in my day.
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Kahala October 16, 2015 at 10:34 am #

I love your blog! It makes me smile and I love your family. You are a gem.
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Jennifer C. October 16, 2015 at 10:34 am #

Go get your roots done. Then come back. Seriously.
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Kathleen October 16, 2015 at 10:37 am #

Everyday I contemplate getting off facebook as the horrid remarks, the disrespectful politics, the abused animal and children picures assault me every morning I log on. Then I stumble on to my few ordinary everyday blogs I have followed from the start and I cannot give them up, though they are fewer and farther in between- and you are one of them. Your attitude and your style are a breath of fresh air and you make me happy. Please dont give up. We must keep looking for normalcy!!! If you make even 5 people happy each day, that is 5 more than most people do in a month. Now go get your roots done and you will feel all better!! Thank You for sharing your beautiful life with us.
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Lindsey October 16, 2015 at 10:43 am #

Long time reader, first time commenter. I get overwhelmed with the blogs I feel like I need to be reading, so I can't imagine what it's like to be you, swimming in a sea of overachieving bloggers. I think you are not giving yourself nearly enough credit! I love the food you post, the babies you post, and the family stuff you post. You are my top go-to blog when I can't figure out what to make for dinner, and your presence would definitely be missed! Go get your roots done, have a glass of wine, and keep on truckin'.
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Maknzee October 16, 2015 at 10:48 am #

I am admittedly a bit of a lurker. It's easy to forget that you (and other bloggers) are actually a real life human being, even though you seem very down to earth and awesome. However, I can certainly see how just throwing your thoughts and ideas into the void would get a bit frustrating. So, a lurker no longer (say that three times fast) I just want you to know that I have your blog bookmarked and I check it first thing in the morning every single day. You make me laugh creepily to myself at work where I get weird looks and it's great. Also, your food always looks delicious and classy but in a totally unpretentious way that doesn't make me feel nervous or overwhelmed. So, thanks for that. I hope things work out for you and that you can keep making yourself happy by doing what you love to do. I think you should go retouch your roots and get someone to give you a massage (Your husband? A professional? The person behind you in line at the grocery store?) and keep on keepin' on. But maybe don't let the person behind you in line give you a massage. Unless it's Bill Murray. Because that would be the shit. Anyway....have a lovely day and I'm glad you exist. Cheers!
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Laura October 16, 2015 at 10:49 am #

OK. So I have a bazillion things to say here, but first let me say every Friday I look forward to Flotsam like WHOA. LIKE WHOA, BEV. Second... it was about a month (I don't know) ago, and you posted an article you were interviewed in and it discussed how you were sitting at your job, reading blogs, and were like I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY... I CAN DO THIS... and I need you to know that I read that, and my little brain clicked, and I felt the same, and I wanted to start tipsyshaker.com...and I DID. First terrible absolutely abysmally photographed unprofessional post went live October 2nd! BECAUSE OF YOU. You made me feel like I could do it. And I know I'll get better, and learn and all that...but it wouldn't have happened without the first step. So thank you. Don't give up. Market the shit out of yourself if you want to, or look at new ways to make people want to chat (roundtables with your blog peeps, real time coffee meet ups video'd...or go youtube babe crazy - but you inspire people. You make things feel fresh and exciting and doable! - also, give yourself a break. You're a mom of twins who are coming into the threenager years soon (I say years because it's supposed to be one year, but 3 feels rilllllly long....) We support the hell out of you. :D
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Sarah October 16, 2015 at 10:49 am #

I love your blog! I look forward to reading your posts so please keep them coming! (the recipes, the babies, the ramblings) I love it all!
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Emily October 16, 2015 at 10:50 am #

Girl. Don't stop blogging. It's funny, real, and sarcastic bloggers like you and Phyllis from Dash and Bella that give me my fill of humor and sarcasm about motherhood and cooking. Even though we don't comment, you have an audience who would miss your emotional rants, silly jokes, and adorable-children-updates. Keep it up, girl. Even if you're not the most popular girl on the block, you can still be one of the rogue hipsters of the blogosphere. Do yo' thang.
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Jennifer October 16, 2015 at 10:56 am #

My Friday's wouldn't be complete without you :) I used to comment on almost every blog I visited, I liked to make those connections, but I'm less committed to it now because so many bloggers don't respond. Hooray for the ones that do...but a one-sided conversation is only fun for so long. Happy weekend to you.
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Rose H October 16, 2015 at 11:02 am #

Bev. I love your blog. There are maybe three, four blogs I actually read on a consistent basis and yours is my favorite. I have a (veeerrrry small) blog and you are my inspiration to keep doing what I'm doing. Also, my husband would mourn the day you ever quit blogging because 87% of the meals I cook come from you and we both love every single one I've made.
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Joan October 16, 2015 at 11:10 am #

That time that Bev toyed with my emotions and I panicked and decided the world was ending because what's the point even if Bev doesn't fulfill me with gorgeous babies, belly laughs and complete lack of bullshit. Keep on keeping it real and reminding the rest of us lame-o's what real life looks like instead of lying about perfection. You make me so happy!
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Gabby October 16, 2015 at 11:11 am #

I don't comment/converse very frequently at all with the bloggers I follow, but I view them nearly every day and miss them very much when there is a day with no new post. You are right up there on the list!
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Julie October 16, 2015 at 11:11 am #

Bev- you are awesome and I love to read everything you write. Please know that your loyal readers across the globe love you and are supportive of your blog. Do what is best for you and your family, but we support you!
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tara October 16, 2015 at 11:11 am #

I am a blog reader, not blogger myself, but I love your blog and I think you are hilarious. I actually found your blog when I was pregnant with my twins and loved reading the things you would post during pregnancy and after you had them. I also really love all of the what to expect articles you have written. I don't think you need to change a thing.
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Denita October 16, 2015 at 11:14 am #

Oh, blogs. I started reading back in the early 2000's - like probably 2000 is when I discovered them. For awhile I had my own until my host went down and I never moved to a different host. At first, I started because my friends were part of a local bloggers community and then I discovered blogs outside of local that I really enjoyed reading. It was the life stories that I enjoyed. Blogs used to be about connections and story-telling. Then they expanded into niche type blogs and I love to read about people's cooking adventures and love to be inspired by others food, so I loved a few of those blogs as well. Then blogs became more about making money and sponsored ads and it was less about content and more about volume. How many posts can I crank out so I can keep my page views up so someone will want to pay to advertise on my blog. So, any more, especially when you are not a blogger that can promote someone, it doesn't feel like a community, but an informational source maybe. Now, I infrequently comment on blogs. Finding the blogs with good content, it is more of a challenge I think as well. The blog arena was saturated, so you have to sift through a lot of mediocre to get to the good.
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Missy October 16, 2015 at 11:17 am #

Faithful reader, guilty of non-commenting. But I look forward to your blog for everything it is -- which is mostly YOU. Be you Bev. Do you. Don't post when you don't want to. We'll wait.
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Dee @ The Kitchen Snob October 16, 2015 at 11:17 am #

I follow a lot of blogs. Yours is the only one that I actually read every post, EVERY. WORD. I don't skip. I don't quickly scan it. I love it. And I swear, just now I was composing a post titled "My Favorite Blogs" and guess who was numero uno? Yeah, baby, you. You should feel so privileged. ha. ;-) But seriously, I get it. I can barely keep up with posting once a week and feeling like I'm talking to myself. The "favorite blog" posts was a quickie idea because, once again, I don't have a recipe made! I don't know if anyone is even making my recipes. And if they invent ONE MORE FREAKIN social media thing I have to figure out and then grow a following for, I'm going to just shove cake in my face until I can't breathe.
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laura October 16, 2015 at 11:21 am #

I love your blog, your recipes and your nuttiness. I am not a blogger, but life in general can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed, as if we have to do more to keep up, as if we are not enough to put out each and everyday for family, friends, work...the list goes on. Give yourself grace to rest. Really rest, smell those sweet babies and enjoy what you are doing. It's not a competition, it's your life you are sharing with others, allowing us a peek into it. It doesn't always have to be perfect, or full, just share. I hope you are refreshed, bolstered and loved on. Now, if you excuse me, I DO have to go and get my roots done.
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Lisa October 16, 2015 at 11:27 am #

OMG -- PLEASE do not stop this blog!!!! I feel like I'm a little late to this party as I just started reading blog like a year and a half ago and I only found you about 5 months ago, but please believe me when I say you are my favorite. I get so many emails and I subscribe to so many blogs, but there are like 3 that I actually read religiously and look forward to and YOURS is at the top of that list. I know it's easy to get discouraged -- heck, I want to walk away from my job and all the hours once in a while -- but please know that people are out there and we REALLY LOVE reading about you and getting your recipes and looking at the photos of your beautiful kids. You are a bright spot in my day!!!
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Christy Drace October 16, 2015 at 11:28 am #

Noooooooo....don't leave. I look forward to Flotsam every Friday. And, I read your blog religiously and have told all my friends to read as well!! Your children are adorable and I check your snap chats all the time. Your blog is the best and you should be proud !
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Julie October 16, 2015 at 11:30 am #

Please don't leave and please don't change one thing! I come here daily because you are so real, funny, lovely photos, recipes and everything else. I'm turned off by a few other blogs as I sense some are getting a swelled head so to speak. I say keep on keeping on and go get your roots done.
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Laura October 16, 2015 at 11:30 am #

I read a few blogs, not many, and yours is the ONLY one I receive notifications for. You are authentic and relatable, and I love how your snapchat stories enhance my "reader-experience." I actually tried to send you a snap you the other day..I made your lentil, kale and white bean salad. It would be neat if your readers could interact with you via snapchat, but I know that could get weird, because, you know...Internet. Anyway, I believe you have a very important voice in the blogging community, and I would miss you if you weren't here!!
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Meggie October 16, 2015 at 11:39 am #

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your blog. Seriously my favorite. You always make me laugh out loud & I appreciate your humor soooo much! Your recipes are a weekly staple in my home! :)
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Sara @ Cake Over Steak October 16, 2015 at 11:50 am #

I agree with everyone here! You're one of the unicorns of the internet and if you left this space it would be devastating. As a blogger I totally feel your pain with all of the things we now have to juggle with social media. I swear my head is going to spin off its axis one of these days. I think it's totally natural for you to feel this way (and I wouldn't let it freak you out if you can help it). Maybe take a step back for a few days or a week or whatever, and treat this blog as being for you and only you (and your readers). You have a loyal following and these people aren't going anywhere. We love you! And your bebes!
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Meredith October 16, 2015 at 11:53 am #

Hey Bev, I read your blog almost everyday. You are a spot of sunshine in my day :) Keep doing what you're doing. I like it. -Meredith
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Sarah October 16, 2015 at 12:11 pm #

I never comment but I had to take the time to say I LOVE YOU PLEASE NEVER STOP. Your blog is my time to relax and read every day.
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Kristin October 16, 2015 at 12:37 pm #

I never comment, mainly because I forget I can! Ha. But, I felt the need to tell you that I LOVE reading your blog! And following along on Instagram, and the infamous Snapchat :) You're hilarious, your kids are adorable, and you have some dang good recipes! Simply put, you're great!
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Joni October 16, 2015 at 12:50 pm #

I love your blog. It allows me to stalk you and your adorable munchkins without the risk of incarceration. Just kidding. Probably. Seriously, I would mourn and miss you so much if you stop blogging. I'm a huge fan of Flotsam, and look forward to it all week. Your style is unique, and never fails to bring a smile to my face, and, often, a literal LOL. Which is refreshing out here in internet land. I rarely comment, because I often feel I have nothing important to contribute, or can't think of a witty, pithy statement. [Oh, the pressure.] But I had to comment today, because I want you to know your fans are legion. And we love you.
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Phyllis October 16, 2015 at 12:52 pm #

I read...get it delivered to my email! I'm just a person, but I would miss you should you leave. I used to read another blog, Young House Love. They quit blogging, and I admit I felt abandoned. I've always wondered why bloggers didn't use guest writers that are not bloggers...someone completely different, different point of view, not competition :) Might give you a day off and shake things up!
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Kelly October 16, 2015 at 12:52 pm #

I juuuust started my own blog (WAY late to the game) and keep thinking how I wish I had started sooner in the heyday of blogging. But it's been fun so far. I'm 100% in it to make friends. I moved to a new town a year+ ago and work from home and was feeling super lonely so I thought, Internet Friends! Let's do this. I imagine it's harder to maintain the love and enthusiasm year after year when it's your job. Who likes their job all the time? Certainly not me. I've been reading blogs (including yours obvi) for years and years but I never commented much before I started my own. I felt strange commenting much, because it was like I know so much about you, but you don't know me at all. Now at least you can get to know me if you want to, so it feels more like a conversation, more like some friends chatting together about life. (I don't mean you specifically, just bloggers in general, although that's not to say I wouldn't totally have a celebrity sighting meltdown moment if you did stop by). Anyway, I hope you don't stop! I love the recipes, I love the kiddos, I love your fun style and awesome sense of humor. Stay the course!
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Jillian October 16, 2015 at 1:04 pm #

Long-time reader, first-time commenter. I have been reading blogs for years and years. I have noticed a shift in how they are written and posted. The real people get lost behind their edited lives. Your blog is one of my favorites because of how relatable you are. Your photos are beautiful. I love your recipes and your reviews. I never feel like you are selling items that you don't love. I love your snapchats and your instagram! You are a likeable person in an arena with robots posing as humans. Please keep writing!
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Danica October 16, 2015 at 1:04 pm #

Puh leeeeeez you rock! Just blog, be you, because you crack me up! Side note: I make your mozzarella stuffed meatballs weekly. Yay you!
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Jillian October 16, 2015 at 1:17 pm #

So this is one of the very few times I've ever posted a comment on a blog, but really felt the need to. All of this TOTALLY makes sense. Honestly I love reading this blog so much. I love the recipes, I love the babies, and I love the banter. I read many blogs and could honestly even go as far as to say it is one of my hobbies. Its so much fun! But I am one of those people who definitely doesn't engage further than reading the posts for whatever reason. Everything you're saying makes sense and I can imagine feeling burnt out and feeling like you're getting lost in a saturated market. All I can say is keep doing you! You're writing and wittiness are so unique and I hope that you feel some love from your readers today. Keep doing what you love and what makes you happy!
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ida October 16, 2015 at 1:18 pm #

Things have changed. I feel like many bloggers dont connect to their readers like before, wich makes me not wanting to comment, and not commenting. I feel my comment drowns in the crowd or doesent matter. Its sponsored this and that. So i am mostly just reading a bunch of blogs now, and rarely commenting. Blogging is not writing a journal on the internet anymore, its not dear diary, its a industry. Its like the internet got too big! Ps, i follow you on snapchat, and i regualry get *were going to the farmers marked bippetibappetiboooo* as an earbug, and find myself singing it. You should make it a one hit wonder! (A one hit weidner!)
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Kaitlin October 16, 2015 at 1:29 pm #

REALEST POST EVER! I love you Bev, and your snaps. Please never leave!
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Libby October 16, 2015 at 1:32 pm #

I hope all these wonderful comments help fuel you today. We would all have a giant void without you. All of you (pithy fun stories, babies, photos, recipes,...). Stay Bev.
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Heather October 16, 2015 at 1:41 pm #

I think the internet has become saturated with voices. It take a unique voice to attract and hold readers, which you definitely have. I think because of the saturation people are more drawn to quick pictures (Instagram). Basically it's not you, it's the internet. One other thing (I'm only supposing here) that you out too much pressure on yourself to have scheduled themed posts. I love your playlists, what's diggin, etc but don't feel like you have to stick to it every single month. The only way to keep a blog up is to be true to whatever your life looks like and allows, that's why you have readers in the first place. I hope you really meant that you like reading comments because whew! this is a long one. Anyway, don't stress, we love you!
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Kim October 16, 2015 at 2:22 pm #

I love your blog?
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Megan@Cozy Eats October 16, 2015 at 2:23 pm #

I follow a lot of blogs and your posts are one of the first that I read, right after How Sweet Eats (ha). And I LOVE your Friday posts, I read them on my lunch break at work and they always perk me up. I have just started blogging, and it's insane how many other bloggers there are. It's hard to be original, but I think your blog is one of the most original ones out there. You are hilarious, your posts are always fun to read, and you have great recipes. Keep doing what you are doing because it's great. :)
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Caitlin October 16, 2015 at 2:49 pm #

FWIW, I don't even care what you post, I just love to read whatever you have to say! I love your very natural, hilarious writing style, whether it's food, or bebes, or your crazy dreams! Even the bad days. We all have them, and there's nothing wrong with that! I write a blog on green living, so I often feel the struggle of, "Does anyone even give a shit? Does anyone besides my mom and fiance's stepmom read this?" It's hard to push yourself sometimes. Maybe because I write one, I will always enjoy following blogs. They give you a sense of relationship, much more than Pinterest does (although I love love love Instagram).
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Amy October 16, 2015 at 3:06 pm #

Keep blogging!!! I look forward to reading your blog every Friday morning when I get to work and I'm supposed to be working but I can't start working until I read your Friday Flotsam. So don't stop! I love hearing about what you're doing and eating and drinking and smoking and what the kids are up to. Okay, not the smoking part but the rest. I love hearing about the normal and abnormal stuff! And I never comment because I feel stupid but I will do that more often. Just a single Mom of teenagers (which you will have plenty to write about when they are teenagers!!) but I remember when I was a stay at home Mom of 3 kids under age 5 and thought I was losing my mind some (most) days. I wish I had written as an outlet for that. I hope you can spark that joy again and in the meantime it's Friday afternoon and I'd be really disappointed if you didn't have a glass of wine in your hand,
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MaryB October 16, 2015 at 3:28 pm #

i would definitely miss your blog should you stop blogging. Yours is one blog that I hate to miss reading. The reason? You are REAL! I don't find a lot of enjoyment in blogs that are obviously being competitive and have actually stopped reading a couple because they seem to have lost the original focus or moved on to something that seems less personal and real. To me, a blog is just that - personal and real, what you choose to share with your readers. I do hope that you can find the joy you once had in blogging and remain true to yourself and what you love. I always admire that you have a young family, find time to live life fully and share with readers. I do understand it takes a lot of not only time but personal effort to make this blog what it is. Don't leave us! : ) Pour yourself a glass of wine, take a breather and see if the joy returns.
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Mimi October 16, 2015 at 3:33 pm #

You are so witty & funny! Keep doin what you're doin!!!! I don't know much about blogging but I think yours is perfect. Its so easy to compare ourselves to others but usually its not a good thing... Good luck to you & please dont go away! And your twins are super adorable.
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Sara October 16, 2015 at 3:55 pm #

I ONLY read your blog. I'm typically not into them...who has the time! I don't read every day, but I do binge read. Why do I keep coming back? It's humorous, you talk about NORMAL things and have great style tips and showcase products I haven't heard about, AND it's aesthetically pleasing. You also keep it simple... My brain has enough overload! Additionally, your recipes rock my world (and for the most part are easy to do!)!
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Michelle October 16, 2015 at 4:14 pm #

YES. This is the post I write in my head every day. I feel like instagram and snapchat have taken over and I am ANNOYED. I like Instagram, but I also like writing. But I feel like people no longer have the time/energy/attention span to read. I do feel like blogging is kind of dying, but I'm still going along and writing and praying that someday it picks up again. Because I love it so much. Just not the competition/constant sponsored content. I won't go anywhere near that.
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Emma October 16, 2015 at 4:34 pm #

Bev you can't go. Where else can I get my squishy-baby-arm-roll-fix AND find easy no-nonsense recipes for dinner AND laugh into my computer screen at work like some loon? No where else, that's where. So keep doing you and we'll keep reading and go get yourself some coffee (and wine) and get your roots done and you'll feel better.
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Britt October 16, 2015 at 4:39 pm #

Please don't be discouraged!! Trust me- I get those days when. You. Just. Can't..... It's too exhausting! But you are such a fun, funny, real and talented blogger- I look forward to your posts so much and relate to almost everything you write.... Especially needing my roots done constantly and needing an IV drip of coffee to keep up with my kids and my job. Keep doing your thing because this tired mama, sometimes cook and fashion lover respects and loves everything you share! I feel like I would totes be friends with you!!
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Erin P October 16, 2015 at 4:56 pm #

I love your blog and my regular dose of the gremlins! Very rarely comment though, because I feel like there are SO many readers, and SO many bloggers, and I never really think my comments would be meaningful. But I totally appreciate you, and look forward to all of your posts, and especially Fridays! Cheers to the weekend - may you have lots of Rose wine and maybe the halloween inspiration will hit :)
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Christi October 16, 2015 at 5:46 pm #

I imagine that with everything on your plate, it can be tedious at times. But know that we love you. I always look forward to the daily pic on instagram (and share it with my mom - "look Mom, new pic of the babies") and I must watch your snaps 3 or 4 times a day. I'm kinda addicted to the adventures of Eeyore (last seen in the freezer...). I find you to be constantly entertaining and your kids always give me a great smile. Perhaps it is our fault for taking, watching, reading, etc. but not remembering to let you know how much we appreciate it all. Oh yeah and those recipes are awesome too.
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Julie @ Table for Two October 16, 2015 at 6:27 pm #

Yeaaaaaah. I miss the way blogging used to be. The interaction (like actually CHATTING on twitter..it's like dead over there now) and the reader comments and everything. I hate the competition, I hate always trying to churn out new content...idk. It's just changed and I'm not sure I love it either :) but obvi I'm glad we know each other THROUGH blogging and can be friends for a long time to come :)
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Adrienne October 16, 2015 at 6:28 pm #

I totally I hear what you're saying. I think blogs are being pushed aside with so many other social media outlets. But I DO read your blog regliously. I don't comment much but I'm always here loving your clever writing. I adore hearing about your everyday life with the kiddos. I've got a toddler who is 3 months older than the twins and I'm pregnant with twins, so I love hearing about daily life with them! Keep your head up lady. You're awesome and there would be so many people devastated if you stopped blogging. Maybe less recipes and more a day in the life posts? What you did, ate, went, etc? Seems simple enough with all the pictures you're snapping anyways and I know people would love it. Love you and your blog.
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Sue October 16, 2015 at 8:05 pm #

Long time reader, first comment! Keep on keeping on - love your blog, your recipes and the babies! Even your dog is adorable!
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Heather || Heather's Dish October 16, 2015 at 8:51 pm #

You're not alone girl (as I'm sure you can tell from the comments above this one). I definitely think blogging is on its way out, at least in the context that you and I have known for the past 6 years, but that gives us all an opportunity to figure out the next big thing and go for it! And I'll be reading along as you do :)
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Melissa October 17, 2015 at 12:31 am #

Your post plucked my heart strings. I am totally feeling you with everything you said. It's like we as readers just take take take from a blog without leaving an interaction with the blogger. I live both lives as blogger and reader and it's hard to know how to blog anymore. Especially if you're a mum trying to put family first but keep up with all the blog superstars. I have no wise words to impart but I feel ya sister.
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Edie October 17, 2015 at 1:49 am #

Hahaha, I reeeeeaaaally lurve the blog! Being a teacher and dealing with endless craziness your blog is my little oasis at the end of the week where my current wine bottle and I settle down for some reads. I even feel as though I have chance of cooking something halfway decent when I scourge your recipes :0) and while they may never turn out as amazing as yours, the man of the house is always happy with my endeavours. Keep on going!
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Lori October 17, 2015 at 6:16 am #

I love your blog! I can't imaging having to write something clever every day, although I actual to imagine it, because I would love to have a blog like yours You've got such a clever way of writing. You seem like a ray of sunshine, with a sarcastic twist, just perfect. I look forward to seeing your blog everyday. By the way, I'm a New Mexico girl as well so I think we have some sort of connection! Have fun with this, you're great!
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Rachel October 17, 2015 at 6:37 am #

I love the outpouring of support you're getting on this post: visible affirmation that you ARE connecting, even when you don't feel it. It was a very enlightening entry for me to read, as an anonymous person on the other side of a computer screen. As a reader, sometimes I *want* to say something, but I feel like such a voyeur into your life. You don't know me, you're way cooler than I am, and I get the sense that I'm a bit of a creep. ;) Of course it makes sense, when you spell it out, that you write to connect with readers. After all, that's why I read -- for a connection! Thanks for your authenticity and your vulnerability.
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Laura October 17, 2015 at 7:31 am #

I totally feel you! I actually just ended a little blog I'd had for 6 years because it felt like I wasn't talking to anyone anymore. However, I enjoyed writing for the sake of writing, even if others didn't listen/read. And it's a great repository and way to archive your life and your food. So keep on, sister. We're out here!
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emily jean October 17, 2015 at 9:01 am #

Your blog is one of the brightest (#ifnotTHEbrightest) star in a galaxy of blogs. Don't stop. And if you do, can we still be friends?
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Terri A October 17, 2015 at 10:31 am #

I read, but generally don't comment, but rarely comment on any blog. I love reading your craziness.
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Becky K. October 17, 2015 at 12:36 pm #

"Please don't go, giiiiiiiirrrrrrrlllllll." Name that boy band. Seriously though, I love your blog and even though I don't comment it's only because I'm reading whilst chasing a toddler around. Keep doing what you're doing, because it's blogging gold.
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- Bev Weidner October 18, 2015 at 8:26 am #
  
  NKOTB! Girl. Thank you. xoxo.
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Jessica October 18, 2015 at 7:59 pm #

I love blogs. Im not a blogger but I follow a couple of food blogs closely (yours being one of them)! Long live the food blogs. Keep rocking on Bev. Even if we don't comment, we still love your funny stories and witty posts. I love your instagram photos of the twins. (I remember what they were last year for Halloween and Im not even sure what I was…) Even if we are nameless faceless trollers of the internet to you, your family to us. If I could add an emjoi I would.
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Stephanie October 18, 2015 at 8:29 pm #

I love you blog and your kids (which is weird because I have zero motherly instinct or desire to have my own) But anyways, I read your blog! I teach and and workin' on the old masters degree, so i limit the amount of blogs i read to about 8, and yours is always one i read. You make your life look awesome (and clean- how is your house so clean looking?) I feel like we are living in a digital age and all too busy to tell each other we care. We forget we should comment, and talk, and be real people (not just digital creepers haha) Keep being wonderful- and posting whatever you want- it is all fun to read (PS- i think it is the job of creative types to have an existential crisis every year or so- you're right on track- but we all love what you have to say!)
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Andrea October 18, 2015 at 9:11 pm #

Magic formula? You already have it. I'm not a blogger, just an everyday sahm, and a fairly new reader. The recipes, the funnies, the regular posts, the snapchats all put me in a good mood and remind me not to take all this toddler stress so seriously.
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Aroa October 19, 2015 at 2:27 am #

Hello! It's difficult for me to express myself in english but I will try to do my best. I follow sice a few months. began following you in instagram because r family and the atmosphere the potos transmit and I folloed your bloglater. I have myself a blog since two years ago and I do it because I like to share contaits that I see and I like, and reflexions. I don't have verymuch folloers but I continue doing it becaus I like it and hile I have 1,2 or 3 folowersthat like it I will do it. But I understand you. I have normally no comments at all and you don't know if the people like it or don'tt if they are still there I suppse they do. I don't comment all the blogs I see, most of times for the language but for a uestion of time too. I like very very much your blog and you have to continue still you like to do t. This is the clue. Like what you're doing because you transmit it. Sorry for my english. Have a good day!,
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Thorhildur October 19, 2015 at 6:58 am #

I love your blog, and hope you will keep blogging :) All the best from Denmark
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Taylor October 19, 2015 at 10:52 am #

I just wanted to say I LOVE your blog and I love following (honestly more like stalking... don't call the police) you on instagram and snapchat. Your posts always put a smile on my face :)
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Leah October 19, 2015 at 11:16 am #

Others have already said it well, but if you love doing this blog you should keep going! Thanks for putting yourself out there so the rest of us can be entertained by your great sense of humor, get recipe ideas, great playlists, and see your cute kids. And I don't think you should get rid of the ads! You have talent and obviously work hard to make your blog great, and you should get paid for it! I don't comment much either--honestly, I feel like a bigger weirdo commenting than not because I don't know you. But, I always really like what you have to say, and like that you're in KC. Thanks for keeping it real!
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Jenn I October 19, 2015 at 2:06 pm #

I want to join the masses and tell you that I follow a lot of blogs. Too many, actually. And there are only a handful that I read every post, no matter if I'm interested in the recipe or not. Yours in one of those. I love your voice, your sometimes nonsensical sentences, your 90s Spotify playlists. I feel like I'm watching your gremlins grow up - I can't believe how big they are - and love it. I'd definitely be sad if you stopped blogging, and like another commenter said, I'll be a better reader too. I'll comment more and not be afraid of being stalker-y. I think we forget that this can be a back and forth, a conversation, and that you need to know we're out here reading. So, if you keep being an awesome writer, I'll be a better reader. Deal?
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Marija October 19, 2015 at 3:35 pm #

Please don't stop bloggin, we love you! And just stay true to yourself.
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Rachel Taylor October 19, 2015 at 6:09 pm #

Oh my gracious, I surely do love your blog! I laugh hysterically at your stories and your snapchat (seriously, never stop snapchatting!) and I think you're just awesome.
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Tina October 19, 2015 at 9:09 pm #

Bev ,you are doing a FANTASTIC job here blobbing along, I too look forward to your very SPECIAL Blog, it is the ONLY one that I check everyday. You are real, truthful, and so very FUNNY, I do hope that you will continue, and find the warmth of your readers messages will carry you through this low time. I LOVE your Blog!!! P.S....sorry for YELLING!
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Sharon | Cheesy Pennies October 20, 2015 at 2:52 am #

Am I too late? Did you stop blogging? If you want to have a chat or a relationship or anything, I, a perfect stranger, am here for you. As are, apparently about 110 other people. But in case the magic number is 111, I am officially on the record as an admirer from WAY back in, like, March. So there you go.
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Lindsay October 20, 2015 at 8:43 am #

Your blog is the ONLY blog I read regularly. You know what's great about it? You keep it REALZ. My good friend 'cross the miles and I chat about other blogs we follow that seem desperate to maintain the image of a perfect life and how annoying that is, but you talk about your struggles/ frustrations/ latest purchase from Old Navy without trying to pimp out products (most of the time.. we know you need to feed your babies faces and I admit I would love to get sponsors for my teeny blog). And us ladies RELATE. Plus your sense of humor is the best. No one is writing about family life like you. You are not drowning in a sea of mass bloggers, you are the Wilson- the lone floating volley ball with a cheesy drawn on face we keep coming back to (not that your face is cheesy- but you do bring the laughs). <3
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E J Gallacher October 20, 2015 at 10:47 am #

I read a couple of food blogs each day. I always start with you. I love your sense of humor and the food is wonderful. But I read to put a smile on my face each day.
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Justine B. October 20, 2015 at 12:42 pm #

I read a few blogs each day and your blog is always one of them. I love your writing and the humor in each story that you tell.
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June MK October 20, 2015 at 3:38 pm #

Don't stop! I think you are hilarious, loved your throwback recipes, and pictures of your babies!! But hey, if you need to get your roots done, do it!! I always wait too long.
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Clara October 20, 2015 at 4:47 pm #

don't leave me girl...forreal though you are appreciated (much love from blackstreet and pac) thanks for all the recipes and the baby posts and please don't stop the music. bee tee dubbs I read this blog and follow on instagram and am so glad for you. haven't commented (my b) but you should know you're killing the game. be encouraged! girl, go head and get your roots done and grab some rosé. then come back! peace up, a-town.
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Lisa October 21, 2015 at 8:17 pm #

Bev, your blog is one of a few I have had bookmarked for years. I check it every day and continue to make many of your recipes again and again! And of course I love seeing your precious Will and Natalie. I am sure blogging is an incredible investment of time and energy, especially with how the digital world has changed, but please know yours continues to be unique and special. :)
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Heather October 22, 2015 at 4:02 pm #

So, I have been really obsessed with your blog for a long time now, but I just took a few week break. For me, it's just that the recipes you post look amazing and. . . my kids would never eat them. They're such traditionalists. And veggie-phobes. So it gets discouraging, I guess. But I'm back. I came back on today and remembered why I love your blog so much- your writing style is incredible! It's just fun to read about whatever it is you want to write- toddlers, food, whatever! You're doing great, and in the end can't please anyone anyway, so I'd say just keep on writing what's in your heart and on your mind!
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- Heather October 22, 2015 at 4:03 pm #
  
  In reply to myself (what?) I meant to say that we adore your french fry recipe, and make if often!
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Jenn October 23, 2015 at 8:58 am #

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, love! Very eye-opening. As a reader, it's easy to take blogs for granted because they are just EVERYWHERE. Describing the biogosphere as "saturated" is perfect - it seems like everyone has a blog nowadays. Us non-creative folk are just becoming de-sensitized to the concept and losing appreciation for the work it takes to create/maintain a fun space! You're right to reach out for support - it's payment for your soul! Doesn't pay the bills, but makes doing the work so much more rewarding. Your blog/insta makes me happy daily, so thanks for doing what you do!
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Judy Maggart October 25, 2015 at 8:10 pm #

Bev, Hi, first time posting a comment. I absolutely love your blog, your blog stands out, keeps me laughing and I'm always coming back to show off your recipes to my hubby! Thanks, Judy P.s: go Royals!
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Adrienne October 28, 2015 at 10:00 am #

So I'm late here, but your blog is the only one I read. I would definitely miss it! And your recipes are always so intriguing and the few I've tried, were a big hit! When we had dozens of Roma tomatoes in the garden this summer, I was so happy to see your crockpot chicken and tomatoes pop up so I could use a whole bunch and not waste them. I hope you don't get too discouraged, I don't blog but do agree that it seems the whole dynamic has changed. Looking forward to more great recipes, funny and REAL (that seems to be missing in the whole social media realm) posts and seeing your cute kiddos!
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Enid October 28, 2015 at 12:55 pm #

Because I am resuming a blog I abandoned due to the same feelings you are voicing, I am a little spooked. Just in time for Halloween. It should happen mid November. Jesus. You are good. Not too cutesy or too flippant. Real. I read blogs like a maniac and you are the it girl for food bloggers. Carry on! Oh. If you should need a vacay, I will rent your sweet dumplings for an exorbitant amount of money. I could instantly love them.
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Five for Friday - October 30, 2015 […] This post on the end of blogging. I feel it a LOT, guys. Some days I just don’t know and mainly think that I type things to spread information to our families, but then they kind of only read half of what I say so who knows. Thoughts? Should we all just go away? […]

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