Friday, April 15, 2011

The Value of a Good Comment - Part II

Oh My, did that post draw out quite a few lurkers and ALOT of comments!  First thank you to everyone who took the time to post.  I really do appreciate it because it answered quite a few questions.  Second, thank you to all the first time posters.  Although you all listed a variety of reasons why you don't post, there are a few I would like to discuss.

1.  Everyone has already said what I wanted to say so why should I leave a comment.
Think of it this way, don't you like a compliment.  Even if you've heard that same compliment 50x that day!  Doesn't it make you feel good...well share the love!  I can't think of one of my blogger friends that doesn't like to hear a well done, I agree or disagree (when written politely of course), or a "dayum didn't you blow that one out of the park" comment...even if it's said 114 times!  *LOL*

2.  I didn't know you read every comment, so thought why leave an additional one.
Seriously, I don't know where this erroneous thought came from that bloggers posted things out into the blogosphere and didn't expect people to reply or wouldn't read their comments left on the posts. 

To me blogging has always been about having a conversation with the people who read your writings.  Okay, maybe I'm wrong...maybe I've misconstrued it.  But let's start with, I like hearing what you have to say...good or bad.  Now do I follow your advice?  Some times because sometimes you see things in a different light that is appealing to me.  And if I don't follow your advice it is because it isn't in line with what I'm envisioning for my garment or what I was thinking.  But I would never put you down for it. 

So for the record, I do read each and every comment ~ so comment away!  And not only here but on all the blogs that you love...it encourages the blogger to continue to blog!

Finally, when you start to leave a few comments I do remember you!  And you are already a member of the club because you show up every day to read the happenings...so leave a comment every now and then...ask a question...or tell me I'm plum out of my mind! *LOL*  It's not like the blogging police is going to show up at your house and take away your computer! *smile*

The other really important thing that I learned from that post was how many of you read blogs through Google Reader.  Wow!  I guess since I log into blogger and read blogs from my follower's list than ramble through other people's blog lists (btw, thank you everyone for posting those on your sidebar) I didn't realize how many people used Google Reader.  I also read blogs on my iPad coming home from work which does give me the ability to comment and doesn't have one of those small screens so I was totally unaware of the steps.

Lastly a few comments really touched me:

Natasha wrote:
"But there's another thing (and maybe this is just an excuse) -- even if I were to leave a brief positive comment on someone's blog, I guess I figure it won't matter that much to them. I'm not much of an online sewing presence -- I don't have a blog and I am not a PatternReview powerhouse. So without any context on who I am, it seems like a generic "good job" comment from me isn't much more meaningful than just reading your visitor stats. We all do leave our traces on your blog and you must know that there are so many more of us out there than the comments you get."

Wow!  Okay I want to disavow this thinking right now.  To me...especially to me...everyone who leaves a comment is important!  You do not have to be a PR Powerhouse, a well known blogger, etc. for your comment to matter.  If you take the time to read my ramblings, look at my garments and even put up with my opinions than you are important to me!  So join the conversation by commenting away...as I said previously after a few comments I will start to "know" who you are!

Danielle wrote:
"I feel like I've been peeping through someone's window and they just opened the blinds! BUSTED! LOL!"

Okay this one did make me laugh out loud but you know there is some truth to it!  I can see the numbers of people visiting my blog every day and where in the world you are coming from.  Blogger makes stats available, as well as, the sitemeter counter that's on my blog...however, this is just numbers. 

It doesn't take into account the uniqueness of people from all over the world who stop by and peek in my window *smile* on a daily or weekly basis.  I guess me and the friends that were discussing this, just want to know you all better.  So the next time you approach us at an event, when you say,  "Oh I know you and read you every day," we can say,  "Oh yes thank you!  Love the comments or suggestions that you leave on my blog"  instead of the generic, thank you for reading my blog!

Amy W. wrote:
"I didn't know a comment really mattered....or that the blogger made time to read all of her comments! But now....you've shed a huge flood light on the subject that it does matter....so with this...I'll take it into the next blog and be sure I leave a "calling card" of a comment...as the ladies of ole did in the Victorian times!!!!"

Amy can I tell you that I remember the first comment you left on my blog.  I was impressed that you dressed the same way I did and that I was reaching someone like me.  Love the Victorian calling card reference btw.  So yes, comments do matter to me and my fellow bloggers!

Dharma wrote:
"I guess I am one of those who does not always leave a message. Why? I think that I feel like I have not "put time" into my blog posts and I don't sew as much as others, so I think" who wants to hear from me". I know it is silly, but I am just being real with my thoughts.  I am glad you posted your thoughts on comments"

As I stated above this was repeated quite frequently throughout the 114 comments that were left on this post. (Can you tell the amount of responses surprised even me!)  However, this is so far from the truth.  We all make up a sewing community and if you were invited to my actual home, you would have the opportunity to say something.  Since you can't all visit me in NJ, you visit me virtually here at my blog home and I want you all to feel free to say or not say anything!  See I am letting you off the hook here! *LOL*

Finally, I blog because I am passionate about sewing.  My kids have a joke that if the house was on fire, I would be running around grabbing my sewing machine and as much fabric as I possibly could hold yelling for them to get out of the house...not actually grabbing them.  I don't personally believe this is true...I mean I would have my sewing machine under my arm but I would be pushing them towards the door too!  ROTFLOL! 

All this is to say that I appreciate everyone who stops by my virtual home.  I love when you leave a calling card or a comment (thanks AmyW.) and if you just need to stop and window shop (which is sooooo much nicer than peeping in the windows!) I understand!  I'm just happy you stop by!

...more later!

95 comments:

  1. "My kids have a joke that if the house was on fire, I would be running around grabbing my sewing machine and as much fabric as I possibly could hold yelling for them to get out of the house...not actually grabbing them."

    The question is - do you expect for them to also grab a few yards on their way out?

    (BTW- I read daily on google reader, so I don't comment as much as I should. I have a very low key blog, so I know I appreciate every comment I get. I assume even the bloggers with big numbers still like the comments too.)

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  2. This is a lovely post, Carolyn, and I will be the first to tell you that! I didn't post the other day because, as you know, I do comment pretty frequently. I have time issues, and I read a lot of blogs, but yours is one that is almost always worthy of a comment.
    Linda

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  3. I like that you think of your blog as your virtual home, I'd never thought of mine that way before.
    I live in a student apartment block, and every Friday around lunch time they test the fire alarms. It gets me every time! I jump up, wide eyed and about to enter panic mode only to turn around to see my OH laughing at me! LOL
    Ashley x

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  4. Wow, Carolyn this was a great thought provoking topic. I love how you bring out discussion and thought in us. It's amazing how some feel "unworthy" of leaving a comment and how you busted the myth of being unimportant. I used to be a little shy about commenting also but found that by leaving comments on other's blogs and getting comments on mine I have met some truly incredible people that I would not have met otherwise. I think the craft & sewing community of people are some of the world's best folks. It's encouraging to get comments, it helps with ideas and as we can see here it provokes thought...which is a great thing.

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  5. Thank you for these posts. I have decided it is time to get over myself and have been leaving more comments (on various blogs) since your first post. I'm sure other bloggers are thankful for it as well!

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  6. Great posts, my dear. I often wondered why visitors don't post their comments. Sometimes, my readers send me a personal e-mail with comments and/or questions. But never publicly comment on the blog. Like you, I want to hear from my readers and I want others to read their comments or questions. Besides, the compliments are a great source of motivation. And the "positive" criticism helps to overcome the techniques or processes that are challenging.

    C

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  7. I'm another "lurker" for the most part. I love that you find the time to blog regularly. And I applaud you for the effort you put into adjusting commercial patterns to fit your body. Keep up the good work.

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  8. Another great post.... I totally understand now that I've started my own blog...

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  9. You're not the only one who would be grabbing the sewing machine on the way out of a burning house, lol.

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  10. No, no, no, no, NO! Forget the sewing machine - GRAB THE FABRIC! Insurance will buy another sewing machine, but they will NEVER believe how much fabric you have lost! :)

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  11. This post and it's predecessor hit home. I love getting comments on my own blog, yet I don't leave comments on all the blogs I visit. So, when time permits, I will be more diligent about making blogs a two-way communication.

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  12. I posted a reply by blogging on my own page and Michael Hank o from pleasing my palate said many of the things you did. Anyway I appreciate your projects and will make more of an effort. It's a community even though we've never met.

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  13. Carolyn - I love how real you make everything. I often do feel like I am sitting in your living room or standing in the sewing room watching and I think it helps that we've met in real life. I appreciate how warm and funny you are as well as how willing to share your thoughts, the process and constantly encourage, suggest, etc. Thank you - I consider you a friend and it started because of blogging. g

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  14. I don't comment often so I'm guilty. I do follow your blog in Reader and anxiously await your next creation. I have also sent you personal emails and you have graciously replied to them. Your blog has been a source of inspiration to me for several years. I am eagerly awaiting your next garment entry or just a thought provoking topic of discussion.

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  15. I'm shocked at someone thinking that bloggers don't read every single comment.

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  16. Carolyn, I haven't been posting lately but just know that really enjoy your posts. You make me laugh (btw, I'm totally with you on grabbing the sewing machine in a fire). You teach and encourage me to keep going when fitting issues are kicking my butt...and my stomach...and my thighs :) Reading your posts are my 1 minute of sanity and cheer at work. Please keep going.

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  17. I must say that it's probably no more than laziness on my part when I don't post a comment. I love your blog and sometimes enjoy reading others comments just as much. If I had my own blog I would like to know people thought enough about what I wrote to post a comment. Keep up the good work - I truly enjoy your blog!

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  18. Carolyn
    This is an exceptionally, thoughtful and wonderful series of posts. I thank you for opening a door to courtesy and etiquette on the internet. We need to include these behaviors in our visits. We are, after all, people interacting with other people even if it is a new and fluid communication method.

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  19. Okay, okay, so now we all feel like we need to comment when we read other people's blogs! I think a lot of it may also relate to feeling new and not sure how the blogging world relates to each other. Perhaps also discouragement from commenting on other people's blogs but not receiving many comments yourself.

    BTW, I remember that when I first started reading sewing blogs (almost 2 years ago? maybe less), yours was the first one I found and I was fascinated by your enthusiasm for the art!

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  20. what a great couple of posts, very though provoking. I know that comments mean the world to me on my blog. I really appreciate the discussions and feeling of community - new sewers are lucky, I have waited years for something like this to be available. (started sewing when I was around 7) I don't always comment, but I try to comment on all the blogs I read at least once every few posts or if something really strikes a chord. Right now I am trying to sew more and read less - which is difficult as there are so many interesting blogs to check out.

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  21. Cute about the fire scenario - I do read my blogs daily, but it's usually really quick as I said before or before kids leave on the bus and I haven't had coffee yet. Typing can be really hard then. My husband and I share the front office and he works from home, so I have to get out if the toddler follows me in and he 's on the phone. But keep it up - your dresses are so cool. Hope you can get to some vintage ones this summer.

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  22. Carolyn you are a great communicator. Have you been involved in women's ministry? You speak to heart with such clarity. Everyone needs to know they are wanted and needed-even in the internet sewing community. Your post put an end to my doubts.
    It was a fun surprise to see my comment on your post today-THanks!

    You need to come up with a fire escape plan for your stash!! Large tote bags stored near your stash would help you carry "more" out the house!!

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  23. Carolyn,
    I hope this doesn't sound too fawning (one thing I always worry about when thinking about responding to a post) but I love you more every time you post!
    I feel a little like you are the woman I see on the bus on the way home from work every day; the one I always peek at to see what she is wearing. If I really did see you on the bus every day, I would notice the you regularly read sewing magazines, and notice that you often have bags from fabric stores over your arm, and would wonder if you made that dress, or this jacket. It would take me months to get up the nerve to say something nice about what you are wearing, but I'd want to every day.
    I'd worry that you'd tell me to mind my own business ro something.
    reading someone's blog does feel a bit like evesdropping.
    It really isn't though, because with your generous blogging you've given us permission to be nosy. It's as if we really were on that bus together, and you deliberately sat down next to me, and struck up a conversation. I really should respond to your friendliness, shouldn't I?
    So, I vow to come out of near lurkdom, and respond more frequesntly. Somed day, when I have a little time, I'll tell you a bit more about how you've inspired me.
    Thanks for sharing,
    Laura

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  24. Hi! I usually don't comment much either, and not because I don't enjoy reading, cause I certainly do. Your's and other sewing blogs inspire me to stretch my sewing further. So, thanks for that! :-)

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  25. Oops...sorry for all the mistakes in my comment above. I'm always in too much of a hurry...another reason to not comment more often.
    Laura

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  26. Awesome post..

    LoL @ Sewing Geek: GRAB THE FABRIC! Insurance will buy another sewing machine.

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  27. Hi there Carolyn.

    I am another of the de-lurked ones (if I remember correctly I have yet to comment on your blog).

    The reason why I don't usually comment very much, is that I am not too confident in my english vocabulary. For me to post a comment means quite a while spent with a dictionary to make sure I am understood - and to avoid spelling mistakes.Yes, I AM a perfectionist - doesn't that come with the sewing territory?

    But thank you for the great posts - you have helped me persevere in my quest for a TNT pattern - I am not there yet, but the end is in sight! :-)

    Pleas continue - Even in Denmark your writings are enjoyed!

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  28. another lurker here :)

    I love reading about how you alter patterns to fit your real woman shape since I often have to do it myself as well (I just don't document it as well as you!) :)

    keep up the awesome work and if you ever need other people to start bugging the pattern companies about fitting patterns to REAL women, let me know. I'll be glad to help!!

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  29. well, I'm really happy that you are bringing the awareness of commenting on sewing blogs, good stuff

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  30. Carolyn, I'm going to give it one more try on commenting. I read your blog daily and am an avid sewer myself. I normally comment when a blogger knocks them out of the park or in this case hits a nerve/note of recognition, but on your blog, once the anonymous wnet away I haven't been very successful commenting. Not that you aren't appreciated, you definitely are and someday I would love to be one of those visitors to Kashi's that run into you on their dream shopping trip to New York.

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  31. Whee! It worked!. I will be a more frequent commentor from now on.

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  32. Carolyn, thank you for urging me to comment. I did try the other day, but what I typed "didn't take". Others have listed some reasons that I haven't commented, but the technology thing is my biggest problem. It's why I haven't posted on SGuild either. But since I hate being a "taker" and not a contibuter, I've been taking (baby) steps to get up to speed. (Yep, tomorrow I'm going to find out what "google reader" is!) I wasn't even aware that you know who visits.

    You'll hear more from me. And when you don't, know that the reason may be this: many mornings after I read your blog, I literally run downstairs to my sewing machine! That's how powerful your inspiration is. Thank you again.

    Paula (from Albany)

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  33. Hey Carolyn, love your latest vogue dress. I think it's one of my favourites on you so far.

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  34. Fabulous post! Some really great comments! really interesting to see!

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  35. Carolyn,

    I look forward to reading new posts on your blog and learning something new.

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  36. I have another excuse. I read your blog in Google Reader. And I don't have a lot of time to dig out your blog and post a comment. <3 But I do love your blog, and I look forward to seeing what you have created.

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  37. I will comment here, instead of on the original thread. Part of why I don't comment is that I feel terribly self-conscious. It's not that I think any less of you (far from it) but that something I say may make you think less of me. I am prone to idiotic phrasing, awkward fan-girl moments, and general geekiness that is misconstrued frequently. I am working on this, but as with all things, it takes time. Just another perspective on why some may not comment...

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  38. What a great follow up! I am glad you took the time to dispel the thoughts that other peoples comments and opinions do not matter to you. I think we can all agree that they really do.

    I love the part about if there was a fire. I'm sure I would be grabbing my fabric as well!

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  39. Hi...not sure if my comments get through...I once typed an extensive one and couldn't get it to you :(

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  40. Oh, hey, there it is!! Maybe there had been a glitch. Anyway, I love reading about you, the little prince and ALL the sewing. When I see you standing there modeling your latest creation I smile right back. You have a lovely smile. I love the black and white print on you! Keep on sewing and I'll start commenting. Thanks.

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  41. I too have been a lurker because I wasn't sure I had much to say that was different than anyone else's comments. You do inspire me and I am finally taking classes on how to be fit so I can have a TNT pattern like you. I will start commenting regularly on your blog and others as well. Thank you for bringing this to light.

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  42. Hi, Carolyn! I know I don't comment as much as I'd like to--usually, I'm sprinting through posts just before I go to work. I am so impressed with your work and your generosity in sharing it with us--thank you!

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  43. I discovered your blog in 2008 while looking for some information on tailoring a coat. Did not even known there was a thing as blogging and there were people out there that sew and blog. I look at your blog every day to see what you are up to and what you've sewn. There are so many blogs out there, that are so worthy of a good comment and a good word, but like most of us, so little time, so much to do. Some time(most times) I'm blown away by your creativity and I left speechless(typeless is more like it). Some times I make the mistake of reading all the comments and say why add the same. You know you are sooo fantastic!

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  44. Well, here's my story. I read your blog via Outlook's RSS feed reader. If I wanted to comment, I'd have to switch to my browser and open your blog page (it's only a link click, but when I'm cruising through all of my feeds, it's an extra step that breaks the routine).

    The other reason why I generally don't comment is that I get annoyed by bloggers who don't answer questions that people ask in comments. Not that I expect bloggers to drop everything and attend to every single question that people ask, but zero response, especially when the post is a tutorial, is a pet peeve. A "how to" isn't helpful if the directions aren't clear and the blogger doesn't care enough to make them better.

    Those bloggers (who I believe don't give a crap about their readers) have turned me off to posting comments. Carolyn, you are definitely not that type of blogger, but nonetheless, that's one reason why I rarely comment. (I *am* a dedicated reader/fan of your blog, though. :-)

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  45. Thank you for your wonderful words and your encouragement. I am in awe of your sewing and writing. I am one of those that lurked when I was living overseas and has continued to lurk now that I am back in the states. I love your point of view and your sense of style.

    Thanks,
    Sue

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  46. Oh Carolyn, we can always count on you to keep it real.
    I love your blog and I read it faithfully. I will comment more if you keep blogging. I am glad to hear that you read every comment. We are all busy, we all have to much too do, being busy is really not a valid excuse for any of us. And this bit about readers and changing screens ,blah, blah, blah. Lame. We are a community of sewers so we need to make time for each other.

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  47. I read often and comment rarely. I feel like you might not think a "skinnier" woman has the right to comment on your posts, but I appreciate your effort and good style regardless of our size differences.

    I don't get very many comments, maybe 5 to 10 per post even though the counter says I get 100 plus visitors per day, so I pore over every one. I didn't realize a more popular blogger would feel the same. So, happy weekend and happy sewing! I'm off to make a couple of skirts, myself, although my details are shamefully less wonderful than yours.

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  48. I enjoy your blog immensely, and have been a follower for a very very very long time. Imagine my surprise when you said you lived in NJ - all this time, I pictured you in the Windy City - Chicago. I have no idea where that came from, but know that from now on, I shall visit you virtually at your new (to me) location!!!

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  49. Thanks for summarising. I don't always leave a comment and I could relate to some of the other responses. I haven't read all the comments but I think another one would be "we are just passing and waved" , you know too busy, on an errand or whatever to stop and drop in. Sometimes I think I will drop by again later but other things get in the way and by then you have a new post! BTW, I use Google Reader too, which encourages you to flip from blog to blog.

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  50. oh btw, with Reader, I group my blog lists into "favourites" "second favourites" "sewing" etc.,....and you are in my "favourites" list! my go to first list of blogs.

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  51. Great post! We love the comments lol.

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  52. You made a lot of great points. I read you regularly and comment very seldom. I love your style and did not usually post for two reasons: someone already said it or fear of my little comment not being worth much to an experienced sewist like you. But you have made me see the light! God bless you.

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  53. Carolyn, how embarrassing to admit that your blog is one of the first ones that I read regularly. I don't think I have ever commented. I can't ever remember my silly password and hate signing an anonymous comment. Silly, I know!!! Your sewing has always been such an inspiration to me. I heard you in an interview with Lori V on "Sew Forth Now" quite a while back and enjoyed every minute of your thoughts on sewing. ~ Christa :-)

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  54. Well, I am a faithful lurker that just had her toes stepped on. I am such an admirer of yours and truly appreciate your talent. I will attempt to do better by commenting on some of the many blogs that I read. Sewing inspirations are such a joy.

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  55. You have inspired me not only in sewing but also with comments. I love the blog and feel that you are my go to gal for plus size sewing inspiration. Thanks for the reviews and all the hard work. I love it!

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  56. I don't leave many comments, but am making an effort to leave more. Partly because I also use google reader to post comments. But i recently learnt the tip detailed in this blog post: http://alisa-thesweetlife.blogspot.com/2010/09/blog-reading-simplified.html
    This allows me to use my google reader subscriptions to read posts but on the actual blogs, and therefore it's easy to leave a comment.

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  57. First comment on your blog, and it's looooong!

    I make it a point to comment like crazy on smaller blogs (or blogs that started out small when I joined), but the larger blogs with the huge amount of followers and high volume of comments (such at Gertie's or Peter's blogs), I tend to get intimidated and don't comment. Heh, I'd just started following you when you did part one of this post, and was about to comment when I saw that amount of comments you'd already gotten, and clicked away.

    I also don't like the comment interface on blogspot. I've been on livejournal for years and years as a personal journal, and there you can make comment threads, so an actual conversation can occur. If I have a question for a blog on blogspot, I have to remember to come back and dig through all the comments to find out if the blog author answered, or if they commented on something you said. Doesn't encourage much conversation, in my opinion.

    Anywho, maybe I'll reconsider my intimidation of the more commenty blogs. At the very least, I'll try on your blog! :)

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  58. Wow! Great subject matter. You have received some fantastic replies/excuses from people who visit. Good to see that you have shown everyone valid reasons why we like to receive comments. I always leave a comment when the subject prompts me to, and like you I read all of them but sometimes I just visit silently.

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  59. I would grab my sewing machine if there was a fire. I try to read you blog daily, but work gets in the way, so do my kids activities. That is also the reason I don't comment, breaks and lunch are way too short. You do a great job sewing.

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  60. Hi Carolyn, I am also guilty of reading,enjoying, sometimes giggling but not often leaving a comment. I can tell you so much that whenever I am in blogland yours is one of the first I open and read. I absolutely love it. Funny you said almost the same thing as I to my husband the other day. In case of a house fire I would grab the sewing machine some material and the cat!
    No kids since I do not have any.
    Love from Down Under and keep up the good work! Therese

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  61. I don't believe I've commented on here before, though I may be wrong. I've been reading here for several months, though.

    I don't tend to comment for two reasons. First because I'm always cautious about making sure I understand the culture of an on-line community before jumping in, to make sure I don't put my foot in my mouth. Secondly because I'm virtually a non-sewer at this point in my life. I've been a sewer in the past, but I've made maybe three outfits (all for other people) in the last five years. My blog deals mainly with karate, my sewing machine gathers dust, and as much as I love reading about sewing and wish to get back into it, I simply haven't done so yet - so I don't tend to feel I would have much of value to contribute.

    I do read your blog daily, and enjoy it immensely - particularly watching you take an inspiration and translate it onto a pattern that you're familiar with and know will work on you.

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  62. What a great topic. I used to be a lurker to several sewing blogs for a few years before I started writing my blog. I remembered I felt so nervous when I visited a new blog and saw on the side bar that it picked up where I was visiting from. I would immediately click off the site. I don't know why I was so shy/nervous. Thankfully I got over it, because I love the interaction with the sewing community. I've come a long way :) Glad to read so many others have too!

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  63. On reason I rarely comment- it is a pain to sign in to Google or Yahoo to make a comment. I don't blog, I just read them occassionally. But trying to remember all those passwords to leave a comment is time-consuming. Some sewing blogs need Google accounts and others need Yahoo accounts. Others want accounts we just don't do. I belong to creativemachine list serve because I don't have to log in every time. If i want to comment, I just send an email.
    That said, I love your blog and like to see what you are sewing. You pick out great fabrics and i love your classic style. Keep up th egood work.

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  64. Thank you for starting my day with a smile, these posts are really great reading. As a blogger, I am a comment whore... checking in frequently after posting a finished project, thinking "Did they like it? Did they hate it?". As a reader, I am guilty of only commenting when I am moved to do so. I needed the reminder that everyone needs feedback, especially if they are taking the time to blog. Have a wonderful day, you are a blessing to the internet/blogging community.

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  65. JUst wanted to let you know I read and appreciate your frequent entries.

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  66. Great post again, you have such a way with words.

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  67. I am here lurking about. Love the dress you are wearing in the last post.

    *waves*

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  68. Carolyn, this is a very interesting post. I am one of your admiring, but usually non-commenting followers. I've often felt shy about saying anything to a "stranger", but of course, following someone's blog creates a false sense of intimacy. I do feel like you're one of my girlfriends now, but unless I also started a blog, you wouldn't know anything about me and my sewing adventures. And where did this epithet "lurker" come from, anyway? When someone decides to blog about their passion, and especially when a blogger also includes details about their life and family, isn't that throwing open the blinds and yelling out into the world "Look! Here I am!" - and not leaving the blinds closed for some poor "lurker" to creep up and peek through? I don't know what to think about this all, really. I don't want to feel bad about scanning all the sewing blogs that I find helpful or inspiring.I suppose I will remain mostly quiet, but admiring, always.

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  69. You've got me smiling from ear to ear....and my face feeling as pinky warm red as can be!!! I'm so honored you used my comment in your post today!
    You have a very natural and easy way of making people feel they matter!
    You're the best!!
    Wishing you a great and wonderful weekend!!!
    Take care!!

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  70. Oops, red-faced here. I'm totally guilty of #1, but I love comments on my own blog, and I will definitely drop by and leave more comments. For the record, I love your creativity and am so impressed with your ability to take a RTW look, and make it yours!

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  71. Yours is one of the blogs I check in on almost every day. I never thought about being counted!
    I'm inspired by the sewing you do and am glad that you and others open your life to us.

    Marilyn

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  72. Carolyn,
    I love your blog and visit every weekend when I do my blog stroll. I don't comment often but have great admiration for your dedication to a well constructed complimentary wardrobe. I haven't been sewing much lately, have reverted back to my lazy Landsend knit tops/cardigan ways. Last week was spring break and I got the itch so pre-washed a huge pile for spring summer. I hate getting the itch and needing to run laundry. I will continue to visit you each week and value your wisdom. Thank you for caring enough to share.

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  73. Thanks Carolyn. I'm one of the 'what would I have to offer' people so it was great to read your post and decide to comment more often.
    Thank you for deciding to bring this up for discussion rather than just letting it get to you and sulking in the corner!
    All of us, frequent commenters or not, appreciate your blog. Thanks for it, it is great and always inspirational.
    Lynley

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  74. Thank you for your encouragement to leave comments. I too feel that I am not a"good enough" sewer to leave comments. I have sewn for 30 years for myself and my family but struggle with fit, just exactly how to correct the pattern to get the fit needed.

    Your blog has been a great encouragement to me. I have determined this year to make several TNT pattern so that I have a group to choose from.

    I appreciate your detailed pictures and explanations as to how you make your adjustments on your pattern.
    Thank you for caring and for your special blog.
    Marie

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  75. I have to admit, I just lurk usually.
    The reason I don't comment is because I'm such a newbie to learning to sew, I've only made a couple of simple things so far and I don't even know what some of the fabric you use is or anything really. I'm totally 'new' and know nothing. So I guess I don't feel anything I could say would be worthwhile.

    I do really enjoy reading your blog though and I'm fascinated with how you make such beautiful clothes, while I'm struggling to learn to make the most simple things (with the help of you tube tutorials, LOL).

    I'm really grateful for you sharing on your blog, I went right back through and read from your oldest post right up to date, it was so interesting.

    :)

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  76. Natasha's comments in this post is essentially the reason why I don't comment often. Thanks for doing these series of posts.

    Angie R.

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  77. I'm just catching up with this conversation thread. My time is very limited, and I tend to do a lot of my reading through google reader on my phone while I'm on the train on the way to work, hence not a lot of commenting is done. I try to visit as many blogs as I can, but I don't always get to comment as much as I like.

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  78. Thanks sooo much for making "us" feel welcome in your virtual home! Just know, that I've dropped off a plate of "virtual brownies"... mom always taught me that if your going to visit... don't go empty handed! Enjoy! LoL... besides... these don't have any calories! LoL..
    P.S. Our Church advises we try to keep a little extra food storage on hand for emergencies... My DH says I have more fabric than food storage... I suppose if we didn't have enough food I could always trade with people who didn't have any clothes! LoL...

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  79. Oh Carolyn, you are one of my favorite sewing bloggers. You should know I learned how to sign in to Google and outwit Bloglovin' to comment on your blog. Keep up the good work. Some of my clothes are inspired by you. Some of my fabric purchases also....

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  80. What a great post. I started a blog a couple of months ago and I love to get comments. I also comment on a regular basis, I like people to know how I feel about their blog.

    Carolyn you are an inspiration to so many sewers. Keep up the good work and thank you.

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  81. I'm one of those who visit daily, appreciate your creativity and style, and the go away without saying a word. I usually read on my iPad and am not the best typist on this thing. Weak excuse? No matter what, know that there are lots of us reading and enjoying your tales. I have a blog too, but started it to keep an account of what I sew. Sometimes for me, sometimes for my grands. My photos are mediocre, but good enough to keep a record of the things I've made.

    I do intend to incorporate some of your clever details into my sewing and will give kudos to you every time. Keep sewing and telling us about it!

    Lynda in LV

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  82. I don't think I've never left a comment here while I put your blog in my links. First, its because as a french, I'm always afraid on leaving english errors in my comments and mostly it's because I think my comments have not the same value since I don't have your level in sewing.
    Apart from now, i'll leave comments on your blog.

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  83. This was a very thought-provoking discussion--thanks for bringing it up! I guess I never really thought about it too much, since my blog posts tend to not garner many comments, lol!

    I'm also another person who follows via Google Reader, and I'll often read through while I'm simultaneously running scales on my flute or something. So then I'll click to actual blog pages to leave comments, end up having to go to work, and just never get back to it. But I probably should make more of an effort to say something when I see things I like on other people's blogs--I know I appreciate it greatly when people take the time to comment on mine.

    (On a side note, I like Blogger on the whole, but I really wish it would give you the ability to reply directly to comments, like you can do on WordPress. It bugs me greatly that I can't.)

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  84. Hi Carolyn, I'm also a Google Reader person, so commenting means clicking through to your blog. I'm also using Reader while at work, and people walking past think I'm just checking email, since the interface is similar. Whereas reading actual blogs you have to deal with a far more variable interface. And since I'm not supposed to be doing non-work stuff in work hours anyway, I have to be as sneaky as possible! :-)

    I do wish I could comment more, but with work constraints, I'll take being a lurker over No Blogs at all!

    Your blog is one of my favourites, and I always save it to read last!
    hugs, Frances in South Africa

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  85. Hi Carolyn, I've been reading your blog for a long time but I don't often (or never) comment. Why? Well, I just don't think that a "that looks great" or "OMG I wish I had that much fabric" adds much to the conversation. I'm a beginer seamstress, I love learning from experienced ones like you but I feel I don't bring much to the table (yet!). I prefer to enjoy your adventures sitting quietly in the corner. Cheers from the Netherlands.

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  86. I check your blog and several others every day, and it was, for a time, inspiring me to sew after a LOOONG hiatus. Unfortunately, my serger and both sewing machines have decided to gang up on me and pitch a united fit-the serger presser foot won't lift (I can't change the thread color without doing that), the "nice" machine squeals (and I can't get to the squaling portion to oil something, I've tried) and the "emergency only" machine, bought for $40 at a grocery store to finish a project, just stopped sewing one day for no obvious reason.

    So, I'm still checking out sewing blogs to keep me motivated and in about a month I should have the money to start fixing machines. Until then, I will sew vicariously through you!

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  87. Howdy! I am one of your "lurkers." I don't often comment on blogs because it so danged hard to access my Google account. I have to reset my password every time. Sigh. I enjoy reading your excellent fitting and sewing advice. I also admire your bravery in exposing your unmasked personality to the world. I am of such an age that I write a letter and use a stamp to express admiration to those celebrities and semi-celebrities whom I admire. (Mostly, though, I just include a note in a mail-order sending. Sometimes those notes garner a reply.) Thanks for all you do, and stay warm this spring, lol. It's hot today in central North Carolina.

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  88. Everyone seems to be commenting this week! So, I shall, too. For three years I have been unable to do much of anything, except look at blogs and television. I found C.Marie and loved her immediately! Now, I am improved enough to start to sew again, and can walk and read. You have kept me going and interested in something, so you are an important person in this long recovery. Your work is spectacular and a great inspiration. I am presently cataloguing your use of various fabrics, and trying to find some of my own. I am hoping some of your friends will tell us where they buy fabric in the UK. Living here is like having a second disability! But, stash is growing and machine is going again. Great work, great blogs!

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  89. These are some great points and I totally, totally, totally agree with you. So much so, that I'm going to link to this post on BOTH my blogs! On one blog (knitting/sewing) I have 27 followers, and I was thrilled when I hit 20. Then someone mentioned that they read through Google Reader so they're not a "follower" but still a daily reader....and there were probably more like her...but I couldn't tell cause I hardly ever get comments :( On my other blog, I have only 3 followers but I know I have 5-10 regular readers...unfortunately, I wrote about my cruise and I get MANY, MANY visits to those posts, so it really skews my stats.
    I'm a beginner sewer, and have sometimes felt that my "good job" wouldn't have any significance to someone who pretty much always, can do a good job. I do try to leave comments when I really like a post and see that it's oddly low in the number of comments :)

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  90. Carolyn,
    I have been follwing your post for a while now, and enjoy almost all of your wardrobe.
    I do not usually leave a comment because I feel like everyone else.
    I don't matter.
    I would like to say for the record, you do a wonderful job with your alterations on patterns.
    You are a wonderful seamstress.

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  91. GUILTY!!
    I have read and not commented.
    For the same reasons others say they didn't comment.
    :(
    (Bows head in shame)

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  92. Carolyn,
    Your articulate comments about comments inspired me to quote you in my latest post at www.patientlovingcare.com. Thank you for blogging and for such an enlightening couple posts about getting to know your readers. Oh yeah, and *someday* I want to be able to sew like you!! Your garments are awesome!
    -Elaine

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  93. Hi, good post. I’ll definitely be coming back to your site. Beautiful! You are very talented.

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  94. I enjoy reading your blog. I even signed up to get an account so that I can comment. One of the main reasons I enjoy your blog is because I notice that you provide real pattern reviews like you are a real person with real people adjustments. Thank you thank you.

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