Weston: “I didn’t believe you could come up with a more annoying animal, yet YOU HAVE.”
(Maia spent some time inside this weekend.)
Moving on—I find comments like this one so baffling.
“I am through reading CITR after 3 years. I loyally check in every day and in the last few months there has been little or no content. I have told over 100 people about this blog but lately I haven’t mention it. I will fine another site for my daily reading.”
In the last few months, there has been at least one post almost every day. Sometimes more than one. Sometimes due to things going on in my life, a day or two has gone by with no post at all. I’m a real person, not a machine sitting at a computer. My site is free. On the one hand, such a complaint is the highest compliment! It’s flattering that someone would get upset because they want MORE of my writing. What is baffling is that if they like it that much, why would they want to never read my writing again just because I don’t write as much as they wish? Isn’t that cutting off your nose to spite your face?
In the past year and a half, I have moved to a new farm, learned to manage it by myself, started my life over, and written a book. (A big one.) I’ve also written nearly a thousand posts on this website in that time. Am I never allowed to have a few days off?
The Deciding What to Do post was literal, by the way! Meaning, I was deciding what to do about the horses in the yard. Shut the main gates at the driveway and enjoy them in the yard for the weekend–which I do enjoy–or get the fence fixed asap and put them back. I’m not always referring to anything secret in my life. There are ALWAYS secret things going on in my life! Because as much as I share on this website, I have a private personal life. Sometimes I really wish I could write about these things, but if I do, then I will have no private personal life….. And that isn’t just about dating, but about other personal relationships and events in my life and the people around me, especially my family and children.
I intend to write this website UNTIL I DIE. If I’m married to anything, it’s this website, it is my love. There will be periods in my life when I write more posts per day, and periods when I write less, depending on what else is going on in my life at the same time. And I know that the majority of you that are here understand that and are supportive of that, and for that I am grateful to you. I wrote more when I was living at Stringtown Rising because I WAS UNHAPPY. Writing helped me focus on something besides my sometimes unpleasant private life. And you were here, and for that I am also grateful.
Right now? I’m happy. Some days more, some days less, but always happier than I was at Stringtown Rising, especially in the last couple years there. This website is still and always will be at the top of my priority list but it isn’t MY WHOLE LIFE anymore.
Thank God.
LisaAJB says:
Aww, I always want you to write more. I love reading about your life and seeing pictures of your animals and farm. But no one can expect this to be your life. You have chores inside and out, and you have to take care of yourself too. Besides, you wrote us a book and I can’t wait to lay my hands on it! :sun:
On March 24, 2013 at 12:16 pm
wvhomecanner says:
I’ve never understood why people think that a post like THAT will get a positive outcome… what, like they will shame you into writing more to get their approval? Good grief.
Hello Real Person Suzanne :wave: , almost stopped to see ya the other day but was on too tight of a schedule and the wind was beating me to death on the interstate! Saw a gum boot right at the Amma exit though – did you lose one? 😆
On March 24, 2013 at 12:17 pm
Diane says:
Keep doing what makes you happy. I love reading your blog every day. But I do understand that things happen and if you are gone for a day or more than something did come up that needs your attention more than posting here. But I also know you will come back and have something to tell us. lol.
I think people forget that off the internet the real people have real lives that need taken care of.
On March 24, 2013 at 12:17 pm
easygoinglady says:
I had that figured out long ago…less posts right now because you are LIVING life now and so very busy with so many things. I sometimes wonder how you have the time for it all.
There may not be a new post every day, but I for one appreciate all you share with us and all I have learned from this one website that has significantly affected my life more than any other.
You break down the steps of a process of something that I have wondered about but havent had enough courage and time to tackle. Simplifying it to the point of saying…hey, I can do that!.
I have learned about kitchen devices that I was unfamiliar with that make tasks easier and more efficient. And have also learned about simple ways to do things with what you already have.
Glad you are out LIVING life these days, rather than just giving how tos. Your passion for your life and everything that is a part of it shows in your writing and makes us all have more courage to try things too.
Thank you for all you do Suzanne !!! :purpleflower:
On March 24, 2013 at 12:19 pm
Hlhohnholz says:
Give me that commenter’s info and I’ll go punch them in the nose. Ridiculous. I love it when you don’t post, because I assume that (usually) you’re off living your life and enjoying it. Don’t get me wrong, I am here because I love it when you share your life with us, but I don’t have some cockamamie notion that I somehow have a RIGHT to share your life.
On March 24, 2013 at 12:22 pm
barbicakes says:
Well that was interesting. I am thinking this person needs to get her own life and stop living vicariously through you. Maybe she will or maybe she’ll move on to some other blog and eventually be more expectant of them.
I quite frankly am amazed at all you do, and to know you’ve done a lot of it within a year IS amazing.
Don’t give it a second thought…you have too much happening…
On March 24, 2013 at 12:26 pm
GA_in_GA says:
Happy is always good. 😀
Be happy and share when you have something you want to share.
On March 24, 2013 at 12:27 pm
Senny says:
It is sad, that someone is that lonely. But you do have a life. I try to read every day but I also have a life and end up sometimes not reading for 3-4 days. I use to live on a farm much like you have. There never was enough time in the day to sit and write. Plus sometimes when you sit to write you fall asleep at the keyboard. Just keep doing what you are. Most of us will always be here for you and that is what is important. Not the fair weather ones.
On March 24, 2013 at 12:36 pm
Turtle Mom says:
It makes me laugh that people have the gall to post a message like that. That person obviously needs to get a life and to stop relying on others to create happiness in her life. I love your blog and look forward to reading it, no matter how often you find time to post. You deserve all the happiness in the world and to be able to live your life as you choose! Thank you for sharing part of your life with us!
On March 24, 2013 at 12:36 pm
Anita says:
Whatevah! You do what you want! (I wish you had a little Cartman icon.) I LIKE that you’re out LIVING. And so does everyone else here that cares about YOU. You don’t need downers, and whoever that was, they’re not paying your salary.
And remember, if anyone of us who loves you sees that kind of comment? We’re alllllll over it. 😀 :airkiss:
On March 24, 2013 at 12:37 pm
CarrieJ says:
Thank God is right!!! I love your posts, no matter when they come. I don’t pay attention to your schedule of writing, they are just little gifts that I get everyday or so, and are a pleasant surprise.
And guess what….I have a life too, so I may actually read 2 or 3 of your posts at a time to catch up!! Someone sounds like they need to get a life. Enjoy the good times!!!!
On March 24, 2013 at 12:40 pm
Barbee says:
I wouldn’t let it upset me. That was obviously an immature, self-centered person and there is no helping such a one. Carry on. The rest of us appreciate you.
On March 24, 2013 at 12:43 pm
beforethedawn says:
Aw Weston, she’s just a baby! :happyflower:
Geez, your post title scared me! My first thought was, oh no did another animal die? :no: My next thought was, is she quitting the website? :no: Glad to see neither is the case.
I think that commenter needs to step away from the internet and live her/his own life for awhile. 😉
On March 24, 2013 at 12:49 pm
Rose H says:
I look forward to reading your posts, whenever and whatever you write about though I don’t always comment.
I look forward to reading many more 😀
Rose H
On March 24, 2013 at 12:50 pm
Old Geezer says:
I was sorely tempted to ask about the position of the horses in the picture because, in my recollection of the place, they were on the wrong side of the red gate. But I no longer trust my recollection for much of anything. Plus I wanted to link to that sea chanty.
It’s written in the rhythm of workers hauling together on a line, like when they raise the sail on a submarine. Just ask your sailor. 😉
On March 24, 2013 at 12:51 pm
beforethedawn says:
Suzanne, I keep getting ‘database errors’ on your site. I got the message the first time I clicked to your site from google reader, then several times in a row when I tried to comment.
On March 24, 2013 at 12:51 pm
NancyL says:
Wow – that commenter is really missing out on life!!! I second all the comments above mine. You are still at the top of my blog favorites – well, to be honest, you come in 2nd. But only because I put my daughter’s blog at the top! Family loyalty, you know. I feel that I have failed you – I’ve been slack about leaving comments for the past few months. I’m still reading you every day that you post, but I don’t always have the ambition to post a comment. For that, I’m sorry. You share so much with us that I don’t understand how anyone could feel cheated.
Oh, well, enjoy your kids and your horses, wherever they are!!!
Nancy in Iowa
On March 24, 2013 at 1:03 pm
leneskate says:
You can’t please everyone and some people have nothing better to do than make other mad, sad, fustrated and so on!
Love your posts and if you miss a day so what you are human and we love you for it!
thankyou Suzane for your fun blog! And books! and Calanders, and…
On March 24, 2013 at 1:05 pm
Sheryl says:
Negative Nellies are a dime a dozen! Love this blog! :snoopy:
On March 24, 2013 at 1:14 pm
ellen422 says:
Suzanne, your stories are ones that speak to me, a suburban middle aged mother, wife and teacher. Your stories inspire and touch me. Your honesty is refreshing and your generosity of time remarkable. I’ve spent a small amount of time on farms and I know the chores are endless, tasks impossible to complete (often) and exhaustion great. Naysayers….well, I suppose for some people it’s about entertainment “Hey,what’s Nutmeg doing today?”. For me – at the risk of sounding like a creepy stalker lady – there is a sense of camaraderie, of the struggle to be a modern woman, shared. Thanks for sharing with all of us what you can of your daily life. :wave:
On March 24, 2013 at 1:16 pm
TotallyCooked says:
I have been reading your blog for about 2 and a half years now. We also have a 50 acre farm, in an area that gets snow. I read and re-read your chicken posts before I plucked up the courage to get my own hens. I spent hours pondering the whole idea of rearing my own meaties – read some of the posts on the forum and then flung myself into the deep end. I followed the cheese-making process with great interest. I took a class, in the middle of winter, when I was really ill (couldn’t possibly postpone) – bought raw milk from an agricultural school 5 miles up the road and made cheese. I had such fun that my husband bought me a cow as an anniversary gift. I even had a go at selling cheese at a Farmers Market for awhile. You are my ‘go-to’ place for everything farming related – the hay posts and anything in the barn gets read over and over. The darn chickens in the veggie garden is another challenge. We are going into autumn now so I am busy planning what I would like to try in Winter – the soap posts look like good fun.
I have been a real groupie actually – taking Selfie Pics of MY gumboots in the snow and the mud. Flapping to myself when I see my chickens IN THE ROAD. I taught my mother, who came to stay with me a year ago how to make Grandmother Bread – she was terrified of bread baking – now she swears by that recipe.
I gain a bit of courage when I have borehole pump issues and when the septic tank went all iffy I was fairly staunch about it. When we had no power for a week and were snowed in we didn’t panic – we made bread and tried out other recipes we had seen on the website. I knew everything would eventually return to normal because I had read your adventures.
Then you moved to your farm and managed quite fine on your own AND you managed to actually ask for help when you needed it. I also started asking for help instead of just trying to push through on my own as my husband works away from home. You had a rough time on the other farm and just seeing the difference in the tone of the postings now shows how happy you are. I have had a fair bit of my own heartbreak here but getting outside and tending to my chores and trying new things has helped with healing for me too.
I will most certainly be buying your book and just so you know – you write more than enough for me.
I admire what you do, what you have done and what you are still planning to do. I am pleased to see you have the courage to let love in after what you went through.
I remain, always, your greatest admirer and apprentice.
O
On March 24, 2013 at 1:27 pm
plazamerito says:
Suzanne: I have read your posts for the past year, all of them. I am just so happy to have someone that riles up the inner farmer in me, me living my city life, wishing for the country. Me who laughs and cries over your animals and your triumphs. You are too vital a part of readers that love you, to let one persons demands come into play. Thanks for posting, no matter what, no matter when and just be happy!!
On March 24, 2013 at 1:30 pm
doodlebugroad says:
Thank God indeed!
I am glad you have a better balance from your past experiences and that you have that past to make you who you are today.
I’m happy for your accomplishments and you.
On March 24, 2013 at 1:43 pm
TotallyCooked says:
Oh and I have a COW, an actual COW – her name is Coco. she is a Jersey x Swiss. when i moo at her she talks back and loves a good scratch. she comes when called – yes, my friends and family think I am crazy. My cow also hopped the cattle grid and took herself off to my neighbor’s Friesland bull for a service. I live next door to a magnificent Dairy Farm with about 700 cows on it. My neighbor was very good about my girl sneaking in with his bull and only cried with laughter at me walking her home the next day.
On March 24, 2013 at 1:51 pm
Gardengirl1 says:
As somebody who’s been reading your blog for longer than 3 years, I can honestly say that it is their loss, not yours. People need to have a break every now and then,to take care of things other than the farm.They may have older family members who who might need to be taken care of,younger family members who may need attention,or any one of a number of things. Bloggers have lives just like we do,and should be given the same consideration that we would want to be give. Suzanne, you are doing great, so don’t let the whiners and complainers get to you. Anybody who thinks of more than just themselves will understand. It is selfish for somebody to think that you are their own personal blogger, always at their disposal. Life doesn’t work that way. So blog away, or not, Suzanne. It’s your life and your choice to do what you need or want to do. Those of us who really understand and care about you know how it is.Everybody has days like that.
On March 24, 2013 at 2:13 pm
VikingMiss says:
Comments like that bug me too. It’s not like this is a website where visitors have to pay. That person should definitely not hit my site then since I go in spurts of content. Right now it’s a dry spell. The old adage goes: “My blog, my rules”. Period. If a person feels the need to make such comments, perhaps it’s time they discovered there is a world outside of pixels and clicks.
On March 24, 2013 at 2:14 pm
Heidi533 says:
Oh my goodness!! Comments like that really make you wonder how people think they are that important in the grand scheme of things.
Am I a little disappointed when I check in with my coffee and there’s not a new post? Sure I am. But do I feel I have the right to be mad that you have a life of your own? HECK NO!! I know soon there will be a new post and that I’ll appreciate it all the more for the wait. Keep doing what you do. I’m so glad to read about you being happy with your life. You have obviously come so far. You deserve to enjoy yourself and to live your life, including this web site, on your own terms and no one else’s.
I say: Good for you, Suzanne!
On March 24, 2013 at 2:20 pm
mfish says:
Amen.
Margaret
Bend, OR
On March 24, 2013 at 3:00 pm
GrammieEarth says:
What they said! I do miss the daily, early morning read, but am happy that you are happy! I can click to see if there is anything new from you, if not, i go to the forum for my read. Easy peasy!
:snuggle:
On March 24, 2013 at 3:05 pm
Stick Horse Cowgirls says:
I always find is so disconcerting when I see people acting in a snarky way! Reading CITR is always a treat I look forward to! It makes me feel sad that some people take a critical, lecturing approach when their expectations aren’t met. Sometimes I get so caught up in checking out Facebook or blogs I enjoy that I think I need to “get a life”! Well, actually I am using my computer time to chill from a very stressful job that is affecting my health in a bad way. After May, then I may try to start posting on my own blog more–I’ve just been to stressed to and it’s nobody’s business. Does make me feel a bit good to know if I’ve been missed. Carry on with your happpy, blessed life, and I’ll be honored to read whenever you feel like posting! Love Chickens in the Road!
V
On March 24, 2013 at 3:20 pm
MousE says:
Sometimes people post a comment in the heat of the moment, and then find they can’t take it back…. so I prefer to think that is what happened with the commenter mentioned. Sometimes people are just having a bad day.
Suzanne, I know you are busy, and I for one am glad you are happy and that your kids are home, and I enjoy any posts you share.
Hope you have a great weekend!
On March 24, 2013 at 3:33 pm
catslady says:
One thing for sure is that you can never please everyone all the time and some people hardly ever lol. I don’t always post, but I always read your posts!
On March 24, 2013 at 4:07 pm
hollygrovefarm says:
hi suzanne, sorry about that comment. yes, i am disappointed when i look and there is no new post, but i understand that we are not your life and that things happen to keep us from doing the things we would really like to be doing. just because i am disappointed, please know that i will still check your blog everyday because it is always something that i am interested in. i love your life, and wish i were younger to be able to do what you do. thanks for CITR
On March 24, 2013 at 4:11 pm
gigi1 says:
Suzanne I have Been a lurker for 3 years. I’m 71 years old and live in an apartment so thought I didn’t have anything to offer in comments. I applaud you for the life you have chosen and which I live through you. Everyone deserves a private life and no one deserves to know everyone’s business.!!! Please keep on keeping on, I will continue to check for your wonderful life everyday and HOORAY for your peace and private life, it belongs to you and your family. gigi1
On March 24, 2013 at 4:17 pm
airemom says:
Blogs evolve, just like the person writing them, just like the people reading them! I have read your blog daily for years, loved reading about your struggles in the old farmhouse, stories of the weather, animals, kids and all. I found you inspirational in your strength and wonderful ability to write for us. You life has changed. You have learned to make money from it, good for youl You are busy with on site activities and other ventures and the blog reflects that. I do miss the old story posts and the animal updates but I bet you are tired of all that. This is starting to sound like a backhanded compliment which is not my intent. Love this blog and I will be a “Till death do us part” reader! You go girl
On March 24, 2013 at 4:20 pm
pugwaggin says:
I enjoy your sharing. I too would love to have a small farm. However the Chicken in the Road Retreat 2012 inspired me to make the most of my surburban backyard. The coop is all most done and the pullets will join me in April. Keep writing and know some folks just have to complain. Thank you for all you do. You are an inspiration. have a great week.
On March 24, 2013 at 4:31 pm
Jen says:
I shouldn’t be surprised that there are people who can get so caught up in something like this.
I do enjoy your blog & have followed it for quite a long time. I love hearing about your animals & how things are going. It would be pretty depressing if my life revolved around your blog though. I’ve been pretty sick for about 9 months now, surgery plus a bad back injury, that has kept me in bed a lot. So I do spend a lot of time reading online. With all the time I have to waste online right now, I NEVER run out of fun stuff to read & browse.
Don’t waste any energy on these kinds of comments. Really, I wouldn’t even waste time responding to them. It’s very sad really.
On March 24, 2013 at 4:40 pm
BuckeyeGirl says:
Post whatever you want, whenever you want. No great loss. :moo: Don’t let the gate slam too hard behind them, we wouldn’t want the latch to bust. :chicken:
On March 24, 2013 at 4:46 pm
Lindy says:
Some people……who cares….forget about it! Trolls are everywhere they like to stir the pot…….we love you……
On March 24, 2013 at 5:10 pm
djinfl says:
Awww, I registered just so I could tell you to be happy – that would be the most rewarding thing you could do for all of us! Don’t let the grumps get you down, go do, smile, encourage and be happy!
On March 24, 2013 at 5:42 pm
Dbunny says:
See, that commenter made two errors:
1) She has mistaken blogs for a product or service that she has paid for, and that she has a right to mold to HER needs. Blogs are the expression of the blog writer, that’s what makes them interesting. If one is not interested by a particular blog, one can move on, or better yet stop being a hypocrite and start their own blog if they think they can do it better.
2) The commenter made the mistake that anyone cares what SHE thinks. We do not.
On March 24, 2013 at 6:07 pm
Dawn says:
:woof: you know – some people are never happy – I have been reading your words almost every day since you lived in the crooked little farm house and I think that is longer than the person complaining. In those days I was pretty active myself and “tuned in” mostly because I love animals tho a city girl and because of the beautiful photos – I remember with fondness things like the out house pics – (saw a calendar the other day of outhouses and would have bought and sent it to you if I had had the money) but now I tune in regularly because I am disabled and mostly house bound. I laugh and rejoice and cry with you and you really make my days some times.
I appreciate it when your sadder posts carry an up front warning because some days I am down and looking for a pick me up. the bad word post – caught me napping – not even thinking about what you might mean by bad word I read on and ended up crying my eyes out because bunny was sooooo cute and I didn’t know goats clump. I am an adult tho and know these things can happen and you can’t be watching every animal every minute.
I just want to thank you for all the wonderful times you have given me and assure you that I will gladly continue sending people along to your site.
just to let you know that the days when I have read everything current I simply let my mouse wander back thru the older posts and enjoy them over again.
You have even inspired me to do some writing and I have a second piece being published in the local SPCA newsletter so thank you so much. Don’t mind the grumpies – we who appreciate your efforts far out number them I am sure. db
On March 24, 2013 at 6:10 pm
Joell says:
:woof:
You know, everyone in a while someone leaves a goofy (keeping it nice) comment, I am just wondering if this person has a life of their own? I read this blog everday, and have way back before comments were being left by readers and I remember when you started posting more thank once a day, which happens quite often,—but I also have a life, and dont go to pieces when I dont I dont see a brand new post every day, there is a lot to read on this blog, good grief! I am pretty sure that person is reading these comments– three litte words—-get a life :bugeyed:
On March 24, 2013 at 6:33 pm
maryellen51 says:
Suzanne, I too have read your blog for several years, now. I love it when I see you have posted something and am disappointed when you don’t. But I know you have a life and am glad. I also know that you have had a couple of disappointing losses, lately, and sometimes you just have to have some down time. Yes, losses happen on a farm, but they are still losses and you grieve for them. What a pretty goat, they would have made. I grieve at the loss of my chickens, whether old or only chicks. I’m glad you post whenever you do. Thank you for all the great times you have given me and I’ll continue to read your blog and send people your way.
On March 24, 2013 at 6:51 pm
auntbear says:
Good Lord Gertrude! It’s pitiful.Some folks only know how to be unhappy. As for myself..(and I suspect all the rest of your fans)I’m very grateful I found your blog and I’m not going anywhere either. :wave:
On March 24, 2013 at 6:52 pm
Beverly123 says:
:woof: I have you in my Google reader and I have been reading you for over a year. You post so much more than anyone else and on the few times you just post a short post it always has a cute photo or something interesting. I don’t understand how someone can really complain. I actually worry that you post too much about your personal life online. Your blog is always good, ignore these negative people. Why would anyone tell someone they aren’t going to read their blog, just don’t read it you don’t have the right to complain to them about it. Always look forward to your posts! I love all your animals and their stories!
On March 24, 2013 at 7:06 pm
Dghawk says:
Hi, Suzanne. Even though I have been reading your blog for a while now, this is my first time posting a comment. Don’t let that person get under your skin. To me, people like that are so unhappy with their own lives, that they feel the need to make everyone around them as miserable as they are. I love, love , LOVE your blog. It really makes me homesick. I was born and raised in the Kanawha Valley, but have lived about half way between Richmond and Williamsburg for over 20 years (I consider myself a Mountaineer with a little sand between her toes). I have many fond memories of good times and friends in Roane county, from Harmony, to Green Creek, to Gabe Creek as well as the FOOTMAD festivals held at Camp Sheppard. You are living a life I had always dreamed of, but a Virginian stole my heart and took me away from my hills. Just keep doin’ what you’re doin’. I get a little concerned when you don’t post for a few days, but I know you will be back in due time.
One more thing. I CAN’T WAIT FOR YOUR BOOK!!!!!!!! 8)
On March 24, 2013 at 7:33 pm
Sue, a Florida Farm Girl says:
Well, I have no idea who would make such a comment, and at the risk of ruffling feathers further, I’d say perhaps they need to get a life!!! We all have private things that should and do remain private.
I’m delighted and amazed at the amount of stuff you DO get done and I’m behind your efforts 100%. So keep it up.
On March 24, 2013 at 8:06 pm
Cheryl LeMay says:
I wouldn’t worry about comments like that. Sometimes people forget that you are a writer and need to LIVE your life first before you can write about it. Your faithful readers will always be willing to wait to read about it.
On March 24, 2013 at 8:32 pm
Claudia W says:
My only thoughts when I don’t see as much posting is that, “Wow!Suzanne is really busy!” And that is a good thing! Cripes, I could not imagine how boring the posts would be if you had nothing better to do than write posts to entertain us.
I keep coming back because what you do during your routine days is exciting to me. I wish I had the opportunity to start up a little farm, but alas, my days are going to be filled with taking care of the little garden I will have and my Dad and my little puppies. I am happy with that and grateful!
Keep doing what you are doing…I appreciate it!
On March 24, 2013 at 10:14 pm
charboord says:
Don’t be so hard on that commenter, I, too, want more posts. but I realize that you are running a farm and cannot always post everyday. Actually, I don’t always get to your blog everyday, so you won’t get any complaints form me!
On March 24, 2013 at 11:43 pm
holstein woman says:
Suzanne, I am overwhelmed with pity for the poster who thought so little of you they had to write something like that. I am very happy that you have a life also. The one thing that I have come to realize and be concerned about is the possibility you might be hurt somewhere and no one would find you. I pray for you and keep you in my prayers because I have come to love and respect you for ALL the effort and time you put into your life you share with us. May God BLESS you.
Thank you so much for all your hard work. I am a farmer and take care of a disabled husband, I know what work is. I finally decided I needed to stop something, so I am selling my cow. It breaks my heart, but I have to take care of me. Just like you have to take care of you.
Have fun, live life, work hard (or not) and post when you want.
On March 25, 2013 at 12:32 am
bonita says:
Did Weston really say that? Isn’t he the son with the pet rat?????
There’s really not much to say about folks show strike out at someone for not meeting their misplaced expectations. They really haven’t a clue, bless their hearts.
On March 25, 2013 at 12:35 am
DebbieO says:
Ditto what everyone said above Suzanne. Keep doing what you’re doing when you feel like doing it. I wonder what that (previous) reader thought was ‘content’. :sheep:
On March 25, 2013 at 6:03 am
MrsB says:
I have been reading your blog every day for a couple of years – and will continue til it disappears – which is not likely to happen.
Whoever wrote that note to you was pretty darned rude.
One of your FAITHFUL readers.
On March 25, 2013 at 9:15 am
WvSky says:
To “Beforthedawn: Google Reader has had many issues, and it’s one of the reasons that Google will be ending the program July 1st. You can read more here:
https://techcrunch.com/2013/03/23/the-long-and-storied-history-of-google-reader/
On March 25, 2013 at 10:07 am
hepkitten says:
Feeling kind of bad for the poster that made that comment – she probably didn’t think she’d get that kind of a backlash. But it makes me happy, too, to be able to read all of these supportive comments. Especially the one from TotallyCooked. Look at what an inspiration you are!
On March 25, 2013 at 10:44 am
joykenn says:
Suzanne I love your blog but all the reader/posters out there I love your responses ALSO. People SHARE here. Suzanne of course shares the most and I thank her for her clever writing and willingness to let us tag along on her journey. But folks like Totally Cooked also give me insight and broaden my life. Loved your first posting (are you downunder since it is fall there?) and grinned at your image of doing the “walk of shame” the next morning with your bad girl cow who sneaked out for a tryst with the local stud.
One reader want to punch out your rude poster, others send love, some share how your blog has inspired them to remember their pasts, some how they’ve made some changes in their lives. LOVE ME some folks on this blog :hug: and thank you every day Suzanne as I read it.
On March 25, 2013 at 10:53 am
angiemay says:
Suzanne, I haven’t read all the posts above yet, but I’m sure I feel the same way. I enjoy your posts, if you miss a day or more, it is your life. I just ENJOY what you do share with us. People should realize you are a person, a human being, you have a life. My goodness, you are busy, busy, busy. There are days I don’t have a chance to catch up and I find I miss some posts. I enjoy going back and reading, some I probably miss entirely. You enjoy your life. Most of us do understand that you are a busy person and do have a PERSONAL life! Good for you! I have 4-year-old twin granddaughters that live with us with their mom and that keeps me so busy most times I don’t have a chance to read anything. I cannot imagine all the animals and other things you are learning and doing. Thank you so very much for you sharing with us when you can. 🙂
On March 25, 2013 at 11:49 am
angiemay says:
I also have to say that your blog is the only one I check pretty much daily and read 🙂 I love everything about it (except the sad times but they are unfortunately part of life also).
On March 25, 2013 at 11:53 am
California Paintbrush says:
It amazes me how much you get done and still find time to take pics and post them! I love your blog because it makes me feel in touch with farm life and your and your family. I have learned a lot and been inspired a lot by it. But, that commenter needs to get her own life, surely she doesn’t work 7 days a week all year. She needs to get a life! ….also, she needs to know she will live without “instant gratification”.
On March 25, 2013 at 12:30 pm
ibpallets (Sharon B.) says:
Suzanne, I love your site, but honestly if someone berates you because you haven’t written enough to please them, then they need to get a real life. I’m serious, they need to get a REAL life.
It boggles my mind why someone would do this- just keep on doing what you’re doing, Suzanne, you’re AWESOME!!!
On March 25, 2013 at 2:46 pm
SuzieQ says:
The writer’s loss………not yours. I don’t get to check everyday, but when I do I read any and all I might have missed. If you have nothing new posted, I just think that you are busy and/or having a fun time doing whatever. It’s YOUR life!
Just want to thank you for letting us into your life!! :heart:
On March 25, 2013 at 5:15 pm
spatdi says:
I am greatful for ANY CITR post, reading your blog is a bright spot in my day. I may be sad for a moment when there isn’t a post, or when it is very short, but that’s life!!
I love reading your writing, and can’t wait for your book!!
Thanks for being YOU, and doing what you do!!!
On March 25, 2013 at 5:43 pm
Vicki in So. CA says:
I discovered your blog a few years ago and immediately went back to read every single post. Each one is either inspiring, funny, heartbreaking, informative, and we share each emotion with you as you experience each event – always beautifully written. I come back almost every day to catch up, but hardly ever post.
If your disgruntled reader has been here for 3 years she will be most likely be unable to leave so easily. She’ll take another look. Maybe she’ll see the above comments. Perhaps they can help her see that all people have their own lives. Reading about them is a privilege. Blogs come to us as a gift of the writer.
Yes, we miss more frequent posts, but we support your right to have a life – aside from your camera and the keyboard.
On March 25, 2013 at 6:09 pm
Karo says:
Huh. I’m thinking you do more for me than I do for you. I know that bloggers love comments but, although I check in almost daily (and have for years), I rarely comment. I think that makes me the taker and you the giver. At least I know to be grateful for that. Don’t worry about those who don’t.
On March 25, 2013 at 9:03 pm
PJS48 says:
Suzanne, I love your blog. I laugh and appreciate all you do and all the great people your site has embraced. I know you have a life and a family and things you must do. I look forward to checking your blog but there’s a lot here to enjoy–recipes, and other readers–if you’re not here every single day, I understand. And, I’m looking forward to your book! Thank you.
On March 25, 2013 at 9:05 pm
Rainn says:
Well just finally back tracked and found out what all the commotion is about?! :dancingmonster: I look at those empty days on the calendar and think wicked thoughts- yes a 62 year old grandmother still has them-!!- and say yippee Suzanne is having a fun adventure for herself today!!!! Love ya ,Rain :snoopy:
P.S. course probably realistically some days your deep in shoveling poo in the barn …….!! :pirate:
On March 26, 2013 at 7:10 am
Miz Carmen says:
I’ve been ADMIRING your ability to keep some posts short and pithy! My tendency is towards the verbose. Whenever one of your short posts comes up, I think, “I’ve GOT to learn how to do that.”
In addition – we just got home with our newborn after a week in the NICU. I used DH’s laptop to surf while we were stuck in the hospital… and the only posts I could wrap my distracted and exhausted brain around were the short ones. They were such a welcome reminder that the hospital haze we found ourselves immersed in was not the sum total of reality.
So – please know that those short posts were a blessing for some, or at least, to me.
Gah – I can’t even write short COMMENTS.
On March 27, 2013 at 2:29 am
lady under the oaks says:
well…since i can not drop everything and read about pieces of your adventure each day…i am truly grateful there is always something new when i do go on…someone who takes life with its dreams and makes it happen. Just like a special friend you have known for a long time…but only get to visit ever so often. Thanks for being there.
On March 27, 2013 at 10:33 am
Lois says:
Yes, what everyone else said! Personally, for heath reasons, I cannot read your posts every day. Once I read a post, I’m “forced” to read all the comments, which are usually as good as the post itself. Then I just HAVE to go back and see what posts I’ve missed lately. Oh, and then those comments as well. Lordy, Suzanne! With everything you do, you wear me out! If I read every single post, I’d starve to death cause I’d never leave this chair! I started reading CITR last year when I happened to see The Slanted Little House somewhere (Facebook?) and I was hooked! I’m SUPPOSED to be watching my 3 yr old grandson but sit here thanking God he likes cartoons and has a few movies he’ll sit through! 😕 Speaking of my little dynamo, I guess I’d better tear myself away from CITR and make sure he’s not destroying something! By the way, you’d like him, Suzanne. By the time he was 2, he could point out a tractor, hay baler, dump truck, or any kind of farm equipment! His great grandparents have a farm nearby and he’s his Pawpaw’s shadow when he stays with them. He doesn’t know anything about chickens yet – just cows (or cattle as he now calls them) because there are too many coyotes around. Have a great day!
On March 28, 2013 at 3:45 pm