Frustration?!.... Please let me know.
09 February 2011
Please do me a favor, read this post and give me your opinion:
I need to do a little venting... Please bear in mind that I am due to have a baby within the week and so hormones may not be at completely stable levels and please be understanding- but I really need to make some things clear.
Let me give you the background to this little vent.
I was contacted yesterday, by what seems to me to be a gossip blog aimed at mom blogs. The person contacting me stated that she had received the assignment to write a post about my blogs because that they had received a single anonymous tip (with no proof) that I was copying other bloggers without permission and that they are upset about my featuring other blogger's posts in full. (she- the lady who contacted me, is btw the author of a crafting blog that features other people's posts too) Just so you know (including the anonymous tip) is only the third complaint I have ever received in the last 2 years out of 1,300 published posts. BUT I have received a LOT of thank you email for features.
So, I would like to address that accusation of blog copying openly- right now, right here, for all to discuss.
I have never featured a story without express or implied permission! EVER!
First:
Let me explain how I feature other bloggers so we can be perfectly clear:
- Email Submissions projects
- Party Highlights
- Requested permission to share great stories that I find.
If I feature an entire blog post in full on my blog it is with the author blogger's consent either implied or express as stated about everywhere I can put it on my blog, from the be featured post, the contact post, every party link... and it should be sorta obvious from the posts we feature. But here is what I mean by implied or express:
- Express consent from emails asking me to feature their projects.
- Implied consent from bloggers linking to parties with rules clearly stating that by linking to the party they give me FULL permission to post the feature in full. (which I have not been doing lately BTW, since no one reads rules before participating, and somehow that is my fault?????)
Second:
The rules to be featured are listed in my "Be Featured" post, linked in my contact post and on every party I have. I have also started re-emphasizing the full feature policy in my reply emails to be sure people understand that is what they are agreeing to. Is it wrong that I expect people to:
- Please read the rules before participating in my blog, by party or email submissions.
- Contact me directly, if they have a problem with a feature of their work.
Third:
If you are frustrated by the "full" features, I would really appreciate you contacting me directly. Ask yourself these questions first:
- Did I read the rules completely, before submitting a project or joining the party?
- Is it my story that they featured? (if not- you can bet that I did not feature it without permission granted in which case you have no right to say anything- the blog author has granted their consent- it has nothing to do with you!)
Fourth:
You may be surprised to find out that I have had my share of frustration over other blogger's featuring my projects without my consent, as it was not listed in any rules for participating in their linkys, etc . Or readers being inspired to try one of my projects (yea- isn't that the point?), directly coping my projects, taking their own pictures along the way of the steps I showed them and then passing it off as their own idea- ugh, very frustrating!
BUT and this is a big BUT (no I'm not talking about the one I am sitting on!) I cannot take back the traffic they gave me from features or links. I cannot take credit for my blogs growing on my own. It is all about the blogging community. Once a new reader finds a blog from a link or whatnot and they join my blog, I cannot take that traffic back, I owe it to the blog who featured a project and gave a link and I am thankful they are helping me to build my blog. I may wish they didn't feature it in 3 months, but guess what they did, I gained new readers from it and that is that.
I should mention that I am not talking about it being okay to copy a full post without permission and posting it on a blog, that is wrong, Let me make it clear that I have never done that. I won't ever do that, and I would be thankful if people didn't wrongfully accuse me of doing that. Thanks!
Venting session over.
Am I being melodramatic?
Am I being unreasonable?
Please let me know what you think.
AND if you have been featured and it was a positive experience, I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU- I could use some support! Please leave a comment!
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127 comments:
WHO IN THE WORLD IS THIS PERSON AND WHO DO THEY THINK THEY ARE? That is SOOOO ridiculous. I wish they would put their blog link on here so we can all visit this "so called" blog that is reporting. Who really gossips about blogs? I would tell them to get a life. Or give me their email and I will tell them for you.
This is so weird! I love when people feature me with permission or even contacting me and say 'hey I really loved this, so much so that I wanted to share it with my readers!' which is awesome!! I often find things that are super awesome & blog about them. I make sure to contact the owner of the post/image/link though & let them know how much I love what they've done & that I think other people will too.
Why was she 'assigned' to write about you? what makes her posts different from yours? (I would ask her that) I think you are doing great..and I know that most likely 90% of people who see what you feature here head over to the original blog.
Perhaps they/she/others are misunderstanding what you are posting? I don't know how they are....but perhaps there is a miscommunication. Why also would they care to put this on a gossip blog? what are they doing...saying 'oh so and so does this, yada yada...lets talk about it..don't visit there.blah blah blah.' do they plan on gossiping about other blogs?? if so, well now, I don't think that is nice at all. out right uncalled for if you ask me!
well, I hope that you don't feel like you are doing anything wrong...you wouldn't have a zillion followers if they all hated that you showed them awesome stuff. :) :) :)
You do an amazing job on your blog and you are right to be upset when someone accuses you of doing something that you are not doing. I was lucky to be featured by your blog and I'm very grateful you saw something of value in a project I did to share it with your readers.
I think you will find far more people feel the same way, but it doesn't stop it from stinging, I'm sure. Keep doing what you are doing. There's always going to be people who feel the need to complain about something.
I hate people sometimes. There is always someone out there that wants to ruin everything for everyone else. I also think there are the people who want to stir the pot in order to get some good gossip. I wouldn't allow the person who contacted you to waste your time. Keep doing what you are doing!
It has been said that there are no new ideas under the sun. I believe this to be true. Everything done is a version of something someone has already done. that being said, I have noticed a few bloggers that do replicate others work or use their pictures or blog without giving them credit which I don't think is ok. But I have never noticed this from your blog! Most of us are here to gain inspiration from others and share our projects with others. I know I am more than thrilled if someone uses something from my blog...as long as they link back to mine and I always try to do so when I post a blog using another bloggers idea.
Keep up the good work and ignore the comments from the peanut gallery!!
OMG! Your blog is one of my absolute favorites for going to for inspiration, which is why I've had you on my blog roll since the very first day of writing my blog. I don't think you can be any clearer about featuring other bloggers.
I know I'd be doing cartwheels to be featured, not be complaining. I thought the whole point of linkup parties is to show off your stuff and maybe gain some exposure.
Keep on doing what you're doing. And no, you don't sound hormonal at all.
You are not overreacting at all!!
I have a complaint! You've NEVER featured me!! LOL
Well I just think that's crazy!! I would be honored and most likely faint if you featured me:-)
I love when you feature others cause it gives me a chance to met/see/follow a new blog I might not have ever found!
Also I write a ton of tutorials on my blog...I share everything and do understand when I link up I'm giving that blog permission to take what they need for a feature...
I also don't have my blog copywrited or my photos right click protected cause I'm all about sharing info and helping others...
I have a take what you need policy!
When I first shared my Sesame Street hat patterns people told me I was crazy cause I wasn't selling the pattern!! Well I think it's crazy to sell information that could help others with talent...
I have helped so many people by sharing info and having readers take tips/photos from my blog and it makes me PROUD...One lady used my pattern to make hats to donate and another used the pattern to sell them and made enough to go visit her grandson!!
That's my rant!
I LOVE your blog...that's my story and I'm stickin to it!
OMG - How terrible! I've been featured here a few times and I NEVER have had any complaints with your site! You provide such a wonderful outlet for the "smaller" bloggers to be able to show their wears! THANK YOU, Remodelaholic! YOU DO GREAT WORK!!
Lindsay
Tell'er All About It
You've featured me and I really appreciated it! THANK YOU!! :)
That`s ridiculous!
I Can`t even wait till I see my post at your blog!;)
I think you`ve doing a great job!
I love your parties,
I love all the ideas, other people show!
I can`t even imagine, why some people must say or write such things!
Come on girl, you`re doing great, don`t worry, love your blog!
And many, many others do too;)))
Lovely greetings...
http://pudel-design.blogspot.com/
I have found several great sites (which I now follow) because you featured them. It's not like you are trying to pass it off as your own work. If the person who wrote it gave you permission then more power to you and any third party can suck it. They didn't write it and they should butt out.
First off...let the record show, as you indicated in the two years you have been blogging you have only received a couple of frustrating emails...that is pretty darned good. I would think girls would be knocking down your doors to get featured over here at one of the TOP blogs out there. It is very apparent that email was jealousy driven. It happens, and it has happened to me once recently. I don't bite on that stuff...but I do commend you for setting the record straight..but we all know you are doing a fantastic up and up job over here!!~ Keep on keeping, and hey keep us posted on that baby! XO
Who DOESN'T want their blog to be featured? I mean really, if they don't want people to see it you might as well make it private! And yes, they should have read the rules if they submitted or linked up. That should be a no-brainer. ... But maybe common sense is too much to expect of some people!
You're not wrong, and that person needs to read your posts. I mean actually read them. You always give the most amount of info from where they came from. Just forget about her. She's probably jealous that your blog is bigger. :)
You have featured a couple of my projects and I thought it was a complete honor! I just love your blog! There always has to be at leat one *#%^#&^%$%^&# to ruin a good time.
ick. i hate when mean spirited people try to ruin a good thing. i love this blog. i love seeing the inspiring posts and love getting great ideas here! keep up the good work, and don't let them get you down!
I only recently found your blog, but I'm shocked someone would begrudge the honor of being featured! Anytime I enter a Linky party, there's a little glimmer of hope that my project will be liked enough to 1) be featured by the host or 2) be referenced (with a link back to my blog) by someone else. I just assume that if I'm putting my ideas/content out there, that it's fair game to be referenced in some form or another as long as the person doing the referencing gives me credit for my photo or idea. That's how I do it with ideas I see and like, without ever guessing that maybe that person is upset about it? Any new link will generate traffic for that person and I can't imagine they wouldn't be appreciative of that. It's no different than discussing an article and including a link back to that article!
I think you have every right to be irritated, and I've seen your disclosures about links being fair game to be featured, so I think you're doing everything right. Even if you didn't have disclosures, I believe people on the web should be prepared for their ideas to be 'shared' with appropriate credit given.
Don't let one person who doesn't know how to behave to others out of thousands of bloggers (and thousands of readers!) ruin your day and put stress on you. Your projects are incredible. I rarely subscribe to decorating/remodeling blogs because I lack the experience to try too much too soon. But your blog features such a wide spectrum from novice to advanced, it is great to scroll through and get ideas.
Nothing but positive when you featured me and my living room!
And I am TOTALLY copying your master bedroom remodel, but I will continue to give you full credit and link love any time I share pictures of it :)
You have absolutely nothing to worry about. You are doing everything the proper way. I've been featured by you a couple of times and they were always wonderful experiences. Thank you for hosting such a fabulous blog! Don't even give this thing another thought, just relax and take care of you and that new baby on the way. Can't wait to hear your big news!
That's rediculous.
You've featured me several times from linky parties (yes, I totally read the rules and that was one reason I participated in the parties - I wanted to be featured!) and I've always gotten great traffic and new readers from it. So - thank you! I love that you do regular features! It's great and is a fantastic way to highlight great accomplishments that people in the blogging community have done.
Stay strong - there will always be a few bad apples out there trying to drag you down. ;)
~Chelsea
Just ignore that woman! I am always thrilled when any blog features me whether I gave permission or not. It is flattering and does nothing but drive traffic to my blog which I truly appreciate. I love you blog and I love that you feature other bloggers. It introduces me to new people that I wouldn't have probably run across on my own! Thanks for doing what you do!
The person who made the complaint is so out of line and a crazy loon! In my opinion, when I link up to any party I am allowing the hosting blog free rein on my post. People need to get some friends, find happiness and chill out. I enjoy your blog and I have never seen anything questionable.
Some people. They should be glad they got some exposure. I am a new blogger. I am just starting to learn the rules in Blog land. I really hope I do not offend anyone. So far everyone has been very helpful. Your blog is an inspiration. Keep up the great blogs.
Oh my goodness! I think you have more than done your part to express the "rules" for being featured. I was honored when you featured us... and Im honored when other bloggers feature our work as well (even if they didnt ask first, just so long as they link back). I wouldn't let them get to you. There are haters everywhere!!
I am sorry you are going through this. You are not overreacting. I can see why you're frustrated, but stay strong and try not to dwell on this. You are very upfront with the terms of your features and 99.9% of us are very thankful for what you do!
I have nothing but positive things to say about being featured on your blog. I consider it an honor that you would pick something I created to be shared. Keep doing what you are doing!
As someone who has sent you some of my projects, and who was featured on Polly Want a Crafter I can say that it was a great experience and you were very clear in what you would be doing with my project. Everytime I click on the website of one of your featured blogs, they are thrilled with the fact that you featured one of thier projects and are full of nothing but praise and thanks. Don't let one bad apple ruin it for you.
wow, cassity... i am so sorry. what a horrid thing for someone to say or do. especially when it is not true. you have your rules clearly stated, and you always give credit to the author of the submission. don't let it get to you- pregnancy can make your emotions swing higher. there are just bitter, jealous and mean people out there. when things like this happen to me which of course they have, i chalk it up to that person just being miserable or having a bad sday and needing someone else to make feel bad, too. that's all it is. don't let it get to you- if you do you let them get the best of you.
Oh, that is lame-o ka-blame-o. I was featured on your site a few weeks ago & you definitely asked my permission before re-posting my post. I was kind of relieved to have you copy & paste my words, actually, because I knew I had worked hard to include all of the steps to my project and I would have been nervous that something might have been lost in translation, since it was kind of a complicated project. You have well over 4,000 people who think you are amazing, so those measly three obviously don't know diddly squat.
I say 'don't worry about what other people think -- they usually don't do much of it anyway.'
I think you have some justified frustration! I think you explain the rules very clearly - it is not your fault if someone doesn't read them. I also feel that when you do feature someone, you definitely have links to their site, so people can easily go there. Plus, who doesn't want to be featured??! It is an honor! Like someone in the above comments said, if someone doesn't want more readers or views, they should make their blogs private. As someone who was recently featured, I thank you for it!!!
I've been featured on Remodelaholic several times and it has always 1) been an awesome experience and 2) brought tons of traffic my way! Thank you so much and don't change what you're doing! Also I have to commend you on notifying your featured bloggers before their feature goes up. That is always a thrilling email to receive. Keep up the good work.
Meredith @ Welcome to Heardmont
Cassity I'm so sorry. What a stinky thing.
I have been featured here and at Polly Want a Crafter and EVERY time it has been a fantastic experience!!
You always let me know ahead of time - and it was an honor to be featured. I was thrilled!!!
I understand being upset- but let me reassure that that I love the way you run your blogs and the integrity with which you write your posts.
You're an excellent blogger and a great example!!!
I've never been featured, but I am a regular reader and always look forward to your posts. I think you make it abundantly clear which projects are yours and which are being featured from another blog. Keep up the awesome work! Haters gonna hate. ;-)
Oh, please. What a load of crap!
Your blog has sent me all over blog land and added new blogs to my reader! You are like the best advertiser a girl could get!
For the record, I am working on a post, in hopes of getting featured and you can copy every single word as long as you send them my way!
Go you! And take care of that sweet little baby!
I've never been featured, but I would consider it an honor. I can't imagine that anyone you've featured has been anything less than thrilled! :)
If I link up to a party; I fully expect that my posts might attract the attention of another blogger in my genre. That idea thrills me! Isn't that why people link up in the first place?
I've rocked your button at the bottom of my blog for a long while and I very much enjoy reading your posts. It's the best of the best without my needing to follow 100s of other blogs. Thanks for your work; it is enjoyed by this Mama!
OK, you've vented. I don't blame you. I'd want to too and I'm not 9 months pregnant. Hopefully you feel better having done it.
Now, promptly forget what this woman told you. You don't have to justify your blogging methods (which are completely ethical in my opinion) to anyone. I wouldn't spend one more second even THINKING about this.
Oh and I've never been featured here but I'd give my right arm to be. Well, OK, not really, but I'd sure be pleased as punch.
I would not even worry about it. It is not your fault that people do not read what your site is about. People come to your site to see others work and it's a great thing. I have been featured a few times and I really appreciate it. Please, I know you are feeling angry right now. But remember, this is blog land and if you have a blog you have to put up with some criticism. Congrats on the baby!!
you are doing a wonderful thing and I appreciate all you share and the people i get to visit because of it! you go girl!
Oh...I am so sorry that you are having to worry about something as silly as this when you should be relishing in the arrival of your little one. Well, as much as you can relish the last week! I am a newbie blogger and am already so frustrated by other bloggers putting me on their site then taking me off, criticism that isn't constructive...just mean, etc. You have a great blog, keep calm and carry on!! Best of luck to you and yours. Oh and yeah, something good came out of this, well at least for me...I will be following you, #4301, yay!!
That is just crazy! What blogger doesn't want their projects to be featured...especially on a great blog like yours! One of my projects was featured here and I had no complaints at all! I do get frustrated when I feel like someone copies my ideas then give me no credit, but your blog has always been about featuring others not stealing their ideas! Now I really want to know who this person {and the annoymous tipper} is:)
It was very nice of you not to name the guilty bloggers involved. Too nice.
You have a great blog--lots of great ideas. I don't care if the posts are yours or if you found them for me from another place and asked to post about them. Your blog is well set up, interesting, and easy to read.
Of course other people are going to be jealous! Add to that the number of people who are themselves misunderstanding what is taking place, and you have an amazing record with so few complaints.
Ignore it. If something negative comes from it, you have lots of followers who are willing to set the record straight. You just need to go rest up for that baby.
First of all you have featured me and my tutorials before and I AM SO GRATEFUL that you have! I love your blogs, I love all of the projects you share with us, and I love participating in your parties.
Second of all, the internet has very few checks and balances, so if you're putting something out there, you HAVE to know that it MIGHT get picked up by someone. That being said, your rules are stated clearly and no, it's not your fault if someone doesn't read them before participating in some form or fashion on your blogs. If you don't want people using your tutorials/posts, etc...don't put it on a blog!
Thirdly, who made this woman the "blog police?" I mean, if she does the same thing on her own blog, it's suspect. If they've only received ONE ANONYMOUS tip, it's suspect. If they have no proof or specific post to site, it's suspect.
DO NOT WASTE ANY MORE OF YOUR TIME AND ENERGY (which we all know is in short supply this late in your pregnancy!) WORRYING ABOUT THIS WOMAN OR HER GOSSIP BLOG.
We all love you (all 4343 of us)!
Cassity, so sorry that you had this experience. Last thing in the world you need right now. I suspect the accusation in question is unfounded, or worse, possibly invented.
You manage your blogs in a very professional manner and in my opinion, there is no grey area for concern regarding copyright infringement.
Blessings--take good care :) Diane
Holy Macarele!! I would love to be featured on you blog and I wouldn't even give you permission to be featured. I would take it as an HONOR!!! Keep up the great work and posts. It is very inspiring!
Tara
~A Mustard Seed Dream
personally, i don't see how anyone featuring another's blog could be bad. someone featured me-and i had not contacted them at any point-and it was only when someone commented and said where they were visiting from did i know the feature even took place. the blog doing the feature should have at least emailed me to let me know, hey, i'm featuring you today. luckily, it DID give me a lot of traffic, and they DID give me proper credit and linking, but they clearly just "took" it in the first place. i would never think to email them, asking why did you feature me. they did, i got comments and traffic, it's good!
as for your rules, i have seen many times where you say you are giving consent to use the post by linking. heck, whenever i see a new post from you or other parties i link to, i HOPE they're using my linked post as a feature!
you are totally not being unreasonable. i love your blog!
I'm relatively new to the blogsphere so it's taken me a little time to learn blog etiquette. Before blogging I had no idea that such a thing even existed. Since I don't completely understand how the blogosphere works, this is just my humble opinion.
I think the person who sent you the email was trying to provoke you since they didn't have any proof. You are not being melodramatic. I would be very upset, too. I think you reacted just like I would have if someone accused me of something that wasn't true. I've never been featured, I've only linked up a couple of recipes to your blog. One of my best friends (Angela at Unexpected Elegance) has been featured a couple of times and she was so honored to be on your blog. We were so excited when we saw her projects! Your rules/guidelines are very clear when it comes to being featured.
I'm proud of you for sticking up for yourself and putting it out there. It's clear you have nothing to hide.
It's easy to say this since it's not happening to me, but try not to stress out. Your baby and your health are the most important things and your loyal followers know the truth.
I love your blog and both times I have been featured I have seen a jump in readership! Thanks for all you do and never let stupid people bring you down ;)
You've already received 47 comments on it, but I agree with all of the above advice. Your blog is fantastic, and I look forward to reading it every day. To my knowledge, I haven't yet been featured on your site yet (though I welcome the opportunity anytime), as do hundreds of other blogs looking to gain readership on their own sites. Your site is a great source for inspiration and fully embraces the "You CAN do it yourself!" motto that we are all trying to live by.
What in the world is a gossip blog that isn't about celebrity gossip? Hmm...
I think you vent very nicely!!!
As for the person who contacted you....that's what Karma is for :)
It sounds to me that someone is asking permission to bash your blog so theirs will be more popular. You don't get 4000+ followers from doing bad things so I would forget about it and focus on the new baby. I've never submitted anything to you to feature but you are welcome to feature anything of mine. You always credit the blog it came from so it's good for both parties. Anytime, stop by, visit, feature away!
i can't imagine anyone complaining about being featured/highlighted on your blog. i was featured on your blog in the summer when i had just started out my blog and it was just so so exciting and encouraging to know that other people liked my content enough to share it! i think what you do is great!! don't change a thing. who even wants to read a blog about gossip about another blog? wth!
kimberly.
Oh. I can totally understand you being upset, but as you said you've done nothing wrong.
You featured my blog and I was overjoyed that you showcased some of my renovations.
Don't let the opinion of one or two people get you down. There are many hundreds who support you and think your blog is great. xx
Well you just featured me and everything you said I had to read I did. You are clear and concise. Hello? People need to read what they sign up for.
What I noticed was people posting about me with a picture, without contacting me...that is rude kinda, but, they did feature me with a link so I guess it was OK?
People just need to use common sense, and repsect other work by being polite.
I did not think you over reacted. You are entitled to clear your name and boldly state your policies. The fact that you did this is credibility to the fact you did not do what she claimed.
Have a good birth by the way and you have a great blog.
Melissa at Pink Satin Sashes.
I'd just tell her it's none of her damn business. ha ha
Anyway, you've featured me before and I recall that you asked first. Not that it would've mattered. I love being featured, especially on the larger more popular blogs.
I feature peeps who link up to my tiny link party, but I figure that's the whole reason they're linking up. They want traffic and they want a feature. That's why I link up to parties.
Just try not to let it bother you while you have a few more days with it just being the three of you. It'll never be the three of you again so just try to focus on that. :-)
You have featured my projects before and it has helped me gain readers and I am very grateful for that. One of the great things about your blog is that you can find great ideas from al over blogland and make new friends that you may not have found otherwise. I have always seen links to where the posts came from and I think that is in no way "copying." You have a great blog. Don't let a few "haters" get you down. Especially right before having a baby. You need to be getting all the sleep you can right now and NOT worrying about something so dumb. The reason you have so many readers is because we love your blog, we love the inspiration you share, and we LOVE having our work shared with others.
I'm mostly just surprised that their is a blog that does nothing but rag on other blogs. Get a life!
Girl...you have EVERY reason to vent. OMG!!! I can't believe that someone wouldn't come to you and talk to you about it! I find it SO ridiculous how people behave...blogging is supposed to be about sharing ideas...and hopefully people give credit where credit is due!
I am sorry to hear that you're having to go through this especially this week!!
I've been around the internet and blogging since 2005. In that time I've seen several very immature women start drama online like this.
It happens because some ladies start thinking that this blogging thing is a career that justifies this sort of territorial crap.
You must ignore them and carry on. The internet is not life, as much as it might seem to some people. They just need to get a life and some perspective.
That's just ridiculous, I would ignore them and try not to give it anymore thought. Although that is hard to do while being attacked.
You have featured a project from our blog before, we felt you were very considerate and we received lots of new hits and new readers from it. http://www.remodelaholic.com/2010/06/best-spot-for-summer-chair-swing-guest.html
Thank you for hosting the link parties each week, many of us out there appreciate it. Don't worry about a few bad apples the majority of us love your blog and your work, and we say keep it up!
Sounds like somebody's jealous of your popularity!! Frankly, I can't wait to finish a project so I can send it to you!!
Whoever posted that must had had the wrong information, because you ask, or we ask to be published on your blog. And when that happens, it's an honor! So. just ignore that comment(I know that is super hard now, and that you are pregnant, i understand completely as I am prego with my third) But your blog is awesome, and I love everything you post, and was excited when I was posted on your blog. Thanks for all your hard work!
Cassity,
I have found you to be completely professional in your approach. You have made it clear that by linking up or sending an email request, we grant permission to be re-posted. Even if you didn't offer the courtesy of getting permission, our fair use doctrine in the U.S. would allow you to use limited content from other sources for the purposes of commentary or education.
You are so right that bloggers are a community, and most bloggers are more than happy to share their ideas. Honestly, if a blogger never wants someone to feel inspired by their creations, they should not share them on the internet.
As far as not crediting a source for an original idea, I do think many people can come up with the same idea on their own. So many times I have been working on something I thought was truly unique, only to find someone else had already come up with the idea and done a blog post about it.
The purpose of our copyright law, according to our Constitution, is "To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts..," but when we all hide our light under a bushel, our society cannot build on our ideas to create that progress.
That said, I think your blog does an excellent job of promoting ideas, whether they are your own, or those of others, used with permission. keep up the great work!
~Amanda
I read your site DAILY, and I LOVE it! I was recently featured, I was so greatful and I got alot of traffic as a result.
Please dont let one desperate Debbie get you down :)
I LOVE YOUR SITE!!! Your site gave me the guts, courage, oomph and confidence to do some furniture makeovers. I think your site is AWESOME I love reading it and I follow you on Facebook and I follow Polly want a crafter. Who ever this person is SCREW THEM! Its blogging we are sharing great projects we have done or featuring someone elses great products. I am so happy I found blogging. I love sharing my posts and I love looking at other blogs. I wouldn't worry about whom ever this person is. Like you said you have had like 1300 posts and maybe 2 negative nellies:) I hope you are feeling great and don't let this stress get to you.
I didn't read all of the comments that came before me, but I feel certain my response is probably about the same - I love what you do. And I have been featured. And I not only gave permission for that, I welcomed the traffic from it! One of the things I love the most about your blog is that you go out and find all of the great things that I don't have time to go look at. I have a full time job outside the home, and while I wish I could spend lots of time perusing all the cool projects out there, it is not feasible. So I really appreciate that you do that for us! I know it is hard to get past a negative like that, but please realize that all of us positives way out weight the negative!!
You have featured two of my projects, and I was so thrilled and flattered! I did read the rules when linking, so I knew, (and hoped I would), that there was a possibility I would be featured.
You are doing a service to all other bloggers by featuring their projects. I started following Remodelholic a year ago and through it I have been introduced to so many new blogs (new to me and new to blogging in general). Now of course I still follow Remodelholic, but now I also follow some of those blogs you have featured as well. Everyone is benefiting from your features.
Your not being dramatic, The reason I LOVE blogging, is the Inspiration-The Sharing-The kind words-The encouragement- ANd i too agree frustrating when copied- IT happens in my shoppe-and so Frustrating- But overall it some how brings traffic-
I say feel sorry for someone who feels the need to critique or bother to contact you..
I LOVE YOUR BLOG-and keep it up..
Karryann
I love your site...
It is very obvious to me that you take extra precautions to insure proper permissions have been given before featuring some one... I personally would never accuse you of any wrong doing.
I am peeved that people can be so childish - I am sorry they have upset you {valid anger in my opinion}...
Pleasw don't stop what you're doing - I love seeing your site in my reader!
Laura
@SeeLauraRun
Yes, KARMA should take care of this one for you.
In the meantime, though I have not (YET!) been featured, I believe this is a good time to offer you my GRATITUDE for your work on Remodelaholic. YOUR blog inspired me to start my own furniture revitalization business (& a future blog!) which is now keeping me home with my children and making me a much HAPPIER mom. So, many, many thanks for being a wonderful role model in so many different ways!
Keep up the FABULOUS work!
Yes you have featured posts from me before and I thought you did so very well. I was well aware. I have seen my pictures on other blogs that didn't even tell me before. You are doiing fine.
Ronda
I don't understand this complaint by the 'gossip blog'! First off the title of the feature post ALWAYS has the name of the blog being featured, not to mention that you put it in red! Second, being a blog that isn't bashing other blogs, who would be offended of being featured on a blog that gets great exposure for the featured blogger? I wouldn't even be offended being featured without having emailed you or linking up so long as I got my credit and a link back to my sight, hint hint, just kidding, sort of no really just kidding.
Okay, I'm ranting sOme more! But how can this be a credible blog if they don't investigate allegations? If they did there is no way it would even have gotten this far!
I am nothing but grateful for the feature you did on my project (chevron rug diy.) I had extra traffic to my blog as a result, and tons of lovely comments! So thank-you! Your blog is great and you have nothing to feel bad about.
I love your blog. It sounds like that person is envious of you. Mean spirited people usually are unhappy with themselves, so just consider the source. Keep up the good work!!
I love your blog and if it wasn't for your blog, I wouldn't be following so many other blogs that I found through you!!! You are kinda a preview of what other's have to offer. If I like what you've featured I venture off to their blog and follow them on my own. You are right to be frustrated and it is a privilege to be featured by any blog who has such a large and loyal follower base!!!
I am always happy to be featured by you! I find it a privilege and not any infringement on my rights.
Love your sight.
I love being featured. It makes me feel very proud and that all the hard work I do is appreciated by others. You featured me once and I felt so honored and appreciated it greatly. Keep doing what you do and don't let the few negatives out of thousands of positives get you down. Good luck with the baby!
First things first. Remodelaholic has a lot of followers and you are going to be the object of jealousy. People get ugly when they envy. You run a very respectable blog site and your information is clear and concise. It was an honor to be featured on your blog. I had no problems with your terms for publishing my information. Secondly, blogs are made by people who want their information shared. If someone is posting a project or recipe they should expect that information to be used in any manner the reader deems appropriate. A fair reader will give credit to the original author, but bloggers must be realistic that this may not happen. If you (any blogger interested enough to read this) publish something on a blog, you must also be prepared for the possibility that your information may be plagiarized. I'm not sure you can even place a copywriter clause on it. It's a social network not a publishing network. Authors beware! Remodelaholic, you have a wonderful site and you are more than fair with crediting the original author and getting permission.
Let the haters have their 2 minutes of fame. It won't last! Keep your head up! Remodelaholic Rocks!
You would think that someone would be thrilled to be featured on your blog under any circumstances. I wouldn't get too upset by one negative among so many positive. It's that person's issue, not yours. Good luck with the baby. That's what really matters.
Don't let the negative comments get to you:)
Cassity, I have always been super excited and beyond honored when you've featured my projects. I wish there was some way we {your followers} could give this person a piece of our minds in your defense. And if it makes you feel any better, you can feature me anytime you want :).
I was TICKLED when you emailed me about my flooring tutorial. You also greatly increased my traffic for a few weeks as a result.
Every time I am here, I know where you got the information/posting/pictures/ideas. You've never misrepresented yourself. Just know that you have a faithful fan base who loves what you do... exactly the way you are doing it.
When you emailed me about my tutorial, you made it clear that I could pass if I wanted to. Of course, there's not a single reason I could fathom to make me pass on an opportunity to share something! That's why we're here.
I can understand your frustration! But your rules are super clear and if people don't take the time to read them, that's their own problem. Clearly they don't understand that being featured or mentioned in any way on your blog is a huge bonus for their blog.
Oh, my, I didn't realize blog world was like the real world! So sorry you have been accused- so unfair not to be able to confront that person directly and straighten out whatever the misunderstanding may be. (Assuming it's a misunderstanding and not some outright attempt to hurt your reputation.) Just realize you have a lot of supporters here who know the truth.
I am only a very happy reader/follower. I don't think you are being overly melodramatic. I am outraged for you. I have never read a post that hasn't been acknowledged. If your blog following has increased it is only the measure of the excellent site you manage. Ignore this rubbish.
Apparently the "wronged" one linked to your party for the exposure without reading the rules. Your rules are clear and you always give credit. I love all the ideas you feature -- from others and your own, and I've never been confused which was which. When I was featured, I was thrilled and proudly grabbed your Featured on Remodelaholic button.
Enjoy that sweet baby!
Deb
I love reading your blog and the other blogs you feature. As a new home owner - the more inspiration the better!
Whoever contacted you is not being very professional. An anonymous tip? C'mon!!! Don't attack someone without giving them some facts. Anytime someone comes at me with an "anonymous anything" I realize that the messenger is usually the one with the problem. (speaking from working in public school for years)
I love your blog. It is the first one I check when I get online. I also enjoy the features you present. Whoever contacted you needs to straighten out her Jr. High attitude and just accept the fact that Remodelaholic is fabulous!!! She needs to quit ragging on your blog and concentrate on her own. You will find, the more success you have, the more people will be jealous of it. Just tell that old snit to back off!!!
I am so sorry you're frustrated with these people who have NO right to say the things they're saying! You work really hard on having integrity with your posts, and that's why I love your blog(s)! Please know that for every ONE obnoxious person that has nothing better to do than pick on you, there are thousands more who support you and love you!! :)
In my eyes it's someone that is jealous about your blog! Who else would would do that?? Tell them to stay away reading your blog and pick on someone else. Obviously they need to pick on someone.
I am sorry to hear that you were on the bad end of a gossip blog. I think that you do a great job with posting relevant information. I love reading blogs about do it your self projects. We (My wife and I) gain tons of insights from these types of blogs. We bought our first house a little over a year ago and have completely remodeled it. Its been quite the process. I am thankful that people out there write about their experiences. We just started our own blog about our house and need a little help getting it off the ground. Read it if you want to and give us any helpful feedback.
Our site address is www.mychicshanty.com
Keep on writing and don't let this incident get you down.
Cheers,
Matt
Somebody out there sounds a little jealous of your blog and the many followers you have - if so, shame on them. I love your blog so don't change a thing - and congrats on the baby.
Brenda
You're not being melodramatic or unreasonable. Totally support you all the way.
And yes, I think people are GRATEFUL to be featured! I've been thrilled when my projects have been featured on other blogs! (Hope to be featured here someday, but haven't posted just the right project yet to submit! LOL!)
Sorry you have to deal with this when you're about to have a baby. No one needs that headache!
Warmly,
Andrea | HomageStyle.com
You featured one of my projects and I was thrilled!
I'm sorry to hear about this. How ridiculous!!
Your blog is great and very inspirational. I visit it on a daily basis.
Best Wishes!!
You gotta love the blog world, sometimes unfortunately there are some people who want to haul us all back to high school...or maybe middle school! Thankfully most bloggers aren't like that though, but you have every right to be upset if your integrity has been called in to question!
I was featured on your blog and it was done with my full consent and cooperation! I hadn't been blogging very long and I can't tell you how much I benefited from and thank you for the exposure it gave to my fledgling blog! Not to mention the fact that it made me feel good to know that someone else appreciated all of the hard work we put in to our renovations.
Those who know and have worked with you won't give this kind of idle gossip a second thought, so don't worry about it. I just wish I had as many hours in the day as some other people do to fly around to other blogs looking for ways to bring someone else down. Aren't we women supposed to support and help lift up one another, not find ways to be jealous or spiteful?
Keep on doin' what you're doin', you have bigger fish to fry in taking care of your beautiful family which will soon be one person bigger!
xo Kat
Well, I'm a really new follower to remodelaholic, and even I understood based on the rules you clearly outlined that I was giving you permission to post my stuff if you saw fit when I linked up. So, anyone who pays any kind of attention at all should have known. I don't think anyone has any right to be wining, personally. I mean, you clearly state implied and express permission details. AND you're a big deal. If you post someone's stuff, you always credit them, and I'm sure they haven't had people STOP following them because you've done this... I mean, duh. They should be thanking you, even if they didn't realize they'd given you permission to do so. Exposure is exposure right? It's not like you've ever stolen anything. Geez. Some people. ;)
You rock. Don't let it get to you.
I've been featured a couple of times here and once at Polly Want A Crafter. Both were EXCELLENT experiences for me and my blog. All features were the result of linking up to the link parties. Isn't the point of those parties to get featured?? I can absolutely tell you to keep on featuring me! I love it! :)
It's not your hormones, anyone would be upset. You have featured me and I was thrilled! Here's the deal, people get jealous of big blogs, no one bugs us little blogs. Just understand it is plain old sour grapes (As my mother would say) You get upset, they win, you have bigger fish to fry, in the scheme of life you're just going to have to let this one roll off your back, as hard as that is. We want this baby born to a nice calm Mommy good luck! We will be waiting to hear that baby announcement!
Carol
You're not doing anything wrong, that person is green with envy. Don't worry about it, just get some rest and take care of you and the babe!
Ok, here's the deal, the way that I see it. I was a morning radio personality for 15 years, which means everytime I turned on my microphone, my work became pubic. Blog posts are the same thing. Yes, it would have been nice to have every single listener give me credit, when they repeated my stories or the info that I provided. Its not a realistic expectation. If there were times when listeners did give me credit hopefully we got some new listeners out of the out of the deal. People who post original ideas in their blogs, deserve to be credited for their work but once its posted, its public domain. Im a little bit suspicious that someone would contact you because they got ONE anonymous tip, that you are copying blogs. REALLY? One tip. If the "reporter" is not willing to provide you with the person that made the accusation and the specific post that was "copied," you should totally disregard her call. The "gossip blog" pretty much loses ALL of their credibility if they can only come up with one unnamed source. Perhaps the blogger that contacted you should consider writing for a blog that doesn't give her such weak "assignments." Go enjoy the last few days of your pregnancy and keep on blogging like you do. Your blog is FABULOUS. Hugs from Texas, Tara
I think you have a right to be upset BUT (and there is one) by airing it, you are adding fuel to the fire and giving whoever it is that is doing this, great pleasure.
I haven't read all of the comments so I don't know how the rest feel but I think you should end it with your silence. No one continues to fight with someone when they won't take the bait so don't keep trying to convince them of anything. Continue to do things your way, in the ethical way you have, and let everything else fall where it may.
When in doubt, do nothing. Just come from a side of strength and forget about it. They will realize eventually there's no story here.
Ridiculousness! Let it go. Just because someone has an opinion doesn't mean it is valid. I used to tell my preschool kids "if someone calls you a giraffe does that make you one" no! Who cares what they think, you know the truth!
This is probably getting repetitive, but: "I love your blog!" I love the way you put together lots of different ideas from different blogs so the entire focus is on remodelling... and not someone's granny, or their dog, or their apple preserves (not that there's anything wrong with apple preserves! I've subscribed to a few blogs from this one because of some cute off-topic comment). But I love that I can rely on your blog for REAL projects done by REAL people. You've given me so many ideas that I would have otherwise missed out on. Chin up, and good luck with bubs!
Og!! Its gorgeus!!
Each day one sorprise!!!
What blog so creative!! Congratulations
I like so much. Very original. I´ll write about you in mine.
Kisses from Madrid
Seriously! I am pretty new and I don't know all the etiquette regarding blogs - yet, (will I ever)? But some things are just common sense! You have done nothing wrong! Isn't the INTENT of sharing to INSPIRE others? It is on the internet for goodness sake! If you or whomever show something, especially step by step, that is saying "here is how YOU too can do it" PUUU-LEEEASE! Keep on blogging, featuring, and inspiring, my friend!! AND please feature me, feature me, say something, mention something about something I 'think' I have accomplished!!! anytime! LOL I would love it!
I am following and your newest fan!
looking forward to pics of new baby!!
~Donna
Cassity, I am and always will be grateful to you for featuring my projects. As a new blogger, it was a complete thrill the first time, and just as big a thrill every time after that. I've found so many fun blogs through your blog, too. I think you're very generous to the blog community as a whole. And I have never thought you've done all that in an unethical manner.
Having said that~commenter #107 hit the nail on the head. That which you feed continues to grow. So I hope you stop feeding the rumors and by refusing to respond to them.
Absolutely ridiculous. I have a hunch that you were contacted because of flat-out jealousy! The person who contacted you or the anonymous tip-if there even was one has blog-envy because yours is loved by so many. How dare this person do this to a blogger so many love and to a prego lady! I would not give this another thought, we all got your back. :)
You featured a cke from my blog last year. Nothing but positve.
Who is this person, and really, she has nothing better to do than harrass you?? She must have a very small view of the world, and the bloggosphere. Really. I was amused by your rant. You go!
love your blog.
Those stinkers! I would be absolutely thrilled to be featured on your blog. Sounds like she rides a high horse. And, if she'd had a problem, she should have come to you directly.
I agree with everyone else. Seems ridiculous. And, btw, it is "Fourth", not "Forth". :)
I think you have a right to be mad and this person! I mean hello if you hadn't featured these people they may not have gotten they traffic you KNOW they have gotten! So they shoudl just be grateful and the gossipping website should mind their own!
wow, I'm so sorry that happened to you...I love your blog (although rarely comment, but figured you can't hear how great your blog is too many times :D) I've never thought that you did anything without giving proper credit where credit is due. I've gotten a lot of great ideas from your blog and the blogs you've brought to my attention here. I really appreciate the efforts you've put forth.
On a happier note, congrats on the upcoming baby, how wonderful!
I posted my headboard project on your link party and assumed that you have the right to feature any project posted on that link party. I was featured and received a bunch of blog traffit due to that feature. Works for me.
Oh, this is unreal! When I emailed you about my home renovation and you emailed me back that you were going to feature it, IT WAS AN HONOR! Anyone that reads your blog knows what posts are yours and which ones you are FEATURING. I also commented on my blog how incredibly kind and generous you were helping me learn to link back and grab buttons since I was such a new blogger. So sorry you are going through this! Pretty soon with your new little one you will laugh that you even remotely cared! Congratulations!
I side with all of the above posts from your supporters. I find it curious this complaint and that the party involved fails to mention who the complaining blogger is and/or of the particular incident(s). By addressing this in the open head on, I hope it puts a stop to this (troll like) behavior. We're all adults. Anyone that has a beef with you should come to you direct. Write this one off and am glad you shared this with all of us so we can come to your support.
Best wishes for a magical delivery (well you know what I mean) & know you have many sending well wishes your way for all the best with your new baby to come (how exciting!!!!).
You featured my master bath and I was flattered! Don't let it get you down and enjoy your new babe! Lezlee
I think what you said was very well written and you definitely have your rules shown very clearly.
However, the bigger problem I have w/the complaint is uh... the internet is the internet, and once it's up there it's sort of a free for all. I love that you get permission and have your rules and such posted but cmon!!!! (to the complainer NOT to you). People post blog highlights, news stories, etc on facebook and twitter all the time. If you post something on the internet for OTHERS to see and read, what's the big deal if another blogger says "hey blogger X did this"...
you totally have nothing to worry about
You featured one of my posts. I submitted it to you via email. You contacted me to tell me you were going to feature it. You linked to my blog. I got a lot of great feedback and increased traffic. I think your readers liked the project.
I think we were all happy. Tell the person to fall of the nearest cliff.
I have never commented on your blog before, but thought I should stop by and give you some support and blog love. I have never been featured on your blog (I don't really DIY, I just love seeing other people's work). Every single post I have ever seen you do has given a link to the original writer's blog and often times I have followed that link to see what else those creative people are up to. I have never ever seen you take credit for someone elses work. I think you are doing a great service to people by posting their work on your blog. If you didn't post it, I wouldn't go to their blog. You generate traffic for other blogs (which often leads to money from advertisers). I really wouldn't worry about what one stupid person says who has no proof and obviously has never visited your site before (if she had, she would have seen all your links and references). Some people are stupid, I just wish the rest of us didn't have to deal with them. Don't let her get to you, you are awesome and I love all that you do on your blog.
i found this blog only a few weeks ago and i skimmed through the post about the fireplace makeover and because it was copied word for word i assumed this project was yours. (i then noticed the big bold letters at the top stating who contributed the project to your blog) this was all before i realized this is a blog that features other people's projects (which i think is awesome!) the only thing i could say is maybe summarize the person's step by step project instead of using their actual words. (because i am a LOT less likely to visit their blog if the whole post is already copied and pasted to your blog---does that make sense?) maybe just show a few photos and give us a "preview" of their project and give us the link to their blog to view more. a great example is the blog "better after" i really don't want to come across mean! i thought i would just give you my honest opinion! if you don't want to change the way you feature other bloggers projects I'll still come back and read every post! you have lots of followers and supporters---i just wanted to give my opinion.
Ridiculous. Who are these "women" who think they regulate the blogs? Obviously I think you do a great job since I'm a follower & love your work. Keep it up & ignore these people. Don't let them get you down!
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