I lost a bit of steam blogging last week. I didn’t ask to be featured in the Hufftington Post but, when the story was published, some harsh words were flung at me by Post readers.
I started this blog not for fame, fortune or features – or even nice comments! I just loved DIYing my way through home decor and wanted to meet some DIY-savvy folks with whom I can chat about DIY projects. Happily, the blog has connected me with amazing people and, along the way, I’ve had some sweet people say sweet things, which has been a bonus. But those recent negative comments made me wonder if maybe this blogging thing isn’t for me. Not if this is how larger online communities treat each other.
Over the weekend, though, I decided I wouldn’t “let the turkeys get me down,” as my Mom says. But I couldn’t just let it go without saying something, because people were incredibly rude in the comments of that artciel and I would call out this behavior in public – so why not online?
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The bulk of negative comments I received were actually directed at the Huffington Post, for a misleading link, but many others vehemently complained that my “before” photos were too dark and it was sleazy (!) of me not to have television-quality before & afters. I had duped them because the “before” rooms were fine – even more comfortable than the afters – if only they had been well lit, which was deemed “stupid” and “lame”. Yup, I was elementary school-style name called over some photos of my house.
Well, the photos reflect how dark the home was: broken light fixtures, grey carpet, grey walls, heavy window coverings and dark furniture made the space more dim. The comparison below demonstrates a dramatic difference between the before and after, even with the exact same photography method used: automatic setting (no use of manual exposure or other settings), similar angle, same camera, no tripod, and no editing. Mystery solved: the changes I made to the decor made the space lighter and brighter. A bigger mystery is where people get the nerve to complain and hurl accusations, implying I was tricking the reader with bad before photos. When I took the before photos, I never realized I’d be sharing them online – they were just for me to help plan the space while we waited to take possession. But I am certainly not playing tricks: both photos are straight off my camera.
Thanks to those complainers for the backhand compliments, though: the townhouse apparently looks professionally lit in the after photos! It really is thanks to those white-white-white walls the readers really freaking hated.
People truly complained about everything – it is exhausting to read. From the misleading link that led them to the article (not my fauly) to how my ottoman will collect crumbs, then on to conflicting comments about how our furniture is too expensive, or all from Ikea (both wrong), people wanted to have their uninformed opinions heard.
I don’t care if everyone who reads the Post hates the townhouse. What I find problematic is that NONE of the negative comments were constructive and people called actually stooped to calling me names. Sigh. People insulted my intelligence (and the author’s), trumpeted their own, and none were constructive or meant to be helpful. It was just “I hate, I hate, I hate”. Followed by some “this is stupid” and team salmon-pink-bathroom battle cries, lol.
It’s symptomatic of a larger problem. Many people only open their pie holes when they have something negative to say: at work, in stores and online. I’ve seen customers berate customer service staff for no reason. I mean, we’ve had to come up with laws for this because it was such an issue. There are whole books devoted to the topic.
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I know I’m preaching to the choir here.
I haven’t had any negative comments on my blog. I’m so lucky to have lovely blog friends who don’t sign in to say something hateful. Your comments make me smile and you’re always constructive and positive, even when you’re helping me figure out what to change or see something you might not like. You are fabulous people and I’m lucky you choose to stop by the townhouse every now and then.
A few lovely people left sweet comments on the article, too, which gave me hope for the world – not because they liked my design, but because they recognized I’m a person, with feelings, who could benefit from a little dash of niceness amidst a sea of unkindness. I hope they know they made my day – and I wanted to share them to shine a light on niceness.
“I wouldn’t have even commented on this if I hadn’t seen everyone’s heartless negative comments on here. Post some pictures of you guys’ perfect homes and then start talking about how bad this one looks. My opinion, I think it looks very clean, organized, economical, and spacious after the makeover. This article was simply created to give people ideas/motivation/inspiration to turn their home into something more spacious and modern. It’s a great article that a lot of average American’s should be able to get something from if they struggle with average home issues, ie. not enough space/traditional boring decor/budget restraints on home makeovers. Yes, the sub-titles of the article were misleading, but seriously, there is nothing wrong with this house’s decor. I enjoyed the classy modern makeover”.
“It looks beautiful and modern. The bathroom remodels added so much to the look and feel of the house. I am just about to tackle the bathrooms in my house.
I think the people that are commenting with anger are frustrated with AOL and Huffpost because the lead in to the story implied you discovered something under the stairs and it was never mentioned in the article. The “teasers” they use are frustrating and they take away from all great things you actually did to this house. Your home looks great!“
“Tanya–I’m actually embarrassed by the comments left here by the bitter and ill-informed. I think you did an extraordinary job using creativity and ingenuity. It’s nice to see a reno where the fabrications used are available to the general public and not necessarily high-end unattainable resources. The rooms look modern, spacious, liveable and FUN–which seems to be exactly your intent. Congratulations on a job well done”.
hate emails and comments come in with increasing popularity..its not what we blog for..but it hurts…u are among the most awesomest bloggers i know .. i wish u the best Tanya…we dont need those snobs and snoots…you are way better than what they can handle 🙂
Thanks, that means a lot to me 🙂
I'm on Tumblr and deal with horrible comments every day. I post DIYs and I posted a nightlight that someone commented was "white people s**t"(because you can comment on posts when you reblog them on Tumblr and have absolutely no control what is said by anyone). When I posted a fez I was unfollowed, messaged and a public apology was demanded (and not given), and reblogs were devoted to my "ignorance" and "cultural appropriation" of someone elses heritage. So I cannot win on my blog no matter what I post. When this happens I usually put up my "I Love Haters. They Motivate Me" graphic 🙂
How awful! I'm sorry you've had to experience that negativity. I love the graphic – sounds fabulous!
I don't really comment often on your blog (this may be my first time?), but I enjoy it immensely, especially as an (on-hold) academic/grad student who is also decorating/remaking her first home on a tight budget. We have different tastes, but I love your feminist attitude, your willingness to tackle tough projects, and your lovely home that is just your style. I don't read the comments on design blogs like Apartment Therapy for just the reason you mentioned; an innocent reader will write in asking something like, "Can you recommend a paint color to go with my sofa/lamp/carpet?" and instead of recommendations, the comments will tear down literally everything they already have in the room. I see this increasing rudeness in my students, and though I want to try and make a difference, I will say that the types of experiences you mentioned make me reticent to put my own DIY projects up on my knitting blog. You're doing great, and I hope those turkeys didn't get you down for long.
Yay, a fellow grad student!! Even if you're on hold, that's awesome. I wish you the best of luck when you get back to your research.I'm so happy to hear from you! Comments on AT can be so harsh, they make me cringe – even in reaction to a stranger being attacked like that. I haven't had negative comments here, so you might be safe from haters on your own knitting blog (which sounds so fun). It seems to be that extra step to be so negative to someone in their virtual space. Maybe because it's so personal??
I think the anonymity of the Internet lowers peoples' inhibitions, and they end up typing things they'd never say in person. It's the same principle behind the ever-dreaded anonymous teacher rating sites like "Rate my professor;" of course they will be terrible since there is no accountability. I'm glad you're feeling better and will keep doing what you're doing!Thanks for the pep talk. I've just finished a starburst mirror project, and we're in the middle of a minor kitchen renovation, so maybe I will bite the bullet and post them up.
It's true: anonymity does seem to breed unkindness. Which is so selfish because although the person leaving the comment may be anonymous, the recipient typically is not. Along with the hurtfulness, it can be embarrassing! I was embarrassed at first.A sunburst DIY sounds awesome and I hope you share your kitchen reno! I know I'd love to see 😉
There are too many angry people in the world and rudeness has become far too acceptable. Why do they feel they need to personally attack you, and why do they think it's okay to do that? Well Tanya, I hope none of those Neg-Nellies come by your blog. You don't need them, that's for sure.I love your blog, we all do, so just keep the posts coming for us. Be proud of everything you've done, even your so called "fails" which always make me laugh. You're an inspiration. Keep it up!
Oh, Negative Nellies are gonna get an earful if they come over to my little corner!!I wasn't digging for compliments (I swear, lol) but thanks so much for your kind words. I'm happy you like coming here. Your company is enjoyed 😀
P.S. I also love stopping by your corner of blogland. And you and Dana were one of my early blog readers, and it's so nice we still read each others' blogs!!
Oh man. Every time I see horrible comments like that on Apartment Therapy I cringe and feel so bad for the person they'e belittling (even by belittling a house or a makeover, they may not realize the person behind that is taking it personally). I think you've got a fantastic blog here, which has been noted by some big name web publications! I mean take a look at your press and features page and give yourself a big ole pat on the back. I'm glad you're shaking this off and I look forward to seeing new posts from you ASAP. Also, my new favorite variation of "Haters gonna hate" that I saw on twitter… "Naysayers gonna say nay!"
Thanks Staci, that means a lot to me. I love that: Naysayers gonna say nay! Ha ha!!
I have been on the receiving end of hurtful comments on features like Apartment Therapy–and it ISN'T fun. I even had one person tell me on my blog that my photos made it impossible for them to enjoy my blog. hahaha. Although, that was BEFORE I got a nicer camera. And then there are always the grammar nazis–which I actually appreciate–when it is done in a not hurtful way. Sorry you had to deal with all the negativity recently. It hurt!
Oh, Julia, that's terrible!! Thanks for sharing that you've also been attacked like that. It stinks and is so unfair, but I appreciate you sharing. It makes me realize even more clearly the problem is with the naysayers, not me (or you).
By posting this, I know you're not trying to get us all to tell you how great we think you and your house are, but I have to anyways. I absolutely love your blog and your house. My style is different than yours, but I love seeing your ideas. We have bright walls, but I then have to bring in the neutrals with accessories. So I take some of your ideas and flip them. 🙂 I used your tutorial for the Expedit 'doors' and LOVE them. I would have never thought of them without you. I love to see the changes you've made to your house and the ways you are able to DIY things. Please don't listen to the Negative Nancy's on the article. Keep doing what you're doing FOR YOU. At the end of the day, you and your husband have to live in your house. If you two love it, then that's all that matters.As my grandma would say, "Chin up, buttercup!" 🙂
Ha ha! I wasn't digging for compliments. I was gritting my teeth hoping I didn't bring some fury upon myself . . . so I wasn't even thinking about compliments, lol. But thanks so much for your positive comments. We do have opposite style, I LOVE that.I HAVE to see photo of your own Expedit hack!!
So sorry this happened to you. You're right though, there are people that just love to criticise. And it probably is, as you say, because of a deeper feeling of insecurity, worthlessness or jealousy. So feel sad for these people instead of angry and hurt. My 8 year old was crying after school earlier this year saying that someone told her, "no offence, but your outfit looks ugly". She then said to me, "I know they said 'no offence' so I shouldn't be upset, but I really am". I guess it starts early! Even at 8 this girl thinks she can say anything without consequence as long as she says "no offence". Ignore these people and carry on, Tanya. Your blog is one of my favourites, and clearly there are many others that feel the same way!
Oh my gosh, that brings back some childhood memories. Shame some folks never grow out of that. It is so sad your little girl had to endure such mean, and truly superficial, "opinions". But she sounds like a truly intelligent and introspective 8 year old – really critiquing the statement and the manipulation in the form of "no offense". It sounds like she's prepped to deal with the haters!
So terrible that you had to endure that. People can be freakin cruel for no reason. If you have nothing nice to say don't say anything at all. jeez. I love your blog and all that you do.
People are dumb! don't let them get you down 🙂 we love you in blog world 🙂
A lot of individuals seem to think that the "Golden Rule" doesn't apply any more. It does and karma is going to be a **** when it catches up to them. Personally, I think that your place looks great, but even if I didn't I'd just shut up and keep my opinion to myself. No need to crap all over someone like that.
I'm constantly impressed by prevalence of the attitude 'if it's different it must be wrong'. I'm told by the psych people in my department that this is an example of cognitive dissonance. Of course, on a publication like HP, which has major $$ behind it, I think part of the issue is that the audience expects that all content is a from a big marketing department that's trying to push their agenda, not some young couple starting out. Not that the language/tone was acceptable in any way … I also wonder if the tone was set by the first couple comments… very much a let's jump on the bandwagon situation.Anywhoo I've done enough demo/painting in my time as a homeowner to appreciate the effort it takes to get all the changes you've made done. Regardless of any preferential differences when it comes to style, I think you've done an awesome job, mostly because the new look represents *you* [well, since I don't actually know you, it fits well with the tone and styling on the blog, and you seem pretty happy with the results], and that's inspirational.
Oh yes, the readers seemed to what a certain professional "slickness" which is not really what DIY blogging is about, is it? I like realism. And yup, the blog sure is "us," although I have a host of new ideas I'm itching to implement – maybe this house, maybe the next. Just so many ideas!!
I agree, the more popular you get the more people hate instead of congratulate Some of the most popular blogs I read don't even let people leave comments because they are just there to give info and stories. The world is getting more hateful day by day, sad thing is I think people don't know how to socialize anymore because of computers. No one sees real people anymore and they hide behind a screen to say mean things and somehow this makes them feel better about themselves. SAD.Good luck with everything and this will pass. Just keep doing what you are doing. Amy
Amy, this is such an insightful comment. I think you're onto something: people forgetting how to socialize and really forgetting there are people on the other side of the monitor!
I just read through the comments left on the article by the Hufftington Post. I am truly sorry you're having to deal with that. Such ignorance. My guess is most have never visited a DIY blog before and have no idea about actual before/after photos. Like asking if you bought all new furniture. Uhhh….. The before is the previous owners……. Duhhhhh…. And then all that b.s. with some saying they liked the before pictures better. I really hope those people never start a house blog, cause it would be ugly, and dark. I LOVE everything you've done to your house. It screams "you" and that's wonderful. I wish I had half the talent, and motivation, you do. You have one of the best DIY blogs. I can't wait to see what you post next 🙂
Aren't they HARSH?!? And weirdly angry and on the offensive – like I attacked them. So weird. And yes, there was some silliness. When I got over the sheer shock, I laughed at a few that were so negative, they seemed like SNL skits.Thanks for your motivating words. You're so sweet to me! You've always left lovely comments and I've appreciated each and every one.
We think you're pretty awesome, Tanya! These are such harsh comments but like you said….haters are gonna hate. Keep up your great work, people are just jealous and ignorant. Just ignore than and keep doing what you love 🙂 The rest of us are here to support you and this amazing community 🙂 Keep it real and keep it you and that's all it matter !
You have risen above Tanya! Please don't let this get you down! You know what they say….you know you have 'arrived' in blogland when you get negative comments! Lol!Just completely discount them…they are not worth your time or energy! Keep on doing what you are doing…which is sharing a fantastic blog! Happy Monday! Angie xo
Wow, this makes me incredibly sad (except that little kitty, which makes my heart explode). My little blog hasn't blown up, but I once had a project posted on Apartment Therapy and people left the meanest comments. I literally cried. I just don't understand why people are so mean. I guess it's the relative anonymity and complete lack of any consequences that comes with leaving a comment on the internet, but man, if they only knew how much it can break a person. Completely thoughtless. Anyway, I enjoyed your post. Well said, lady, well said.
Oh my gosh, I'm so sad to hear you cried!! You're literally making me want to cry, that people can feel good about having such as crap effect on other people. The little kitty helps 😉
Home2Home is right, we think you are awesome! I am so sorry that you had such horrible comments. They obviously have forgotten their manners. My favourite quote to my kids from Bambi, "If you can't say something nice, don't say nothin' at all" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wui-PNqJrxs
Thanks 🙂 That's kind of you to say.Some people need that quote stamped backwards on their foreheads . . .
Oh, this is so frustrating to hear. All of your blog friends love your style and think your photos are great!! Keep your chin up 🙂 xo
i have had negative comments on my blog as well as on features (mostly at apartment therapy). i just tell myself that if those people have to say something mean about a project done by someone they don't even know and belittle that person, then they must be in a really bad spot in life and i should feel sorry for them and pray that they find joy.
You have?!? Jeez Louise your blog is amazing. That saddens me to hear.It's so true: I don't even count the opinion of someone who is so negative. But it bothers me that that kind of attitude is so rampant. And defended!!
Oh Tanya. I don't think I have to tell you again that your house is gorgeous, your blog is a delight, and those idiots don't matter in the least. You know we all love you, right? But this kind of thing terrifies me. I mean, I'm at least a year and a lot of work behind you, but if This Dusty House ever takes off – something I'll admit I desperately want – I don't know if I would be strong enough to stand under a barrage of haters. I admire you for writing this! For not ignoring the negativity and addressing it head-on. Honestly, you are a role model for other bloggers. Thank you, thank you for your honesty and your openness.
Thanks, I appreciate that!Oh gosh, if anyone ever leaves a harsh word on your blog, you just send 'em to me and I'll give them a little lesson in being a person. It hurt a little to share this, because it's a touch embarrassing, even if I'm so cool about it. But I wanted to share, to get it out, to maybe help other folks who've been in the same boat. Maybe make a naysayer whose lurking feel a little guilty.
I understand. My first experience with something like this was a feature on Apartment Therapy. AT readers are critical! You are better than me, I didn't even respond.
Wonderful response, t. I'm also concerned about how negative and rude people are now, especially in the younger generation. I find people are really dismissive about it – which only makes the problem worse. I admit that up until I became an adult, I was pretty darn rude – I had a wake-up call that completely changed the way I treated others. Unfortunately not everyone wakes up. And since society is becoming more and more insular, life is becoming more and more like the movie Mean Girls every day, except without the self-realization at the end.
We need Tina Fey to write the world . . .
Decor and the Dog just had the exact same thing happen to her. I don't understand why people can't just click the bright red 'x' in the corner of their screen when they don't like something. Like Jenna said above, I love reading your blog even though our styles are different – I can always get ideas and appreciate your style in your home. 🙂
awe bloggy hugs to you Tanya!
There have always been rude, negative people, but the internet gives them a forum for their acrimony and an opportunity to spew it with anonymity.I say shake it off and "consider the source," as my mother always said. There are all kinds magazines and blogs dedicated to complete architectural renovations, professional decorating and expert photography, if that's what these people are interested in. But if that were truly the case, they'd be reading them and not bashing your townhouse. I fear the internet has spawned a whole sub-culture of bored, unhappy people who do nothing but go from blog to blog being intentionally harsh and critical.Maybe they should get off the computer, grab a paintbrush and make some improvements to their own homes.
Well said.
It's so true! There are what? 17 million DIY/design/home blogs. Find another! Or wait for another HP article or troll Pinterest a bit. No shortage of eye candy if mine's not sweet enough.
I had to comment because this is such a huge issue how insensitive people can be to those they aren't face to face with. Anonymity gives them courage but the recipient no shield. It unfair and hurtful and the one reason that I cannot start my own blog. I am too sensitive to the harsh criticism of others and am unable to let it roll off my back. I haven't read all the comments to this post but Dana comments just above mine are bang on. Personally, I am shocked at such comments- I know I can be critical sometimes but I often chose to say nothing or am careful to craft comments so that they can be constructive. However, in this case, I just don't get it; they're just plain unfounded. I found the before photos to be dark but thought that perhaps that they were the realtor's photos. Knowing that you took them with the same camera, settings and light may be useful to demonstrate how much the white walls improve the lighting. How could you expect that this information must be provided lest you be attacked by those accusing you of tampering? But I laughed out loud as I read your 'fabulous cliche'…. I was confused by little brown starfish. I read it, struggling to understand, since the cliche that I was familiar with referred to…. light goes on…. I belly laughed harder than if I'd got it immediately! I hope this doesn't deter you. I just wish that those haters would all go away or at least keep their pieholes closed.Big fan! Always!
I never even contemplated getting comments, let alone bad ones, when I started the blog. I was so naive.With the photos, even if it WAS a big conspiracy and the afters were professionally lit (if only I had the coin, lol), who friggin' cares, you know? I think there are bigger issues in the world, right? It was nutty.Happy you got a laugh!! I try to keep it clean on the blog . . . hoping folks got it!And thanks for your kind words!!
Well put. I was just talking with my friends about this subject a couple of hours ago. Glad you spoke up and I do feel sorry for people who can only say negative things.
I absolutely adore your townhouse and style.You have single handedly inspired me to try my hand at painting my own art! I bought all the stuff last week. I haven't used it yet but I will. I love your blog!
Yay!! So excited about your painting project!!! Good luck 😀 And I'd love to see photos . . .
You are the bomb. I know you didn't write this blog post for affirmations from your blog friends, but just know that you are amazing at what you do and you can't let haters get under your skin. I really hope this doesn't deter you from doing what you love.Also, everything you said about negative people is absolutely true. I work in the customer service industry and some people just like to take out their bad days on strangers. And the internet makes it all too easy, unfortunately.
I wasn't hoping for it, I just wanted to get some thoughts off my chest, but the affirmations have been nice to hear. So thanks! And so sorry to hear you're at the receiving end of some crummy people yourself. Makes me frustrated because you're such a sweet person!!
Aw thanks! Right back at ya!I just think it all comes down to karma. You get back what you put out in the universe, even anonymously! LOL.
Tanya,it makes me very sad that you have to experience this crazy amount of negativity! Unfortunately, here in Germany the exact same thing is happening. People hate on whatever they lay eyes on. It is just crazy. I have absolutely no idea where this habit comes from. But whenever you read an article, a blog post or the tiniest piece of anything really people start leaving harsh and derogative comments. At first, I avoided reading comments just so that it would spare me the rage about people's stupidity but then I thought I want to make it a habit to leave something positive. So everytime I encounter this new bad habit of humanity I try to take the time and leave honest, constructive and positive feedback.Whenever I stop by your blog, I am intruiged by what you do. Your projects inspire my own creativity and that feels great. Maybe it is just me but being creative and making beautiful things makes me feel like a better version of myself as a person. I thoroughly enjoy spending time on your blog and I just wanted to let you know.
Oh no! It's an international thing?!? I suddenly feel very tired. It's so awesome you're fighting back on the internet!! I try to also, leaving nice comments for people being lambasted. But there's just so many negative comments out there . . . Well, if many of us do it, we can make a different!
Kudos to you! I hope everyone reads this post and pulls the poles out from their little brown starfishes!
Ha ha ha!!
I think the people that wrote those stupid things about your blog are deeply miserable and feel super jealous at your life. It's sad that saying those thigs is the highlight of their day…Cheers for writing this post. You are the best
What is actually kind of funny is that some of us have moved into houses like yours was in the before photos – and your photos reflected the look perfectly. Just wished I had the great after photos to go with!
Awww, thanks. Although the initial renovation was a race, the rest has been a marathon and a long process. I'm sure you'll have an "after" you love soon enough. And I'll probably be jealous 😉
I am also one of those who found you via the Post – and have visited you often since fascinated with your ideas. Am trying my hand at some bedroom wall paintings similar to your master bedroom ones this week, something I never would have attempted before. Your easy, conversational, honest writing style makes things seem possible.
It's so nice to hear that people came over from the Post who liked the blog. I'm so excited you're trying some paintings!! I promise they are very do-able. If you use acrylic paint, it's easy to just keep layering and layering until you like what you see. And if it ends up different than what you intended (like mine originally did) but you like it, just go with the flow. Well, that's what usually happens to me, anyway, and it is typically a happy accident.I'd love to see photos when you're done.
Sorry you had to experience that. Unfortunately, when you put yourself out there, you are bound to get some nitpickers. But at least they are talking about you 😉
Any press is good press, I guess? Lol.
I am one of the people who found your blog via Huffington Post and found everything about your site interesting and fun and it gave me lots of ideas!Just wanted you to know that some people who read HP are not jerks.Even if it did not appeal to me, I don't understand the impulse to bash – Just wanted to show my support…love your links too, thanks for those!
So nice you came over from the Post (and that you're having a good time touring around the blog). Nice to meet you! And thanks for your kind comment – it's much appreciated.
Astonishing, isn't it? There's nothing so irritating to unhappy people as someone who is open and cheerful and interested in sharing what she's doing! Hmmmm… I'm thinking about a mirror message for your detractors: "Warning: Reflections in this mirror may be distorted by the supercilious perspective of the viewer." And maybe embellish it with a very large faux crack down the center? Not worth the energy, but fun to think of. Hang in there. You're doing great work.
I love your DIY idea!! It's genius.
I"m so sorry that this wonderful opportunity of being featured in the Huffington Post turned into such a negative experience. I would have been super excited to have been noticed and to be interviewed for an article and it is a pity that such rude people felt the need to say anything. I'm especially shocked because their criticism is so unfounded. Your home is gorgeous and you have a fantastic blog. I hope you can put it behind you and focus on the positive support you get on your blog.
You said it, Tanya: Haters gonna hate. So lame. And sad. I'm sorry you had that terrible experience. Sending you cyber high fives for rocking this awesome blog with your "professionally lighted pictures." (How dare you?! he he…)
Mean people suck. They have to leave ugly comments online because nobody wants to have a conversation with them.You just keep creating YOUR blog YOUR way….that's what makes it so much fun! It's obvious from all of the positive support, we've got your back!
Holy Smokes – I am shocked……so sorry.
Haters suck Tanya! I'm so glad that you can see them for what they really are. Keep up the good work, you know we all love you xx
Amen!! You tell em…I recently was featured on Apartment Therapy and the commenters were pretty harsh. It really brought me down…http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/bathroom-appliance-storage-from-a-file-box-173838But reading your post today has helped me to see that those people aren't worth my tears and that the people who TRULY matter are the supporters =) Thanks for sharing!
Wow, those comments were pretty harsh! I don't understand why people who don't like something feel it's appropriate to me mean or condescending about it. Well, I think your idea is so clever! I never would have thought of that. It's perfect for people with little storage space and what a time saver for women who need to get ready quickly in the morning: the "tools" are right at hand.It's true: these negative Nellies aren't worth our time. Being human, though, it does still hurt a little.
This is exactly why I have stopping posting on my blog. I am so scared of what people are going to say about my silly posts. I don't know what is wrong with some people and what has made some people become so mean and harsh. I don't understand how someone can sit at a computer and type such horrible things to/about someone or something that you know they would never say to that person's face. Or maybe they would! It just elevates the hatred in the world and it's sad.You're post was great. And I like A LOT of people love your blog and all your ideas/decor!XOXOKim
I can totally understand where you're coming from. I'd be hurt by all those haters too. But I'm glad you wrote about it, so you could get it off your chest. I know negative comments just freaking suck, BUT your home is designed the way YOU love it, and if you're happy then that's all that matters! I think it's gorgeous, and the white walls really do brighten it up. I think you're so right about people not being happy with their own lives so they feel the need to cut others down. Those people are lame, and I feel sorry for them. You keep rockin' on and doing what you do because your home is so pretty!
Well you already know I love you so I won't even bother with that part. I can only imagine how hurtful it must have been to receive all those shitty comments. Having said that, I refuse to be part of that in real life or on the web. I have zero time in my life for negativity. I work really hard to be a positive person and I agree that haters are just people who can't find happiness for themselves so they try to beat you down. Just keep on doing what you're doing girl!!
Hi,I just love your blog and I'm a long time fan, your blog is one of my top ten favourite go to sites.Just remember there are more nice people in the world than not, I can't believethat people are bullied on line, don't take any notice Tanya and keep on blogging.cheersMargo on Vancouver island
Oh my what awful comments on the Post! I'm so sorry you had to experience that. I found myself talking back to my computer wanting to shake some of the people with their hurtful comments. Please don't let that experience deter you from posting on your wonderful blog!
Uggg, I'm so sorry that you had to deal with this.It makes me super pissy when criticism is given like this…like if they said something constructive ( like you were saying ) then maybe you could do something with that. All these people are doing is spewing hate.
Tanya,Congrats on getting featured on HP. I'm a new follower to your site. Happy to see you're trying to take the nasty-ness that is HP in stride. I'm not a fan of the HuffPost. Too many self-hating, miserable a**holes trolling that site. For what it's worth, if Jesus Christ himself had a featured post there, 80% of the commenters would criticize his sandals and the rest would tell him how dated his beard is. Keep up the good work.
Hi John! Nice to meet you.This has to be the best. comment. ever.:D
This is a great article! I love that you took the time and effort to address this and what you say is totally correct. If you don't like something and want to express your opinion, be constructive, not hateful. Nice work!
While I do haunt HuffPo a lot I missed the article, bummer, but do know you truly can't take anything said there personally. Years ago I coined the phrase….computers are the new white hoods for our time….and they are. I used to ask people if they were actually that hateful and rude in real life….they'd have to wear a hockey mask to protect themselves if they were so I expect not.You have a charming blog and nothing those sad little people can say has any bearing on your reality unless you let it. I used to take it personally but now honestly feel bad for them. What sad, empty little lives they must live. This is truly a case where the best revenge is living a good, productive and happy life like you do.
I think your house/blog/eye for a beautiful bargain is freakin-super-smashing-cool Tanya.Love Sarah