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I’m Tired. I’m Frustrated. And I Want To Walk Away.

Let me just warn you up front that today’s post isn’t my usual “everything’s great and DIY is so awesome and I’m having a blast over here and getting all kinds of things done” type of post. Because frankly, I’ve kind of reached a breaking point. I just feel angry and resentful, and rather than diminishing over time, those feelings are festering. I need to get them out, because holding it in is unhealthy. I’m writing this not even knowing if I’m going to hit the “publish” button, or if I’m just writing it as some sort of psychological exercise, like those letters that therapists tell you to write just to get the emotions out, even if the letter ends up in the trash can rather than in the hands of the person to whom it’s addressed.

This immense frustration that I feel started about two weeks ago when I shared my new FINISHED entryway…

When I finished that entryway, I was thrilled. Giddy, even. It felt like a breath of fresh air to me. It felt like I finally had an area of my home that I decorated without a ton of input (or any, really) from others, and therefore it fully and completely represented me. Just me. Completely me. That small area is filled with things I love — birds, gold accents, stripes, a gallery wall, loads of color, teal, texture.

I mean, even still, two weeks later, every time I walk into my front door, I stop and stare at the entryway wall and just take it all in. I can’t wait until the rest of my house feels the same way to me.

So when I posted my FINISHED entyrway — a part of MY house that completely and totally represents ME — I was shocked to see so many comments from people offering decorating advice, and ways for me to improve my entryway, and “constructive feedback” of what needs to go and what needs to stay, and how the things that stay should be redone and tweaked to make them better.

I mean….WHAT? I thought it was just me being tired and sensitive, so I just responded to a couple of those comments as nicely as I could. But when two other commenters seemed shocked, I realized that it wasn’t just me.

One of them said…

Your readers can’t seem to stop giving their opinions even when you didn’t ask for them. “Voting” and “chosing” when you never asked for everyone to pick their favorite rendition. Giving you “ideas” and “things to consider” when you clearly stated that you considered it done and that you were thrilled with how it turned out. People, when there’s a final reveal, if you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything.

Another one said…

WOW! It’s crazy how people don’t hesitate to tell you exactly what they think of your designs, even when their opinion is critical or negative. As someone who is very indecisive when it comes to my own decorating, I can’t imagine trying to design or decorate a space with so much outside input. No wonder you are constantly second guessing things!

Quite honestly, those two comments gave me some comfort, and I realized that it wasn’t just me being thin-skinned.

I honestly cannot wrap my head around this. I finished an area in MY house, said that I loved it, said that it was filled with things that I love, and that it suited ME perfectly, and then I get offered all kinds of unsolicited feedback on how to improve the design.

Improve it for whom, exactly? For me? For the homeowner who just said it’s finished and she’s thrilled with how it turned out?

I can’t even express to you how discouraging that is to read comment after comment after comment after comment like that. And unless you’re a content creator yourself, you probably will never understand exactly what that’s like.

But just imagine for a second that you’ve just finished decorating your house to suit your personality, your taste, your style, and your needs. You invite people over to celebrate the completion of your house, and rather than celebrate with you that you’ve finished your home and that you love it and it suits you, they instead start doling out “decorating advice” and “constructive criticism” followed by a list of items that need to be changed or removed or improved upon.

I just cannot imagine doing that to someone else — neither in real life nor online.

I have very particular taste. In the 25+ years that I’ve been interested in decorating and have subscribed to magazines, had access to Pinterest, have followed tons of bloggers and Instagrammers, I could probably count on one hand the number of times I’ve walked into someone else’s house or have seen pictures of someone else’s room and thought to myself, “I could move right in here and be totally comfortable.”

Seriously, probably less than five times in 25+ years. Almost every single room that I walk into in someone else’s house, or every single picture that I see online, whether it’s been designed by a blogger or some internationally famous interior designer, there are always elements that I would change to suit my taste if the room belonged to me.

But do you know how many times I’ve doled out unsolicited decorating advice to someone else? Zero. Because why should I suggest that someone else change a lamp in THEIR living room that I don’t like? Am I really so self-important that I think someone else’s home should suit MY taste? IT’S NOT MY HOUSE, and their decorating choices don’t need to please me. If they’re happy with it, that’s all that matters. And if they’re happy with it, then why would I even need to express to them my distaste for their lamp?

I DON’T. That’s information I should just keep to myself. Expressing my distaste of their lamp in a room they’ve just finished decorating and are thrilled with is not productive at all. It benefits no one.

And maybe I wouldn’t be so frustrated about this if I saw it happening to other bloggers and Instagrammers, but I don’t. I spent about two hours last night reading comments on other bloggers’ room reveals, and other Instagrammers’ posts, and I don’t see anything like this happening on others’ blogs and Instagram accounts.

I even went to two Instagram accounts by people with very colorful and eclectic taste — Brandi at The Hectic Eclectic and Ariel at PMQ for Two. I love following both of them. And yet as much as I love color and pattern, both of them push the envelope a little beyond what I’m personally comfortable with in my own home. And yet, I find them both so incredibly inspiring, and even though there are things about every single room that they post that I would change if those rooms belonged to me, I would never consider offering either one of them unsolicited decorating advice or constructive feedback or a list of things that need to be changed in their rooms. And evidently, neither would anyone else, because I read through comments on post after post after post after post, and I didn’t see a single comment from anyone with anything even resembling “constructive feedback” on how to change their rooms to make them a little more toned down so that their eyes have “a place to rest.” Not a single comment.

(For the record, I could slap whoever coined that stupid term “a place for the eye to rest.” Maybe your rooms need “a place for the eye to rest” because that’s what your personality, taste, style, temperament, and lifestyle require, but not everyone is the same. If you want proof of that, just search the hashtag #maximalistinteriors on Instagram. Clearly those homeowners have absolutely zero need for “a place for the eye to rest.” It’s ridiculous to think that every single person has a need for that in their homes. And also for the record, do you know how many of the rooms under that hashtag appeal to me exactly as they are? Zero. Do you know how many of those homeowners I’d offer unsolicited decorating advice to? Zero.)

I mean, I see pictures of rooms like this all over Instagram, and yet there’s not even once single comment from people like, “I don’t like the settee,” or “It’s too busy,” or “Here’s some constructive feedback with a list of ways in which you can improve your room.”

Are you telling me that that room is just so universally eye-pleasing so as not to warrant any type of “constructive feedback,” and yet my entryway is so offensive to the eye that I require unsolicited lists of things that need to be changed even though I’ve said that I love it, that it’s filled with things I love, that it makes me happy to see it as I walk through my front door, and that I’m thrilled with how it turned out?

I just don’t get it.

And yet, I posted my entryway last night on Instagram, explaining how happy it makes me when I walk in my front door, how it’s filled with things I love, and how it perfectly suits ME and my taste, and here come more critical comments. After re-reading the comments on my entryway post, these are evidently the changes I need to make…

  • I need to remove the ottomans.
  • I need to remove half of the bird pictures.
  • I need to remove the clock.
  • I need to change the color of the lamp shades because they look cheap.
  • I need to arrange the pictures differently.
  • I need to move the sconces.
  • I need to remove the sconces altogether.
  • I need to remove the books.

And on, and on, and on.

And evidently I need to make these changes based on “constructive feedback” in an area of my home that I’ve already declared is finished, that suits my taste perfectly, that’s filled with things I love, and that I’ve said I’m absolutely thrilled with.

And let me set the record straight. I’m not frustrated because there are people who don’t like my entryway. I TOTALLY UNDERSTAND that my decorating isn’t for everyone. I like things much busier and way more colorful than most people are comfortable with. And that’s perfectly fine with me.

I’m frustrated because it seems that I’m not allowed to decorate my own home in a manner that suits my taste without being handed a list of ways to improve my design and things I need to change.

Again, change for WHOM? I said it was finished. I said I was thrilled with the outcome. I wasn’t looking for “constructive feedback” and lists of things that I need to change in order to improve what I had done. I don’t want that any more than you would want someone walking through your newly-decorated home and pointing out everything they dislike and find wrong with your decorating choices and offering you “constructive feedback” in your home that you’ve said is finished and perfectly suits your taste and personality.

I can assure you that you’d feel every bit as discouraged and frustrated as I feel right now.

*Sigh* Sometimes I think the internet has ruined us. It has caused us to interact with people in ways that we would never interact with people in person. It has caused us to mislabel rudeness as being “bold” and “brave” and “honest”. We have lost some of our humanity. We’ve forgotten that that there are actual people with actual feelings behind those monitors. We’ve gotten so used to doling out our opinions, generally when not even asked, because the internet has given all of us a soapbox and a false sense of self-importance. We’ve placed more value on “the right to express my opinion” than we have on actual human beings.

And I’m tired. At this very moment, I desperately want to walk away from this blog and all social media and never look back.

Unfortunately for me, I can’t do that. But I can walk away temporarily. For my own mental health and sanity, that’s exactly what I need to do.

 

 

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419 Comments

  1. Well, don’t do that. Take a break, yes, but don’t leave those of us out here who love you and your independent spirit. Yes, you’re right. The internet, with its anonymity, allows a degree of rude insertion into others’ lives, opinions, leanings, and tastes that would be intolerable in another generation or any previous medium. You have a perfect right to decorate your home any freaking way you wish. Paint zebra stripes on the ceiling. Add crazy mandalas to the exterior. Build a 12-foot fence [I’d check codes first, though! 🙂 ] I agree. You have to be terribly thick-skinned expose yourself to the world in its current state, but you shouldn’t have to become a rhinoceros. Keep at it, Kristy. Take a breath, take a break, take a look at the beauty you’re creating just for you and Matt, and know that there are plenty of us who recognize that we are the recipients of generous privilege just to peek over your shoulder. Love ya, girl!

    1. Yes, Yes, and Yes. My thoughts exactly. You do you, Kristi. Haters gonna hate, and the world is full of them. Even though I personally would never make most of the design choices that you do for my own home, it’s so inspiring to see the amazing things you do on a daily basis. I love reading your posts, and I’ll miss them greatly while you’re on hiatus.

      1. I totally agree. Please don’t quit Posting, Kristi, at least not permanently. Yours is one of three blogs that I daily read. And even though my decorating style is not nearly as colorful, I LOVE seeing everything that you are doing.

    2. Two words “block party”. Delete the negativity. It’s your blog, your house. You don’t need it. Other bloggers block all the time. That’s why you’re not seeing t. People are mean and need a platform. This one is yours. Knock them off!

      1. Amen! It’s your blog and I highly encourage you to do exactly that.

        This was a reveal and you didn’t “ask” for feedback.

        Consider the removal a part of education in regards to social media. It’s the new normal and if people don’t learn media etiquette, it will become crazy.

        Another way to think about it is a form of bullying. Opinions are only opinions and every one has them but there are right times to use them and right times to be quiet and respectful.

        One of your blog admirers for many years,
        Bonnie

      2. I agree with Connie. There is no way that there isn’t negativity on other blogs and posts. It’s everywhere! Before I even saw her comment, I wondered if you could delete posts that made you unhappy, or frustrated, or had no place in your plan for your blog. I have done those “letters that get trashed” to get rid of a LOT of frustration over the years. They sure helped me and I hope this post helps you. And I’m glad you shared it. I love the way my house is decorated, but I know it’s not for everyone. Sometimes, I don’t care for other peoples’ decorating ideas, but like you, I’d never assume that my opinion mattered in the least. If someone came into my house and shared their opinions like some of your followers do, they would be escorted out and not allowed to come back. Something to consider. I know I’m rambling, but I feel your frustration and that makes it hard for me to put together coherent thoughts…LOL. Love your blog!!!!!!

    3. I Love your blog. Have for years.
      Have been inspired by your skills, decor, imagination, and creativity.
      Never made one comments until today.
      Why? Because its your house.
      And you do whatever you want to make it YOUR HOME.

      And it’s turning out beautiful.

      TROLLS – just part of negative social media, anonymous, rude, crude, and losers!
      They are always going to be out there, trying to discourage, break you, and take you down.
      Don’t let it happen.

      Take a few days off.
      Regroup.
      And Decorate, DIY, and Carry On.

      XOXOXOXOXO

      1. Thank you also for your powerful honesty and unique transparency. Your latest post is a testament to those attributes.

        For me, the key factor in this whole discourse is that we ARE “guests in your home”. If we don’t like something, we should recall what our mama/grandmama would advise…”if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything.” Especially and particularly, when feedback is unsolicited.

        Though rarely exemplified, Etiquette 101 is desperately needed in this day of ultra-social networking. Unfortunately for us and our culture, anonymity and nastiness has given the worst of us license to criticize the best of us. And you, Kristi, are the best of us.

        So make adjustments to protect your peace.
        Do whatever you need to do to refresh and restore your spirit.
        Come back to us when you’re ready.

        WE’LL BE RIGHT HERE. Blessings!

    4. I agree. I appreciated the manner in which you unveiled your entry way: lots of DIY projects with no hints about their final resting place. Then the big reveal! I always admire your creativity and use of color. Block comments unless you are soliciting feedback, and stay the course. You have many admirers.

    5. Kristi, I love your blog and read it always.

      Wouldn’t the world be boring if everyone had the same tastes and decorated the same way! Your style is a breath of fresh air! It’s uniquely you – which it should be. Surround yourself with the comfort of the house you adore and don’t let anyone do bully you into changing. Give yourself a break, but please come back to your blog.

    6. Agree with Kathy! Manners and tact are on the way out, if not already completely gone. Do what makes you happy. Ignore or delete negative Nellies. Haters gonna hate, so “shake it off.” 🙂 Hard to do, I know. But stay strong and do what you love, love what you do. (I am full of cliche.)

    7. I can see I’m in good company! 1. You take a break-whether you sit and read a book, go somewhere on your bucket list, visit friends and family, whatever it is enjoy it, dont think about blogging or decorating (not sure that would be possible for me!) and come back refreshed. 2. Maybe set some guidelines-unless YOU ask for feedback any comments that don’t start with “I would do it this way for MY tastes” or something similar will be deleted unread. I know some folks are just plain mean, unkind, etc, so I’m not ignoring them, but I wonder if a bunch of the comments are folks who follow you using your work as a sounding board for what they might like in their own homes? having said that, when you have clearly stated this is a final reveal and I love it, thats not the time to toss out changes, ideas and thoughts for how to make your look into my look. 3. Know that there are so many of us that love what you do, are delighted that we aren’t the only ones who struggle to put substance to our decorating style and would be SAD if you went away! Blessings on your time off, hope to see you back and refreshed.

  2. Please don’t quit!! I can’t tell you how much I love your spirit and can do attitude. I appreciate the way you share all of the tutorials too. Just taking all those pictures as you work and posting them is so inspirational!!

  3. Just the biggest HUG ever. Unless you are not into that…and then no hug.

    It is hard to put yourself in the public eye. I don’t vlog or blog, but I have been known to volunteer in ways that put me in the limelight sometimes. People have a lot of opinions about how someone else could do something better…and meanwhile, they don’t do anything at all. If you need a break, take it. As for me…I regret not congratulating you on your finished room. I saw it, I appreciated it, and I didn’t comment anything. It is beautiful, and it is definitely you. For my own selfish reasons, I hope you come back to us. But yes, sometimes you have to disconnect and spend time with your own reality away from the public.

    Another giant internet hug if you want!

    1. I 100% agree with this ladies post. Take a rest, finish your home in your bases, in you taste choices…we enjoy your abilities. You are extremely talented, fierce and very brave…thats the Kristi I come here to see. This aint no Houzz ppl., get over yourselves and yiur armchair coaching, and let Ms. Addicted2decorating, do HER STUFF!! I’ve been reading your blog for what seems like 4ever, some of these ppl have no clue….don’t bother with their trifling butts. You’ve had your say, take a breather, regroup, come back kicking ass. Your loyal old followers, we love you!

  4. Sorry you are down. People are not always thoughtful. I love reading your blog and am always inspired by your work. It’s not always me, but as you so correctly say…it’s NOT my house, it’s yours! Don’t let those few comments get you down. I read about four blogs regularly and yours is ALWAYS inspiring. Rest, take a deep breath and get back to making your house YOURS!

  5. Please don’t leave!!! You’re my favorite blogger and you inspire me with your ideas and your skills! People suck sometimes. I think if I ran a blog, I would never even read the comments. Wait, did I just tell you what to do, too?! 🙂 You do what makes you happy. Your sanity, your home, your marriage, etc. are more important that a bunch of people you’ve never met.

  6. Thank you Kristi for sharing your heart.
    I hear the pain that our(yes, I was one of them😢) comments caused you, and i am so sorry. Would you please forgive me?
    I have learned something valuable, and will be a better friend in rhe future.

    1. Carol,

      This. Public confession. Appreciation for honesty. Request for forgiveness. Pledge to do better. This is what an adult does. You win at adulating today. Bless you!

      1. Love the above statement. Ditto. You’re always brave Kristi…. as a decorator, as a person.

        Your points are so spot on Kristi…. technology has created so much opportunity…. for amazing …. and awful.

        Someone said delete unhelpful points, go for it.

        I think I stated before that you always inspire me to push forward, try, nothing is even a mistake if when I do something it ends up different then I imagined….. you mentor that powerfully. I have come from the land of chicken poo decorating as it would end up being tame, lack a true statement AND then stay that way forever because heaven forbid it’s a waste of good $ to change so soon. Paint again now, silly me. Well you demonstrate decorating is an evolution, never permanent.

        Also…… you are incredibly thorough in your videos, your blog is so polished, graphics beautiful, site is very functional.

        I don’t recall but do you have a rules of the blog in your header…. throw your parameters in there, sad that may be needed or feel supportive to you. For me I feel your blog is quite like a class, that you want us to go forth inspired creating beauty and interest in our environments. So I want to learn, and naturally I want to ask questions about some of your decor elements. NOT that I want you to feel defensive about what you did, or change it, or that I even like or dislike it, that really isn’t essential to my questions….. but I often want to understand why you did it that way, learn and employ a design technique myself. Yeah sometimes, maybe often times, it’s simply a representation of your taste and preference but isn’t it also that you’re balancing space, or adding texture or interest, or maybe sometimes it is a functional circumstance or dealing with a limit in your physical environment. You share so much of that but sometimes my mind is asking something more. I’m feeling silly here as I don’t have decor technology but no doubt you get what I’m expressing.

        Here are some recent examples of learning from your site…. fixing my own front steps so checking out the materials you used. May be doing dining chair seats like your ottoman tops as that would brilliantly be interesting, have multiple colors but not some of the limits of many printed fabrics, and I used your exact dining chair fabric in my own studio/office, I have 2 area rugs that are so fun but would have never considered owning before your blog, to name just a few. Time doesn’t allow but I bet most of us could post photos of things we’ve accomplished because of you. Much beauty that didn’t otherwise exist. Frankly I catch myself saying “what has Kristi done? What would Kristi do?” if nothing else to galvanize me that I can accomplish a task. It’s a shame you don’t see all of that reality you inspired in us playing out visually.

        Again, my sincere apologies if I have ever crossed boundaries. It’s been a privilege being a guest in your home.

    2. Maybe people didn’t realize how fragile your ego is and thought that if you are “publishing” something you expect honest opinions. There us a sure proof way to avoid getting your feelings hurt…

        1. I agree! If you don’t have something nice to say, hush it! This precious girl tackles more than us all put together! And takes care of her husband at the same time! Shame on you with ugly comments!

      1. Wow. The whole point of this post was to say that she wasn’t soliciting opinions when she posted about her FINISHED entryway. So, either you’re an idiot who has zero reading comprehension, or you’re a garbage person who asks to speak to the manager as soon as you don’t get your way. Probably both.

      2. Omg Pamela! Did you not just read her post?! She was not “publishing” to get people’s “honest opinions”! She was sharing her work on HER house that is on HER blog about an area that she completed and was very satisfied with as being done! She does NOT have a “fragile ego”! There have been times on her blog where she has asked for feedback and has constructively taken that feedback and changed it, then she ends up not being happy with the final outcome and ends up redoing the whole thing into something she likes and is happy with. She is now happy with this area and y’all need to take your opinions, that she didn’t ask for and stuff them. I see from your distasteful comment that you missed the WHOLE point of her post today! I, for one would appreciate you and the others like you who must spew negativety to remove yourselves from this blog and leaving the rest of us who really enjoy Kristi’s designs to appreciate them!

        1. Well said. when it become cool to be so rude. I love these blogs. i have learned so much about building and also correcting my mistakes without feeling bad. a true home is one that makes the owners happy to live there. We all are only visitors in her home. I for one am always glad to visit and looks at her new projects. xoxo

      3. Really Paula? Do you know Kristi that well to say she has a “fragile ego”. Honestly, you owe her an apology. She’s expressing frustration because she has readers that clearly think they can comment negatively and criticize, even after she said her room was DONE!
        Kristi, your talent blows me away! Please don’t let unkind people get you down. Your room looks beautiful!!!

      4. The sure proof way to avoid getting her feeling hurt is blocking trolls like you.

        I suggest finding a hobby that makes you happy that doesn’t include tearing other people down.

      5. People with fragile egos don’t last for eleven years writing a blog where they put their creative and artistic endeavors out into the world for public consumption. But do you know what takes zero creativity, zero bravery, zero integrity, and zero character? Sitting safely behind a computer screen and criticizing others.

        1. You hit the nail on the head Kirsti! All of this is the exact reason I do not live in the social media world. It is hateful and spiteful and people say things to others and act in a way they would never act to our faces. It is so sad how it is changing our social interactions, or lives, and our world! I have followed your blog via email for years and I truly appreciate the work you put into it. (Sidenote, I just found this post and the one after it in my junk files, I have no idea why after all these years it went to junk.) I wonder if maybe the other bloggers delete the negative comments? I would completely block those people as I don’t have time for that negativity in my life. I am so sorry you have to put up with the bullies.

      6. Wow. Pamela. Your lack of understanding and empathy is astounding. You certainly do not speak for me.

        Kristi, I have followed your blog for several years now, and very much look forward to your posts. I learn from you, not only about design and process, but also that mistakes aren’t the end of the world; perfection isn’t the end result, and it certainly lies in the eye of the beholder. Thank you for sharing your skills with us. Thank you for sharing your process with us. Thank you for sharing yourself with us. I appreciate every drop of sweat, every tear, and every woot-woot! I sincerely hope you will find healing and peace, and come back stronger than ever.

      7. One brave comment in the whole bunch. I doubt if any one of these people offering adulation and feeling sorry for Kristi sit at home watching home improvement shows without spewing tons of opinions about the results. This blog is no different than one of those shows. My first thought about that entry redo, redo, redo was that I liked many of the other manifestations much better. My ‘opinion’ was the same as the ones that Kristi is complaining naysayers said, but I realized that it is her home. That said, it is a blog where she is inviting engagement. Is only positive engagement allowed? Kristi is making money on this site. It’s not just for fun. Other people have good ideas too and possibly this could be turned into an opportunity to feature a “What would you do” section? Clearly, this kind of thing generated tons of clicks.

  7. Frankly, I admire your bold, unwavering style. You have inspired me to make choices in my own home that would have been overwhelming to me only a few years ago. Your choices are your choices. After all the unsolicited opinions and advise, you and your husband are the ones living in your house. Be brave. Be unapologetic. Most of all continue to be yourself.

  8. As a former blogger, I totally get what you are saying. It’s harsh and unsolicited criticism that one would never expect, especially if the situation was an in person reveal, and people seem to feel as though the internet creates a shield between how they would act face to face verses online that somehow makes it okay. It is not okay and I’m sorry you’ve been hurt. I enjoy your blog immensely and look for a post every morning and I hope you continue. One point that stood out to me was that you hadn’t noticed other bloggers having this problem. I think when you step back and ask why, in my humble opinion, it’s because you have created such a magical dialogue between your readers and yourself – I know no other blogger who gets more comments than you, good or bad. but mostly good You have become our friend, our decorating mentor, our hero for all DIY projects and you lay everything out there in a way that says here’s what I’m doing, what do you think?
    And some people are giving you ugly answers.
    They forgot that sometimes a step back is needed. They forgot that you really don’t want to know if they don’t like it. Some are living their decorating dream through you and saying ‘Oh yes! I love it! Now, if only you would move those ottomans, that would be MY perfect house.’
    Thank you for reminding us to take a step back, Kristi. I hope you continue, we’d love to keep hearing from you.

    1. Beth, I think you’re spot on. My first thought when reading Kristi’s comments that this is particular to her blog is that Kristi has done such a great job of making her readers feel included, we might feel too empowered to give feedback when it isn’t warranted.

      Kristi feels like our friend, even though most of us don’t know her at all. She not only shows us the beautiful and amazing things she does, but she frequently asks us what we think or to weigh in, she shares not just the work but the emotional ups and downs that let us see who she is, and she shares a good deal about herself- her dog and cats, her husband, her family. It is easy to feel like Kristi is a personal friend, and most of us I think try to be completely honest with our friends.

      But, we don’t actually get that privilege because we are just strangers on the internet. There is a time and place for critical feedback. You don’t tell your best friend that you dislike their spouse or children, or that yes, their favorite shirt does make them look fat (maybe you do, but you’re probably breaking your friend’s heart). Kristi’s decorating is a labor of love, and we as readers should respond appropriately, as if she is the kind of friend we treasure and that we want to support, not tear down.

      Have I ever made any hurtful comments here? I hope not, but maybe I have. I’m sorry if I have. This is the only blog I follow, and it’s not because I’m into DIY decorating, it’s because of Kristi’s amazing talent, the way her personality comes through on this blog, and because even when Kristi posts about being frustrated or tired, I know she has more heart and perseverance than most anyone, and I find her truly inspiring as a person as well as a decorator.

      Keep on being you, Kristi. You’re magic.

      1. I agree with Allison. For me, too, this is the only Blog I follow and I have thought for some time that some commenters were way out of bounds with some of their comments and I am sorry that I didn’t call them on it at the time. With social media operating the way it does, people can say anything without paying a penalty. They think their opinions are more important than anyone elses and they must be heard…….even if it hurts someone else. That simply is not acceptable, in my opinion.

        Take a break Kristi, and come back to us with renewed faith in your followers……..true followers are waiting right here for you.

      2. Well said. This is the only blog I follow as well and feel letdown when I open my email and there is no post of the day. It’s inspiring, from the I can do it attitude and finished projects to the fact her endless energy makes me so jealous! I hope I have never posted anything hurtful also. (I think I only offer opinion when it has been asked) and for the things that may not be my taste, I appreciate what I do like about it and move on.
        When you have finished a room, love it, and it makes your heart happy- don’t read the comments! There will always be people that don’t want to lift others up. Block those readers that always seem to have “ constructive criticisms” and never appreciate you! Maybe a – options requested vs no opinions requested- at the end of each blog post is needed😏
        Sorry your heart is hurting, remember your words- you decorate “for you” no one else matters!!

    2. Yes! THIS!!! You have definitely created a magical space of dialogue. I truly believe you have a special gift of making people feel like they are a part of YOUR journey. (That does not, however, make unacceptable comments okay.) I read your blog religiously. And I absolutely love it. I have, however, never commented before. I too noticed all the negative feedback you received on your entryway reveal. It angered me. I was surprised people were so bold. I hoped you would be able to ignore it. But I totally get why you are feeling the emotions you just shared. I am a crazy diy-er myself, and I find immense inspiration from you. I have considered starting a blog…mainly just for me. But if people actually started reading it…what would I do with these type of comments?!?! I can be very sensitive when it comes to things that are a labor of love for me. And this is one of the things that makes me not want to put anything out there. We love you, Kristi. Even the readers that are haters admire all you do. As for myself, I’m sorry I didn’t comment to congratulate you on an amazing entryway. I’m sorry I didn’t comment in response to the negative people letting them know their comments were unacceptable. I hope you think about all the readers like me…the ones that always read and love and admire what you do…but don’t comment. I guarantee there are way more of us than ALL the comments you receive. (maybe tenfold) Thank you for all the inspiration. You’re my hero. Keep doing YOU!!!! And thank you for being brave enough and bold enough to put YOU out there.

    3. I completely agree with this comment – – when you ask for input in one project, people feel like their unwarranted opinion is necessary for every project. Unfortunately when that “comment” button is there, people feel empowered to just click it, regardless of how their words may sound. Let’s be honest, what is the intention of most of the comments listed above? “oh you think I should change this lampshade? Well, let me run right out and do so”.. It would make the commenter feel important, like an influencer, when really they are doing nothing but sitting on the couch in their own life. I totally feel you – – I spent hours refinishing a dresser and when I posted it for sale, my first comment was “the color is too loud ” (btw it was navy, lol). It stings, but you’ve got this–usually negative comments come from people who don’t or can’t do what you do, or from people with little or no personal power in their own lives… Thinking about it like that lessens the sting ❤️

      1. <what is the intention of most of the comments listed above? “oh you think I should change this lampshade? Well, let me run right out and do so”.. It would make the commenter feel important, like an influencer,

        This is exactly my thought, as well.

        <My first thought when reading Kristi’s comments that this is particular to her blog is that Kristi has done such a great job of making her readers feel included, we might feel too empowered to give feedback when it isn’t warranted.

        Agreed.

        You rock, Kristi! And for that matter, your entryway rocks! Each item and the effect of the sum of the parts is really inspiring. And I love your tutorials. You work hard to create a great blog and I hope you find joy in it once again starting immediately.

  9. Thank you Kristi! Thank you for sharing what’s in your heart! I so agree with everything you said. I love your blog and how you share your process, but your entry post was not a “process post”. It was a “reveal post”.
    I love your entry – it looks so much like you!!

    1. I agree with Cathy…I dont recall you asking for anyone’s input for this last entryway project.. It was a REVEAL!!!!

  10. Thank you for your honesty. And your creativity. And generosity. But most of all, thank you for showing all of us what a real risk taker looks like and what she achieves. You go girl!!

  11. Trolls. Troll “experts.” I would probably be devastated if someone came into my home and offered “constructive” criticism on my decorating. And that’s what we, as followers, are doing. We’re visiting your home. I consider this criticism poor manners. I can understand you wanting to take break. Just remember…there are so many of us who are stunned and amazed by your skill, talents, hard work, etc. and we would hate to lose you.

  12. Exactly what Kathy said. I do believe the internet has made people think that they can hide behind the screen, and say whatever they want, and I do also believe that they are saying some things just to hurt people. But where did common courtesy go? Out the door, because people do not have manners or rules anymore! Like you said and my grandmother said, “If you can’t say anything nice, do not say anything at all!” And I too, look forward to each new posting, and can’t wait to see how things are going!

  13. I so agree with Kathy 100%. It is a privilege to be able to walk around your house with you for inspiration. My tastes are very different from yours but you are in inspiration to many of us out here for your wit, your spirit, your fearlessness.

    Why is it that people just so automatically, and rudely, insert themselves? We will never understand because of the anonymity of the space. I would find it exhausting to keep telling myself “Hey, it’s ok, I will ignore them” so I completely understand your feelings. We hope you will find a way to ignore them and keep moving ahead with your wonderful self. Know that you are adored out here by those of us that are mature adults sharing in your world.

  14. I totally understand wanting to walk away from the internet! I am not a blogger but it seems I can never be happy with how I decorate my home because someone always has something better. Your style Is totally not my style but I still enjoy looking to see what all you do. Perhaps those other bloggers you mentioned deleted negative comments. Anyway I hope you enjoy your break, and get refreshed! We all need that sometimes.😊

  15. Oh please don’t quit. Take a break, absolutely. Walk into a closet, shut the door and scream your head off. It relieves a lot of pressure. I know. I have learned so much from you: if it isn’t exactly the way you envisioned it, tear it apart and do it again. That thought had never crossed my mind until you tore out the tile on your kitchen wall because the each side of the door did not line up exactly. What a revelation. And I have done that – many times until I got exactly what I saw in my mind. My mother’s favorite decorating color was beige (not saying there is anything wrong with that) but my need for color always seemed to get boo-hooed. The first time I read your blog, the world of color opened up for me. I just redid my “mom” cave in shades of blue, yellow, coral and green. I absolutely love it but would never have done it if I hadn’t found you. And not one of my friends has suggested that I change anything. That is another thing I learned from you. I am decorating my house for me. I honest to god do not care if other people like it or not. I am the one who has to live with it. So if you want purple unicorns on your bedroom ceiling, you go for it. It is your house. People out there in the internet world need to think before they push that post comment button. How would you feel if someone was saying it to you?

  16. Every time I’ve seen those comments I think, “Everyone’s a critic.” and “She didn’t ask you”. My sisters have made comments on my choices but I just say, “Well I like it, good thing you don’t live here”. Keep on doing what you like. I think you’re amazingly talented.

  17. I do agree that I don’t see as much “constructive criticism” on other blogs (although yours is the only decorating blog I follow religiously), BUT, you also are the only one that often asks for input from readers. Ask and you shall receive, and receive, and receive, and receive. The gift that keeps on giving, amiright?

    I think it’s really hard for people who were raised to have manners and common sense, because SO MANY people weren’t. I don’t know about Texas, but here in Baltimore, MD, I feel like rude people outnumber nice people 10 to 1. I’m appalled by the way people treat each other in day-to-day situations, like ignoring the cashier when they say “hello, how are you?” or stealing a parking spot someone else was waiting for, or making everyone in the line behind you wait while you finish your personal phone call (all things I witnessed on Saturday, alone). And it only gets worse on the internet when they’re hiding behind a screen.

    Do you know the demographic of your followers? The impression I get (and I could be way off base) is that a lot of the followers that provide unsolicited criticism come off as middle-aged moms. And you know, moms have a hard time turning off the constructive criticism, because “they care.” 🙂 Gawd, I hope that doesn’t get me lambasted!

    Take a break and enjoy your finished work that you love. It’s important to remember that the only happiness that matters is yours (and Matt’s, I guess) 🙂

    1. I DO see a lot of “constructive criticism” on other blogs. The 4 I can think of off the top of my head are Young House Love (back when they still allowed comments on their blog), Miss Mustard Seed, Victoria Elizabeth Barnes and Worthing Court. They have different styles from each other and from you Kristi but regardless, they all receive unsolicited, unwelcome, unkind “suggestions”. Just saying this because I wanted to let you know that you’re not alone. They are all wonderful bloggers, decorators and writers and so are you. I’ve loved watching you transform the rundown house you and Matt bought into the beauty it’s becoming and I for one would feel a great loss if you walked away. I don’t say that to put my feelings first, I say it to let you know that I’m a huge fan. So much so, that after reading your blog for years, this is my first comment.

  18. I love how you’re not afraid to tweak what you’ve done, sometimes several times. Keep it up! It gives me permission to do that same thing in my home and maybe the energy to just paint the darn wall again! You’ve always encouraged ideas about your rooms. Because you’ve made changes so many times to areas in your home in the past, maybe some readers didn’t really even notice (or believe) that you’ve said this area is FINISHED?

  19. Bloggers/instagramers have been known to delete anything critical that shows up in their comments. Many people only show the positive comments to attract sponsorship.

    Based on the pics you provided I can almost guarantee that they did not only get positive feedback.

    I am just throwing this out there. I have no knowledge or opinion if this is actually true of the bloggers you mentioned.

    I never comment unless it is asked so I can’t speak about the motives some people have to offer opinions that aren’t asked for.

    1. I don’t know a ton about blogging/instagramming, but agree with your assessment and wanted to say that. I think *absolutely* what you said about others deleting negative or critical comments is 100% correct; if Kristi was looking for such comments in other blogs and not finding them, it likely compounded her bad feelings and her “Why me, what did I do?” kind of experience. There is NOTHING wrong with HER!

      1. Social media is ruining the world. I’m not even being dramatic. Politically, socially, culturally, social media is not really helpful. Families argue on social media, kids are becoming zombies looking at screens. I am as guilty as anyone. I live on my phone and iPad.

        I see these bloggers and their perfect lives based on the pictures they post. You think why can’t I be perfect like this family? Only to find out a month later it was all fake and there lives are a mess.

        Even if Kristis designs are not your style at all you have to admit she is real. We know that some of her house is not done, we know she changes her mind, we know she can be indecisive. We all know this. She isn’t a fake Instagram decorator who’s house is in perfect condition with various shades of gray.

        She is being real. I like that. I don’t compliments bloggers nor do I criticize them. This one just hit a nerve because I know that these pictures didn’t receive all positive comments.

  20. Whew! Thank you Kristi for getting all this out there. I am so sorry that people can be so unthinking and callous, or, are sometimes oblivious as to how their words are effecting others, not to mention the intentional meanies. It makes me feel sick, too. Do the commenters think they are just sitting around their house reading a magazine and making comments where no one hears or cares what they have to say?

    Your blog is so good and I love it. I love to see what you are doing and how you are doing it and everything you share with us gives me so much inspiration. Your blog gets more comments than I have seen on any other decorating blog. I don’t comment very often, but I’m out here reading and cheering you on and this required a comment. . .sigh. Maybe you could just turn off the comment button unless you *want* input or a vote. . .arrrgh. Anyway, I understand your need to put some breathing space between you and the blog/social media while you consider what to do. But, please don’t stay away too long.

  21. Does your blog have an option to “turn off” comments? If so, perhaps that’s how to handle this type of post in the future. Nothing prevents you from sharing your ideas..but the only way to stop the insensitive comments is to not read them or not let others write them. Just a suggestion

    1. There is an option to turn off comments, but I just can’t bring myself to do that, although maybe on specific posts I can. The fact is that most of the time, when a room is “in process” and I’m still muddling through making design and decorating decisions, I love reading others’ input. And I really love giving people a space where they can ask questions if they need more info or clarification about something. I do my absolute best to answer every single question that people ask (although I do sometimes miss a few). And I love the interaction and the back and forth that I have with my readers. I would miss that terribly if I turned off comments. It was really just the fact that I got so much “constructive feedback” on an area that I said was finished that got me so down. And especially after saying that I kept the process of decorating that area to myself until the reveal specifically because I DIDN’T want input. I don’t know what the answer is, but I don’t want to wall myself off from people. I don’t want to seem unapproachable.

      1. I wish I had one ounce of your creativity and skill. I’m always amazed with what you accomplish. In addition, I’ve learned so much from you…your instructions are so thorough. I always feel I could actually follow and create even if I’ve never done something. Please don’t stop. Okay I’ve commented so many times I’m starting to embarrass myself. I’ll stop now.

  22. Thank you for sharing your heart.
    I hear the frustration that i caused you(yes, I was one of the commenters😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😭😢😭😭😢)

    I will look deep within and try to understand WHY I felt it necessary to comment. I am NOT a hater….and my comment wasnt malicious.
    In a crazy way, Kristi, I consider you a friend. So i feel very comfortable giving you my opinion…….even when it wasnt asked for.
    I am so sorry.

    I LOVE your work and your style. I will be
    praying that you will heal from this and be able to inspire again.
    Blessings to you and Matt in whatever way God leads you.

    1. I’m also a guilty one who commented on the ottomans. I’m terribly sorry it hurt your feelings. Truly! I also will never comment on anything I don’t agree with from here on out. I also am not a “mean person” or a “troll” nor any of the other things referenced above are saying.

      But please understand the reason some of us comment, not because we are “mean” but because in the past you have asked for opinions, maybe not this time and for that, again, I’m sorry! You also have taken many comments good and bad and used them to your benefit. So not all negative comments can be a bad thing. Maybe it was inappropriate this time because like you said, you are happy and it is completed. But as a long time follower, I know you change your mind often. Think back to you’re kitchen and some people weren’t feeling the Kelly green, it was gorgeous, but some people didn’t like it and guess what, you changed it. There are plenty more scenarios I could chime in on. So as frustrated as you are at some of us please don’t think of it as we are just here to dog you out. That is not the case at all. Your blog is by far the best, you are incredible, you’re work is amazing and you’re an inspiration to many of us. Shake it off, tie your shoes on those beautiful striped ottomans and keep checking off your list girl! We love and need you more than you know. PLus we know you’re no quitter 😘.

      1. I totally agree with Jennie. I myself did not comment on the post. If you love it, that’s all that matters. But you often ask for input so many readers may have chimed in just as a matter of habit.

        I’m curious. Do those other bloggers who are not getting this sort of feedback regularly ask for readers opinions as you do? Do they often change course because of reader suggestion that leads to an unexpected a solution to a dilemma? Kristi, you engage with us. Expect to be engaged back. I follow a lot of blogs and yours always has more reader comments than other blogs. Because you are actively engaging.

        But what were your expectations in reading the comments? If you’re done what does it matter what anyone says?

      2. I really don’t think you or anyone else was being a “hater” or a “troll.” 🙂 Those are terms I use only for very select people, and in my eleven years of blogging, I can only think of one regular reader/commenter to whom I would apply those labels. She’s been a thorn in my side for over four years now, and just won’t go away. But those aren’t terms I’d apply to the rest of my readers/commenters. 🙂

    2. Kristi, I am also one who commented on the ottomans. Sorry I hurt your feelings. That was not my intention. As mentioned above, you come across as my ‘friend’ and if I walked into my friends house and I would’ve said the same. I wouldn’t have said it to hurt my friends feelings or to make myself feel more important, but since we are friends ….I can tell her my opinion without fear.
      Obviously I presumed here. I am so sorry. Time is too short go to go around hurting people.
      D

    3. I can assure you that I don’t think you’re a “hater” or a “troll.” 🙂 I really don’t think most people who read my blog and comment are either of those things. In fact, in all of my eleven years of blogging, I can only think of one regular reader/commenter who I would label a hater AND a troll. She’s in a category all her own, and I’ve put up with her vile behavior and abusive comments towards me for over four years now. I’ve blocked her in every way I know how, and yet she persists. But other than her, I can say that I truly believe that 99% of my readers and those who comment are very good people with kind and generous hearts.

  23. This is your home and you should only worry about decorating it to suit you and your husband! You possess skills that I would love to have. People get so caught up in trends and flipping shows that they tend to forget what a home is supposed to be- a sanctuary away from the outside world. It should make you feel warm, cozy and relaxed. If your entry way is giving you this feeling, then you are right on point on what you want your home to be. Keep up the great work.

  24. This is your home and you should only worry about decorating it to suit you and your husband! You possess skills that I would love to have. People get so caught up in trends and flipping shows that they tend to forget what a home is supposed to be- a sanctuary away from the outside world. It should make you feel warm, cozy and relaxed. If your entry way is giving you this feeling, then you are right on point on what you want your home to be. Keep up the great work.

  25. Big hugs from me to you! As a person who has been following your blog since your first kitchen reno, I think I understand why people feel they have the right to insert their opinions about your house; because you ask for our opinion so often. I am not saying that they had any right to criticize your completely done entryway, but I do understand why they think they can. You have very engaged readers who feel like they have a vested interest in the way YOU design YOUR house. Try reframing the criticism as just your highly engaged readers trying to be helpful even if it was unwanted. I’m sorry if anyone hurt your feelings. I think you are incredibly courageous to put yourself and style out there every day. You are the only blog I follow religiously. I look forward to each unique post, even if it isn’t my taste and am sad when there isn’t a new one each day. Good luck Kristi! Please know that most of us are cheering you on!

  26. I would suspect all the Instagram and blog comments you saw were HEAVILY edited and negative posts had been deleted! Haters are everywhere and are not just singling you out. Maybe consider doing that too….your blog, your decision on what gets seen. Take a breath away for a moment and then come back stronger than ever for those us that admire all you do☺️

  27. Dear Kristi,
    I have never posted on your blog before because it never even occurred to me to give my opinion of your work. I have followed you for years and have been in awe of the projects you have taken on and mastered. I learn from every one of your posts and today I learned that I don’t like the rudeness on the internet! If I walked into your entry I would be happy…the birds, the colors and the job you did on your console are all beautiful. I hope you come to realize there are many more fans of your blog than critics!

    1. I’m the same. Have followed for years and years never commented or offered an opinion but am always amazed and inspired. I quit my blog following app years ago and yours is The only blog I still follow I check in every week to catch up with all the wonderful projects you’ve been doing and love to see you share your ideas for new areas or change ups and just watch your creative process. I agree with many others that I too felt terrible reading those opinions on a finished area but also did wonder if it’s a ‘bad’ habit of readers who go on the journey with you and chime in when you ask for opinions. Boundaries are healthy even for blogs and bloggers- we would be devastated if you quit the blog – we’ve enjoyed watching you breathe life back in to this house and making it a spectacular home for yourself and Matt but really agree that you should take time- perhaps setting up some comment boundaries would be good before you come back. Feel brighter soon dear kristi and thank you for so willingly and openly sharing this adventure with us all and putting yourself out there even if that means at time getting hurt. You inspire me – in your character and drive and abilities- DIY is just the medium it happens to be throigh. Lisa

  28. Don’t quit! Yours is the first blog I check each day. You do the best and most interesting and inspiring work of anyone in decorating blog land!!! Your talents and energy are amazing! You accomplish more in a week than I do in a year! And by the way, I think your entry looks amazing!

  29. When I saw the final reveal of the entry, I remember thinking that it really fit your style and with the rest of the house. The other versions were beautiful but this final one seemed more like you. I thought it seemed very well thought out. Everyone has an opinion and in this day it can be shared too easily. Opinions are like that hole in your backside, everyone has one, but that doesn’t mean you should go showing off either of them in public. That is what I was always told when I was younger, except it wasn’t said that delicately. Don’t change anything! I love your style and your blog! It makes me happy every time there is a new post!

  30. I’m sorry for the frustration this has caused you. It could be just as simple as careless reading. Many times you ask for ideas and critiques. This certainly wasn’t one of those times. Let’s just all commit to reading carefully as to what Kristin is saying. As for the other blogs? Perhaps the bloggers delete what they don’t like.

  31. Kristi
    I understand. It’s a shame that some people would say things they never would say in person. You have inspired me (and so many others). You are encouraging us to be who we are. You be you. It’s your house your life. Don’t let the trolls get to you!

  32. I just love you blog you are not afraid to try new thing or to change thing up. This is your home and you should do what you want . I like following along . If it makes you happy that’s all that matters.

  33. Please dont quit! I look forward to reading your blog and seeing your projects. You have helped me remember that I love color in my home! I wonder if people had so much input because you seek reader input while you are in the midst of your projects. I think we all feel like we are part of the process, and I don’t think people were intentionally rude, but instead were interacting how they normally do. That being said, I think all of us readers need to remember your points in your post.

    1. Well said. I agree, I don’t think people were intentionally rude, your blog is different from any other and so your readers engage different from any other as well. But even though your readers weren’t intentionally rude, it doesn’t mean they weren’t rude. Like another commenter said, comments are made by a type of people sharing the one thing they would change to make the room fit them. They know your version fits you, but are sharing back with you what their style is in relation to your completed project. As a way for you to get to know your readers since they feel like they know your style so well, they are sharing (too much) back of themselves. Doesn’t necessarily warrant the comments, but hopefully helps you see where the unwanted remarks are coming from. I don’t think they are haters but I can definitely see how from your side it would seem that way.

  34. I liked the entry way, didn’t love it. I love your kitchen, hallway, bath, love the porch and the outside, walls of music room. Do I like everything you do, mostly? I love reading your blog every day. I can’t wait to see steps finished. I like that sometimes you make a mistake and redo. I constantly change my style and home. My husband says he never knows what’s
    Going in a garage sale or out the door next. I think you open yourself up to occasionally ask readers for advice, maybe other bloggers don’t do that. Chalk this up as a bad Monday
    And keep doing what you do, the way you do it- changing, redoing. I think you have put yourself under too much pressure to Finish here lately. Boy, aren’t we humans a complex pile of emotions and opinions and chacteristics.

  35. Hi Kathy,

    “Maximalist” style is not for everyone.I LOVE it and your passion for color and boldness is one of the reasons I look forward to reading your blog. Again, it is not for everyone. But gosh, people who read your blog should know that this is your aesthetic by now! And you do it so very well! For me you could go even further… more color, more bold imagery, go for it!

    I’ve been reading your blog for a long time. Guess what? I don’t like everything you do. But I know those things I don’t like are my own little peccadillos. For example, I don’t like bird imagery. It’s just not my thing and I have all sorts of weird associations with bird things. But YOU love bird imagery and so when I admire your entryway, I just think, oh how beautiful and I can take such inspiration from your work. If I were adapting your ideas for my own home, I’d just use some other sort of image. For some reason, I am able to on kepp my opinions about the birds to myself and just enjoy what you have done. (like a normal person should!)

    I’ve been having a hard time with the internet in general these days. The medium makes people feel safe to say things that they would never say in person. And as a whole, I don’t think it is a very positive thing, which is why I felt needed to comment today. You put yourself out there and so you gotta put up with some negativity. Pretend you are a movie star and “haters gonna hate.” Focus on the positive comments and ignore the rest…

    Hope you continue to share and inspire…and maybe this post from you will help the internet become a slightly nicer place, even if it is just your little corner of it!
    T

      1. SClark, I would say that’s an auto-correct thing. My phone does it all the time. Sometimes I catch it; sometimes I don’t. 🙂

  36. Please don’t leave! I look forward to your blog everyday. I admire your diy skills and your fierce determination to do things your way. Unwanted criticism is never needed. When I was doing PR work it always amazed me that people with no training could chime in on my design, my words. The rooms, art and words we create are precious to us. They are how we look at the world. Believe me, you are the best. Don’t let the naysayers win, we need you.

  37. When I saw your final entryway post, I was really excited. Not because it was my style, but because you seemed so very happy with it. I skimmed through some of the comments and saw all the “suggestions” and was like, what on earth are these people doing? So no, it’s not just you. You be you. I adore your blog. Please don’t stop.

  38. If you’re tired, by all means, take a break, but I selfishly hope it’s not long!

    And as others above have said, ultimately you have to brush off the unrequested critiques. I’ve gotten them on my blog, too, and frankly delete them. To me it’s like someone coming into my “home” and leaving a nasty note on the wall.

    People behind a computer/tablet/phone screen say things they would never say to you in your home. And it’s not just the anonymity because many of them are posting them with their own names. I think it has something to do with not being face to face. The empathy is missing when the human connection isn’t there. My guess anyway.

    Unless they’re buying your home or paying you to decorate theirs, then the only opinion that matters is yours. You love it, good enough!

    Take care!

    Mark

    1. Mark you hit the nail on the head. Kristi…listen to his advice. The only opinion matters is yours.
      You love it and that is good enough…
      Hangest thou in there Kristi!
      Take a much needed break .
      Gaye
      ps I am sure Matt is your biggest fan but we are as well. 🙂

  39. I’m probably going to catch a lot of flak for this, but you honestly have some of the most annoying readers in the blogosphere. (Maybe just commenters, not readers- as I read every post but never comment.)

    What blows my mind was that in the plethora of negative comments on your reveal post, so many said something along the lines of “and good for you for receiving our input so well!” or “usually I wouldn’t comment, but you so often ask for readers suggestions!” Others didn’t even try, some would leave an openly scathing comment with nary an emoji to sweeten the deal- others still were rude, but had the “graciousness” to impart an “LoL!” or some other banal triviality that is supposed to diminish the unwarranted negativity preceding it.

    There is a difference between a blogger/decorator asking clearly for input or direction in a post, as you sometimes do, and posting a reveal and being inundated with advice. We are not “conditioned to give opinions” as someone put it- that is a sub-set of readers, and it needs to stop. You’ve posted about issues like this previously, and I hope that people will learn.

    I am bothered by unsolicited advice and opinions, especially negative opinion that was not asked for. I’d probably just quit altogether and paint every room in my house neon with 9,700 bird prints and 6 ottomans in each room.

  40. Kristi you are the highlight of my week! You would laugh if you knew how many people I share your Facebook page with because you are so talented. I love how you will try something and if it isn’t exactly what you had in mind redo it until it makes you happy. It is your home, and you have the super deluxe box of crayons, so keep on being the colorful beautiful person you are. Please do not let the “beige” people bring you down!

  41. I’m so appalled that you’ve been dealing with this and all the accompanying emotions! I just want to second the idea that you are one of the most interactive”what do you think?” home bloggers out there and some commenters here are so used to handing over their input they didn’t get it when you put out a finished space and weren’t wanting to tweak it. Your style isn’t like mine but I keep reading because you are way more accessible/real than most of the other home bloggers I love. You make me feel like I could get it done in my own home.

    I hope you can take a break and come back with a fresh mindset! What you do is very impressive to me – I did a boutique weaving business online for a couple years and there was one time I had a mere two critiquers bugging me about something related to my business and I am so sensitive I really could not deal with it even after it had blown over. Like it was part of the reason I eventually quit. So I greatly admire those who keep going with interactive creative endeavors. Blessings and peace to you!

  42. I stumbled upon your blog around the time you bought this house, and have been faithfully reading ever since. I have seen the many transformations of each area and look forward to the remaining areas. Love the way the outside is shaping up as well. I admit that some areas look very pleasing to me, and then you change it. I tell myself, here she goes again, but you know what? The changes are way better, not that there was really anything wrong in the first place, but you lived with your creation and realized that you could improve on it. I am always amazed at your building talent. My grandfather was a carpenter, built the house I grew up in and my parents still live in 45+ years later, and have other family members who are carpenters, so I have great respect for builders and craftsmen. Strangely, decorating is like food, you don’t know if you like something until you actually try it. You may like something, but there is always someone who can’t stand whatever you like. Keep it up, your house will be awesome one day.

  43. I truly hope you don’t walk away. I’ve gotten so many great ideas from you. I know how you feel though. We completed a remodel and one of our friends was over. Part of the remodel involved installation of brand new wood cabinets. I sweated on the wood color, top and handles. His comment? You know you can paint those, right? Three years later still smarting. I don’t want to paint them. If I wanted painted cabinets I would have gotten different cabinets. Your entry is lovely. Leave it and you exactly the way you are.

    1. He knows you can paint over his mouth too, right…? Then put tape over it as well, just for good measure? MY GAWD is all I can think about people at times. Liked your post!

  44. Kristi,

    I’m so sorry that this happened to you. You’re right, you need a break. But there are so many of your ‘silent’ followers (like me, most of the time) who will be devastated to lose your eager DIY outlook and to see how you face your challenges.

    I personally have liked all the versions of the entryway that you have done. They were all welcoming and colorful and pleasing to the eye (my eye, at least). That’s not to say that I don’t have my favorites–I do. But I don’t comment unless you ask for opinions, and I stay positive.

    Perhaps when you have completed a room, and you are totally happy with it, don’t read the comments. In fact, can you remove the comment section on a single post? Or can you block the Negative Nellies?

    I think you are great, and I appreciate that you share your accomplishments with us. Thank you.

  45. Please don’t quit! Your blogs have inspired me in so many ways even if they weren’t exactly “my style”! You take chances to please yourself, no one else matters (well except for Matt 😊). There are always trolls out there who feel braver on the internet and say things they would never say to your face. As my momma always said, if you can’t say something nice then don’t say anything at all!

  46. I have been silently following you for years and I am so disappointed for you. I hope that you don’t leave! I hope that you continue doing what you do in the public shaming eye of social media because you are such an inspiration! Some people don’t know how to filter their thoughts. I’m not sure why those unfiltered thoughts come across your accounts and maybe not on some others, but I hope these people who think they’re “helping” don’t stop you from doing the amazing work that you’ve been doing. Your house is beautiful! It’s hard to even believe where it started out and the transformation that it is today… it’s truly amazing and your work is so beautiful!

  47. Oh, Kristi……PLEASE don’t quit sharing your home, your ideas and your thought processes! I used to follow a lot of blogs but now I’m down to you. My decorating style has changed so much over the years. I too love color but have been afraid to use it…you gave me that kick in the butt to do what I LOVE! Take a break if you need to…..but come back soon. I think people need to realize that sometimes you ASK for opinions……but when you say FINAL REVEAL ……THERE SHOULD BE NO OPINIONS……just congratulations on a job well done. You keep doing you and you will still have a following. By the way, I’m 69 years young and you are still teaching me new ways of doing things. 💜💜

  48. I’m so sorry for the situation but so happy that you voiced your feelings and frustration. I think we tend to forget that typed comments have no ability to modulate the input and there is no chance of observing the receiver’s reaction. Hopefully most negative commenters, in person, would immediately pick up on the fact that their opinion was unsolicited and unwanted and apologize. This is a good reminder to myself to keep this in mind when I comment.

    1. I really don’t think most people intend to hurt. But I do have one regular reader/commenter who I’d love to put on blast and let my readers have their way with her. I’ve been her punching bag for over FOUR years now. I’ve blocked her in every way I know how, and yet she persists. She’s a vile, miserable, bitter old hag who just won’t go away, like a cockroach infestation. Man, I’d love to let my readers have their say and use her as a punching bag for a while (in the same way I’ve been her punching bag for over four years now), but in publishing her comments, I’d be giving her the attention she wants. Some people thrive on attention, even if it’s negative, and she’s definitely one of those people. In my eleven years of blogging, she’s the only reader I’ve ever had to permanently block from commenting on my blog.

      1. I’d be willing to bet there are a few of us who can guess who that person is. If she is the one I think she is, I even showed my grown daughters some of her comments years ago and they were appalled and stated that she had to be a miserably unhappy person to comment the way she did. I think she can be labeled a stalker and maybe needs a med evaluation.

  49. Take a break but please don’t quit. I love following what you do in YOUR home. I’ve realized with internet and social media, it has become a place for people to hide behind their screens and monitors and make comments that they would never make out loud in person. This happens in so many mom groups that I’m in. It’s some type of *-shaming. It’s so easy to pass judgement when you type it but would actually never say in real life as it is too darn rude.

    You do you and please show us everything you do. I love that you love colors and vibrant things.

  50. Oh no, Kristi, people ARE doing this in real time. It has literally stunned me how much has changed in recent years. We’ve had invited guests, even strangers/vendors, feel free to comment on our home, especially how clean our home is (aka in one case, “who’s the neat freak” after the nice dinner we had served them), how they couldn’t live this way. And most of the time these comments come from men.

    First of all, who asked you (certainly no one is asking you to move in)? Second of all, does it not occur to you that I immediately wonder just how dirty and messy your home is?

    People no longer seem to bother filtering their thoughts. People no longer seem to appreciate that they are guests in other people’s homes. People no longer seem able to grasp that other people don’t have to live as they do. Apparently diversity of any kind is not tolerated. It truly is “all about me” these days. It’s truly pathetic.

    Kristi, I am truly sorry that you are experiencing this type of bad behavior on such a public platform. I wish I could say that it is an isolated incident, that internet anonymity is responsible. But I cannot. People generally are forgetting their manners, becoming way too egocentric. The world revolves around none of us individually. And we need to embrace diversity more than ever.

    Do what you need to do, Kristi. If you stay, I can only hope readers will truly grasp the important message you are sharing. An invitation into each other’s homes, whether online or in person, is a gift and an opportunity to enjoy each other’s company. We should all be respectful of that gift.

    1. This was a great (and funny to me in some ways) post. I was never TAUGHT any manners at home and had to learn them on my own in my early 20s and I cringe now when I think of stupid things I’ve said and done over they years. (I’m 47 now.) The person asking who the neat freak was is INSANE and I hope they don’t come back to your house any time soon! It made me think of something I’ve gotten a few times lately since cutting my hair super short, and it’s my new fave: “Oh my gosh, I could NEVER have that cut… but it looks great on you..!” or some version of that. I truly have to laugh now. Anyway, I liked everything you said. Thanks for posting.

      1. Hello Raina, I am gobsmacked by your lovely comments. Thank you so much, truly. FYI, that “neat freak” comment came from the male owner of a local Italian restaurant. Makes your mental wheels start spinning, doesn’t it? Cheers, Ardith

  51. Some people are just plain rude and don’t think about the consequences of the things they say online. It’s one thing to say, “I wouldn’t have chosen that, but I’m glad you like it.” It’s another to tell someone they’ve done something all wrong and tell them how to “fix” it…especially with something creative. This is just basic common decency.

    I personally look at a lot of your work and say, “Wow…I’d never do that.” But you know what else? I also look at your work and it INSPIRES me. Take those purple ottomans. I’d probably never use those in the kind of setting you have. It just doesn’t look right to me. But I LOVE the ottomans themselves. I LOVE that you built them yourself…from scratch…from something you came up with in your head that you knew would be exactly right (for you) in that space. And I LOVE that shade of purple offset with the white that you’ve been using lately and it’s something that I’d never have thought to do myself. So you know what? Those ottomans, while not right for me and my design eye, are still awesome. And I’d never think of telling you otherwise just because I wouldn’t have put them in that space myself.

    In any event, I love what you do. I absolutely can’t wait for you to get started on the pantry and the studio. You’re going to have so much room for creativity and functionality there and both spaces are near and dear to my heart (I love to cook and I love to create and have the space for NEITHER a pantry nor a studio/craftroom in my own home). You absolutely won’t make either space the way I would have, but I can guarantee you’ll do a few things I’d never even considered before and it will inspire me.

    Keep doing what you’re doing and know that for every 1 person out there who wants to tell you you’re doing it wrong that there are 3 of us who love what you do and want you to keep on going and continue to inspire us to push boundaries and create spaces and things WE love.

    As an aside… Your blog is one of maybe 3 or 4 that I read religiously and have for several years. That’s saying something. 😉 Also, you’ve inspired me to teach myself to sew, which is my latest obsession. Am I doing home decor sewing? No. Actually, I’m doing garments and such. But it was your curtains and upholstery that inspired me to say, “Wow. I really want to learn to do that. I don’t want to be limited by what I can buy in stores. I want to know I have the skills to create my own.”

    1. Okay, I’m VERY impressed that you’ve taught yourself to sew, but even more impressed that you’re sewing garments! That’s so much harder and more detailed than sewing draperies and pillows. I don’t have the patience for that anymore. The summer before my sophomore year of college, I sewed an entire new wardrobe for myself. I loved having unique and custom clothing that no one else had, and I had a blast designing my own stuff. But I don’t think I’ve sewn anything other than home decor since then. It’s just so time-consuming and takes way more patience than I have. 😀

      1. See…now I look at a curtain and lament that I probably couldn’t sew a 60-inch perfectly straight line if my life depended on it. 😉

        Truthfully, I haven’t done anything super complex yet. I started with some square mats for my cats to sit on, moved on to some simple doll clothing, then a simple dress for my daughter, and a more complex one (with an underskirt and a bib detail that required some more complex construction). I knew how to operate a machine, but I’d never followed patterns before, so YouTube has been my BFF for looking-up sewing terms and techniques.

        Since then, I’ve taken a break to do some smaller items so we can do a craft booth at the church bazaar. But my next garment will likely be either a Hawaiian shirt for me or a pair of funky bell-bottom pants for my wife. I’m looking forward to them.

  52. I’m always surprised and angered by all of the unsolicited advice I read. Where are the days of “if you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all” and “treat others as you want to be treated”. Good for you for acknowledging it and putting the frustration out there. I know it’s not the first time you’ve had to say it, and it doesn’t seem to keep people from piping in with their opinions. You are not alone, I’ve read the same types of things on other blogs. One very popular blogger that pulled away for quite some time before coming back with bits and pieces of what they used to share. They had the same issues of unsolicited advice. I think the majority of us that follow you are completely inspired and in awe of your talents. I personally love your style! Keep on styling for you and Matt, not for everyone else out there. I certainly hope you will continue to inspire and create and share it with us.

  53. I’ve never left a comment for you but I read you often. Matter of fact, yours is the only decorating blog I do read regularly. I like seeing what you do and how you go about it. I have gotten zero ideas from specifics that you’ve done, but I have gotten inspiration for boldness and doing what makes *me* happy in my space. I’ve always liked how you use color and then change your mind and show something different. I admire the boldness you have to change and do and then fix until you love it. I’d hate to see you walk away but understand the impetus. Anyway, your entryway is gorgeous and if ever given the opportunity to walk through your house and cluck approvingly, I would do it in a heartbeat. Sorry bout your emotional bruises here.

  54. listen….chalk it up….
    cause it’s your house, you have to live there
    you pay the bills
    you do the work
    no one else has the right to second guess you unless
    1) you asked
    2) you asked
    3) you asked
    * get my drift?

  55. Oh Kristi, I am so sorry for the criticism you’ve received. I’ve been a long time follower of your blog and I find you so inspiring and amazing! I love the fact that you will tackle any job despite it’s size or scope. I love that you post and re-do things because you’ve changed your mind. Because of you I’ve starting tackling projects outside of my comfort zone. Ignore that haters and continue to do what you do, because you are inspiring and a role model and most of all a true person.

    1. I was going to say (as someone from the south), you just smile and nod and give ’em a “bless your heart.” 🙂

    2. Hey Barb…The rest of that, told to me by a great psychologist:
      Opinions are like A**holes…everyone has one, and they all stink!

      Kristy, I am new to you blog, and I have SO enjoyed your posts. I am amazed by the things you take on, and although I can do things, I can NO WAY do what you do! But, lucky for me I have a husband that can help. I can imagine how you are feeling…I would feel the same…it hurts to hear the opinions, even IF they really DON’T matter. And I guess that is where you have to find comfort…they REALLY don’t matter. All that matters is to you and your husband living in your home. And, I KNOW you love coming through the door, so THAT SAYS IT ALL! We who DO matter out here, getting inspiration from you, even if we would not copy you exactly perhaps, are looking forward to your next projects, and learning from you. You are talented beyond our wildest dreams! God bless you, and feel better soon.

  56. Your new entryway is the best rendition so far, and that’s with me loving and pouting over the removal of the bird mural.

    Just because your audience reads blogs and watches HGTV doesn’t make them experts.

    And thank you for not drinking the griege and whitewashed clapboard koolaid. I read you because you aren’t another homogenized repeat of temporary trends. You are original and unstoppable, continue to do you.

  57. You were absolutely clear that it was perfect for you and you were very proud of it and you did not ask for change advice or even equivocate about your choices.

    OK, when I see someone being a brat and inserting their own issues/taste I’ll be a bit more aggressive and respond to them. I see it and don’t like it but go on my way thinking Kristi can handle it but maybe some of these busy bodies need to be put in their place. I love to see what you do, and if it’s not what I would do, sometimes maybe I should. I flinch when someone says a surface needs to be “styled.” For me, I am “styling” a night stand by just placing one lamp on it. I want to be able to grab a Swiffer and have nothing to move out of the way! I have things to learn from stylers like you.

    And that’s what it comes down to with some people’s internet behavior: a lack of humility. Wanting to show off how smart/creative/sophisticated they are. One-upping. They are probably not out of their 30s yet. It’s a heady time of life. Full of oneself. That is the “place to rest” people. And to them I say, “I’ll give you A PLACE TO REST, BABY!”

    If I were with you, I’d do my best to make you laugh.

    1. I see what you’re saying.

      As for these unhumble rudies who comment as they will, I don’t think it’s necessarily an age thing, for there’s rude folks above and below the 30s.

  58. Kristi… don’t walk away please. After many years you are the ONLY blog I continue to follow. I look for your updates every week. Who gives a rats ass if other people like what you do???? I like pink. People hate pink. So go jump in a lake you pink hating people. So here’s your new motto….SO WHAT WHO CARES WHAT YOU THINK!!!! You write beautifully, you build astoundingly and you decorate amazingly. But more than that you are so funny. You feel like an old friend. So stay for us….your blog friends and to hell with the rest of the know it alls…..julia

  59. I’ve never commented before. Now is time to say thank you, not just for the inspiration I get from your DIY and beautiful work, also for your statements and plan to take care of yourself. A skill so many of us need to exercise. You are a model for me in standing up for ones self, as well, as the improvements my home is experiencing because of your blog post. My life is better because of your sharing. I hope (selfishly) that you find a way to care for yourself and continue the blog.

    Much appreciation

  60. I love your blog and you have inspired me to try so many thing that I would have never done before you, I always read the comments on your posts and the comments on that post made me so mad, I wanted to throat punch a few of them. Kristi you are amazing, please don’t let those jerks get you down, take your break, it’s well deserved and keep being you cause we love you! (Not in a creepy stalker way I promise) 🙂

  61. I’m so sorry you are feeling this way and I do think it’s absurd that people think it’s ok to tell you things to change in a finished room that you really like. At the same time you do ask for feedback often and I think some people may just think you are always open to it and always want it. I know that’s not the case, I’d never dreamed of telling you what to do in a room you have decided is finished and you love, but I can also understand why some people may still make comments of that nature when many of your posts invite that type of conversations.

    Maybe it was just time for you to set some boundaries for yourself and your blog. We all have to do that from time to time since things tend to get a little out of whack if we aren’t diligent about them (let’s face it most of us aren’t). So you’ve set a boundary and I hope your readers will hear it and reapect it. It really is a gorgeous space and if you and your husband are happy with it then nothing else matters. Your decorating, diy skills and style are awe inspiring and hopefully this post let’s people know you have set a limit and you have told them how you expect to be treated. If they can’t do that well then I guess they can stop reading!

    You may consider turning off comments on certain posts. Another diy/decorating blog I read doesn’t allow comments on their posts and it doesn’t deter from the content or my happiness with the blog in any way. There are other ways to get feedback, Facebook and Instagram are great for feedback when you have a tough decision and want others to weigh in. Maybe your blog is the wrong place to be inviting feedback for the time being? The great thing about Facebook (and maybe Instagram, I’m not as familiar with it) is you can also turn off commenting there too so when you have the feedback you need and a decision is made just turn it off. It’s your social media after all and you can control it! Take it back and make it and your blog something that works for you!

    Hugs from me for having to go through this and having people make your beautiful space that makes you happy feel less than. It’s perfect FOR YOU and that’s what matters.

    Please don’t disappear for good or even for a little while. I’d miss your skills, writing and seeing your home and decisions develop.

  62. Kristi, first and foremost, my apology if I have been guilty of this. Please forgive me. I do make a serious effort not to give my opinion unless you’ve opened it up to that.

    Second, you have introduced me to color and so much DIY, that I am overflowing with things to do next. I am grateful you’re not quitting. You are a wonderful teacher and mentor. I can now incorprate boldness with color where I wouldn’t before. Maybe baby steps, but what fun!

    Third, take a break, enjoy life outside of the blog bubble!

  63. There are individuals like myself who enjoy your blog and have found inspiration and learned a lot from you, yet never comment. I don’t feel the need to leave unsolicited “constructive criticism”; However, maybe I should have been more aggressive in leaving positive responses and appreciation. I hope you choose to continue to share your talent and gifts…and shake the haters off!!!

  64. Hey Kristi, You have mad skills, the only blog with amazing detailed tutorials, real posts about being able to change your mind a few times and make it right. I’ve made a tufted ottoman, you even answered my question about fabric yardage. I built a half wall, made a side table. You explained about how a 2×2 isn’t exactly that. I’ve sewn my own curtains, tried acrylic art and painted over old furniture because you taught me how!
    Screw the nay sayers. I sure wish when they were typing their “decorative advice”, the camera on their lap top was slowly circling around their homes..Ha…what a field day we could have!
    When you come back from a break keep showing such cool tutorials! Your blog is top notch!!
    And finally when you posted your entry..I gasped! It was amazing!!!

  65. Whenever I tell people about your blog, I say: “This women is amazing! She does so much of this work by herself and the results are breath-taking.” You truly do inspire me to take on challenges that I might not have thought I could do by myself.

    I know other people’s validation isn’t what matters, but I thought I’d pass that along.

    And we’ve all definitely been in a place like this where criticism builds up to a level that feels overwhelming. I’ve made serious life changes because of it and they were, honestly, for the best. So whatever you have to do to feel happy and healthy is what you should do. But it’s also important to know that you inspire many before you make that decision.

  66. I think your designs, even the ones you have scrapped have looked really amazing. The way you have your FINISHED entryway–I would have never thought it would look so good to bring the prints down the sides of the table you built. Very neat idea!

    I read your blog for YOUR opinion, not Joe or Sally Q Public’s. I eagerly await each new post to see what you have done next. It makes me feel like I’m coming by for a visit to see all your progress.

    Now with that said, I think it is really easy for people to feel this same way, but instead of keeping their opinions to themselves, they safely behind their screens can pour out their words and honestly I don’t even think most have a clue as to how what they say will be received.

    This is YOUR blog, and I am YOUR fan! You can do it all! I appreciate your honesty, your frustration and struggles on here as well. It shows YOU ARE REAL, and not happy dance all day every day. Please continue sharing with us, ignore those ” ‘designers’ with no blog of their own but plenty of crap to say ” people and don’t let a small few wreck it for all of us.

    Thank you again for sharing with us.

  67. I love what you said and I am super happy for you that you said it all, because you obviously needed to! I grew up in a house with people you ALWAYS ALWAYS did exactly what you described in your post and I know exactly how it felt for me; as a child it’s a developmental nightmare, and as an adult it’s astonishing and annoying. I very rarely read half the stuff I subscribe to, but for some reason I read yours today, and I am glad I did. It appears you have a TON of followers who absolutely adore you and are so grateful to have you and I am certainly happy for that. Also, I truly truly hope you continue to purge and vent and get negativity out of your system because it doesn’t belong inside of you–you can give it back to the people who doled it out, as it really belongs to them. And now I am going to check out a bunch of your posts and projects. Thank you SO MUCH for sharing yourself!

  68. I’m not gonna give you decorating advice (I haven’t been reading you daily for YEARS to give YOU decorating advice!!! 😺). But I am gonna give you some other advice…Jersey Girl advice…and that is…F ‘em!!!!!!!!! To all the naysayers….just give ‘em the ol’ Jersey salute!!! 😹😹😹😹 Kristi…we faithful readers LOVE what you do…don’t let a few idiots get you down! GO JERSEY ON ‘EM!! 🙀😹😹😹😹😹😽

  69. I can’t tell you how many times I have wanted to say “if you don’t have anything nice to say, please don’t say anything”! It is only when you ask for opinions or to vote on something, people should give their opinions. I hope you don’t decide to quit this blog. I enjoy it so much and you blow me away with your abilities and style! I think your entryway is beautiful! Don’t let the critics ruin it for you and all of us who love you!

  70. The gall of some people! I completely understand taking a break from this place, BUT, do come back when you’re ready. There are thousands of us out here that you have taught so many new skills to. Thousands of us who have learned so much from your personal design process. We all have more to learn. We want you as our teacher! All the best my friend…

  71. Well that totally sucks that people have to be so unaware but don’t leave us!!!! I totally agree with other people that said to block those unhelpful nasty posts. You don’t need that life-sucking negativity in your life.

  72. Well said Kristi. I would hate for you to quit blogging, as you are an inspiration to me and others who are somewhat intimidated by DIY, but empowered by YOU and YOUR abilities. Nothing much seems to scare you and you admit when you can’t or don’t want to do something and it’s time to call in the “pros”. I totally understand if you need to take a break for YOU and for YOUR health and well-being from the negativeness people convey anonymously via the internet…but know that you will be missed. While all of your tastes aren’t my tastes, they are YOURS and it is YOUR house…and I applaud you for letting your house express who YOU are…don’t apologize for that. Those offering the unsolicited “constructive criticism” should be the ones apologizing. If they don’t like your style, they should either not comment, or stop following you…and allow those of us who enjoy YOUR blog, showing YOUR style and achievements to live vicariously through your blog. As for your entryway…the cabinet you built is amazing, the upholstery is amazing…those things alone are not easy to do and your talents should be appreciated and applauded. I love your entryway…because it expresses who YOU are…a woman of many, many talents.

  73. I always look forward to your posts, think to myself how can one person be able to do so many different things good. Keep up the good work, you are a blessing and inspiration to most of us.

  74. Kristi, I love your blog but have never posted a comment before. Thank you as always for sharing your feelings and being honest with your readers. That takes a lot of moxie! I understand why all the comments on a space you finally love has been so disheartening! It is easy for people to forget or ignore what most of us were taught by our parents, if you don’t have anything nice to say don’t say anything at all! You are so engaging and down to earth I think some of the commenters may feel overly familiar with you and feel they can offer unsolicited feedback, even when you don’t ask for input. Maybe some retraining of your readers is in order? Now that you’re changing how you do your posts and doing final reveals instead, maybe some disclaimers at the beginning and end of the post to remind readers that you’re not interested in input would be helpful? I love your blog and would hate to see you go, but realize you have to do what makes you happy! Thank you for all you’ve done and all the wisdom you’ve shared with us, as well as the ups and downs and your complete honesty. I selfishly hope you continue your blog, but you need to do you! ❤️

  75. I love your decorating and love following your work. Totally understand everything you said, and I am so very sorry that people turned your glorious moment sour. Hope you’re back soon. Again, you’re home is amazing!

  76. I 100% agree with this ladies post. Take a rest, finish your home in your bases, in you taste choices…we enjoy your abilities. You are extremely talented, fierce and very brave…thats the Kristi I come here to see. This aint no Houzz ppl., get over yourselves and yiur armchair coaching, and let Ms. Addicted2decorating, do HER STUFF!! I’ve been reading your blog for what seems like 4ever and loved your style…..some of these ppl have no clue….don’t bother with their trifling butts. You’ve had your say, take a breather, regroup, come back kicking ass. Your loyal old followers, we love you!

  77. I’m so sorry and sad that you’re feeling this way, but am not surprised. You have received a lot of feedback. I truly can’t imagine what it would be like to be pummeled like you have been. If I got that much feedback on my house I would lose it.

    As one of my favorites, I’ll miss your posts if you stop blogging. I’m not a DIYer, far from it, in fact. I just really enjoy your writing and your voice. If you stop blogging about your DIY, maybe you can set your writing/written voice onto something else.

    A couple of points, in no particular order.

    I personally have been commenting more over the past 18 months or so because I thought it might have a positive impact on your revenue stream. That may have been a misunderstanding on my part. I do want to apologize for any insensitive posts that I may have made. I’ll only focus on the positive in the future.

    I agree with the thought that some of your followers are living out their decorators dream through your blog. It’s like they think of each post as if a decorator has shown up at their house with a design board. They just start yay-ing and nay-ing different parts of the design board without thinking about the fact that it’s not a design board at all! It’s your house!

    I also agree with that thought that many of your readers are maybe not sure of the line between the posts where you want feedback and where you don’t want feedback. Like others, I have visited pages before where every comment went through a moderator before going live. Would you be able to turn off comments on certain posts? Would you want to moderate every comment? If you moderate, you’d still end up reading all the negative-nelly comments, even if you don’t let them post, which might not do much to save your sanity. Would Matt or your mom want to moderate? I’m thinking of Carrie Bradshaw in Sex in the City the movie where she gets a personal assistant to help her filter through all of her emails.

    Don’t leave us!!! I want to see the studio!! And sunroom conversion!! And landscaping!!

    1. And, I want to add a couple of more points. You have taught so many people so many things!! Don’t stop now!! Maybe you could stop showing us rooms and just showing tutorials on bits and pieces, like you did with the remade tray, sconces and the entryway console. Maybe once or twice a year you show us rooms? Also, thank you so, so much for being a counterpoint to the shiplap, clapboard greige quagmire that has been so prevalent in decorating for the past couple of years.

      You are a hero to so many!! Don’t quit us!!

      Give those jerks the “bless your heart…”

  78. Okay sister….first of all, I think your decorating style is awesome! Is it mine? No. Do I get LOTS of ideas from you? YES!!! I’m more of a calm, soothing color kind of home style decorator, but I look forward to your blogs. BUT….You seem to have forgotten something…..Others approval is not requested, required or relevant. You don’t need it. You live to please a different audience. You will feel defeated, disappointed and discouraged when others offer their disapproval, but frankly, it doesn’t even matter. Don’t waste your emotional energy even fretting over it. It is THEIR problem. Please don’t make it yours. XO

  79. I just have to add my comment even though it mirrors a lot of the above… I love what you do and feel soooo inspired by your ideas and tutorials! I’ve put so many of your ideas to good use in my home already and when I tweak them to my liking I often think how bland you might think they are (grey, black, white, some blue or green) and laugh to myself as I know I’m not as courageous as you are but you’d be polite about my version of the things!
    I already feel that it’s difficult for me to voice my opinion when you do indeed ask for it, because a lot has to do with personal taste – but to voice it when you don’t ask for it in the first place? That’s plain rude and unfair and a sign of what indeed the internet has done to manners and the way people treat each other these days. I belong to those people who keep their fingers crossed that you come back and let us share your ideas, visions and projects in the future, too, because you enrich my life and empower me in the DIY world as NO OTHER person does (and that’s why I only ever read your blog, no others!!). But I do understand that you need a break and wish you all the best – to recover, relax and find the energy to come back to us in the (hopefully near) future!
    PS I’m particularly sorry that people reacted to this entryway post of yours in this way, as it was so obvious how happy you are with the result and how you explicitly didn’t want to be distracted from that joy by any kind of suggestions. That alone should have made other people happy – it sure made me smile when I read about your happiness – hope you can recapture that again!

  80. I can only imagine how frustrated you must feel. I follow a Fixer Upper fan page and many people post pictures of their projects. I am constantly appalled by the comments on there. When did people get so rude? I love you blog and your abilities and your talent amaze me! I love your use of color. (If I see one more gray room, I may throw up..just kidding, but every room in America does not have to look like HGTV) I think the reason you may not see the negative comments on other pages is because they delete them. (?) I think we should all have the things in our homes that make US happy. Take a break and relax in this Texas heat! I love your blog and look forward to your updates.

  81. Please take their comments as a compliment. Apparently your readers believe that you are open minded and open hearted enough to hear whatever they have to say. That just means that you are like a hug waiting to happen for many of your readers. You have given them the freedom to speak their minds, even though they should be adult enough to hear you when you say that it is finished and you love it. People definitely need to learn when to say something nice or say nothing at all! (And it’s beautiful) Just my humble opinion!

  82. I have never commented before but have been a fan of your blog for a long time.

    I look forward to your informative blogs and I sometimes drag my husband to my computer and tell him “look what this lady can do.” Please don’t let the words of others discourage you. We can’t please everyone but those that appreciate your hard work would miss you terribly.

    I am 76 years old, and while I can’t do a lot of the physical labor you do, I can and do reap the benefits from your construction and decorating ideas.

    My sincere thanks for your motivating blog.

  83. FYI…you are a genius at what you do.

    Philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer once said: ” Nature shows that with the growth of intelligence comes increased capacity for pain, and it is only with the highest degree of intelligence that suffering reaches its supreme point. ”

    So there you have it.

    Words hurt people. Use them wisely. When asked for an opinion give it in a loving, non-threatening way, when none is asked for…shut your mouth. Or remove fingers from keyboard.

    Hurtful words stick around like forever and pop up at any given time.

    Like mama always said…if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything.

    So Miss Kristi keep on being the genius you are, do what makes you happy. I look forward to your next awesome project!

    Love and support from here.

  84. I think your entry way is fabulous and doesn’t need anything added or taken away. You have so many talents and thank you for sharing your ideas. You inspire us!. Block the haters you do’t need that.

  85. Kristy, I’m so sorry you have to deal with this! I honestly don’t understand why anyone would say something on the internet that they wouldn’t say in person. Makes me see why some people just block comments on their posts. I love seeing your posts, and even though your decorating schemes are a little more colorful and daring than I would go with, I always love the finished look. Taking a break for a little bit is necessary, but please come back to us eventually! 🙂

  86. I love your blog. Because of years of reading it we have done so many things to our home that I never would have thought we could, but you have made me brave enough to research and do. I loved that you finished an area and didn’t ask for advice. I read that post and thought good for you! Im sorry to hear others thought they should give you anything but comments on how amazing you are, with mad skills!!!

    I daily go to your blog to see if you have posted. I tell my husband I would love to go to Waco to meet you, and when you said you might do a class sometime, I made the announcement I would be at one if you do.

    Enjoy the break, and just know you have so many who look up to you and all you are able to do. You are amazing!

  87. I’m so sorry that readers have been so rude to object to your design decisions. I read some of those comments and I thought how rude! I loved that you were happy. It is completely you. Be proud and ignore the unsolicited advice. But please don’t stop posting. I admire your work, your thought process and your tutorials. I’m of the older generation and some of us still like to decorate and do things for ourselves. You share great ideas and make it possible for younger people to realize that with hard work, many can take your ideas and have beautiful spaces without spending huge amounts to decorators, etc. Keep it up. Your spaces are amazing! You have transformed your house into a home that is beautiful, welcoming and truly you! What fun it is to visit your blog and enjoy!

  88. I have combed all through your blog and Instagram. You have such talent and such drive. You are a complete inspiration. Your generosity to share your sources and costs — not everyone does that. What a gift!

    It saddens me the level of decorum people seem to have anymore. It’s just not that hard to keep the mouth shut when there isn’t something nice to say. And it’s even easier to click away if it’s something you don’t care to see or read.

    Although I happen to love neutrals, and I also happen to love seeing all you do with color to make your home your sanctuary. I can feel the energy right through the screen, and I can tell it’s a happy place there at your home:) I want to take the time right now to say thank you for all you have given and shared through your posts!

  89. I am so sorry this is happening to you. I feel your pain and I think this unsolicited advice thing is plain rude. It is so easy to hide behind the screen of your computer, think your opinion is the shit and doll it out left, right and center. Well, as my dad says “it iz a VRONG openeon!” He has a strong Russian accent which makes him saying it even more awesome, in my opinion 😉
    I bet to every single person who is fast to share their unsolicited opinion there are multiple people who don’t share their excitement and love for your designs, just because they are shy or just want to look and be inspired.
    You do you, it is your house and you live there. None of those people would ever live there, neither would they come over to enjoy it. Your house is for your enjoyment only, and we are just so lucky that you are sharing your creative process with the rest of us. I find it super inspiring for my own design journey! I am so glad you are being unapologetically you in your designs, because in the end its not the colors or items you pick, its how you let yourself and your personality shine is what inspires me the most.

  90. I LOVE your blog. I LOVE your designs. I LOVE that you have the energy, strength and determination to do most all of yourself. I wish I could be you. If I were wealthy, I would beg and pay you well to decorate my house.

    There are internet trolls, and you have become a victim. They are all ages. They hide behind their computers and spew venom. I don’t know if they were never taught manners, or they are insecure, ignorant, or just mean. But they are everywhere!

    I know you would love to read and respond to your comments, but for now, I would ask someone to read them first and delete the offensive ones. Maybe that’s what other bloggers are doing. There’s no reason to put yourself through that. Protect yourself from these people.

  91. Thank you for everything you are sharing – and NO, our styles don’t quite mesh…but they don’t need to because I don’t live in your house…lol. But I gain inspiration and sometimes bravery from everything you have shared.

    I think your entryway is just gorgeous. I envy your ability to fill a space so beautifully. You inspire me to take leaps of faith and to believe in my own visions.

    Flipside thought. If you just want to say “here is what I did” , maybe we don’t need the ability to share our replys on every post. As you have already experienced, not everyone is going to go with “say something nice or don’t say anything at all”

    Please don’t run away forever, but maybe take a break and recharge. If some of what you are getting from us is not coming out the way you had hoped, maybe pull someone else in to help you take a fresh look at what you are doing and how you do it (from the blog end). Might help in ways you might not have imagined.

  92. Oh girl…I can only imagine the frustration. I love reading your blog and getting inspiration and knowledge from your posts. I hope you continue and can feel good about your designs, no matter what internet a-holes comments are.

    For me, the process and progress of your designs are just as important as the “final” product. It has given me so much courage to watch you rip out hours and hours of beautiful work because it didn’t end up feeling right in the room. I would’ve felt so bad to have wasted the time and money but your approach is so inspiring. Even if a project doesn’t end up in the room long-term, it was still worth it from a learning perspective and, it’s ok to make mistakes or not like the way a project turned out and have to redo things. This has been an invaluable lesson I’ve learned from your blog.

    Anyway, don’t let ’em get you down.

  93. Please don’t be discouraged. Yours is the only blog I read regularly. When your email comes through I usually stop everything to read it, start to finish. I adore your energy and your courage in tackling these really big projects. I’ve learned a lot from reading your blog and am constantly inspired. Here’s where I normally would insert a rude expletive about the critical comments of others, but I know you wouldn’t appreciate it. I am however, thinking it. 😉 Go forth, decorate happily.

  94. I wonder if people that follow you feel more inclined to share their opinions because on some projects you ask for opinions. Or they are just jerks, its certainly possible. I have seen so much unkindness in posts and comments lately. I am constantly shocked and amazed at how people see fit to treat each other. I’ve been following you for YEARS! (I still miss the condo). I have no idea if it would help to classify things as, “what do you think?” and “I don’t care what you think”.
    The only change I would like to see, is you working on my house instead of yours…….Keep being you and don’t worry about the people who can only be “brave” and “honest” while hiding behind a computer screen.

    1. I was thinking the same thing. Giving people the benefit of the doubt, perhaps they think that it’s OK to share their opinions because Kristi asks for opinions quite often, and perhaps those giving their opinions, even when not asked, think that they are helping and don’t mean to offend?

  95. Recently I said I had made my last comment because of nosy, mean comments from your readers. But I am back to say, I am so glad you hit publish. Very good read. I am so sorry so many people have no manners. How about going to no comments for a while, that will quiet things down and no one can put in their two cents. Keep being you, I will keep reading. Have a nice time off. I will be here when you return.

  96. I think the front entry is gorgeous and I read your blog every day (have done so for YEARS) and I hope you return to all of us that live and die by your sweat equity in your lovely home.

  97. Your’s is the only blog I follow. I have a tremendous amount of respect for you in that you are able to DIY most everything you do, but then have the good sense to know when you need professional help. That house is your’s and Matt’s and your’s and his alone! If you want to paint it every color in the rainbow and use sod to upholster an ottoman, that’s your business, not anyone else’s.
    I am on the Board of Directors of our local Senior Center. We work very hard to try to make our center something that our seniors can enjoy, gather in, make friends, and call it their home-away-from-home. But, I discovered rather quickly you cannot and will not ever please everyone. With that being said, I can appreciate the fact that to some people nothing you do is ever good enough.
    So, do what you want, when you want, how you want, and let the haters hate. Most of them are probably just jealous anyway! If you take a break, enjoy it………..I hope to see something from you soon!!

  98. I seriously hope I’ve not been a part of why you feel like walking away. I don’t *think* I’ve been negative in my comments, because my blood boils when I read some that are downright rude and insensitive!!! Before I hit enter, I read what I wrote, and ask myself if I have worded my comment in a polite manner. If not, I delete my offensive words. I try to live by “Do unto others as you would want done to you.” Wish more people on the internet would do the same. They feel that since they are effectively anonymous, they can say whatever they want. But they should remember there are people behind these pages, with feelings, who maybe don’t deserve hateful words, because they choose to share their lives with us. No one gave them permission to be rude. If they did, it would say so on their header!!! “Go ahead, be rude and hateful – I love it!” Nope, I don’t see that on any blog I ever read!!! So take a breather Kristi, I don’t blame you one bit! Also, I read a blog that the comments are “moderated” before publishing, maybe you should do that, and not publish the really hateful comments – or block those folks from further comments if they really are horribly negative. Yes, some comments that are deemed constructive could stay, (and you could give your feedback) but not the obvious haters, they don’t belong! I love what you do, and how you aren’t afraid to try something that appeals to you! Best wishes from me always!

  99. I’m just another admirer of yours and love all the ideas, inspiration and information that you give to us. I admire all of the different home improvements that you tackle because many of them are something I myself thought I couldn’t do. I have because of you have tackled them. I have tried reading many other bloggers and yours is the only one I still follow religiously. Please don’t stop inspiring the people who love you.

  100. Get it off your chest and get back to work on your house. While it is NO EXCUSE for readers to be rude to you, or even offer unsolicited advice……your warmth, honesty, and the way you invite readers in and chat like we all know each other, gives them the idea that even though it wasn’t a post asking for opinions, they give them anyway. I daresay that if you walked in over half of our houses, we all have things that make you say ewwwwww. That’s why our houses aren’t on a blog LOL. You do you, and you can never go wrong!

  101. Kristi, a big hug for you! Your blog is the first one I started following several years ago and it is my favourite. I read your posts first and then check the rest of my email.

    As for the comments on other bolgs, believe me, many blogs do not publish comments until they pass moderation. In other blogs the owners delete unwanted comments. There was a warning in one of the blogs, something like “Please, take care that your comments are not offensive for me or for the other readers. Such comments will be deleted and if you persist, you’ll be banned from the blog. Remember that I see everything!” I quite liked this.

  102. You are my favorite decorating blogger for many reasons! Don’t leave us. Take a break and know that the rest of us will be thrilled to follow you on your decorating adventures for years.

  103. I am part of the loyal, quiet, well-mannered, but infrequent commenters crowd. I’m sorry that most of us didn’t realize quickly enough that we needed to stand up and be vocal celebrants at your big reveal. I enjoyed the photos so much that I didn’t even scroll down to look at what anyone else thought.

    I hope you take as much time away as you need and enjoy the love and support of your family and pets.

  104. Kristi, as I was reading the comments on the “reveal” post, I was wondering how you were feeling.

    As others have previously commented, people feel they can and should state exactly how they feel, irregardless of how it makes the recipient feel.

    I respect those who can acknowledge their fault, ask forgiveness, and try to do better in the future.

    Please, if you wouldn’t (or shouldn’t) say it to their face, don’t say it at all. We all should have learned this as children.

    Keep doing what you’re doing Kristi!!! Yours is the first blog I check each day, and I learn so much from you in each post. I’ve pinned so many things I need a “Kristi” folder:)

  105. Dear Kristi,
    Please don t stop your blog. Please don t stop your work.
    Maybe it is time for you, and us, to have that piano tuned?
    Deniseke.

  106. I usually don’t comment much at all. However, I can understand your frustration on the negativity. Just remember, that is all it is! As one who LOVES to decorate, I so decorate to Please myself and my family. I myself, am like you. I look at decorating pictures all the time. If I so much as thought to myself I didn’t like a style someone did, I could NEVER Hurt someone intentionally, by saying such hurtful mean things. I am a positive person and you should never let someone hurt your feelings like that. I have Blocked so many people for that reason. I am old-fashioned. “If you can’t say something nice, say Nothing at all.” Please don’t second guess your beautiful entry way you created!

  107. I want to add that I saw every comment on Instagram that was nasty rude, and wanted to respond to each one myself. But I didn’t, because it usually starts a battle. So I just scrolled by them and shook my head, called them jerks (in my head) before moving on. I want to cry for you right now, but I will choke back my tears and be strong. Hope you will not leave forever, just for a day or two. Not too many bloggers I follow any more, but always want to follow you!

  108. Kristi, I want to say I look forward to your blog every day. First thing in the morning, I get my coffee and read your blog. You are so talented and inspire me each day. I read this today and must say I was disappointed, even a little angry… Everyone thinks they are a decorater! lol Everyone has an opinion, especially on the internet. You have made the mistake of asking your followers more than once for their thought on paint colors etc… So now they feel they can give thier input on everything you do. I really don’t see other bloggers asking input they just do their thing, as should you. How can you let people you have never met or will never set foot in your house upset you like this? Not everyone is going to like what you do. and who cares?! Move on to your next project. I would give anything to do what you do or have that creative gene you have. I am so disappointed that you are angry that everybody isn’t in love with your entryway and you don’t want to Blog now. Put on your big girl panties! How can you take the internet so seriously? No one was nasty, just giving advise. I am in some groups, (furniture painting and decorating) that people literally tear peoples work apart!! It’s terrible! The admin. has to come on daily and tell people to be nice or they will be removed, like a bunch of misbehaving children! I truly adore your decorating, my husband gets tired of me saying “Kristi did this today or Kristi is a creative genius!” he says I talk about you like you are my best friend! lol! I wish you were. Please don’t wear your heart on your sleeve, be strong and continue to be you! Stop reading the comments if your feelings are going to get hurt. In this business you must have thick skin. You should know this?! Not everyone is going to love all you do. But.. I guarantee you, they would kill to have your creative talent!

    1. I hope your comments to Kristi aren’t additionally painful as they’re kind of shaming and insensitive, with compliments kind of scattered throughout. Confusing and a bit odd.

      1. Yeah, I don’t want Kristi to feel bad either.
        I think this reader’s just putting it blunt but she’s trying to be complimentary.
        Toss out the dross, and keep the gold, they say.

  109. Kristi,
    I just recently found your blog. You’re amazing. I don’t know how you accomplish so much. You have a lot on your shoulders.

    If I lived near you I would gather some girlfriends & we’d all take you for a mini outing for some pampering & refreshment…or a weekend camping trip… Our guy-friends would spend guy-time with Matt & the dog. You need a little break!

    But I can’t wait to see what projects you do next! Thanks for being real. I think that’s why we all love you! …besides being so excellent at what you do and share. You have set a very high bar for yourself and it inspires & motivates me…even the criticisms you endure help me weather the criticisms that come my way because I think, “If she can do this without giving up, I won’t give up either!…but I might go surround myself with some nurturing reinforcement & clear my head for a few days!…or weeks!”.

    -Mara

  110. People easily lose sight of the most important thing besides kindness, which is that this blog is about your home, your safe haven, your place surrounding you with colors, textures and things that calm your inner voice and create peace within you. Be proud of what you’ve accomplished, you’re extraordinary and incredibly talented. I’m very proud of your work, and thank you for guiding the rest of us with your talents. ❤️

  111. Wow, you have every right to rant and you nailed the bad behavior of some people. But you need to remember and focus on those of us that find you INSPIRING. My DIY style is very much like yours and it is comforting to me to know I am not the only one that frequently change directions.
    Take a deep breath and know that the majority of us read your blog with great enjoyment.
    ps
    I love the entry way

  112. I so agree with Kathy: “there are plenty of us who recognize that we are the recipients of generous privilege just to peek over your shoulder.”
    That you let us into your life at all is pretty amazing, and many of us are grateful. I could NEVER to it!
    You, my dear, are SOOO gifted, and generous to those of us who read your blog. You are one of the very few that I take/have time to read.
    Thank you for all you have given us. When you feel up to it again, we will be here waiting. Just take a fun break for a while. Love you!

  113. Kristi…I love your blog and have followed you for several years. I love your talent, I love you exuberance and energy. I do not always like things you do in your own interior but it is not mine you are changing and designing…it is yours and Matt’s. I respect that. I do not make many comments but felt the need to do so here. I want you to continue just as you always do…sharing as you always do…and please ignore the rude people. I was much aware that you said you loved your entryway….no way would I insult you by saying anything otherwise. It is not our house to do so…it is yours. Thank you for pointing this out….children need to be reprimanded and those who felt it necessary to make a comment in the way they did are acting like children unsupervised!

  114. Lets just open with the fact that you are absolutely AMAZING. !!!
    You put yourself out there over and over again and take whatever comes back at you (both the positive and the negative) but always gracious and inspiring. You have created a “clan” with your openness and empowered all of us armchair decorators that live vicariously through your amazing skills and willingness to tackle projects that are unimaginable to anyone less than a skilled professional. If you don’t know how to do something — you just simply educate yourself and DO IT! It’s not rocket science, right ???
    While I am writing the, your video on creating the Greek Key on your curtain panels is happily moving along to the right side of my screen. Once YOU break it down into it’s elements, we have a AH-HA moment and W O W I could do that!!!!!! You have always been honest and open about evolving in front of us all sharing “what was I thinking” moments where you crack out the sander and rubber gloves and undo something that OMG – that’s SOOO much work, how will you ever get all that paint off????? But you do! We do learn from our mistakes and are constantly evolving forward.
    Take a break ! Refresh yourself and step back from your “job” to simply enjoy the fruit of your labor… Give yourself permission to take a mental (and physical) vacation till you are ready to share yourself with us once again. Do take some time off either with a book or no blog and enjoy the absolutely perfect space you created for yourself and your husband.

  115. I’m confused.
    You post on a site with an open comment section. Is it that people are only to comment to say they love it?
    I didn’t read any comments, nor did I comment on your entry. If “haters” (as someone above suggested) came to comment just to bring you down, I understand. That’s pure meanness. It’s going to happen though and should most definitely be expected.

    But if people commented it wasn’t for them, in a space used for discussion about what you produce, there are always going to be people who don’t like exactly what you’ve done. And it may be those comments came from the same exact people who compliment you weekly on your drive, your knowledge, your skills, others things you’ve made that they loved. If so, i would think they felt they were in a safe enough place to feel free to say this particular project wasn’t exactly what appealed to them and why. The comment then is more about them, not you. It may be they didn’t intend to hurt your feelings but rather just to discuss the difference between them and you, or just what they like and don’t. Like two friends over coffee. Yes, this is your real home, but these are actually images of a room, the discussion is decor. It isn’t about you at all at that point.

    You made the comment section a discussion type place. Some may have been here enough to feel it’s part of their daily lives! And thus feel they can say, safely, what they like and don’t like.

    I suggest you turn the comments off. That would bring an end to the many posts you’ve written about you being pulled away from your initial vision by comments suggesting a different route than what you had planned and later having to rework it so it did fit you, or how people’s comments have affected you so negatively.

    I’ve been reading you for 7 years. I’ve agreed with such posts as above about opposing comments and I’ve disagreed with others. I’ve loved some of your projects so much I’ve copied them for my home, but others weren’t for my home at all.
    It’s just part of the discussion type atmosphere you have built here. I hate that your feelings were hurt, that not everyone loved your entry and felt free to say so. And if there were comments that were said just to hurt you, those people need serious prayer. But it happens to all of us all the time. We have to learn to let it slide, take those comments strictly as a reflection of what they like or don’t, and move on! Or simply shut the comments off. I’m going to have the courage to post this, knowing there will be people who think now that I’m a “hater” which I am most definitely not. I have been a devoted faithful follower who is inspired most of the time by your projects, ALL of the time by your energy and skills, your get it done lifestyle! And I sincerely hope you can move forward emotionally quickly because life is short. We need to do what brings us joy and let the rest fall away. I also suggest some good food, some laid back time after all the work you’ve been doing, some hugs with the hubby, maybe a day out with others who make you feel good! And I feel free to make those unsolicited suggestions because you feel like someone I know after all the more personal posts I’ve read! This would all be what I would say to my dearest friends at this point. All my best wishes for a better day!

  116. I don’t get on IG very often but did this morning for some reason, and after a short scroll, I came to your post and read the comments you are referring to. What the actual bloody hell? I’m no blogger but I follow several because decorating is hugely interesting for me. I can’t seem to get enough. I love looking at everything that is aesthetically pleasing and I have followed you for a long time. Listen, NOBODY has your eye, your creativity, your taste, your tenacity, your knowledge, and your gumption that impresses us at every post. Beyond that, you are sharing all your hard-earned know-how with us for FREE! Please ignore silly commenters who think they have superior design sense. Their opinions are meaningless to anyone but them.

  117. I was intrigued by your post and had to go back and read the comments. (I vary rarely read others comments). At first I thought you might be losing it because I didn’t read anything like what you were describing. Then….Oh. My. Goodness. I was shocked and saddened. This world is full of enough negativity and maliciousness as it is. Why would these women act like this? I encourage you to block out the negative comments and only focus on the positive ones because there were more good than bad. Maybe we have all learned a lesson here. Let us all be kinder in our thoughts, words and actions.

  118. Going back through your archives at earlier reveals, it seems to me that the unsolicited comments really started in full force once you started regularly asking for reader’s opinions and feedback.

    You frequently have entire posts dedicated to asking your readers to pick between various paint colors, fixtures, and ideas.

    Perhaps the fact that your readers are regularly invited to comment on your house is creating confusion with your readers making them think their comments are always welcome.

    1. I would think that someone who had previously commented on the life expectancy of Kristi’s husband and remarked that her projects were selfish because they didn’t cater to her husband would refrain from commenting on a post about insensitive and unwelcome comments.

      1. You clearly thought wrong.

        Actually, I don’t think that’s the case, I don’t think you thought at all that somebody who had previously made harsh comments would refrain from commenting on this post.

        I think that if you had spent any time thinking about it, you would have predicted that would happen.

        So I think you’re lying about what you thought. In fact, I think you’re lying about the fact that you thought about it at all.

        I think you gave it no thought whatsoever, until you saw my comment, and then decided to lie in your phrasing in order to make your comment seem as passively-aggressively self-important as you could muster.

        I guess we have very different opinions about the validity and purpose of speech, and whether falsifying one’s words is an acceptable thing to do. This would explain why, instead of saying what you meant, you decided to lie and say the opposite of what you meant instead thinking this somehow made your comment more superior than had you just said it straight out.

        See… I don’t believe that it’s right to lie and say the opposite of what I mean to passive-aggressively try to make points.
        As faulty as my words may sometimes be, at least I own them, instead of pretending like they aren’t mine by lying in my phrasing.

        1. So you have all this integrity, an aversion to lying, a strong sense of right and wrong, and a loathing of passive-aggressive behavior, and yet you’re perfectly comfortable coming to my blog and leaving an additional comment (that I’m obviously not going to publish…you’re an idiot if you think I’m going to publish that comment) using a fake name and a fake email address just so you can tear into me and set me straight and say things that you clearly don’t have the backbone to say under your usual username and real email address?

          LOL…makes perfect sense.

          FYI, WordPress blogs record IP addresses with every single comment. You can use whatever fake email address or whatever insulting username you want. If you’ve commented before, all I have to do is click the IP address to see all of your comments and the other username(s) and email address(es) you’ve used. Welcome to the internet! You’ll catch on eventually.

          1. I didn’t post another comment under another IP address.

            I do, however, post from a public IP. Your blog was discussed over lunch today. Several people here read it. I’m not aware of anybody else having made a comment (didn’t ask yet either) but either way it wasn’t me. I’ve got a long history of reading/commenting on this blog, and I wouldn’t bother doing so under another name.

            Heck, if I was going to use a fake name for negative comments, I would have put the last negative comments I gave you under a false name, as well as the comment I put on this blog entry.

  119. I have never commented on your blog, but I love reading it every day and being inspired by your imagination and creativity…but mostly by your love of your home and your family. It’s just a quiet time each day for me to see someone who accomplishes so much and loves doing it. It’s such a personal thing to share your home and you’ve done such a great job. I confirm what the others are saying and reaffirm the need to take a break, refresh your mind, and then see if you are ready to go back to sharing. Maybe turn off comments, if necessary. It’s your home and you’ve unlocked the door to share it with us but not at the risk of taking away your joy! Do what you love!

  120. Kristi, you’re my #1 blogger. I love that you research ideas and inspiration for your latest project then dive right in, undaunted. It’s that confidence and fearlessness that has inspired me to build and create. Hey, I even did your wooden spoon art project!

    You come across as approachable, honest, and “real” to your readers. As a result, it may be that some commenters felt comfortable sharing their unsolicited opinion, but truly did not mean to cause you pain, and no doubt feel regretful for doing so.

    I hope you continue to blog for all of your readers who come to learn new skills and be inspired by your creativity.

  121. Can you disable the comments on certain posts, like room reveals? I remember before YHL stopped blogging for a while they were frustrated with comments, and now they don’t have them at all.

  122. Kristi,

    I think you’re amazing!!

    I do think sometimes taking a much needed over due break could certainly help and you work hard! I love your blog and hope that the amount of people that LOVE AND RESPECT all you do would keep you motivated to keep sharing and not stop from blogging!
    xoxo

  123. Just wanted to let you know that I am inspired by you every post. You have so many amazing ideas and give instructions on so much that you do! I am not going anywhere. Take the break you need and I will be here waiting with anticipation for your return.

  124. Kristi,
    I have followed your progress since shortly after moving into your house. I have learned so much from all of the work you have done and taught your followers in the process. You have no fear at tackling most any project. And you know when to bring in the professionals.

    Your home is beautiful and is a reflection of you and how you live.

    Keep it up. You are so willing to share your life so freely. Not so many are willing to do that. You teach more lessons than you realize.

  125. Wow. People are so rude! I have never commented on anyone’s blog before (that I remember anyway.) Your home is yours and it is beautiful and should reflect you and your tastes. Those people are NOT going to live there. I love seeing all the things you do. You are an amazing DIY’er so like someone else said – block the negative people and continue enjoying your home and the creative process. It gives others hope that maybe they can do it themselves.

  126. Very eloquently written post.

    This is one reason I quit blogging. Then I quit FB, then Twitter. I still look at IG sometimes, but I may throw that one out, too.

    My taste certainly is not for everyone, either, but I really don’t care. If it suits me, that’s all that matters. Years ago, when I was in the earlier days of blogging, I did concentrate a lot on design and decor because I had been a decorator, too. Then people started telling me what was wrong with my house. I was taken aback, but finally I decided to moderate comments. Some of those really snarky ones, I would just delete them so that no one else saw them. I also unfollowed them if I was following, or I otherwise blocked them so that I did not have to deal with them. One was from a woman I had never been anything but nice to (she lived in Italy in a rather strange-to-me house), and she told me I should throw out half my furniture!

    Once I took a 6-month break from blogging, then resumed with a different look and focus, which was to say — Unfocused (my blog was called Scribbler Unfocused). When I could take it no more, I just quit about a year and a half ago. Ten years I spent on it, and the best I can say is that I made a few new friends for real along the way. So that’s something.

    Now I only read a few blogs that I find truly interesting, yours among them. So — I hope you will continue to blog if you want, because it is always interesting and informative to read your posts. Unless you ask for an opinion, I will never offer one, and I usually don’t anyway, even then.

    Things will look better tomorrow. So go enjoy your pretty handiwork and give the naysayers the middle finger!

  127. Kristi,

    I’ve been reading your blog for years and I am in awe of your talent and perseverance. I love reading every post and I also love your style. When you had the foyer reveal post and had pictures of past decor I loved every single one. I kept looking at each picture and saying to myself–How Beautiful! Then I would scroll to the next photo and think the same thing.

    I think that putting yourself ‘out there’ for comments and criticism is an extremely brave venture. In order to do that you have to be able to filter out the ‘constructive’ comments and focus on what motivates you.

    I can’t say enough wonderful things about your work. You are awesome!

  128. Amen! When I read your reveal post, I felt your happiness! It is so pretty, and so Kristi-like! I could just imagine you placing everything, maybe humming or singing in the process. And then I started reading the comments, and my heart sank. The rudeness, the presumptuousness, whoever do they think they are!!! I would never let them into my house, and I hope you do not let them take away the happiness you deserve for all the hard work you put in and the beautiful results you end up with. Bless you, Kristi – and many virtual hugs from those who look forward to everything you share with us!

  129. I don’t post very often, but I had to today after reading your post. I truly hate to hear you say that. Out of the HUNDREDS of emails I get daily, yours is the ONLY one that I look forward to getting. I look multiple times each morning to see if you’ve posted anything. I think that maybe the issue is that you do ask for input sometimes when you’re undecided about things, so then people think it’s OK to comment about EVERYTHING you do. You’re right, we all have different tastes. Like you said, I wouldn’t make all the choices you’ve made if it were my home, and sometimes I like your first choices better than your final choices, but I understand that it’s your home and you have to be happy with it. And 100% of the time, I think the final product looks fantastic even if it ISN’T my style…because most of the time you MADE it from scratch! So, I would never say it’s bad, and the people who do should be ashamed of themselves. The reason I love your blog so much is because I never know what I’m going to get, and I LOVE learning how to do things on my own. You give so much hope to those of us who WANT to try to tackle things ourselves, but maybe just don’t have the courage or know how to get started. PLEASE, for those of us who “get” you, please stick around. 🙂

  130. I applaud your post. Your honesty. Your braveness for posting for the internet to comment on your designs. I don’t know how you do it. I rarely post due to time constraints but I will glance at comments once in awhile. I am always floored at how many people do offer you unsolicited advice when you clearly didn’t ask for it. I hope you don’t walk away. I enjoy your creativeness and thinking out of the box. I love your use of bold colors and how you are true to YOURSELF and YOUR vision. Keep posting!!!

  131. …and this is why I’m quite sure I would Never start a blog about my furniture rebirthing adventures. My daughter wants me to share my experience(little), artistry (minimal), and levity in bringing new life to old pieces..but I just Don’t have the Dedication and Energy that a Great Blogger needs—Like YOU do!!! AMAZING that you Video,Edit,Write, Post ALL WHILE CREATING BEAUTIFUL AMAZING PROJECTS AND PIECES!!! How in Gods name do you do that girl??? So to be a bit upset and very deflated about the jerks making “comments” ? Man–that’s a friggin killer..don’t blame you At ALL..Seriously makes me feel like crying…I’m Actually tearing up writing to you.. Many of the folks here have spelled it out clearly..The internet, for all the Wonderful, Great stuff its good for, has made people forget there is a REAL PERSON on the other end of your keyboard..
    Funny, I have another Blogger that does design and gardening and he is AWESOME–but a few months back he had a pain that had been gradually building inside him because very Few people commented at all after reading his blogs–good bad or indifferent! (and he had just passed the 1Million mark of subscribers!!) He would get tons of likes,etc., and although he could tell all his posts were seen thousands of times, No One seemed to want to take the time to comment—including…MYSELF!! And he had even Selected my home dilemma to feature-so I def owed him….I had NO IDEA something as simple as ” now this is the idea I’ve been looking for Fred-Thank you bud!” would have Validated his Personal feeling that he was doing something truly Valuable..Well, he finally let it out on his blog and now that we Know we all make a concerted effort to not only Take from Him BUT Give him a pat on the back or a How could you! :-).. and I feel-and Im sure he does- better all the way around..

    Kristi-You are an amazing gal–your style isn’t my style and mine isn’t yours–who cares–your ideas-your struggles- make me look forward to every post. Hopefully bringing this up will put an end to people commenting when Not being asked! dummies……..God Speed Girl!!

  132. I’m shaking my head. Reading your post made me feel a misty-eyed for you and then angry at the audacity of some people. What is it they say about, “armchair quarterbacks”?

    I for one, love your blog and admire your courage for tackling projects that most of us wouldn’t even dream of trying. I mean come on, who builds their own portico?

    I have learned so much from you and I am continually amazed with your skill and accomplishments. The spirit of generosity in which you share your DIY’s diminished my fear of screwing up. You inspired me to build my own dining bench and upholster my chairs – all based on your explicit instructions. I am so grateful for that!

    Don’t let a few naysayers get you down. (I know, easier said than done) In my opinion, YOU are the whole package sister…..

  133. Yours is the only decorating blog I follow. Why? Because yours is different – I think we all feel we kind of “know” you. You’re style is yours (and personally, I love it). Possibly the ones making these comments have never picked up a paintbrush, hammer or sewing machine ever and just “ look & comment.” But today, everyone thinks they can say or do anything to anybody – it’s called no manners anymore. Ignore it. Thirty years ago I got my first real furniture – an Asian-inspired dining room set. I can’t tell you how many people right off the bat said it was ugly, old-fashioned, and just plain weird. Why wouldn’t I get that gorgeous black or white lacquer set instead?! Guess what – I still have it, I still love it, and so does everyone else – now! Keep doing what you’re doing, you do it so well, and really, deep down, everyone knows it. You will learn with age that no one else’s opinion matters but your own. Take a rest but come back to us!

  134. Hi, Kristy!

    I hope you take some time off for yourself. Picture it…Texas, 2018.
    Kristi, in one of her FANTASTIC rooms with her feet up, puppy at her side, with a huge glass of iced tea…or other favorite beverage. No computer, no phone for however long it takes to feel 100%!

    Best Wishes to one exceptional person🌈

  135. ok, so this has me thinking. I have posted comments on what I love and what I would change and if any were offensive I sincerely apologize. I won’t do it again I promise!

    But thinking back on why I felt I could comment or contribute on the process where I don’t on other decorating blogs I follow is because the nature of your site feels different. It feels to me like I am following a family member due to your casual and approachable style of communicating. On other sites I follow decorating decisions are made and presented to their audience as final.

    So I guess it might be the comfort level many of your viewers feel with you. You also tend to “work through the process” with your followers making many changes often in the same rooms, sometimes based on feedback you have received. When you have a dilemma or are working through options you will let us know and for me it meant voicing an opinion which I have really enjoyed. So that is why I think I felt comfortable commenting on changes I would make.

    It’s like working through the process helping a friend out on making decisions. I am not a designer and it has been fun being able to opine on the process with you. Again I am really sorry if I offended you.

  136. I’m glad you published the entry. Everything is spot on, especially the ‘humanity’ part. I hope you continue the blog, I love it and have been with you since you painted the couch! I plan to use your custom teal color you have in the entry and on the fireplace. I’ve also gotten supplies to make some of your unique decorations. Even being a copycat, my house looks nothing like yours. It’s too bad people can’t appreciate what you do, why don’t they find something else to do with their time instead of being an internet troll. Feel better and I look forward to your future projects.

  137. Kristi – I honestly don’t know another person that is as talented as you are (you can design, sew, paint, upholster, build and handle all aspect of construction). You are my inspiration. The sad part is, one can get 1000 positive comments but its always the negative ones that stands out in your mind. You are so AMAZING. I hope you do not take a break, as I look forward to every single post.

  138. hi Kristi,
    Long-time follower, first-time poster. I visit your blog almost daily, looking forward to seeing each step to the incredible transformations you’ve enacted with your own two hands. I’m not good with tools, but you inspire me to try. My husband is handy and at first he was confused that I kept talking about you as if you were someone I had talked with in real life (as in, “Kristy says she used this spray painter, Kristy says she likes this brush…” He would look at me as if I’d lost it and ask, “Who’s Kristy?”) but as I kept showing him your makeovers and projects, now he’s getting inspired too! Guess who’s turning his garage into a studio? Guess who bought an air conditioning unit for it (Can’t remember if it’s a duct split or an hvac, something like that)? One highlight of my week was when you put the shutters up on other side of the house. Still feel a bit guilty that I did not post then, b/c I know what a huge step forward that was for you. But I love the colors with the front door, so truly beautiful.
    Criticism is never fun, especially when you did not submit the work for review. But I do hope that you figure out a way to keep going with your blog. Enjoy your work immensely.

  139. People don’t read and sometimes those who do, don’t totally comprehend. Ask me how I know. Not making excuses here, but your readers are accustomed to giving you their opinions, some automatically did even though you didn’t ask for them. I didn’t comment at all on your entry. This is your style and I’m happy you completed it and called it DONE. No more changes. You amaze me with your talent from installing cabinets to building furniture pieces. You know who you are and what you like…that is ALL THAT MATTERS. Take a breath, go for a walk or ride in the country. Forget about the blog and us for a while. Then see how you feel.

  140. Your house, your style, what makes you happy! You don’t have to please anybody but yourself. People just can’t help themselves giving unsolicited advice. Wonder how many of them are actually interior designers?? Probably zero! What more can we ask than our decor surrounding us reflect our taste and what makes us happy! Trust your instincts and feelings, not strangers! Just keep doing what you do best as many of us can’t wait to see what you do next!!

  141. I think social media has became a way for people to take frustrations out on other people instead of dealing with there own situation. The bloggers I follow I like to read there comments as well and think your readers consider you our friend. As I often have told my family Kristi has build this ….:and they look at me as …who is Kristi? She is my blogging friend. Enjoy a break. Do you have an outside fountain? I have found the sound of water running is so relaxing in a outdoor fountain sitting in the shade just relaxing with a sonic cherry limeade and my dog by my feet. Take a break, but not to long we will miss your post

  142. So many people feel emboldened to speak without filters or a conscience these days, starting from the top down in our country! Not just on your blog. A friend of mine won’t say the name of her baby until after birth because she is afraid of criticism! SMH! Who would dare to criticize someone about such a choice? (And this from a Grandma who has a granddaughter with a very unusual name,) … on the other hand, you have so often asked for input that I think your readers may feel they have the permanent right to offer input anytime. … my suggestion is offer fair warning that when you want input you will ask for it. Then, start deleting them if they refuse to respect your decisions! … I for one look forward to your posts, and when I don’t see one as often as I expect, I start to be concerned about you! …keep blogging for those of us who appreciate you! 😉

    1. It’s not a problem, Eileen. 🙂 I see my name spelled about 10 different ways. I just have one of those names with many different possible spellings. I’ve become accustomed to it, and am not bothered by it in the least. 🙂

  143. Yes, by all means take a break! You are not alone in encountering this issue (thinking of YHL) in the blogosphere. While you take a break, you could consider the idea of not allowing comments at all, or doing what folks have said is common -deleting or blocking certain comments. Enough is enough.

  144. I am totally AMAZED at your work. Not only do you design it, YOU BUILD IT (in many instances) While my taste for myself is different from your taste for yourself, I can certainly appreciate how creative and how much thought goes into the process. and not to forget, how beautiful it comes out.

    DO NOT DOUBT YOURSELF FOR ONE SECOND!!!!!! Celebrate your design, smile at it every time you enter the space. Even if it is a party of one, you can scream Yippee and be proud.

  145. Kristi, Your blog is amazing. I so admire all the skills you possess and what you are able to accomplish. I have learned so much from you! You are so generous in sharing your techniques and materials with your followers. I always look forward to seeing what new project you are working on. I have learned so much about style and color from you. Your front entry is so beautiful…..I love it too!

  146. Hi Kristi,

    I do hope you will take care of yourself. I want you to know you inspire me. I’ve been working on my house for the last 3 years and you are my go to for DIY. Not necessarily your style (although I enjoy your style) BUT your drive and tenacity. I have used your techniques often and purchased tools you have recommended.

    I hope you are back soon. I look forward to seeing the progress on your house. BTW your entry has inspired me to do what works for me and my home and not what is “in” or trendy right now.

    Stay true to yourself!💜

  147. I stopped reading those comments when you published the entry post because I too was astounded at all the “input”. I’m sorry people feel that way and you’re 100% correct that people respond online like they never would in person. Take a break, but don’t leave those of us who enjoy the posts and your outstanding taste but rarely make any comments. For those malcontents, I say get your own blog and make a living at it if you’re so smart!

    I’m fascinated at the magnitude of your talent. I wish I had a thimbleful of it.

  148. don’t let the haters get under your skin. I’m a long-time lurker – and I love what you do! I have my own, rather distinct, style too, and I can’t imagine having folks comment on it in any negative way. just ignore those energy suckers.

  149. Hi All & Kristi!

    Part of the problem with an internet blog is that we don’t see your face and you don’t see ours. That disconnect leads some folks to say stuff they would NEVER say to us personally. I try and keep that in mind when I post. It’s a lesson I learned a couple of years ago when I mentioned that I worked for our government and got a slew of comments that really hurt. It was a lesson in basic human kindness I try to take to heart. If what I think isn’t kind, isn’t supportive and is unsolicited, it should not be said. Also, I think it is rude to skim an article and ask questions that I would know the answer if I had read the article!

    Whew! With that in mind, please forgive us!!! We did not mean to hurt your feelings and we will try to do better. Please take the time you need to recover from this. I’m hoping you won’t lose faith in us as a group. And please if someone consistently annoys you, (including me) block them!! sending HUGS!!

  150. I never comment on blogs, but I felt compelled to do so today. I have enjoyed watching your progress on your house. I think you are courageous, smart, and creative. The people who write rude things are simply rude, ill-mannered people. Period. There seems to be more rude people today than there used to be. Having rude behavior does not make one a “strong woman” – it simply makes you a rude jerk. A “strong woman” does not have to resort to stupidity – she rises above it and shows class. Ignore the creeps. Most of us enjoy your energy, creativity, and spunk.

  151. Kristi,

    I have NEVER come across anyone whose skills come close to yours. I am so amazed by the range of your skills and the expertise you have in so many areas. It’s obvious that you are a highly intelligent woman also. You are a better engineer than most engineers I know (and I know quite a few including my husband).

    It never ceases to amaze me at how people think it is okay to make some of the comments they make. I was taught better manners I guess. I would love to look at the blogs of those who offer such negative unsolicited feedback. Oh wait, they don’t have a blog?! I wonder why?!

    Please know that there are many of us who are incredibly inspired by your talent and skills and have developed the courage to try things we wouldn’t have if we not been followers of your blog. You and I something in common-we will redo things until it is the exact way we want it. I think that takes courage. Why keep things unless you love it every time you look at it?

    I’ve had people in my family comment negatively about how often I change things up or paint a room a different color, etc. I’ve told them that I learned to change things because I’ve watched them leave things the same way for 25-30 years. They then realize that they might have been a little insensitive.

    Please don’t give up the blog or stop being yourself. You are beautifully and wonderfully made and have amazing talent & skills!

    I would also like to offer some advice for those who make comments. Stating things like “even though I don’t like this or that in your entry way or any other area, it’s not my house, but I get inspiration…” isn’t helpful either. If you start a sentence with or use “even though I”, DON’T COMMENT. It’s not about you! It doesn’t matter what you like unless you are asked.

    Please know that there are many of us who look forward to your blog posts and get so excited to see what you have done even though we don’t comment regularly. I also know that it takes about 12 positive things/statements to reduce the effect of one negative thing/comment. If people would remember that, they might be more careful about what they choose to say. There’s a reason God has warned us about the dangers of the tongue. It can be a very dangerous, hurtful weapon. In this day and age, the keyboard has become a mean, vicious extension of the tongue.

    You are admired, Kristi and deeply appreciated. Take a break and focus on you, Matt and your precious fur-babies, but please don’t give up on us! I know we can do better.

  152. Hi Kristy,
    I never thought I would be sending a comment , but here it is:
    A confident woman does not need ANYONE’S approval….or disapproval. Hit delete and move on.

    I first discovered your blog when you were making wingback chairs and making your own pattern for them.
    Who DOES that? No one I know of but you!I thought “THIS woman is FEARLESS, what an inspiration!”
    Apparently not as fearless as I thought if feedback haunts you.
    I am submitting this only because I had to learn the same lesson myself and it wasn’t easy.
    Your faithful readers like me don’t want to be dragged into the drama. It’s too high school and diminishes YOU, which is
    probably what the critics intend. Please find a way to rise above it and do what you do best. Innovate, construct and teach us
    to be fearless too. When you let your critics derail you, you are the only one that looses. Keep your focus.
    Hint: It shouldn’t be THEM.

    I have had a decorating business for over 20 years now and you have to have a thicker skin if you want to be successful.
    Listen to the critic, filter what they say and decide what you can learn and move on. I find that a simple, “Thanks for your input”
    is all it takes and I can move on without regret.
    You also have to realize that when you seek to build support for yourself by lamenting to others, you alienate some of your
    fan base and don’t look that confident. That’s too sad for those of us who really do believe you are fearless.
    With all that you have done and can do, you should be able to dismiss the naysayers and “Don’t look back.”
    I also agree that while the phrase “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” is good manners,
    most of today’s society has to be reminded of that and without critics of some kind, we do not grow as much.

    I would like to live in Utopia where everyone is kind and good, and also creative and fearless. Your blog can BE that
    and stay inspiring if you don’t let it become another soap opera filled with needless drama that makes me want to
    immediately hit ‘unsubscribe’. You are so much more than that. Do what you need to do, find your balance,
    but in the future, try not to “wrestle with a pig in the mud” cuz everyone gets filthy and the pig loves it!
    Something I like to remember when coming up against unreasonable adversaries.

    Hope what I have had to learn the hard way will help you too!
    Wendy

    1. Well said Wendy!!
      Kristi, do you really want to surround yourself with yes people? I cannot believe that!! More importantly, why are you giving the trolls control over you and your life?

  153. You decorate to your taste and not everyone is going to like it but we all learn from it. That is why I look at blogs. It trains the eye. I love the pictures for example. When a relative of mine came to visit she hated the way I hung my pictures on the wall. And when I tried to tell her that I painted frames and reframed pictures as an interesting hobby, she said I was egotistical. Just think of having to be related to those horrible commenters. As someone said “haters are going to hate”, it makes them feel better about themselves when confronted with something they cannot do for themselves.

  154. I certainly think that you should feel free to go on vacation from your job just like everyone else.

    When you come back, turn off the comments section if that will help.

  155. Kristi, great post. I want to say how much I appreciate your blog. It is the first and only blog I have ever subscribed to. I am so inspired by you. My DIY days are mostly over at this stage in my life but I figure if Kristi can build a bathroom at least I can make some choices and hire someone else to build it for me. Even that has been a huge challenge for me. So…your “can do” attitude is helping me in my own pursuits. And even though I never intend to build stairs I read every word of your posts about building stairs and even showed them to my husband. Your competence and productivity astound me. i agree with others who have suggested that other bloggers probably don’t publish negative comments. Thoughtless, rude, or insensitive people are everywhere. I’m so glad your house makes you happy. I think creating a home that supports us emotionally is so incredibly important. My best to you.

  156. Dear Kristi,
    I am so sorry your feelings have been so painfully hurt to the point you are very feeling angry. Here I am knocking on your door today to give you a big hug, I am sorry you are hurting Kristi. I love you and your passion for design. You are an amazingly talented woman who has an incredible amount of courage and and enviable amount of ambition and energy to tackle ANY project. You are very generous to share YOUR design stories and YOUR home remodel projects with the world via YOUR blog.

    Thank you Kristi for sharing yourself, your many talents, your design stories and your home remodel projects with me over the years!!! I love your passion and your many talents and I brag about how amazing you are when I speak of your blog to others. I have been a subscriber of your blog for years and every morning I scan through my email hoping to find a new post from you to see your latest and greatest project progress. You have transformed your house into a beautiful home for you, Matt, Peeve and Cooper to comfortably and happily enjoy together.

    I will pray for your wounded heart.

    Much love to you Kristi,

    Brandi

  157. Please don’t go Kristi! We love you and love the way you do things. You are an inspiration for so many of us! Those other bloggers delete the negative comments, I’m sure. It is your blog and you have the right to do the same, but, please, don’t turn off the comments, some of them are really interesting and helpful for other readers.

  158. Kristi, I love your blog, I always look forward to seeing a post from you. Your blog is THE best, because you do it all. I love your vision, your creativity, your designs, your work ethic, everything!!!!!! You have already accomplished so much in transforming your home, it’s truly amazing and it’s your home. It feels like you. You really are a super woman doing all this amazing work. Please keep up the blog, you’re such an inspiration to so many. You have given me so much confidence to do things, because I’m always saying to myself, Kristi can do, so give it a try! I don’t think you know how many people really love you, you are like our personal friend and our mentor!!

  159. Your blog is the first home decor/DIY blog I ever read. I have been reading for years. You have inspired me to do my own DIY in my home. Now I have a blog. It’s easy to read these comments and get discouraged but to me you have been an inspiration!

    Just thought you should know! 😉 Keep up the good work!

  160. Vent away but since this is your job/income source realize that you are open to comments from both sides. Consider turning off feedback??

  161. Your style isn’t mine, but I learn tons from the way you talk through things and teach us to do things ourselves. I hope you don’t quit. But I totally understand your feelings. I know many who filter comments, but you would still read them and I think that would be hard. So sorry about mean nasty people.

  162. I know this is cliche – but your house, your rules. You love it – it’s nobody else’s business. I love what you do, I appreciate that you are not afraid of color and pattern, and you are obviously incredibly talented. Take a break, a deep breath, and try to remember that in the long run, all that really matters is you love what you have accomplished – and please don’t walk away!!!! Thank you for all that you do and the inspiration you provide.

  163. Hi Kristi! I almost feel like I could say, “Hi friend!” because after years of following your blog, you sorta feel like a friend. ♥ I LOVE following your blog .. your creativity and sheer output flat-out inspire me. ♥ I am SO sorry you’ve been dealing with negative comments on a finished area that you love and asked for NO input on … in fact told us that you specifically didn’t show us progress pictures because you didn’t WANT input. :'( There’s a whole pile of people who need to learn that advice from Grandma, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” ♥ My suggestion would be to hire a comment moderator … maybe even a teen for an hour or so a day. And for rude comments, simply delete them. No looking back. For people repeatedly post rude comments, block them. No looking back. You don’t need them in your life. On a finished project, if it ain’t nice, delete it. Period. It’s YOUR FB page, YOUR blog, YOUR home. You certainly wouldn’t invite rude people in to criticize your home and then print those comments and leave them on the wall for you and everyone else to read. No need to allow it on your blog/FB page. And only AFTER that moderator has gone through and removed the junk, THEN you can go through and read what’s left. Kind of like an executive whose secretary removes the junk mail before making the delivery. ♥ Sending you a (((hug))) from NY. ♥

  164. Personal style is just that – personal. I enjoy your blog, and your taste, even though “it” isn’t in tune with my aesthetic. Everyone should remember what their Mama taught them, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything.”

  165. Oh, man, I’m so sorry. I know how you feel. Unsolicited advice is always hard, no matter the subject. Just know that there are some of us out there who enjoy learning from you and seeing what you do because then it gives encouragement to us to complete our DIY tasks. If anybody walked in my house right now with half-finished projects everywhere, they would have a field day with what’s wrong in my home. And that’s the thing. Sometimes it’s much easier to tell somebody else what’s wrong in his/her life than it is to take a look at one’s own. Log and all that. 😉

  166. I’ve followed you for years! I love what you do, even though some of it is different than what I’d do in my home!
    I see some of those same comments on this page, and it makes me frustrated for you! I get where you’re coming from. Walk away, breathe, take time but please come back. Many of us would really really miss your blogs and the “education” you have shared with us! Thanks Kristi!

  167. I’m so sorry for the “meanies” out there – personally I am so tired of what our society has become that because it’s online folks say and do things they would never do to your face. Block them and carry on – there are hundreds more people who enjoy your creativity than those who don’t. You can live without them! Hang in there – take time to regroup and come back stronger than ever!

  168. Whenever you’re putting original content out on social media, expect negative as well as positive feedback. It’s sad you’re disappointed and feeling disheartened but that’s all part of the process. Posting project updates in real time offers that opportunity of input, whether it’s wanted or not. I’m sure most people who are giving criticism aren’t doing so in the spirit of upsetting you or undermining your process – it’s just the nature of blogging/vlogging interaction. You’re not always going to receive the positive affirmations via comments that you’re seeking so maybe try to be a little thicker-skinned and not give so much feeling or credence to the statements you don’t agree with. No need to fall apart over it – just do you and move on. Or……disable comments on project posts that feature incomplete work. Just thoughts.

    1. Just interested, are you a blogger? Do you post anything on social websites? Of course not! I’m certain she already knows every comment won’t be perfect. It’s comments such as yours that make my skin crawl. Going thru the back door to deliver your veiled insults. You should probably keep your “thoughts” to yourself.

      1. Is it a realist thinker’s way of saying it or bluntness?

        These seemed like “tell it like it is comments.”

        But yes, it must be said with kindness.

  169. Kristi, yours is one of only two decorating blogs I actually subscribe to so I won’t miss a post. You are so talented, but even more, you have such an ability to inspire confidence in other women (and men too, I guess but that’s not my point). You are thoughtful, you explain your ideas and your choices, and you change your mind if something doesn’t work for you. I LOVED your DYI Schumacher-type wall painting. Just LOVED it. And even though it is gone for something you like better, you explained it in such detail that I know I could create something like that in my own home. Your blog and everything you do are such gifts to the world. Please don’t let the rude words of a few readers overshadow the gratitude so many of us feel for all the things you’ve taught us.

  170. Kristie

    Just remember a couple of things. It’s YOUR house. They don’t pay the bills.

    And there is a delete button.

    Personally, I think your house is perfect.

    Don’t listen to the garbage talk. That’s where the nasty, snarky comments belong. In the garbage

    Did I mention there is a delete button 😀😀😀

    Mary

  171. Kristi, I am new to your blog, my Mum always told us “if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all”. I read quite a few blogs and think wouldn’t it be boring if we all painted our walls griege with a nice set of antlers!!! My (late) best girlfriend , if she was asked an opinion, and didn’t like something , would declare “I think it’s stunning “. Take a breather, don’t quit, and remember, YOUR HOUSE, YOUR RULES, sincerely Jacky

  172. Hi,
    I just came across you today so please don’t quit because I’m going to start following you now! 🙂 I love how much you love what you’ve done. There needs to be more of that. Being indistinct enough to be universally liked is depressing. Also, I love that little clock. I think that is my favorite in the space.
    Best,
    Jackie

  173. Your entryway room is YOURS! It was made, literally, by you and redone until you got what YOU wanted and satisfied that beauty and harmony void within using the right combination that suits YOU!! For that I am thankful for you, happy for you and congratulate you.

    GO GIRL!!!!!!
    It will be a wild ride until that house is fully YOU YOU YOU!
    Thanks for sharing your ups and downs, your awesome color sense and creativity!

  174. I hope you keep coming back to us. With all your nifty ideas & color & instructions & inspirations. I don’t do alot DIY but there are things you’ve shown that I might want to do and because of YOU, I know where to go for the instructions. I love what you are doing to your home. It is beautiful. I’ve liked all versions of your entryway. And the inspiration all thru your home.

    It’s YOUR house. Keep being your own person. We love you!

  175. Oh my goodness, Kristi!!! You sure got a response! I don’t know if you’ll give up reading them by the time you get to mine, but I just wanted to say… I feel so bad that people were unkind. I think you have mad amazing skills and here you are usually doing most of it yourself and hard stuff!!! I am so inspired by you and just so you know you are the first in my list of bloggers to look at every day. I like to look at a bunch of different styles, because you see something in each one that is different from what you would think of and that’s the purpose of following bloggers to my mind anyway. We draw inspiration from you and that’s a great gift for you to share. Shrug off the critics, even well meaning ones. You have a right to do things your way in your home!!!

  176. The world is full of a**holes bullies parading as people with constructive criticism. The majority of the a**hole bullies reside on Twitter and Instagram. They call it a good day when they can ruin yours. I don’t believe for one minute that other bloggers don’t have unsolicited, insulting, opinionated criticism/advice on their blogs. I think all those comments are deleted before we ever see them. There is, I’m certain, some degree of jealousy along with a large amount of meanness that drives a**holes desire to make people feel terrible and themselves better. They are losers period.
    I have only been following you for awhile but I enjoy it so much. No pushing advertisers useless products just sharing your knowledge and talent which I appreciate immensely. I would hate to see you sign off forever. Take a break spend time with your family and play with that adorable puppy. Hope to see you back here very soon.

    1. You’re exactly right. If other bloggers don’t seem to have critical comments, they’re blocking and deleting. Which is fine. It’s what I would do.

      Convincing people to be polite on the Internet is not possible.

  177. Kristi…..Do Not give in…….. I would like to see any one of them pick up the “Big Boy” tools and do what you do with them…”a Pox on their heads…!!!!!!” Listen my dear girl….. you are so very talented and we are blessed by you soooo generously sharing that talent..… and furthermore….. if they don’t Like it….they most certainly have the very welcome choice to PLEASE LEAVE……‘nuf said….

  178. Instead of complaining about people commenting on your blog (seriously, this post was really annoying), just turn the comments off. People love to give advice, even if you didn’t ask for it. They aren’t doing it to be mean or rude, they are trying to be helpful. You posted your home for all to see on a public blog. People are going to make comments, some of them you won’t like. I run a few different blogs and I have comments turned off on all of them. I don’t have time for that. If someone really wants to get in touch, they will leave a comment on my social media or send me an email. You don’t have to turn comments off on all posts, just the ones where you aren’t looking for advice.

    1. So you have comments turned off on your blogs so people can’t comment things like “seriously, this post was really annoying”? Maybe reconsider commenting on other blogs if you’re not willing to allow comments on your own since you don’t have time for that.

      I don’t understand how you think your comment is helpful. Maybe if it had been done with a little more consideration, kindness or grace. Maybe you didn’t mean it as harshly as it reads, so maybe read over your comments before submitting them.

  179. I just recently found your blog and am a new follower. You are truly quite brilliant and I enjoy seeing how your mind works. I was gobsmacked when you revealed your foyer… rarely do I ever wonder how someone came up with a design but you baffle me, that space is phenomenal. The lamp shades alone are just killer. Perfect on so many levels. and brave. I rarely leave comments on a blog but if I do it is to encourage and build up another woman, not insult and tear down. Ladies, what in the world is wrong with you? Are you SO insecure about your own style and choices that you cannot even see your snarky comments simply reveal that you are feeling threatened? I’m old, I’ve seen a lot, but this new generation is something I have never ever seen…they are self important, rude and need a good slap!

  180. I look forward to your blog. Keep up the great work. People are just so petty. I get comments too on what I wear, say, decorate, etc. and I can’t take it sometimes. Usually the ones making the remarks don’t do anything for themselves. Please don’t stop sharing with us.

  181. Kristi,
    I love your blog. I’m so sorry that some people do not possess a filter. Our pastor yesterday spoke about this very subject. How social media has allowed a platform for people to be evil to others. Please block all negativity. We don’t want to read their comments either. Keep it up. The positive folks want to hear from you.
    Teresa

  182. Oh no! I just started getting your stuff in my inbox and love it. Definitely take a breather, you deserve it. Then get back to it, it’s what you love and others love it too! Totally inspiring. The internet is definitely a blessing and a curse, couldn’t agree more.
    xo

  183. Kristi,
    I’m sorry if the comments I made on that post offended you. I truly was not trying to hurt you. Please accept my humble apology.

    I think that most of us that follow you feel like you are our friend. You have set your blog up asking for opinions on most things and have seemed happy in the past when people have presented different ideas to you. I guess the disconnect comes when you say a room is done and you are not expecting any opinions. Since a lot of us feel like you are a friend (my friends always want my honest opinion), we feel more open in giving our opinion to you. I have never, I don’t think, been rude about anything I’ve said and those that are rude should stop.

    I only take a couple of blogs with yours being my favorite. You are probably the most talented woman I’ve seen from building furniture you have designed to decorating your finished rooms to making your own artwork, doors, and light fixtures. I’m blown away and wish I had a small portion of that talent. While I don’t always love everything you do, your style most matches mine from any other blog I’ve seen as I love colorful rooms, too. Please don’t stop your blog. There are so many of us out here who are learning so much from you.

    Maybe when you have a room that is done or you have a blog post that you don’t want comments or opinions on, either say that in the post or disable the comment section.

    Once again, please accept my apology if I’ve said anything that has hurt your feelings or offended you in any way. I will certainly try to do better and won’t say anything at all if I don’t like something.

  184. So sorry Kristi that some people don’t see the hard work you put into every project. Your here to show how to do things. I so look foward to your blog and get so disappointed when there is nothing. I have been doing diy for most of my life out of necessity. I still enjoy learning new things every day. Every time you try something and change your mind. I felt so relieved to learn that I wasn’t alone in not getting it right the first time. It gives me courage to try again. You inspire so many more of us than you know. Hey folks we are not here to create her home it’s her home. She is here to show us we can do a project if we want.enjoy learning how to do something. Hope to see you back soon or I will be in withdrawal.

  185. Kristi, don’t listen to the naysayers. Truth be told I am so jealous of the way you decorate. I would gladly feed and clothe you for you to come to Connecticut to help me with my house. I love the little details you do like the framed bird pictures all posed one way but the two on the bottom posed the long way Most people wouldn’t know how to do that but that “sings” to me. I was diagnosed with lung cancer in January of this year. Boy have I learned a lot and the main thing I learned is don’t let the bastards wear you down. I love your blog and I can’t wait to see every posting you have.

  186. First off – your awesome! Second, I think the reason you received feedback after declaring your room done is that you are an interactive blogger. You ask for thoughts from your readers on a regular basis regarding design elements; so even when you don’t ask, people feel comfortable giving their opinion even when they shouldn’t. This doesn’t make it right; I didn’t read the comments from your reveal, but I would hope that most were not left with malicious intent. Going forward, what about turning off comments when you do a final reveal? Or maybe a disclaimer at the top simply telling people that this room is finished to MY taste, so please don’t leave any comments regarding changes I should make. Again, your awesome – you do great work – take a break – and do what makes you happy.

  187. Kristi, I cannot read all of THESE comments because so many implied they were rude because YOU created an environment by asking opinions at times. Give me a break! They are in a sense blaming YOU so they can justify what they say. I can’t believe it. I will tell you later what I was going to say because I am mad now at some of your followers and can’t see straight, lol! You are amazing!

  188. You are a force of nature in what you’re able to accomplish ON YOUR OWN and all your creative ideas. No, your home looks nothing like mine, but I love your enthusiasm and energy. You inspire me to try things I didn’t think I could do. Don’t stop blogging; instead, delete the comments you don’t like and block the people who can’t keep their critiques to themselves. I look at ALL KINDS of rooms to get ideas about my very personal house, just as you said about yours. So glad to have your blog as one of my regulars, and I hope you hang in there.

  189. I look so forward to all your posts! You are such an inspiration to those of us that have a husband that wants to live in the neutral world and me that loves color and more vibrant environments. Please let us continue to live vicariously through you!! I think I have loved EVERY thing you’ve done and redone! March on sister!! We are here for you!

  190. Maybe I’m old and cranky, but I’m thinking you need to make friends with the F-word and at the very least, give yourself permission to think “F— them and the horse they rode in on” now and then. Good grief, you work so hard to please your own sense of color and texture and style, if you are happy with the finished product, then so be it!

    By all means, take a breather, but I do hope you return to decorate another day. You’re too talented not to share, but you shouldn’t be critiqued to the point of wanting to hang up your tool belt. That would be a shame and we would miss you!

  191. Dear Kristi,

    No doubt about it – you are a STAR. Your work is beautiful. Your ideas are fantastic. And, your home is YOUR HOME (and it is gorgeous). You are an inspiration to us all and I thank you for all that you do by posting your work and directions on how to accomplish these projects.

    Ignore those comments……and smile at the thought that there are so many of us that think you are really special and talented.

    JoAnne

  192. oh No- just ignore the dorks (I know that’s easier said than done). I just think you are so good at what you do and the content you provide- (all free- might I add) you attract a large and varied audience. With every group- there are a few dorks- the bigger the group- the larger the quantity of dorks who think you should do this or that. I can definitely see where you’d hit critical mass, especially at certain points in the process.

    I just want you to know- it’s because of you- I’m FINALLY pushing myself to use tools. I’m finally embracing the colors and styles I’m drawn to and love, not just because they are or aren’t in trend. But because I love them. If I have a question about a tool- I go to YOUR page FIRST for the low down direct info.

    Do what you have to do. It’s your house, your blog. I tune in to see what you do. You provide us information and inspiration for free. I honestly don’t know how some bloggers do it. People are malicious, brutal and sometimes just ignorant and unaware. Some people are just so blatantly unfulfilled and unhappy they can’t be happy for others and force their hard line opinions onto others, being anonymous online just magnifies it.

    I just want you to know I appreciate all you do here.

  193. Kristi,
    I’m also a long time member of the Kristi Fan Club. You write my favorite blog and inspire me to tackle things I never thought possible. You know how to make a house look happy. You don’t follow the trends that make other houses look predictable. Please take a little well-deserved vacation and then return to your blog and give us another chance to learn from your creativity and home improvement projects.

  194. Chip Gaines is sponsoring a dreams come true contest. You need to send in a video of yourself promoting your unbelievable talent. Just think you can have your own business. Submissions start 9/4/18.

    Forget about all of those haters, negative comments and anything that sets you back. Brush them aside. Take the high road.

  195. KRISTI::
    What others think is not YOUR business.
    You’re not here to seek their approval-
    ( you’re too confident for that)
    You are here to volunteer blog YOUR interests, YOUR design ideas, YOUR great tips, and YOUR passion. Quite obviously you are filling a need. Don’t concern yourself with those that aren’t being helped by YOUR input,— because there are plenty here that are. 😉
    Carry on!!!
    Celeste

    1. Celeste,
      I’m still scratching my head over your comments. Yes, it is her business what others think when she asks for opinions. Sometimes, it’s nice to have sound advice and/ or opinions when it is requested. However, this time there was no such request. A couple of comments were just sickening and those comments were made by people with private accounts. So in addition to them being rude bullies they are also cowards.
      Hope your left handed comment was made in good faith and meant to make her feel better but makes wonder.

      1. Yes, Shelia-
        I’m in support of Kristi-😉 and I agree that it’s her business of others opinion WHEN she asks—
        My reply was to let her know that she doesn’t NEED anyone’s opinion- She can have all the opinions in the world, but it’s ultimately up to her to choose and make her own decisions that she’s happy with. When she does ask for opinions, she’s very direct in that.
        This is all about what she likes and what she decides she wants. Rude comments imposed by others on something she’s happy with is just….well,…rude. Why would someone set out to hurt another knowing how she felt☹️

  196. You’re the best! Take a break and keep going. You’re the only decorating blog I read because you are The Real Thing.

    Evidently some of your readers are so accustomed to you asking for feedback, they don’t bother reading the entire blog post. They’re over-caffeinated. Just ignore. You’re a rock star.

  197. Many times you’ve asked readers for their opinions – which I think is a great idea, as it makes us feel a part of your home! However, like some relatives, we don’t always know when to shut up, when to leave and essentially, where the proverbial line is. Those comments, I’m sure, were sent with good thoughts and meanings – not to be critical or judgmental. Folks feel open because you’re nice and adventurous with your designs and a free spirit!
    Please don’t take it as a bad thing – because I think it’s what sets you apart from other DIY bloggers and makes you special. 🙂

  198. Kristi,

    You are a teacher. Not just in decorating or diy. You teach us that it’s ok to make mistakes (my bathroom is coral orange, yikes!). It’s ok to change your mind (I learn something about my style every time you do and even the comments other readers make have taught me much about what I like and don’t like). You have taught me to dream about projects, and you have taught me that I can do them.

    You are an inspiration. In a time in my life when my world was closing in, you and your blog brought a bit of light. And as I climbed out of it, I became more confident and you were always there to nudge me along. Whenever you take a break from blogging I am happy for you, but I miss you and your skills. Even projects that I’m not particularly interested in lead me to other inspirations (can you make resin tiles for a backsplash? I think I’m going to try it!).

    You and your blog are unique. That’s why I read it faithfully. Please do what you need to feel better, get refreshed, whatever that looks like.
    I truly hope you come back.

  199. I salute you and others who dare to be bold and beautiful. I loved the entry as a whole and look forward to your next reveal. Heck, I look forward to all your posts and will wait with bated breath for your next one should you take a well deserved break. Some people’s mothers obviously never told them that if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.

    PS – I think that whoever started the phrase “a place for your eyes to rest” must have been living in the tropics. I didn’t understand the phrase until moving to Hawaii and the intensity of the light was such that I had to tone down a couple of things a notch so I could actually rest in my home. I had a red sofa that was perfect in southern California but too much for the Hawaiian light, ditto for a very bright, multi-colored bedspread and skirt. I live in the sub-tropics now, south Louisiana, and am going a bit bolder and more colorful again.

  200. Kristi, so sad that you are being discouraged by what others say. The sense of entitlement people have today is over the top. I had a friend, who sadly, recently passed away from stomach cancer who had a magazine worthy, exquisitely decorated house. Her style suited me to a T. I can’t remember the amount of times she was asked “How come you have so many paintings, (she was a gifted portrait artist), how come you have so many porcelain dolls? Teddy bears? Cross-stitch? All expertly and lovingly created by her. Her house was to die for stunning yet people offered her their unsolicited “advice”. I would give my opinion if asked and always asked if she wanted me to be honest since there were just a couple of things she was considering doing that weren’t to my taste. But she ASKED for my opinion. I would never have offered it unsolicited. As you said, it’s your house and your tastes, those are only things that matter.

    I recall reading a post at HOUZZ by a woman looking for input on what color to paint her kitchen cabinets. Several posters, mostly men, chastised her for painting her cabinets at all! She didn’t ask whether she should paint them but wanted info on colors, process (spraying verses brush) and best paints to use. Civility and consideration seem to be dying out in our society to be replaced by crassness, uncouthness and arrogance. As the not so nice but succinct saying goes “If I wanted your opinion, I’d ask for it!” Not very civilized, I admit, but sometimes necessary.

    I love most of what you have done and I admit I am usually not a fan of contemporary decor but your house has such a happy, fun personality and your teal kitchen is to die for. (And something I seriously considered but white walls don’t work with two dogs and eight grandchildren or my terra cotta ceramic floor, but if not for that….But I did follow your helpful tutorial when painting my kitchen cabinets). I applaud your boldness to be who YOU are and not conform to what others think you should be. I love that your house isn’t decorated cookie cutter like everyone else’s, those who are so afraid of what others will think that they are never free to be the person they want to be or have their homes express their unique personalities. I think your blog is amazing as are your accomplishments and look forward to every progress. You’ve encouraged me to be brave, to not be intimidated to attempt to do the remodeling that you have done. And your detailed tutorials are priceless.

    Sadly, I don’t have a solution to the incivility of some posters but hope that you’ll keep your blog going and won’t lose your creative spark, your individualism or your boldness to be WHO you want to be.

  201. Please, Please, Please, don’t leave me now girlfriend! I just bought a home and we close in a month and I love love your decorating, sense of style, the empowerment I get from seeing you make beautiful pieces of furniture all by yourself using powertools, your trial and effort and the amount of love and time you put into making this place YOUR home is inspiring in and of itself. I look at your blog almost everyday looking for the next big thing that you out there because everything is so beautiful in and off itself. And even if its not my particular taste its still beautiful to me because you are teaching me how to create something I would have never learned, or had the balls to learn myself lol. Honestly, I can’t wait to move into my new home so I can try my hand at building my own tufted ottoman, and wing back chairs for my massive dining room. You have taught me so much as far as style, and decorating, but not only that, you taught me that sometimes things get tough, they don’t always work out the way you planned but that you just have to roll with the punches and deal with the hand you’ve been dealt, and that has flowed over into all aspects of my life, not just decorating. So just to let you know you truly are an inspiration to so many of us out here in blog land, and for someone like me you’ve taught me a whole lot more than just interior decorating and diying. So you do you and if you need a break take one but please don’t leave for good! Youre one of my favorites and everyday I look forward to seeing what new things you have in store for us all!
    Love from new jersey
    Sarah

  202. People can be so rude!! There are so many comments here, and I can’t read them all, but I’m sure so many agree with me when I say that I just love your blog, and your tutorials, and your colorful home! I follow Clinton Kelly on IG and when he posted the room redo he recently did for Trading Spaces, he left all the hater comments up. It was hilarious to read! He responded to each and every one of them with some sort of sarcastic comment. I love him for it. The realness. You’re so nice to people – and frankly – they may not deserve it! Ha! Enjoy your hiatus! I can’t wait to see what the new and refreshed you brings to this space!

  203. I can certainly understand why you feel the need to walk away! I do hope though that it is very very temporary. I love your blog. I don’t always like all your ideas but don’t expect to and you surely would think some of my ideas too safe. But that being said I always enjoy reading your process and I always get ideas. Haters will be haters and they feel it’s so necessary to share. Very sad they have this outlook.

    Please return soon. You are you and your ideas are you and your hard work is yours. You own it and rock it!

  204. Kristi, if you invited someone into your home and they criticized your decor and made suggestions about changes you should make in your house, I venture to guess, you would not invite them back. Well, this is your virtual home. It is time to do the same to these rude guests and block them. Do not allow them into your virtual home. It is up to you to invite the guests of your choosing. It makes for peace of mind and you deserve peace.

  205. I think you said this beautifully Kristi!! Really, you are my favorite blog on the internet! Your talent is ridiculous and the projects that I have seen on here has me amazed with every post. It’s not easy posting all the time with something amazing and YOU DO IT!!! You are so hardworking with hardly a filler post. Since I have found your blog I’ve ALWAYS been so impressed. You have been my internet idol:) I think people are missing something…..it’s the same people who won’t buy a house because of the colors that are painted on the walls. Maybe they don’t get what is so valuable in your website! Thank you for everything you do and share with us!!!!! I love learning from you!

  206. Your home is an absolute jewel! I *LOVE* looking at your photos and would literally die from excitement if I walked into my home tomorrow and it was half as beautiful as yours!

    We have been working on our lawn recently which has involved removing very large trees and our neighbors have let us know their very negative feelings on it. I honestly couldn’t tell you any of their names and the few that took the time to stop us in our yard never introduced themselves, just their opinions 🙂 lol people ugh! Enjoy your home, your creativity and life beautiful!

  207. Kristi,
    Have you ever read (A kids book on you tube) “The Big Orange Splot”? You might enjoy it. My kids favorite book when they were growing up. Be who you are and enjoy life.

    1. Perfect analogy. This is my favorite blog for the very reason they talk about in the book. Keep on keeping on Kristi!

  208. Frustrating indeed. I didn’t even finish reading, because honestly, the people you mentioned seem like the type of people that would be whispering to each other in a corner of said open house/reveal type celebration, gossiping about their opinion, because they wouldn’t dare say it to your face. Or goodness, let’s hope not.

    Part of the reason people are so blatant about their opinions over the internet is because it’s anonymous. You know what they say about opinions….

    That being said, you’re very courageous to have a blog. The nasty comments are exactly why I do not do this. It’s way too draining/exhausting.

    Keep up the great work and continue to enjoy the PERFECT FOR YOU entrance way/foyer. ;-D

  209. First ever comment! Don’t do Instagram. Just saw your FB page. I considered dumping FB for the reasons you have stated. Like it or move on, people! Your page is one of several I follow, and I love the ideas I get, and I love your skill set. Do I love it all? No. It is the inspiration that grabs me. If Your post doesn’t pop up, I go looking for it. You are genius, girl! Please don’t leave this 73 year old Gammo hanging!! I need this post. Best wishes and all good things from Georgia, USA.

  210. Dear Kristi. I don’t often comment on blogs, but I did on this post. I just had to because I thought it was amazing! I certainly hope that nothing I said was taken the wrong way because with this post, you absolutely convinced me that I DO like color!!!! I love it ALL!!! Please do not stay away too long. Yours is the only blog I follow that I open immediately! I am always so anxious to see what you have done new and I am anxiously waiting to see your porch with all the trim finished. You are such an inspiration to me and I just wish I had one ounce of your creativity and energy!

  211. BLOCK the NEGATIVITY! You will feel so much better. I promise. I do not have a blog and I’m not talented in the décor area. I have blocked LOTS of people on Facebook that were so negative about anything and everything. I love a good debate, but not mean. When I finally blocked those people, I physically felt better. Not to see their posts were healing. I LOVE lots of different styles and I have admired everything you have done! I am amazed at your talent. Please don’t quit. Take a breather, we all need it from time to time, just don’t leave the faithful. Breathe.

  212. Kristi, I have followed your blog for many years, I never comment, I just read and look at all your wonderful photos. You are such an inspiration. I love it that you are so capable, please know that you inspire us and we love what you do. I wouldn’t put some of it into my house, but that doesn’t stop me from reading and following you. You are doing great, you are a wonderful designer, decorator and such a practical and capable woman, keep going

  213. Dear Kristi,

    It is your suffering that brings trolls pleasure, so please don’t let them win. I believe that many understand and do delight in causing others pain. While I have not read the responses that have distressed you, I think in your case It’s a bunch of “know it alls.” I would “unfriend” them from your blog and continue to share your talent and strong work ethic with those of us who appreciate you. I am amazed at your skill set. I can’t wait to see how your pantry and studio will unfold. Your front porch has turned out beautifully. You are an inspiration to me and I would hate to start my Mondays without out.

    Hugs, Leanna

  214. The Power of Spoken Words
    “Words are singularly the most powerful force available to humanity. We can choose to use this force constructively with words of encouragement, or destructively using words of despair. Words have energy and power with the ability to help, to heal, to hinder, to hurt, to harm, to humiliate and to humble.”
    Yehuda Berg

    Many people are compelled to give voice to any passing feeling, thought or impression they have. They randomly dump the contents of their mind without regard to the significance of what they are saying.
    Remember the old adage, ‘Sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never harm me’. For most of us we have learned there could not be more false words.
    Perfecting our speech is one of the keystones of mature people. Before speaking take a few moments to contemplate what you will say and how you will say it; while considering the impact they will have on others.
    Kathy thank you for sharing this experience. Though it may have begun as a comment on your blog by sharing it with us and the impact of those words you empowered yourself and influenced your readers on even a deeper level.
    Respectfully yours, Rose

    You helped me to decorate my home many years ago in Eugene when you were at Interior Accents. Through your blog you have continued to be an joyful inspiration for heart and home.

  215. I hope your comments to Kristi aren’t additionally painful as they’re kind of shaming and insensitive, with compliments kind of scattered throughout. Confusing and a bit odd.

  216. Maybe they all comment because you frequently ask for input?

    That said, can you turn off commenting for that post the way you can on Facebook?

  217. Sending love while you take a break and like the other 200+ comments on here I’ll miss you terribly.

    I’m all the way on the other side of the world in Brisbane (Australia), but part of my daily routine is checking to see whether you have posted something new. I find your designs and the evolution of your home incredibly inspiring.

    So inspiring, in fact, that I took on massive project of my own – building our first home from the ground up. My father is a builder, (but can only help us on Saturdays) and my husband is a teacher who had no building skills whatsoever when we started. So I do all of coordination and now that we’re at lockup most of the finishing building projects, tiling, painting, shelving, cabinetry work etc.

    You are pretty much the reason I took this on and you keep me inspired to keep going every time I see you post.

    I am being incredibly selfish, but I hope once you have had a bit of time away from the blog to rest and heal that you’ll be back to doing what you do so incredibly well. You are my favourite DIY blog by an absolute mile. I adore your style (especially your bold use of colour) and love seeing how you pull your projects together.

    A few posts back, actually I think it was the hallway reveal, you talked about how you were going to try and do more ‘whole room’ reveals. That’s awesome, if that is what you want to do, but I also love when you move from room to room and project to project – it is how I work as well. For example right now I’m in the middle of tiling my laundry backsplash, painting door trim, prepping for concrete paths, installing bathroom and door hardware and probably a dozen other little jobs.

    Anyway, just wanted to say I love your authenticity, honesty and watching your evolution. You really are incredibly inspiring. xox

  218. I don’t have anything more to add beyond what others have said, but I thought I would share my love for you and your blog. I stumbled upon it a few years ago and have read every post since.

  219. I am a big believer in delete and block! When you are feeling better do what makes you feel best! I enjoy your blog…it brightens my day!!! Take good care of yourself!

  220. Kristi, I have followed you for a long time, never commented but feel I must today. You can never please everyone, not even me. But thats ok. I may not always care for something you have done but most things I absolutely love. You teach and inspire and I thank you for that. Take care of yourself and do what you need to do. I hope to see you again, very soon! Warm Hugs! Lynda

  221. G’day! Kristi, there are a whole lot of us out here: addicted2addicted2decorating! I crave our daily fix because you are a fantastic communicator and an inspirational do-er of good stuff. Every morning, here in Australia, I wake up, immediately reach behind me for my iPad and dial in to see what has been happening in Texas. There is no other blogger like you, certainly no other that I have to read immediately. After a happy little read, I am set up for a wonderful productive day in my home and workplace. I’m just trying to visualise the new reality should you stop blogging … and it is very bleak! I’ve watched on for years and years. I rejoiced in your bounce after discovering your rug and that it was the key to unlocking your new style. I’m looking forward to the new achievements: the studio, the pantry, the sunroom extension. You are unique, it stands to reason that your house is unique …. and we love being given the free access that you extend to us. It truly is a gift which you give to us and I am sure the HUGE majority of us remember that we are your guests … I only hope you can see behind the negative messages … to all of us loyal supporters! Best wishes!

  222. I know I’ve seen other bloggers who add an extra bit about respect, and manners. They also mention that poor behavior, negativity, foul language, etc. are not tolerated in the comments form and will be removed.
    You could do that and then remove the problem folks, as they appear. It is your blog and you can enforce the minimum behavior standards.
    Unsolicited opinions should be ignored.
    You should be able to block the problem ones or set them to moderated posts.

    Mom had a quirk in that she would never offer an opinion unless asked. If you did ask for the honest opinion, you knew she would give her full honest opinion.
    Not many are that principled. I know…. I’ve gotten quite a few in person.

    Take a break and return when you are ready, but your skills, and projects will be missed if you stop blogging completely.
    That would also give the negative ones a boost seeing you stop blogging and knowing they lured you down that path.
    Your process, has made me consider many of my own choices.
    We do not have the same tastes, but you make me think about my own and I have learned more about my own changing tastes from reading your blog.

  223. Wow, Kristi, I feel so bad that you’ve been subjected to this kind of treatment. You and your blog constantly blow me away with your creativity, hard work and sense of humor! You deserve a break from blogland! I hope you will eventually come back to inspire us! Relax, refresh and enjoy your beautiful home. It’s a reflection of the beautiful people who live there. Take care.

  224. Kristi, i didn’t even finish reading your post. I rushed down her to say this…don’t get bugged by negative people. I can’t begin to comment on why some would say anything negative about your gorgeous entryway. But to do this type of blog you have to get a little thick skinned. I want you to look at how many subscribers you have and how many negative comments….I bet they are a very tiny percentage. I am one of your subscribers and have been for years now and I have only commented once. I love everything you do. I love that you share with all of us. TOO GENEROUS! And the point I want to make is I am guessing the majority of your subscribers are like me…looking…LOVING…and never commenting…or rarely! From now on you should get Matt to screen you comments and delete the negative ones first. DO NOT STOP BLOGGING…what on Earth would I do while sipping on my cup of coffee? I mean really…that would totally ruin my whole morning. 😉 This is my attempt at being lighthearted but I am serious. You are the best!

  225. I have enjoyed your posts and watching the processes you go through. The ‘reveal’ surprised me, it kind of came out of left field from what you had been doing -there have been alot of changes. I am not one of the usual posters. Maybe those people who continually post just didn’t stop and realize you weren’t asking but finally sharing what you had decided on?

  226. Hi Kristi,

    I started following you just over a year ago and I have always wondered at how freely people expressed their opinions. I look to your blog for techniques and DIY tips and for your amazing tutorials to help with projects in MY home. I would never dream of commenting on the final outcome of your projects…….but really all your projects are amazing and the zeal with which you tackle even the scariest projects is awe-inspiring.

    As you said, there are many keyboard interior decorators, most of whom have homes I’m sure would never dream of opening up to the public as you have. Why? Because, opening yourself up makes one very vulnerable.

    So thank you for being so open and letting me into your home. Please don’t let this blog and experience be tainted by those who feel free to comment with opinions. Even better, delete those comments if you are able so they don’t even post. I find when there is one ‘comment’ it almost invites others to follow suit.

    Blessings to you and Matt. I love your ideas and wonderful tutorials and look forward to your return when you are ready.

  227. I’m so sorry that people are so thoughtless. I hope you are able to continue but I understand if you don’t. You are amazing, talented, energetic and fun. Thank you for sharing your life with us.

  228. I could not agree more with everything you said. It surprises me again and again how many people can’t see past their own likes and dislikes and be happy for others. I just finished a renovation, and the friends who are truly happy for me really shine. It’s interesting to see who your good friends really are.

    I usually don’t read comments (and I rarely post them), because I find that the majority are not helpful. I suppose when writing a blog, you’re opening yourself up to criticism, but your post made it clear you were sharing and not asking. Because of this, I will just say BRAVA!!!! So happy that your entry way brings you so much joy!!! Proverbs 29:25 is a good one…Fear of man will prove to be a snare… You can look up the rest online if you like 🙂

    I’m new to Addicted2Decorating…I am so inspired by you and always enjoy seeing your posts in my inbox. You are such a good steward.

  229. Kristi, I’m so sorry you were subjected to the rudeness of the heathen clueless!
    I’ve been a loyal reader since the early ‘condo days’ and the only blog I follow-because I truly appreciate the honesty, relatable manner, and creative energy you bring to every post. You’re always so very conscientious of your readers, from the honesty to share your failures to the comprehensive details you consistently provide. You’re clever, ambitious, determined, friendly, and wholesome, the characteristics we all hope to find in a very dear friend, and your blog is obviously as much a labor of love as your home.
    You are a fabulous and talented decorator and designer.
    But, I believe your monster courage is your super power! You’re never intimidated by the scope of a project and relentless in pursuing the best of yourself. I can’t find words to describe how much I admire you, especially when you stood in front of the class and admitted you’d made a mistake with that gorgeous green kitchen and revolving floor plan. I was miserably stuck in a Long-term renovation nightmare with matching pity party at that time. I was sick and I was done, I mean a let-it-burn-down-around-me kind of done. Then I read the first of your gut-wrenching admission that you were staring at a massive but critical do-over. Honestly, I was crying when I finished reading that post. The courage you displayed in admitting that truth to yourself and the rest of the world was like tossing me a life-preserver. It was a HUGE relief to learn that I was not alone in speeding down a wrong road that my logical brain shouldn’t have let my creativity and enthusiasm take me down!!! You gave me hope that day. Now that I’ve set a new (true-to-me) decorating course for myself, I’ve been doubly fortunate to have your wisdom, encouragement, and talent travel alongside me to keep me grounded with realistic, manageable goals. Thank you!!!
    Please consider returning to your blog after you’ve rested and reflected on all that concerns you. I know I won’t be alone in waiting for your return and a boatload of wonderful projects to share. Hugs!

  230. I wouldn’t be surprised if every blogger active more than a year has a similar post drafted.

    If you’re in the public eye, if you’re running an online business then how you interact with your audience is a dynamic you need to look at but it seems to me that you’re putting the blame on your readers when you don’t have good boundaries. Just because you wouldn’t walk into someone’s space and make a suggestion doesn’t mean everyone has the same personal rule.

    I work with a lot of creative entrepreneurs and each one needs to identify the type of engagement that brings her energy and joy and that which drains her energy and makes her discouraged and sad. You’re never going to control how other people respond but you can control how you receive it and put boundaries in place so you don’t have to see differing opinions.

    Possible solutions include closing comments, specifying “don’t add suggestions in the comments please,” having an assistant moderate comments for you, or getting over it even if 100% of your readers dislike a reveal because at least they’re reading which provides page views and ad revenue and the business to survive.

    In general bloggers want “it” both ways. They want engagement and comments and shares but also only positive comments, support and cheerleading. It doesn’t matter who you are or what you do online, someone is going to have an opinion and as long as there are open comments, you’re going to hear some of them. Case and point: you didn’t end this post with “what should I do?” and still nearly 300 comments.

    If comments bother you that much, turn them off. But please don’t get frustrated at your readers when you alternate between “help me decide what project to do next” and “there was a great suggestion in the comments I’m going to try” and then swing to “why are you giving me feedback, I don’t wanna hear it.”

    1. I have read through many of the comments and have to say I agree with this one 100%. I have a job where I go into an office every day and get unsolicited feedback all the time – it’s all part of it. Wish I could just turn the comments off to escape.

      I do enjoy this blog. I think you have great talent, Kristi, but only you can decide if blogging is the right fit for you. I hope you are able to find the balance you seek.

    2. Well said. Every medium is open to critique. We critique food, art, magazines, books, plays, movies, etc. Blogs are a new type of medium and are no different. Movie Studios don’t expect to get only positive reviews when their movies come out, chefs understand that some people will send food back because they don’t like it, newspapers and magazines print negative letters to the editor.

  231. Kristi,
    Upon seeing your post I felt that I had to write. Till this I have never commented on any blog I follow.
    I have enjoyed reading about your progress on your home and can’t wait to see the latest post I have learned so much from you. I have taken several of the ideas you done and adapted them to “my taste” in my home.
    I hope that after a break you will continue sharing your home with us.

  232. You have a level of talent that has me in awe every time I read your blog. You have mad, crazy skills and an imagination to match. Plus such energy! I have commented that I’m ready to take a nap after just reading all that you accomplish. I also look forward to seeing “what Kristi has done today”. Your bold use of color has changed my thinking so much. You open ones mind to possibilities. You are very special. Very special!

  233. Kristi,
    Your frustration with inappropriate comments is common among a few of my favorite bloggers today. Our homes, clothing style, art preference, everything!!!– can and should be an expression of our uniqueness. You are the best teacher in blogland, Kristi, and your home design, decor, use of color, DIY skills and creative process continue to inspire–especially for someone who is trying to expand whatever side of my brain is supposed to be the creative side. Please don’t leave! Just don’t read the comments for a few weeks. Enjoy your work, enjoy your home–it’s so beautiful, warm and personal.

  234. I’m so sorry this is happening to you! I love your blog, I hope you can get the break you need, and come back to us refreshed. I have learned so much from you, you inspired me to start making my house mine! It helps I’m drawn to similar colors and seeing them work out so beautifully in your home gives me the courage to try things in mine. Without your help and inspiration my home wouldn’t make me happy like it does now. THANK you for all you do!

  235. Don’t listen to rude people’s opinions that you never asked for! I once had a man (a friend of my husband) walk through my living room and tell me everything he didn’t like about it. And this was after I told him I was so happy I finished decorating it! Needless to say, he’s not allowed in our home anymore. LOL.

  236. I started following you years ago because so many of your style elements appealed to me. If you started deviating from “you” I wouldn’t want to follow you anymore.

    The only thing I can imagine is that because you encourage such a collaborative approach to decisions you feel up in the air on that people feel it is open season to share their feedback on everything. But sometimes, as I tell my kids, the best thing to do is just shut your mouth!

    I am sorry this has hurt your heart so, but please know you are inspiring to so many of us and you would be sorely missed if you left.

  237. Kristi,
    I am a longtime faithful follower of your blog and am in awe of your talent and taste and willingness to share so much with us. Please know that the vast majority of your readers are like me. The people that make insulting comments are internet trolls. These are, by and large, just disturbed people who crave attention, even if it’s bad attention. Knowing you are upset by them makes their day. It’s best to simply delete insulting posts and block the user. Delete, block, and don’t give them another thought. Your house is beautiful, your dog is adorable and your husband sounds like a peach. Keep right on doing what you’re doing. The world needs all the beauty and inspiration it can get.

  238. Bravo to you for making your voice heard!! I love your blog. You are one of my heroes (a woman who has power tools and isn’t afraid to use them). I decorated my house for years the way I thought everyone else would think was pretty but you know what those people were in my house 1% of my life. So now every room in my house is a work of art in progress. My philosophy now is if you come to my house and don’t like it then don’t come back if it bothers you that much. I love color. I’m a blingy type person. That’s why I love your blog because you’re fearless and you show it. Ignore those miserable people who have to criticize and continue blogging for readers like me who anticipate every post you make.

  239. Maybe it’s as simple as turning off comments for posts you don’t want comments on–or at the very least don’t read them.

    You do solicit comments and critiques on some projects and I think that becomes the relationship many readers think they have with your blog. Also, it’s the web and you are publishing your work and I think many people are just used to looking at everything on the web with a critical eye and 2-cents worth of commentary.

    The crude comment that “opinions are like [unmentionable body parts]–everyone’s got one” certainly applies. People who don’t like your work probably have rooms that you wouldn’t live with for a million bucks. So, their opinions are worth exactly what you pay for it (nothin’!).

    I’m sorry this is distressing for you. I think it means you have a big heart and a sensitive soul–all good things, but also traits that might make blogging challenging sometimes.

    Just remember: “Illegitimi non carborundum.”

  240. Seems that you often end your posts with, well, what do ya’ll think? And now you don’t like the responses???? Don’t leave comment boxes or put your big girl panties on. I don’t pay a lot of attention because you’ll change it all again shortly to another theme or start another new construction to abandon. I’m guessing you have income from this blog so that means your house can never be completed, only revised with regularity. Not sure why I keep reading except on occasion you will have a project that I like.

    1. For instance, this person. This is a person whose comments I would delete and who I would block. She’s getting off on insulting you.

    2. Yes she is a troll or a mole… but clearly a jerk. So don’t let this creep effect you. She is not worth it.

    3. Annie,go start up your own blog! It must kill you to see all the support Kirsti has gotten.
      Annie you are so sad and pathetic I feel sorry for you!

    4. Annie, see if you can spot the difference between these two things…

      Example 1: I write a post about four different fabrics I’m considering for window treatments, and I specifically say, “What do y’all think?”

      Example 2: I post about my FINISHED entryway, say that I didn’t blog about the process because I wanted to decorate it without outside input, I say that I love it and that it suits me perfectly, and I DON’T ask for any input.

      Now I would think that even the simplest and smallest minded among us would be able to tell the difference between those two things, especially after the difference is specifically pointed out, but maybe not. You can let us know.

      And my gosh, every time someone tells me that I can never finish my house because of the blog, I just roll my eyes. Just because YOU lack the creativity to know what to do with a DIY blog once a house is finished, don’t presume that I also suffer from that same lack of creativity. I have a list of at least seven different directions I can take this blog once our house is finished. I don’t NEED this house to keep a blog going. It just happens to be the thing that’s the focus of the blog for now.

  241. I want you to know you have inspired me to look at my home and take on projects that I never would have tried myself. You’ve accomplished so much and have created a beautiful home full of life and creativity. Every post you put up and I mean every last one I view in awe of your capabilities and expertise. And as a bonus youve put together how-to videos to share your knowledge and teach us how to create beautiful things for our own homes. Keep moving and don’t let the comments get you down. When I get notice of a new post in my email I regard it as a real treat for my day. Thank you for all you do.

  242. Good grief, I’m giving Kristi grace because I don’t know what she’s going through now, but most of you commenters need a big ole’ heapin’ helpin’ of perspective.

  243. I want you to know you have inspired me to look at my home and take on projects that I never would have tried myself. You’ve accomplished so much and have created a beautiful home full of life and creativity. Every post you put up and I mean every last one I view in awe of your capabilities and expertise. And as a bonus youve put together how-to videos to share your knowledge and teach us how to create beautiful things for our own homes. Keep moving and don’t let the comments get you down. Thank you for all you do.

  244. Love your blog and your style and your visions and your ability to make and create!!! Please don’t go. Please keep showing us your creations and giving us the strength to try things ourselves.

  245. Well, you just can’t fix stupid, or insensitive, or hostile know it alls. Especially when you put yourself out their with, what I consider, beyond fantastic ideas and creativity. I don’t know if it’s jealousy or just the desire to put in their two cents worth. Anyway, Judging from these comments, there are way more of us who see your creativity, vision, and superb skills, than those jerks who will find something wrong with everything when given the opportunity. Not everyone will always love your choices, but they are, after all your choices stand firm in knowing that!

  246. I think your entry design is amazing and gorgeous. Shut off the comments if you need to, but please don’t walk away. Your blog makes me look forward to reading my email. It’s one of the highlights of my inbox.

  247. I went on a rant after reading the rude comments from some of your followers after your reveal. I was so furious that I read them to my husband in disbelief. Yes, you have asked for opinions in the past, but you did NOT ask for them this time, and even said you had waited until you finished before you posted pictures because you didn’t need help. It’s easy to say, “It’s what you like that counts” but I felt bad as a reader seeing these comments, so I can only imagine the effect they had on you. Like many others, your blog is my absolute favorite, and my admiration for you is boundless. Your talent is amazing and your house is beautiful. Keep up the good work!

  248. Hi Kristi:

    As you so successfully prepared your entry way projects, I curiously wondered where the table was going and like a kid anticipating Christmas morning, I couldn’t wait to see where you were placing it. I kept thinking that it looked perfect for an entryway but that Kristi already had a great looking credenza/table in the entry way and that entry way was almost “finished”. When I saw how you pulled all your projects together, I couldn’t help but laugh but definitely in a very good way!! I laughed because not only are you so creative and talented but that you that you have so much courage and strong work ethic to redo what I already thought looked great. When you did your reveal, I literally said to myself, “Kristi, just makes it look better and better!”

    The entry way and living room complement each other so nicely with such a balanced but interesting look. I personally LOVE the way that you styled it. Your bird pictures inspired me when they were on the wall next to the kitchen but your entry way looks like it belongs on the cover of one of Elle Decor, House Beautiful or some of the other big interior design magazines. We all should remember to style each of our own homes with things that bring happy thoughts and memories. Life is too short not to walk into one’s own “castle” and not to see a “Few of My Favorite Things”.

    I have been totally AMAZED in how much you have gotten done in 2018, especially in the last two to three months. . . I bet it beats 99.99% of your readers. You certainly put me to shame. Take some needed time off and do whatever makes your heart sing. Create some art work and maybe even sell it (I’m sure it would sell quickly), go to the lake, or the beach or the mountains,. . . just know you have earned it. I can tell you that I really appreciate all that you have done to show me and tons or other readers that we have the ability within us to try to do things we didn’t initially think we could do.

    Enjoy some time off but I sure hope to see you back sometime later! I really look forward to your posts and my home is better because of you and Addicted2Decorating!

    For all of the Negative Nellies out there who have told Kristi what she should or shouldn’t do with her own home where she spends her own money . . . . . . . IT’S A SHOULDY WORLD. 🙂
    Go make your OWN home better in any way that makes you personally happy and let’s all be nice to Kristi and others who put themselves out there!

  249. Omg look how many fans you have!! When I saw your post I thought to myself, “who on earth would even write nonsense to this blogger about what you should change up.” I couldn’t believe it. You should decorate your home the way you want to…whatever makes you happy. I agree with … if you have nothing nice to say, don’t say it. I very rarely comment but had to. There are miserable people out there but as you can see from all these comments, there are considerate ones too. Don’t stop your blog for fools. We all enjoy you and your enthusiasm!!

  250. Kristi, I have never posted a comment on a blog before. But I wanted to tell you I hope you don’t stop blogging. Because of you and your blog, I have found a spark in my heart that has been missing for years. You gave me the confidence to paint my ceilings teal, to embrace color, to buy an orbital sander, to begin to dream about designing furniture, to feel confident in trying something new even if it fails, to value attention to detail and prep work before painting… Thank you for always being real with us.

  251. I’ve never commented before, but I don’t think people were trying to be rude by commenting. You so frequently ask for reader input and there have been many times you’ve changed something in a room due to a reader’s suggestion (I remember awhile back you redid curtains after someone suggested a different trim or something like that as just an example). I really liked that about you! You were open to ideas from others, and tou took your readers seriously. Not a lot of bloggers do that. I think readers feel like they’re in this together with you and that’s why they feel like they can comment, you’ve always been open and receptive to it, which was awesome! I can see how it could also be upsetting, but I don’t think readers knew that this was a room you were not looking for input on, that’s all!

  252. I’m so sorry you got your feelings hurt. You are the hardest working , creative blogger, diyer I follow. They’re just mean people out in the internet world so just take a mental break for awhile and rest.

  253. Hi Kristi, while I’ve never commented on your blog I love to read it and have followed for awhile now. I haven’t read the over 300 comments before mine but I hope you read down this far. Maybe you should just turn off the comments for posts/ rooms that you are done with. I do enjoy reading what others have to say but if people are going to be so rude and insensitive you shouldn’t have to babysit or police the comments. That is not fair to you and pretty sad for what it says about my fellow readers. I come to your blog because you are awesome, brave and very inspiring to watch DIY, create, and rethink your living space. I’m not here to tell you my opinion of your space unless you are asking for it. If you ask I would respectfully do so, as should everyone else. You house is for you and your family, we as readers are privileged to be even given a peek into your life. Please don’t go away forever, I hope to be able to follow more projects. You have a very detailed blog of projects and I always go look at the archives when researching or my own house decisions. I appreciate your guidance very much. Thank you.

  254. Hi, Kristi! I’ve not commented in a long time, but I read every post. You taught me two things:

    1) I CAN do this! And because of your example, I have learned so very many things! The first thing I did because of your example was a linen closet in my bathroom. I went on to laundry cabinets, a bathroom vanity, a custom closet, and epoxy kitchen counters. Sound familiar? You inspired me. Thank you!
    2) I WILL NOT give up. That’s a hint. 🙂

    Thanks for your can-do approach and your willingness to share how to make things. I appreciate you!

  255. Dearest Kristi,

    I am so sorry. Sorry that others thoughtless comments have hurt you deeply. I did not read the comments, but had I, I am certain I would have pointed out the fact that they were not only rude, but also uncalled for (as I have done so when the occasion warranted it.)

    I found your blog only a couple of months ago and it felt like a breath of spring air: refreshing.

    I understand your need to step back, take a break and regroup. And I think you should, but don’t forget there are many of us that appreciate your talent, learn from you and are encouraged by you.

    I look forward to seeing the ideas you come up with next!

  256. Hello Kristi

    I look forward to your post daily, and enjoy it with eyes wide open at what you can teach us. I find your words to be very clear, instructions impeccable and your abilities amaze me. I have never met a person who can imagine, design, think through a process, and then make it all happen. One of my favourite things about you is your ability to re-do what does not please you. I thought of you as I re-did part of a project on the weekend! I knew it was ok to try a second time to get it the way I wanted it to be. I find your blog to be inspiring and engaging and entertaining.

    I read with astonishment the negative comments about your completed entry. As others have said, it is unusual to show a “reveal” and not each step of the process. As I looked at the different versions I liked each one and would have been thrilled to have each any version in my home. I suspect that although many read your blog they do not share the excitement for colour and design that only you can show us. I also acknowledge the frustration and sadness you feel with the thoughtless comments you received on the particular post. I am too thin skinned to put myself out there as you do. I have come to not only admire your blog but to feel engaged with your family. Thank you for sharing so openly with us.

    I understand your need to step back for a bit, and truly hope that when you have read most of the comments here that your spirit will be encouraged and you will be excited to return to sharing with us as you take a house and make it into a perfect home for you, Matt and the pets. I speak for so many who would give you a hug if we could, and will be looking for your next post.

    I also noted the suggestion of filtering comments. That is not reality, to only receive positive responses. Your blog stretches our minds and sometimes it becomes too much for some people to do. I trust people will read very carefully what you have shared and temper their responses. Again, you receive so many responses because so many enjoy your blog. I trust they will be more mindful of their words moving forward.

  257. I’m joining the ranks of first time commentors. I once worked for a call center where I took phone calls from people who hadn’t paid their cell phone bill. It was…unpleasant. I was a nameless, faceless voice on the other end of the phone, so they could scream at me, threaten me, it was miserable. So, I quit that job. I’m sorry you get to be the brunt of people’s unkind words, but on the flip side, you get paid to do what you love, and remodel your home, all in one. You get to make your own schedule, you make your own rules, hey you can take off whatever time you want, whenever you want. I would guess that 85% of your comments are extremely complimentary. And when you feel “off” or uninspired, you have a cheer squad telling you to take some time, relax, and that you are loved. I bet there aren’t many other jobs out there that have those perks.

  258. Kristi, I saw your instagram post last night, and I saw the comments. I had to close out of it or I would have waged war on your behalf at the abject rudeness these “fans” were treating you with.

    I’ve been following your blog for years, and find you a total inspiration to women everywhere who most of the time think they “can’t” simply because they’re women – paint, renovate, DIY – we constrain ourselves by another’s opinion of what we are capable of… and you are everything we need.

    Personally, I would block and delete anyone who thinks they have the right to tell you how things “should” be done. On your blog, on facebook, on instagram – block and delete… block and delete.

    I know it’s really hard not to donate mental real estate to the haters – nor can I figure out why it’s those negative opinions that bother us so much – because they come from strangers. And strangers are not people you know, and they do not know you. They just think their opinions are facts.

    Shocking thing – opinions are NOT facts.

    But here’s a few facts, that also happen to be opinions of mine (and many others too I suspect):

    You are ace
    Your blog is awesome
    Your style is not for everyone – but it is Perfect For You
    You have mad skills – you can paint (ie create art), decorate, and DIY simultaneously
    You are fearless

    You will be missed by those who value what you bring to the interwebs, and you will be welcomed back as soon as you feel ready.

    Please keep going

    * muttering “block and delete… block and delete… block and delete… block and delete…” under her breath…

    Take care 🙂

  259. Kristi, So sorry you had to pour your heart out like this. Some people just dont get it. The majority of us love you and your blog and look forward to it every week. You inspire me and i am sure I am not alone on this. I loved the way you teased us with each project and wouldnt tell us what it was for. I know I posted on one of the projects….I bet this is going in the entryway!! I could see it all coming to life even though you hadnt posted where things were going. I love that you love color and are brave enough to use it. To heck with what a few people said. It is YOUR home and you love it, that is all that should matter. I for one love it!! It says Kristi all the way. Please continue to inspire me to try new things. Why just today my husband and I went to Lowes to buy lumber for our new deck stairs and I was the one to figure it all out and do the order. So see, you make me feel brave to take on a project like this.
    Take a break if you need to, but please, please, please dont go away!! Hugs!!!!!

  260. Hi, just a couple of examples from my own life to let you know I sympathize.

    I bought my sister a pantsuit for Christmas one year. I thought it was the most beautiful
    outfit I had ever seen, and I could not wait to see her face when she opened it. I was dying
    for her to try it on so I could see how nice it looked on her. She never did. I have no idea
    what it looked like on her. Apparently it was not her taste. Have to respect her choice.

    I raised a son on my own as a single mother. From the start, I told my son that he made
    good choices and that he had good judgement. He ended up being mentally gifted, and
    he thrived in school. Soon he was taking classes and courses that were very important
    for his academic record and future. I told my son that I would encourage him to make his
    own choices as a high school student about what classes and courses he would take. I
    told him this was great practice for adulthood to learn how to make his own choices so that
    he could learn from those decisions. That he would not learn that if I made choices for him.

    One day, he told me that he wanted to quit debate. In order to quit debate, I had to call
    his teacher and inform the school. I had paid extra for him to be on the team. The debate
    teacher was not having it. The debate teacher totally intimidated me and told me that I
    would have to pay a hefty fee in addituon to my son suffering the consequences academically.
    I was concerned, and decided to ask my son to reconsider and stay. That made the situation
    worse, and eventually his friends called me to a meeting where they asked me to please
    allow my son to drop debate. I spoke to an un involved teacher friend of mine, and my
    teacher friend told me to let my son drop debate already. I did, I paid the fine and guess
    what? My son went on to thrive and excel without taking debate. He was awarded a full
    ride academic based scholarship and he graduated from college with honors. He now has
    a decent job and is doing great.

    I shudder to think of what would have happened if I had not allowed him to make that
    important personal choice. I get public flack anytime I post in a forum about raising my son
    in my own unique parenting style. So many people condemn and criticize me regardless. I
    truly believe that people out there will condemn and criticize no matter what. It is infuriating
    and upsetting and insulting. I completely understand your point. I often wondered how you
    felt myself reading comments made after you go to all of the trouble to post and share. I
    agree with you completely. It hurts and it stings and it makes you want to stop sharing.

  261. I’m so sorry, some people cant stop themselves! The thing I so love about your posts is that you give me wonderful ideas! We may not have the exact opinions of everything but the amazing things you do inspire me in my design, I love how well you express color, not colors that I had ever thought of using together! You just make my mind work broader and not so samey samey in color!

    Your design and building of pieces that you want! I also want to thank you so much for the porch ideas as our houses are very much alike from the outside and have decided that I want to take the railing across the front off, mine has a wrap porch which is higher so I will leave it that side, loved everything you did!

    Thank you so much for sharing your posts with me, I’m always looking for your post! Keep up the great post

  262. So sorry, I ment to say that your design and construction of the custom pieces that you make such as the table, the ottoman’s I plan to make one myself, thank you again for great ideas!

    PLEASE DON’T STOP, I totally enjoy them all!

  263. Kristi, it’s Khristie. I have been following you for a while now (time sure flies) and I remember when you were in the condo and when you moved in to your current home. As many times as you have changed that entryway 🙂 I am totally ecstatic for you that you now have something that makes your heart warm and fuzzy! That is what this is all about ultimately- how YOU feel. Keep doing you. I am inspired EVERY time I get a spare moment to read your blog.

    BTW, I am still awaiting the announcement for classes when your studio opens. I CANNOT WAIT!
    Be Blessed and carry on making beautiful things come to life.

  264. Kristi,
    I am asking for your forgiveness if my comments hurt you.
    I know the feeling of finishing something i think is quite an accomplishment and then i get comments that hurt. It takes away from the joy that I felt and how proud i was of myself for the accomplishment. We all read this blog because we ENJOY what you do, how you do it and your awesome creativity. Of all the blogs I follow you are the one i look most forward to and I copy more of your DIYs than any other. I feel like I know you and mabe I was too forthright with my comments b/c of this feeling of “knowing” you. You infact only know me thru my comments and I want you to know I have your creative spirit but just a fraction and that is why i admire what you do and love your blog. I am not a hater I am a lover of all things you do.
    . Please again forgive me. You truly are a superb creator !!!

  265. Kristi,
    THREE hundred and 41 replys to this post in less than a day.
    WE all truly LOVE you.

    I hope when you read all these comments you will see your huge following and LOVE.
    THis is a add on to my previous post. (hit the send button too soon)

  266. There are hundreds of comments previous to mine and I haven’t read them all but like many others I look out for your blog posts every morning. I have been following you for a long time… back when you and your brother took out the wall between the kitchen and breakfast room and inserted a header. Your posts are always detailed and informative and never dull!! I love your use of colour and love watching your ideas evolve.

    As for those who feel the need to make comments when not asked for or worse make nasty comments as per Pamela & Annie, et al… we don’t know why you follow either!!! Perhaps only to have your own 5 minutes of ‘glory’.

    There will always be those who for whatever reason cannot keep their mouths shut… I have a sister who told me a few years ago that my house was a ‘dump’… naturally I haven’t invited her back!!

    Keep up the good work Kristi… there are many who appreciate your honesty, good nature, skill and ‘can do’ attitude. I hope that we see you at the keyboard again real soon. xx

  267. Hello Kristi:
    I am one of the quiet infrequent commentators. I’m sorry some readers have been giving you so much crud.

    I hope you are feeling encouraged by all the good and will find solace and peace from your break.

    I keep reading because I like your friendliness, perseverance, and I can relate as a creative who likes color too. I also love your honesty in explaining some of the why’s behind the redos since it helps us to see your journey. I admire that. And it reminds us it’s ok to start over!

    And natch on my opinion when you did your entry reveal. I was happy for you because you’d nailed in on something you liked! 😀 😀

    I hope these posts by Crystal Paine of Money Saving Mom on negative comments will be of some encouragement to you.

    https://moneysavingmom.com/2018/04/negative-comments-internet-bullying-stopped-saying-wasnt-fashionista.html

    https://yourbloggingmentor.com/5-things-to-do-when-you-get-a-negative-comment/

    Take the fashion one, for ex. To me, her outfits were cute and flattering, but she got ridiculous unsolicited comments like “You look like a boy” and that she was full of herself to post pics of herself in outfits. What?!?

    It gave her pause but she had some good thoughts.

    As for the “5 things to do when you get a negative cmt” are probably all things you’ve already considered, but I hope it encourages!

    You know who the real truth-tellers are in your life, and you know the big pic.

    So stay strong, sister, and know lots of us here are enriched by your home dec/DIY journey!

  268. I’ve just found you and subscribed. I immediately felt a kindred spirit with you. I’m feminine yet have the confidence to tackle all kinds of projects using tools. It interests me enough to find the energy to push through till finished. I’m made to feel that I must be mannish or….to have this interest. I applaud all your efforts. You are needed and necessary. Thank you

  269. Hi Kristi,
    I love reading your posts! Reveals, tutorials, progress, changes – everything, every day. You are so talented and creative and brilliant, I learn something from all of them! You rock, girl! I hope you continue! I’m so sorry that negative trolls are causing you distress. (My husband is reading over my shoulder and has a comment for you too – he says don’t listen to the small minded ##%%###s (not typing the word he used) — don’t let them win!) My creativity has increased from your inspiration and vision, and your humor and wit feeds my heart. You’ve inspired so many projects in my home. Thank you for all you do and share with your readers! Sending you positive vibes from the east coast, and will be here to read whatever you write, when you return.

  270. I usually try to read previous comments before I make a comment, but there are too many this time! It would be such a disappointment to lose your blog. You’re one of the last true DIY bloggers and you do it so well! I always appreciate your attention to detail, even when it means do-overs. And even your grammar is correct. Not a single unnecessary apostrophe to be found!

  271. Know what? Good manners are harder and harder to find, most especially in the age of internet.

    That entryway is a masterpiece. It features a hand built custom credenza and the layout is symmetrically perfect, very pleasing to the eye. You should be immensely proud of yourself and I thank you for sharing it.

    Pay no mind to the armchair decorators who think you want their reviews. Cheers

  272. I have often though the same things when I read comments on your blog…and have thought to myself, “Who on earth cares what other people think?”. You home if gorgeous…right up my alley…full of your personality and colour!! You only have one person to please and that is you! Everyone tells me how much they love my home…but the thing is…it’s my home. When my daughter and her husband purchased their new home…my daughter asked how to decorate it. I responded with, it’s your home…you buy what you love. Not what I love or your friends love or anyone else for that matter…but what you love! And it has not steered her wrong.
    Your home is your personal space…keep it that way! The negative commenters…wouldn’t you just love to see their houses? lol! Talk about glass houses.
    I love your blog…have been reading it since your condo days…please don’t change the way you do things for anyone! Just be you and confident in your own abilities. To heck with anyone else.

  273. Kristi, You are a very talented decorator and your woodworking skills as well as other skills make us all so envious, that being said, BUCK UP…..For starters, obviously you make a living off this blog, it’s one of the few I still follow, you are always doing awesome things, but you are constantly asking others opinions and probably actually reading them… DON’T…..Those of us who have to go to a job have to listen to alot during a day, also unsolicited from other people, but we have to take it and not quit. You can simply not read the comments if you want. You know people always have to “harp in” with their comments, you probably love reading the praise ones. Sorry is this sounds harsh, but either take it or find another way to make money.

  274. I feel that online, people think it is okay to say things they wouldn’t say to your face. I know we all see it all the time on social media.

    I’ve been in a couple of situations this summer with new homes of family and friends. My mom actually bought a new second home in FL for the entire family. My youngest sister and I have been very involved helping my mom with everything. My middle sister hasn’t been as involved because of personal issues. When she did come for a visit, she told my mom “I guess it’s okay. I’ll get used to it”. My mom’s feelings were so hurt because she had gone out of her way to make sure that she accommodated each of her daughters. In the meantime, I spent a couple of days with friends who had just built a new home. Was it what I would have built? While it is a lovely home, it is not what I would like. Did I tell them that? NO!!! I told them it was so nice and perfect for them. I did point out features that I absolutely loved, but didn’t point out what I would have changed. Because there are a few things they are unsure about, if asked, I would tell them what I would do. But it is not my home. Just because something works for me doesn’t mean it works for you.

    All that being said, keep being you! I really enjoy reading your blog. I am totally exhausted sometimes afterwards because I barely have energy to cook supper at night and you’ve built a piece of furniture! Or torn out a room! I enjoy your blog because you actually DIY. I enjoy seeing how to do these projects and think about what I could actually do myself. It is your home, you have to make it work for you.

  275. I happen to LOVE your entry way! It is so Kristi, in fact…I keep wishing I could make my entry as beautiful as yours. Every time you finish a space or post an “in progress” post I think its my favorite, until I see the next post.

    And the bird pictures…be still my heart…

  276. I hate you had negative comments on your space. When I saw it, I loved it. The first thing I thought was “she did it behind the internet and she loves it!” and also “well she won’t be changing this up mid-course because of multiple opinions and input.” Decorate in your style. If someone repeatedly bashes your decisions, ban them. Life is too short.

  277. I’ve recently found your blog. In fact, when I saw the finished entryway, I immediately hit “follow.” I love your sense of symmetry, your color choices, your bird pictures, ottomans, and table. But my favorite are the lampshades. What a color! Cheap? Beautiful! I also like to read what you’ve written because you proofread. My daughters call me a dictionary snob, but it is tough to read through an article laced with misspelled words and typos. So dictionary snob I may be, but thank you for paying attention to your words. As for unsolicited opinions, you can’t get away from them. Think mothers, mothers-in-law, aunts and grandmas. In my younger years, I had nothing but unsolicited opinions from them and there was no delete button. Do what you do for YOU, keep showing us your ideas so we can use them too and don’t take to heart the negative. And…don’t expect everybody to be nice. Thanks from a new admirer.

  278. I didn’t comment on the entryway, but I believe I do understand why you get comments while other bloggers don’t. And that is because there are many posts where you specifically ask for them. In fact, I have always thought that was very smart of you, how you can create a post bouncing ideas off your readers, which means even if you had a bad week or two (like when you hurt your shoulder) you still have content for your blog. Not only do you often ask for comments, but in many cases you read all of these comments and the following post was the sum of the comments and your comment-inspired ideas, to announce your new direction. So you have cultivated this dialogue in your blog, and from a strategic point of view, I always thought that was very smart. Also, I think that for many readers it feels an honour, to have Kristi pick your idea, kind of like if you held a competition or something…

    Not sure what was different this time, as I haven’t read the comments, and maybe there were some particularly nasty ones. Or maybe the difference was that this time you felt this was truly finished. But if it’s the latter case, please remember that in many instances you said something was finished, and then came back shortly afterwards (even the very next post) and changed it. So any statement more subtle than “I absolutely adore this and this time I will not change a thing, so don’t you dare tell me otherwise” would be lost on your audience…

    Long story short, you have created a dialogue with your readers and many of them feel as if they have a personal connection to you. And I think this was smart.

    And from experience, yes, inviting friends after a renovation you WILL get comments, and while it will sometimes get a bit annoying if you disagree with them, it doesn’t necessarily mean anything – sometimes it just means they liked it, got excited and all worked up about it, and their brain starts firing half-cooked ideas. A couple of weeks ago I actually did get seriously annoyed, when I got semi-lectured about some idea that I felt was particularly stupid (it would aggravate the exact issues I’ve been trying so hard to solve, create new ones, and would most definitely NOT offer what my friend thought it would). My reaction was “if you would let me speak at all I would explain why I completely disagree”, she laughed, I explained, she was not fully convinced but it’s my house, so we went on discussing on what I’m doing next, keeping what I already have, because there is no way I would EVER do what she said. (I take my time deciding, but once I’m satisfied I don’t change my mind. And also I still feel what she was proposing is the single worst idea I’ve heard about my house, even though she is generally a smart person).

  279. If you think nobody else gets negative feedback, check out some recipe blogs, especially if they share their posts on Facebook, like you do. Sometimes I read the comments just for entertainment. People will take a recipe and tear it apart, substituting ingredients, adding or leaving out ingredients they don’t like, cooking longer or shorter times, until the original recipe isn’t even recognizable. I don’t know how those bloggers handle it. I’m pretty thick skinned, but rudeness is just something I can never understand.

    I can feel the frustration in your post and I hope the comments from your readers encourage you to ignore or delete unwanted/unwelcome comments. Or leave them up there so other people can read them and realize how rude some people can be.

    You are an amazing woman! I’ve prided myself on being able to do a lot of DIY rather than hire someone to do it all for me, but I’m 71 now and can’t do things that I used to be able to do. I live vicariously through you. Enjoy your youth and energy while it’s there. Don’t let others’ opinions change anything about what you do or how you do it….or even how many TIMES you do it.

    Much love!!

  280. Don’t back down and don’t take it personally. You put yourself out there and perhaps set yourself up as a target by your openness and friendliness. Your taste isn’t mine and when I saw your entry I saw things I liked and things I didn’t. But that isn’t why I follow you.

    I follow you for your courage and enthusiasm to try new things and to do it yourself. I am not hiring you as a decorating but admiring your design, talent and motivation as well as your ability to change your mind and do it again.

    It’s your house, do what you want! it’s like watching tv, if you don’t like the show, turn it off. you force no one to read your blog, etc.

  281. Hi Kirsty

    I check your blog for updates daily, I have for years, yet I have never posted on your blog before – but now I realise I should have.
    You inspire and motivate me with every post you make.
    I love you the way you are you and the way you keep it real! Too many other blogs are dreams and wishes.

    Changing things when they do not feel quite right for you keeps me knowing this is what we all should do – our home is where we are ourselves, where we love laugh and cry – where we do everything, therefore it is a place we need to love and cherish, a place that reflects us and our personality.

    Do I like everything you have done? No – but I am sure there would be areas of my home you wouldn’t like, its called individuality.
    We should embrace this and I cheer and support you (albeit silently until today) in everything you do.

    Ignore the minority, the small people who have nothing better to do with their lives than criticise other people. They cannot inspire the majority in the way that you constantly do.

    You inspire me – and I hope you will continue to do for a long time to come.

    Your entryway is amazing girl, so you – so vibrant! I love it!

    Love from Annie in Ireland.

  282. I thought your entryway was the most cohesive looking, finished, polished, and I would have assumed, universally pleasing space you’ve possibly ever shared! When you said how happy it made you, I totally could see that, because it looks really good.

    And my house looks nothing like yours and our decorating styles are quite different, but that doesn’t mean I can’t appreciate the beauty in other styles. I follow your blog because I enjoy that you actually MAKE things (which is what we do have in common) vs. a blogger who just shops constantly and rearranges accessories. There used to be a lot of blogs like that years ago, and they are hard to find now.

    My two cents about why you get the more critical comments is that you have said things in the past like, what do you think of these options? Which is great for getting discussion going in the comments, but then some people can’t turn it off, and they don’t have enough awareness to know when they’ve crossed a line from discussing possible options to criticizing a finished space. So many other blogs have little to no discussion happening in the comments. I think you should be proud that yours does, but there’s a negative to every positive and these comments are the negative side to all the discussion you successfully generate in your comments section. I can imagine that is every bit as frustrating as you have described it to be.

    I think your blog is great and I love following along with all the great projects you create! I hope there’s still lots of posts coming for a long time! 🙂

  283. Kristi,
    You are one of the best and only true DIY bloggers out there. For all that you do and give, it is certainly disheartening to have some people make such comments. I only recently found your blog. I love the way it is set up! I haven’t found anyone else who does it like you. We did a bathroom over and fashioned the tub “apron” after yours. I just showed my husband the little roof you added over your workshop’s door and now I have him on board to do something similar. Your posts are inspirational and that is all they should be for people. Not a place to criticize. Keep doing what you love and for those of us who appreciate you and what you love doing.

  284. Kristi, I’m a new follower to your blog, but I have loved every minute of it. While your overall aesthetic doesn’t always match mine, I continue to be super-impressed by a) the sheer enormity of all the projects you tackle while taking care of your hubby and b) how incredibly professional your results always are! Your DIY projects NEVER look like DIY!

    It’s a shame that some people feel the need to put others down in order to feel better about themselves; and you’re right, this is what technology has opened the door to. I agree that, if you’re able, when you have finished a project, block posting on it. Or somehow block the Negative Nancys.

    I, for one, continue to be amazed and inspired by what you do, but if you need a rest, please by all means, take it! God knows you deserve it!

    The “other” Carol

  285. Please don’t leave us, you inspire me everyday with your creativity and design and building skills. Unfortunately, this is the world we live in, where people are just downright mean and only care about themselves. They evidently weren’t taught the “Golden Rule” – “Do unto others, as you’d have them do to you.” Take care, Kristi, we love you!

  286. Say what?! The entryway is gorgeous. All of it. Many times you ask for an opinion and a few times I have taken you up on it. That being said telling to remove this and that or anything else is uncalled for. Is there a blocking button for a blog? When my husband and I sold our previous home, I only heard praises from people. That is until the buyer’s inspectors came and issued a report. My husband nearly had a heart attack, literally. I had never read anything like that. I’m a retired Interior Designer. I knew what I was doing. Some people love to hate.

  287. I’m so sorry you have had to go through that. I have loved watching YOUR home evolve and I love the entry way, I feel it matches YOU perfectly. I totally get what you mean when you say that you can walk into a room and 99% of the time there will probably be something you would change if it was your house, but I would never say it out loud, especially unsolicited. Apparently these people didn’t listen well enough to their parents when they taught them, “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” But unfortunately it seems that that is the way this world is going, some people feel that since its “anonymous” they can say whatever they like. Again I’m sorry tou had to read those comments. Just know that I love your blog, and it makes me so happy to see a new post. Keep your head up.

  288. Kristie,
    OMG-I am so sad and I miss you already.
    Please don’t stop blogging-I am addicted 2 yours! 😉
    Seriously though, if the trolls and haters persist ‘Ive a particular set of skills…’
    Please continue.

  289. Wow! Took me forever to scroll down to the bottom of all these comments! If that doesn’t make you feel loved I don’t know what will!!

    As I read the comments of readers labeling the commenters that criticized (or in many of their comments offered “constructive criticism’) as “haters”- I can’t help but feel that they are too quick to judge. I try to always tell myself to look at the intent behind a hurtful comment and usually find the comment was not thought through and had no intention of hurting someone’s feelings. Most people mean to be kind but their delivery can be off. I feel that there are really not that many truly cruel people in the world. Quickly labeling someone as a “hater” is just as unkind if not more so. We all need to try to be more understanding of each other. We aren’t perfect.

  290. I LOVE your blog! Your talent and skill and your ability to explain it to all of us that follow along is incredible! I read all your instructions and then re-read them and understand exactly how you completed a project and it encourages me to tackle my own projects. YOU ARE SUCH AN INSPIRATION. Your attention to every single detail is what I love the most. If I lived closer I would surely take lessons from you! I’m sorry that so many felt the need to give their input and opinions of negativity. Please know that you are an inspiration to me and many, many others in blog land. We look forward to all your posts about your projects and we admire you greatly!

  291. When I saw that you MADE from scratch the dresser, the ottomans, part of the wall sconces and the coverings of the ottomans (perfectly matched) I would hang my head in shame to criticize ANY of it. You go girl!!!

  292. The majority of the time, the people who are the harshest critics are creative cowards. They are bystanders on the sidelines of life who risk nothing and create nothing. –Marie Forleo

    If we all wanted to see gray with white with Black accents we would all tune in to all the tv decorators instead of reading your blog. ((which by the way is the only only I do read anymore. )) thanks for taking us on a colorful trip
    Sending a hug

  293. I understand all the criticism must be frustrating for you. And this house is your and Matt’s personal home. However, it is also the content for your blog. Your blog is your business and livelihood. You’re not doing this just for fun and to satisfy your own personal style. The nature of the business you are in is to create content that is accessible to any random person on the internet who is interested enough in what you are doing to not only read your posts but to also comment on them. You consistently ask for input and help with making decisions about your house. You also change your mind and redo the same spaces over and over again. You have to forgive folks for not recognizing the difference between those posts and what in your mind are “finished reveal” posts. Of all the design blogs I read, yours is by far the one that requests the most input from the audience. You are going to have to set up boundaries if you don’t always want this input. Maybe you should close comments on your reveal posts. You can’t expect to only get positive feedback. You could also just ignore the criticism and take the bad with the good. Ultimately, the decor of your house only needs to please you. What does it really matter if some readers don’t like it? You get a ton of comments. All of those hits are good for you and your revenue. It doesn’t matter if the hits are from supporters or detractors. I think you need to recognize that the negativity overall should not have any effect on your own personal design style and those folks are still putting money in your pockets!

    1. Exactly!

      If you are not seeing this negativity on anyone else’s blog or Instagram, it’s because they delete those comments. If those type comments affect you so much, you need to do the same, or turn off comments on those posts that you don’t want feedback on.

      You put yourself out there on a daily basis. It’s not reasonable to expect that you’re only going to get sunshine and roses. Especially when you ask for opinions as much as you do, and re-do things as much as you do.

      I enjoy your DIY posts and wish I could do a fraction of what you do. Our styles are very similar, but I don’t love everything you do, and if you ask for opinions… I’m going to give one. I think that ultimately you need to decide HOW you are going to blog… not IF you are going to blog.

      Take a break and regroup.

  294. Oh Kristi, please don’t give up.

    It’s your enthusiasm and can-do attitude that inspires me! When I see the beautiful home that you are creating, it makes me want to do the same for my family. You inspire me to take risks with color and pattern. Your example also gives me the strength to say “You know, I just don’t love this” when I do take a risk. I feel sorry for the people who hide behind their computer screens to spread negativity and hate. They will never get to experience the joy of creating something beautiful. If you decide that this is the end for your blog, please know that you made a difference to me and I appreciate you and your talent.

  295. Do what you need to do for you… take a break, regroup, eat chocolate (always helps me! Lol). And when you’re ready, I hope you’ll come back, share your wonderful beauty an imagination with us who care…For those immature people who are constantly looking for attention by being critical, I agree with most above: block them! It’s your blog, your home and your life. No need to cater to the crazies!

  296. So sorry that people have been so rude. I love all your rooms because you are not afraid to try things. Like you I can’t say I would want everything in my house like yours but I do love the fact that you get me to see possibilities I never would have thought of. Don’t be discouraged. Just be you.

  297. Hey Kristi! I’ve been on vacation so I’m just catching up on all your posts. I can totally understand why you feel this way! I hope you don’t walk away forever! I would definitely miss you!
    I have seen this type of behavior – people taking over, being downright rude! – in your comments but i have seen it on other blogs as well! It’s horrifying and I’m always appalled at peoples bad manners. I find it a privilege that you and other home bloggers open your homes and let me “peek through the windows” at your lives. I don’t always want to copy all your decorative choices (like you said, we’re all different and want different things in our own homes) but I ALWAYS come away feeling inspired and empowered to go do something in my own home. I love that you continue to do what is right for Matt and Kristi and company :).
    Thank you for the VERY detailed tutorials, sharing your thought processes, your struggles with getting things to work, and the constant inspiration! Your blog is one of four that I regularly come back too. (I actually came on today not only to catch up but to look up one of your old projects!)
    I hope it gets better and people shut up! 🙂

  298. I know you’re human and have feelings but please stay strong. I constantly go into your page just to see what you’ve done next. You’re such an inspiration to me in everything that you do. I love your DIYs, decorating style etc. Unhappy people tent to see something beautiful and make it ugly, please don’t let them because people like me that adore your work want to see MORE! YOURE AMAZING!!!!!! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!!

  299. 1. You’re right…about everything. It’s YOUR house!
    2. IMHO (not that it matters because it’s YOUR house) your entryway is absolutely beautiful!

  300. Oh. My. I am new to your blog, having only discovered it yesterday. However, in the 24 hours I have been following you I have gained so much inspiration from you! You are so, so talented and have such a great sense of design. I’m so sorry that people feel the need to be so negative and just down right mean. I don’t understand it either, but wanted you to know that they are the minority. It’s easy for me to say, “just ignore them”, when it isn’t my home they are critiquing, but I do hope you can get to a place where you can do that. Your home is truly one of the loveliest that I have seen anywhere and is so unique. You are just a breath of fresh air in a world of white subway tile, neutral walls, and modern farmhouse accents. You can hardly tell when you have left one Instagram account or blog and moved to another. They all look the same and are quite frankly just boring. Thank you for putting yourself out there and remaining true to yourself. Also, I am picking up six bird prints today that I sent to be printed last night, in an attempt to replicate your ‘framed bird collage’, right down to adding the gold corners to my frames. I don’t have room to do as many prints as you did in your entryway so I am modifying your idea to fit my home. Which is as it should be. (I will try to post a picture when I have it completed.) We should all do what feels and looks right to us in our own homes. I hope you will continue to do so. I am a fan and will be here cheering you on!

  301. I probably won’t add much more than some of the other commenters here but I just had to post.

    I ran across your blog over a year ago and since then I’ve lurked, been inspired by your home and family story…and even just straight stolen ideas from you (hall bathroom linen closet anyone?). I love that your style isn’t like mine…I see your ideas and they inspire me in my DIY efforts to make my home a reflection of me…to think of things differently…to do something to my home just because it makes me smile. As a result of the things you’ve shared I’ve had some great successes and become rather fearless in my choices (and use of power tools!) I’ve also taken from your blog that’s it’s okay to make mistakes (caulk fixes everything!) and to work on something until you get it right for you! The boldness in your choices along with your willingness to take on building anything you can conceive of (smile) has given me some DIY wings.

    I think readers sometimes take for granted your sharing of this journey with us and don’t realize bloggers who do this really are opening themselves up in a way most of us would never even think of doing. But I hope those negative commenters don’t make you shy away from sharing the amazing transformation of your home with us…I for one am not done remodeling yet and need your inspiration!

  302. My favorite part of your entryway is the photo you have of your self and your husband. When designing your home, those are the only two people you need to please!

  303. Hi Kristi, I’m an occasional visitor of your website for many years now. On your website, I’ve found great advice for painting cabinets, sewing projects, upholstering a couch, and many more. Each time I visit to read up on a topic, I end up reading about 20 other interesting posts as well….which is how I happened upon this post today. I’m always impressed by your creativity and fearlessness in taking on new projects and ideas. You have a generous and contagious creativity that I love. After seeing your work, I feel inspired. Thank you so much for continuing to share!