tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post6492850476906778540..comments2024-03-28T03:40:29.423-04:00Comments on Passage des Perles: Stemming the online shopping tsumaniDuchessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09986153653120526776noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-25124460482810971932015-06-26T05:54:11.632-04:002015-06-26T05:54:11.632-04:00I enjoy your posts because of their range (recipes...I enjoy your posts because of their range (recipes, friendship, travel, manners, childhood memories, fashion, pearls and so on) I like your independent mind and your honesty matched with kindness and perception.<br /><br />I am in my late 60s and felt you were a kindred spirit(I know.I read Anne of Green Gables too!)when you wrote about the Vietnam war. <br /><br />I hope you decide to continue your blog, but if not, thank you for the pleasure you have given to your readers.<br /><br />SueSuehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10959624249031770681noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-42129287304899727142015-06-25T19:56:30.982-04:002015-06-25T19:56:30.982-04:00What I meant by internet users feeling entitled to...What I meant by internet users feeling entitled to free information is that it seems we've become accustomed to receiving so much free information that we resent being asked to pay for online newspaper subscriptions for example. We don't consider that having that attitude means the newspaper is forced to depend on advertising income in much larger proportions than ever before, while they are also forced to cut down on their budget for research and investigation. Then we complain about the quality of news coverage declining. Maybe we've joined the "race to the bottom" to the point where not only do we not not want to pay for free information, we resent a blogger making a small income because of something we may do, even though this setup doesn't even cause us to pay any more.Ritahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03885016833329869945noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-33897247504773119812015-06-25T17:58:35.522-04:002015-06-25T17:58:35.522-04:00Rita: Please re-read your first comment; check the...Rita: Please re-read your first comment; check the two adjectives that follow "are incredibly...". <br /><br />Bloggers who monetize have an interest in earning money, as well as attending to the creative aspect of their writing. Even though each individual commission may be pennies to a few dollars, those add up when you have enough readers who buy following their link, or will click through to ads. <br /><br />The blogger therefore has a primary or secondary purpose: earning. I don't see that as right or wrong, but it •is• a decision, and once that decision is taken, some bloggers are better at maintaining objectivity than others. <br /><br />My own route has been to not embrace that model, for several reasons:<br />1. There is enough of it out there; I'm not into driving the engine of consumption more than I already do, and<br />2. Sooner or later I'd be swayed to see how much I could earn, which would change what I write- I know myself.<br /> <br />Rather than having a "sense of being entitled", my perception of readers in the Passage is that they are appreciative, even when they disagree strongly with my post or another reader's point of view. <br /><br /> Duchessehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09986153653120526776noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-83500895257127961212015-06-25T14:37:01.294-04:002015-06-25T14:37:01.294-04:00I didn't think I was calling anyone names by s...I didn't think I was calling anyone names by suggesting their objections to letting the blogger have the possibility of maybe earning a small commission are unreasonable. Not to mention that it's unfair to the blogger who is after all, fully disclosing a paid post. I think that saying the blogger who does that is losing credibility is really insulting. I would hope a reader would make that judgement or not, based on the reader's overall evaluation of the blog, rather just making an automatic judgement about it. I do think think there's some sense of being entitled to all the free information we get from the internet, and that attitude isn't always a good thing.Ritahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03885016833329869945noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-89209936151072737032015-06-25T12:52:47.228-04:002015-06-25T12:52:47.228-04:00Anon, thank you. I know we're supposed to all ...Anon, thank you. I know we're supposed to all have rhino hides out here on the Internet but I keep waiting and it keeps not happening:). Kind words appreciated.LPChttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18209861350905135093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-24484182588293812082015-06-25T09:04:37.793-04:002015-06-25T09:04:37.793-04:00Mardel: I am approached several times a month to e...Mardel: I am approached several times a month to either review free merchandise (from sunglasses to watches to shoes) in exchange for reviews or to "work with" vendors by accepting a commission. At first I thought, "Wow! Great", but then thought long about it, and did not accept the offers.<br /><br />Underlying this debate is the notion of paid work vs. a hobby, or voluntary work. II have noticed in other discussions on the topic, a tone of disdain for bloggers willing to offer their writing for free basis. One person said, "Why not make a buck?" It's a reflection of our values, when we only respect what earns money. <br /><br />If bloggers would like to be paid, there is another option: the donation approach, such as blogs like "Brainpickings"use. <br /><br /> Duchessehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09986153653120526776noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-15026968756486820322015-06-25T08:22:19.722-04:002015-06-25T08:22:19.722-04:00Excellent post discussing the very issues that hav...Excellent post discussing the very issues that have been revolving in my head. I miss the thoughtfulness of focused and intentional shopping, and find the barrage difficult. Even though I always loved "snoop shopping" even that looses its appeal when one is constantly faced with new merchandise, and it is difficult to avoid be affected even if one does not buy. At the same time I don't mind monetized blogs if the blogger offers a distinct point of view that I find interesting. <br /><br />I suppose my own mixed feelings on the various related issues is part of why that I am not blogging about style or things at the moment. Therefore I need to thank you for reminding me to attempt to resolve my own mixed feelings.<br /><br />And I love your posts on pearls and jewelry. Mardelhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04850551308931710502noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-78233513087685083652015-06-25T08:02:15.879-04:002015-06-25T08:02:15.879-04:00Thank you LPC for taking the time to explain the s...Thank you LPC for taking the time to explain the situation. You've given me something to think about, too.<br />It was really good to hear all the good things that can come from accepting some advertising.<br />I like to know where items can be purchased, that's true. I just don't like to be exposed to advertising all the time.<br />It does turn me off. I don't find you to be that way. You are always tasteful, calm and considerate. You are more like a good friend sharing.<br />(I hope this isn't hijacking a link). Sorry if it is.<br />I'm pretty sure we go to places to hear what we want to hear. <br />Anon@ 5:58- above<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-73559647478019298892015-06-24T20:48:07.785-04:002015-06-24T20:48:07.785-04:00LPC: There are many ways to blog; and people do it...LPC: There are many ways to blog; and people do it for a range of rewards, form tangible to intangible, and not one or the other. <br /><br />I like your point about discovering new sources; it's a major reason why I began blogging. Friends were always saying, "Where did you get that? I can't find anything." <br /><br />When I see •any• blogger "featuring" products which seem very far from her usual taste or price point, and have been provided by a vendor, I sense there is a profit motive operating. That's her choice. <br /><br />Rita: I would request that you remove few words that call other commenters less than civil names, before I publish your comment. Duchessehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09986153653120526776noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-15819187442013244102015-06-24T18:37:15.637-04:002015-06-24T18:37:15.637-04:00This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.Ritahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03885016833329869945noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-59080967080310059732015-06-24T17:25:34.716-04:002015-06-24T17:25:34.716-04:00I thought about this a lot, put my hurt feelings f...I thought about this a lot, put my hurt feelings firmly behind a stiff upper lip, and wanted to offer the monetizing blogger's perspective. Who is also retired, so, checking all the boxes;).<br /><br />For some of us, the money from blogging is so little that we wouldn't make any substantial changes in what we write about to earn it. I have often said to myself, when considering a sponsorship or a post, "If I wanted to earn serious money but had to do something that wasn't authentic and fun, I'd go to back to a corporate job." (Of course, the corporate job was fun sometimes too, but I'm making a point.)<br /><br />Perhaps you considered that already. But did you know that the various monetization platforms offer bloggers points of value beyond $? One, they provide data on who clicks what, and who buys what, thereby giving the blogger ideas about what readers enjoy. Two, they introduce you to new products and retailers, which I enjoy. Three, to me at least, the dollars earned feel like comments, like signs of engagement. Blogging can be lonely. Four, yeah, OK, the dollars earned to allow for an occasional "Whee!" purchase.<br /><br />That said, I understand from these comments that there's only a slim chance I'll change anyone's mind. Some people resent the affiliate links, and sponsored posts. Sorry to lose you as readers.<br /><br />Duchesse, have a nice vacation.LPChttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18209861350905135093noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-4862042016989658212015-06-24T12:29:25.369-04:002015-06-24T12:29:25.369-04:00Well happy walking! Et bonne fête nationale du Qué...Well happy walking! Et bonne fête nationale du Québec.<br /><br />I thought this NYT article might be worth pondering - no shortage of appealing unprocessed foodstuffs as Jean-Talon Market! http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/21/upshot/simple-rules-for-healthy-eating.html?CID=4QXR6&abt=0002&abg=1lagatta à montréalhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02610410709900333230noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-39841235969894851402015-06-24T12:04:43.430-04:002015-06-24T12:04:43.430-04:00Karen: I know of the book and have been kind of ci...Karen: I know of the book and have been kind of circling reading it; you have encouraged me.<br /><br />dana: Wow, much of this is jaw-dropping and its is SO good to see the Tiffany stones and techniques that made them great instead of that stupid, aspirational Return to Tiffany s--t.<br /><br />All: Thanks for the encouragement; I shall be back in Sept.; I do need a break.<br />Duchessehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09986153653120526776noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-56074477588713962972015-06-24T11:50:19.775-04:002015-06-24T11:50:19.775-04:00Check out this ad I received yesterday -- immediat...Check out this ad I received yesterday -- immediately thought of you!<br />http://www.tiffany.com/Shopping/ItemGrid.aspx?mcat=148214&cid=288156&lppromo=LPC0337&utm_campaign=062315_US_Blue_Book_USF_Email&utm_medium=email_marketing&utm_source=email_marketing&utm_content=Creative&utm_term=&omcid=EML2263<br /><br />(I'm only on their list as a customer of crystal items, purchased for my employer)danahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09902311224633734779noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-74339378981246887362015-06-24T06:18:32.989-04:002015-06-24T06:18:32.989-04:00I am a regular reader but have not commented befor...I am a regular reader but have not commented before. I hope you return in September as I look forward to your thoughtful and thought-provoking posts. That said, I wish you the best, whatever your decision. Thank you for the gift of your blog. JoanneAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-59533865876757513792015-06-24T05:58:47.187-04:002015-06-24T05:58:47.187-04:00I really hope you will continue to write in the fa...I really hope you will continue to write in the fall. You are a genuine,articulate and honest writer. <br /><br />I'll admit to spending too much time"window shopping" online. I consider it research in a way.<br />I rarely purchase,since I'm not an impulse shopper. <br />I would love to see you write about blog etiquette. In some ways we are a self selected readership<br />yet we are diverse. Feelings can be bruised on both sides of this equation. <br /><br />The world is way too commercial for my taste. I don't like being hounded by ads all the time.<br />Some blogs are an extension of a business and that's fine if you know it up front.<br />Others are more personal. Very hard to switch it up midstream. <br />Thank you for writing and being honest and open minded.<br /><br />Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-86170759915173845592015-06-24T03:31:02.319-04:002015-06-24T03:31:02.319-04:00http://the-nife.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/on-change-g...http://the-nife.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/on-change-goals-and-elevators.html<br /><br />Isn't this relevant? We continually reach for the ideal wardrobe, but maybe it is just too much focus on energy which could be spent otherwise.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-26079981386769549702015-06-24T00:15:39.726-04:002015-06-24T00:15:39.726-04:00I enjoy your POV, from up north and a different de...I enjoy your POV, from up north and a different decade than myself. Thank you for sharing your voice. <br />I find myself reading fewer blogs each week. My bookmarked blogs consist of two and I subscribe to four. The fashion blogs feel so limited, say, compared to my recent subscription of the Wall Street Journal. <br />TheresaAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-71379587916543123462015-06-23T20:54:04.499-04:002015-06-23T20:54:04.499-04:00A long time reader, first time commenter. I reali...A long time reader, first time commenter. I realize I am contributing to your hesitancy to continue blogging. I read regularly and prior to this, never commented. But, please continue. I love your honesty and your perspective.<br /><br />AdBlock is my friend - blocks most (not all) of the ads on the blogs I read. I have also stopped reading many bloggers who have decided to write sponsored posts on a regular basis and/or write regular posts with merchandise links. They have a choice and I have choice. I do not understand why there need to be a monetary reward for pursuing something that brings pleasure.<br /><br />I also start wondering if there isn't some hypocrisy involved. "I'm a retiree and the small amount I earn helps pay for the time I spend on my blog." If the returns for monetizing are truly so small - why bother? If the blogger truly needs some extra cash, why not find a part time job? <br /><br />Yes, I'm signing as anonymous because I don't have a blog and I usually lurk.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-4372454693457440282015-06-23T20:46:51.411-04:002015-06-23T20:46:51.411-04:00God, yes, internet shopping is way too easy! As y...God, yes, internet shopping is way too easy! As you say, in The Before Time we used to Go Shopping - sometimes to see, sometimes with a list - but either way it was a small, local sample in comparison with the infinite global marketplace we now have at our disposal. Now we see things we never would have, before, get ideas we never would have, before. It's getting tiresome, though, and I find I'm doing less - call it "retail fatigue" - I know I haven't seen everything, but sometimes it seems like it!<br /><br />I also miss the days when it was fun to go to the grocery store, to see what was in season......<br /><br />Please do keep the pearls, though. I learn so much from you, though I must admit I did a little pearl shopping after reading your tips.....Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-19542306790061002362015-06-23T20:13:46.807-04:002015-06-23T20:13:46.807-04:00I recommend reading, Tears of Mermaids-The Secret...I recommend reading, Tears of Mermaids-The Secret Story of Pearls by Stephen G. Bloom. It is a fascinating account of the history of pearls. I am working my way through it and have read some chapters twice. have a great summer! My son just came off of the pearl boats in Broome, Australia. he loved being a deck-hand. I will have to wait to hear about his adventure.<br />Karen<br />Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-89944112086140900262015-06-23T20:00:20.474-04:002015-06-23T20:00:20.474-04:00Please say you are coming back! I am somewhat addi...Please say you are coming back! I am somewhat addicted to my favorite blogs and would be dismayed if you abandoned yours! Have a wonderful summer!<br />karenAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-45099162878290151762015-06-23T17:38:45.728-04:002015-06-23T17:38:45.728-04:00I love your blog too.....have a lovely summer!
Cat...I love your blog too.....have a lovely summer!<br />Cathy WongAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-25214698248434687952015-06-23T17:07:34.687-04:002015-06-23T17:07:34.687-04:00I love your blog and appreciate your viewpoint a g...I love your blog and appreciate your viewpoint a great deal. You inspired me to purchase my first Eric Bompard sweater and I have worn it and worn it. I also think you have a great eye and fashion sense but you never seem to inspire acquisitiveness for its own sake. Please keep your blog open. You are so thoughtful and have so much to say.Francie Newcombhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10892362779983187077noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2872918251244874644.post-64081094809633942612015-06-23T16:00:05.504-04:002015-06-23T16:00:05.504-04:00I too have unsubscribed from many blogs and am tir...I too have unsubscribed from many blogs and am tired of the continuous emphasis on more, more, more. Also, I am suspicious about certain blogger's motivations for writing as some seem primarily pitched to feed into this phenomenon and earn them commissions.<br /><br />I hope you return after your break - I am a faithful reader each Tuesday and Thursday and yours is one of my favourite blogs. However, I do realize that it must take a lot of time and effort and you may wish to spend that elsewhere. I love your passion about pearls and your wisdom and experience about life. You are willing to explore some of the difficult questions/subjects and that's one of the things that makes your blog so enjoyable. <br /><br />Hope you enjoy your summer :).<br /><br />BarbAnonymousnoreply@blogger.com