These are my two terribly vicious dogs and I am going to sic them on commenters who feel compelled to leave nasty or snarky comments on my blog. The wirehair dachshund would especially like to take a bite out of anyone who has left mean comments about my daughter.Today was a very mixed day for me. On the one hand, I got to meet Peter of Male Pattern Baldness. Yay! Peter is just as charming in real life. I spotted him coming out of my building in the city and I flagged him down for a quick chat. We talked about blogging: Peter is still in the honeymoon phase and is posting frequently, whereas I've been at it for awhile and the novelty has worn off. But reading the nasty comments left on my blog yesterday and today has really gotten me pissed off.
Go ahead and write snarky comments about me and I will generally leave them up for the world to see what a jerk you are, "Anonymous." People have told me they think some of the things I make are ugly and that's just fine by me. But when you say inappropriate things about my daughter, or any of my family members for that matter, that's where I draw the line. My last post about Annie's graduation dress was just too tempting for the haters out there, and I had to remove several comments. (Don't bother looking; they're gone forever.)
I'd like to continue my posts about Annie and the things I make for her, because you've told me how much you like reading them and they always generate the most comments. But I'll be scaling back on my Annie coverage for now, and definitely no more photos of her modeling the clothes I make for her. If you share photos of your kids on your blog, which is only natural since they are our lives for crissakes, learn from me and consider keeping them off your site. We bloggers are being delusional if we think we're only being read by a small audience of kindhearted fellow sewists.
*******************************
Happy Memorial Day weekend to my U.S. readers! What's up for your three-day weekend? We're going to a Yankees game, which is always an excellent way to kick off the summer. I hope to get lots of sewing in too, starting with the safari jacket I said I was going to make. And thank you all for your kind comments about Annie's white dress. Believe me, I really appreciated your lovely words!
118 comments:
I'm sorry to hear this. It seems like several sewing-related bloggers of late have been mentioning rude/nasty/inappropriate comments. I don't know what is wrong with people. I thought Annie looked lovely in her dress. I can't imagine (and don't want to)what they could criticize. I hope you don't give up blogging because I love seeing what you make.
I agree -- the dress & Annie are both lovely. Also, thank you for posting & for blogging -- it is very interesting to me to know what others are up to.
I'm very sorry for the snarky people, that is sad.
I'm really sorry if anything distasteful was said about Annie or her dress. I'm graduating next year and I totally wish you'd make my dress, lol. Her's is that gorgeous!
That's really lousy. I do miss your more frequent posts, because I enjoy your writing voice. I can only imagine what it must be like to have nasty comments left.
Bleh.
Sorry about the hateful comments and I hope you will rebound. I always read but rarely comment, or have time to read others comments. When I do have time, I love to see the generosity of spirit that 99.9% of people show. Hang in there, and focus on sewing.
Oh my, oh my! {hugs} I loved Annie's dress. Thanks for the warning about posting photos of our kids. I will take heed.
I'm not sure what's up with the internet sewing community lately, I really don't. I've been contributing in one form or another for over 15 years, but I too am almost at the point of completely withdrawing. :( What is with people lately?!! I am so completely tired of it all.
I'm so sorry you had to read that- how awful of people.
I thought your dd was beautiful in her dress- how sad to come and share your pride and joy and special moments only to have it soured by such comments. I hope it doesn't discourage you too much- I love seeing your creations and have learned SO much over the past few years reading blogs like yours and being a part of an online sewing community.
Those comments are incredibly rude. It's very sad that there are people who would go out of there way to be hateful. As a fellow sewist with a daughter just one year older than yours, I always enjoy reading your blog. The dress, and your daughter, are beautiful.
As a sewing-blog newbie I have left a few "snarky" or "rude" comments, but NEVER aimed at the person or even their sewing. I get irritated when I see unthoughtful opinion blog posts and so posted my own opinion.
Experience has taught me to simply ignore blogs written by people who consistently irritate me. That way I don't snark and my blood pressure stays normal.
But that doesn't apply to you at all! That dress is stunning- well sewn and thought out and the execution is amazing. Your daughter is so pretty, I can't imagine anyone snarking on either her looks, your writing or your sewing. Uncalled for. Ridiculous. Keep writing!
I do think its a shame that we in the internet sewing community don't lend a little more constructive criticism to more beginner sewers. Constructive criticism serves as a way to become a better sewer. I would welcome it, I know I can always be a better sewer but there seems to be a taboo attached to it. Oh well.
Again, I don't see any room for constructive criticism on that dress, really nice job. So gorgeous. She's a lucky girl.
I especially love that last shot of her yawning. Reminds me of my tiny girl.
Nasty,ill-mannered and ignorant people are just weak. I'm sorry that you have to deal with this. Just know that there are kindhearted sewers who are reading your blog.
Also, snarking anonymously is just plain cowardly. Snark under your own name. Shame.
Lindsay,
I am sorry that you have been hurt. Hopefully you took the hateful stuff down before Annie could read it. We will miss the Annie posts but you have to do what is best for your family. Shame on you "Anonymous".
Really sorry to hear this happened, please don't stop blogging because of a few jealous losers; maybe switch on comment approval, which I know is even more work.
I'm coming to NY in a week, wow time flies, I will send you an email!
Oh.. I love your blog and all of the little family stories.. it's what makes it real! keep up! you're even reaching Belgium :D
What a shame. I love seeing the clothes on Annie, you always make her special things, and she is the perfect model because she is young and pretty. On the other hand, you always have to protect and put your children first. I have a few shots of my little ones in clothes on my blog. I hate to cut off their heads in the shots like I do on myself usually (I do it because my hair is a mess etc.) Maybe I really should. They are very little and can't choose whether they want to be publicly on the internet or not.
I'm so sorry about your bad experiences. Really, I think those comments are what follows when you have something covetable (great sewing skills, beautiful girl) that others don't, and share it with the world. I can't imagine the amount of hate mail someone like Heide Klum must generate. Not sure that makes it any easier for you...
Also, I'm kind of divided on the kids' photos. I know a lot of people don't show any, and for good reason, but I love the glimpses other sewers show me of their life and family, so I will continue sharing some. But I don't make the kids the focus of my blog, and I intentionally keep my blog "small" (not searchable on Google e.g.), hoping that only positively interested sewers find me.
I can't understand what is going on with people, supposedly adult people, today. I always thought if one doesn't like something/someone then just leave it alone. Seems as though there is a new and growing culture of bad behavior: it's cool to be rude! What's that about?!
I enjoy your blog and sorry to learn someone doesn't have the decorum to act considerately. Your daughter looks lovely and adorable.
Hearing this makes my blood boil, because I know you! You are one of the kindest, sweetest, most thoughtful, generous people that I've ever met, and would happily offer up my German Shepard to help if you should ever track down "Anonymous". I truly think that there are people out there that enjoy stirring the pot, and do it intentionally for fun. Seems like I've seen so many comments lately everywhere (many other non-sewing websites) where people are just downright rude. Their lives are obviously empty and lacking attention, so they intentionally call attention to themselves through bad behavior.
Please don't stop blogging, there are far more of us that love you and look forward to your posts than those idiots that are too stupid to know right from wrong.
Just keep sewing and blogging, you bring joy to so many of us!
Please don't give up blogging, Lindsay! Don't let the nasty snarky posters win. I guess I was naive to have thought that only people interested in sewing would take the time to read your blog and others like it. I can only wish those with evil intentions would just get a life.
Thanks for all the inspiration and advice you so generously share with us.
What a shame that a few #@$%@% take the joy out of sharing your sewing life with all of us. I enjoy reading about your sewing adventures and seeing your lovely results. I'm so sorry someone ruins it by insulting your beautiful daughter. As mothers nothing can get under your skin than someone picking on our kids.
I'm so sorry you are experiencing this nastiness. I agree with everything you've said. When our children do great things, parents naturally want to share. I totally get that. What I don't get is the rude, mean responses to positive news. I'll miss reading about the fabulous dresses you make for your daughter. But I understand why you've come to that decision.
How disheartening. I hope your daughter didn't read anything inappropriate before you removed the comments. As others have said, both she and the dress looked absolutely lovely (adore the ruffled neckline!). I say sic the dogs!
WTF?????????
Please switch to comment approval. Or blogger needs to find a way to eliminate anonymous posters by making their voice more accountable. We need to flesh out the "anonymous" commenters and expose them. Then we need to post who they
are and we can publicly and privately protect ourselves and our authentic sewing posters. But blogger needs to address this.
Don't give up blogging.Please don't.
Hell hath no fury...........
I am so sad that there are people who seem to like hurting other people, but are too cowardly to tell you who they are. Your blog has brought much joy to me because it's informative and inspiring. So, I truly hope you do not stop blogging. Your daughter is gorgeous and that the clothes you make her are beautiful. I understand why you want to protect her from hurtful and jealous comments--I would do the same.
Oh Lindsay, I'm so sorry you had to deal with that... :(
We'll all miss your stories and pictures of Annie in the beautiful clothes you make for her, but family comes first and everyone will understand that you have to do what you have to do to protect your family.
Hang in there and try to remember how many people love your blog...how many people are inspired and learn from it...
Take care,
Gwen
I am so sorry that you have had to deal with comments like that. I love your blog and follow it on my reader... anxiously awaiting your posts!
I sew for my children, 26 and 23, have done so their entire lives, and cannot imagine reading nasty comments about them or what I've made for them when I pour my heart and soul into every stitch (and them). I loved your daughter's dress and hope that you continue to post about what you make for her as well as your other creations. I appreciate the effort and time it takes to blog. Thank you!
So sorry to hear about the nasty and rude comments. People need to remember if you can't say anything nice then don't say anything at all. I can totally understand you not wanting to feature Annie on your blog, we are moms and our job is to protect our children.
It is so sad that anyone said something bad about your dress (or daughter...I didn't read the comments.) The dress is lovely, your daughter is lovely, and I love reading your blog.
I'm so sorry that people were nasty. I have experienced this in the past, so we don't post any pictures of my daughter either. Thank you for showing your creative process and please try to ignore the bad people. They are trying to make us all upset and we have to NOT get upset. I loved seeing Annie in her beautiful dress
This is my first comment on your blog although I follow it regularly. I just wanted to say your daughter and her dress are beautifull. I can't imagine what sad miserable lives such people must lead to have so much nastiness in them. If it's a constructive critism left politely and diplomatically then fine but why bother if you just want to vent your spleen! I can imagine how you must feel - know how I would in that situation! I seem to be seeing/hearing and reading such spite all too frequently lately. Don't let their misery invade your life. Just imagine the evil witch cackling off to her shack in the woods.
I hope you dont give up blogging - from the comments left today you will obviously be sorely missed. perhaps you could post pictures of dresses for your daughter on hangers instead? It would be a shame but perhaps a suitable compromise.
Because I post pictures of my children, I do not allow search engines to access my site. This keeps my traffic really low (that and I am not a prolific poster and not the most creative writer, and...). It also limits folks who stumble on your site without being part of the sewing world. I think these people are the majority of the nasty commentators. I enjoy your blog, your work is beautiful and always impeccable. I was thinking how I loved seeing your daughter for the first time. Can you block anonymous commentators? That would probably help also.
I thought your daughter's pix were cute, and you did a nice job on the dress.
I'm considering a ban on Anonymous comments on my blog--I haven't had many truly rude comments (yet) but why not just nip it in the bud?
If it helps, remember that the rude ones that hide behind such comments are small little people who have no life.
I am sorry to hear we won't see many photos of your lovely daughter but if you are getting negative comments I do agree with your stance.
I love your blog - please keep it up despite the nay-sayers!
I know I tend to lurk more than post (mainly due to time constraints), but I truly am sorry to hear this. That's really low of those people, to criticize your daughter as well as her dress. I thought the dress looked absolutely lovely on her. I'm firmly of the opinion that there's always something good to say about the work of my fellow sewers on here--even if the print/color/style isn't necessarily my taste. And while I'm not completely innocent on the snarky comments myself (though usually I'll only let them loose on, say, Selfish Seamstress's commentary on Burda mag previews or something), it's just not right to direct it at someone's personal hard work. Especially when done for someone else. Seriously, I know this will make me sound about 30 years older than I am, but what happened to "if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all?"
Anyway, I do hope that you don't give up blogging, or writing about the clothes you make for Annie. Even though I don't comment much, I do always find your work inspiring.
I am sorry this happened to you. Some really nasty people hide behind antomimity. Just delete their comments and don't acknowledge them. You sew for your daughter and we like to see what you sew.
I am sorry. The world is filled with people who generate hateful, nastiness.
Annie is a doll and the dress is gorgeous, so I'm thinking jealousy must be taking hold of some sorry twisted nutcases. Don't let it stop you from posting what you want about your sewing or anything else that strikes your fancy. If you do let these bad commentators change your posting, then the sickos win, right?
Sorry to see you have had such vicious comments. Your daughter does look a lovely girl and I must admit in this day and age I would be very reluctant to have her face exposed. May be in future, because she wears clothes beautifully, you could just obscure her face. It would be a shame to deny us her presence on your blog. I must admit I visit every day to see what's new. (I really should sew more myself instead of lurking round sewing blogs).
Please keep your blog going.
That is so cool that you met Peter! I am sorry you have to deal with mean commentors. Much of the time, I am envious of the popularity of your blog, but this post makes me feel like my much smaller audience might be a blessing.
Can I just say "Stupid People Piss Me Off!" Honestly? Do people not have anything better to do than bash others? Keep up the good work! If you ever have to go private, put me on the list- love your sewing!
I didn't see the nasty comments, but I'm sorry that some Anonymous Coward thought that it would ever be appropriate to say whatever s/he said about a high school girl. Where do people get the nerve? I'm lucky enough to have a very small audience (and I don't post often), having the self delusion to think I'm blogging for myself rather than the public at large... your post is a good reminder that the internet is not as kind or as private as we think!
Dear readers, thank you so much for your thoughtful words. I really appreciate them. I just wanted to say that Annie did not see any of the inappropriate comments I removed. She is generally uninterested in what I write on my blog. Perez Hilton is one of the few bloggers she reads, and I just can't compare to him.
Coming out of Lurkdom to send you much love. You deserve it. I appreciate all the time you spend sharing your sewing and other adventures with us.
Mean people suck!
I am aghast that anyone should have left inappropriate or unpleasant comments on your last post. One of the nice things about reading blogs is being able to share a little in the lives of the writers and their families. I look forward to seeing the lovely clothes that you have made for Annie and hearing about what's going on with you. It is quite horrible that anonymous commenters should spoil this. Please don't take any notice of these crazy sad people!!!
What on earth? What kind of jerk would leave nasty comments about your lovely daughter?
I love your sewing -- and your projects are gorgeous. I am sorry you have to deal with this.
It's so hard to believe that anyone would do such a thing. I am in total shock, as I know you must be. I can't imagine anyone disliking what you sew. You sew so beautifully. But if they did, why don't they just move on to another blog? Why even bother to make a comment in the first place? When I have seen something I didn't like, not your from blog, but from other blogs, I just kept my mouth shut, or rather kept my fingers from typing. I think it's better if you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all. These must be very unhappy people who just want to drag others down with them or very messed up and evil people. I mean, what is the point of saying something nasty? I'm so sorry you have had to deal with this. I hope it never happens again. Your blog is an inspiration to all sewers out there. You are doing us a service with your blog. Thank you for all of your hard work.
Lindsay, I'm cracking up thinking of your blog in comparison to Perez Hilton. ;)
I didn't get a chance to comment on the graduation dress the other day, but I thought it was lovely and the organza on the ruffle was really beautiful. Can't wait to see more summery dresses up here!
Your daughter and the dress you made for her are wonderful! My kids are too little (7,4, 1) for me to find time to sew now, but I hope that by the time they are ready to graduate from high school, I will be able to make them something half as gorgeous as what you've done. Please keep up the great work with your family, your sewing and your blog!
I really enjoy reading your blog and am super sorry to hear about those inappropriate comments. It is the shame that nasty people have to ruin things for everyone else. Perhaps, not allowing anonymous comments would be a good safeguard?
BTW, the dress and your daughter are both lovely.
Wow, I'm shocked that anyone would leave a mean comment about any of the beautiful things you've made never mind your lovely daughter. I just don't get people!
I am sorry to hear this happened especially after I met you and you are soo kind hearted. I have posted pictures of my daughter on my blog and cant imagine someone making nasty comments about her. I really enjoy reading your posts and seeing Annie in the things you make for her and yourself as well. You have definitely inspired me to make more things for my daughter and I thank you for that. If you stop posting pictures I understand. I know I would be livid if I saw any inappropriate comment about either of my children.
So sorry to hear this is happening to you. I've been irritated by spam/advertorial comments, but luckily it never got this personal. I do feel there are more negative currents in the online sewing community, and I'm very sad about that. If you don't like what you see/read, just go somewhere else, but don't make snarky comments, and most certainly not anonymous.
I too have to come out of lurkdom to say how saddened I am to hear about nasty remarks....about your daughter or about anyone. Unhappy, cranky people make me nuts myself so I'm glad to send my basenji to join the pack in routing them out:-)
Life is so very short and precious to bother with negative energy and I'm sorry you've had to deal with it. Your daughter is lucky to have a talented, creative, generous and kind mom and you are creating wonderful memories for her with your sewing talents.
Loved your daughter's dress! Thank you for sharing your sewing with us. Your blog has opened up NYC garment district to me. I may never get there, but enjoy dreaming about it.
First time commenter on your blog here. What are earth could someone say that was snarky about your lovely daughter? Please don't give up blogging because of some idiot (can't think of a word bad enough to describe someone that would do this), we would miss you. Thank you for a great blog.
PS-I am jealous you got to meet Peter!
First, to clarify which "Anonymous" I am, I wrote:
"Anonymous said...
'To me, it's slightly racy for a graduation dress (I attended a boarding school where at graduation all the girls actually did look like brides), but times have changed and it's her dress.
Beautiful job! I love the trim. Thanks for the discussion.
May 26, 2010 7:32 AM'"
I hope that wasn't considered offensive. It was a candid, but ultimately complimentary comment. But what if it hadn't been? I always strive to be civil. Truthful feedback is important.
I don't have a blog, in part because I'm a very sensitive (some would hypersensitive) and private person and I'm sure the comments that some people would leave would drive me stark-raving mad. I can imagine the day-long web fights I'd be engaged in. Blogging right now is not for me.
But as a lawyer, former journalist and general reasoning person and web citizen I believe that when one publishes a blog with an open comment section one is in effect inviting responses from the world, and not all of them are going to be positive. That's the medium. It has plusses -- easy, inexpensive communication to a multitude of strangers -- and not a few minuses.
I'm not suggesting that readers be permitted to say anything without recourse, but standards of what is offensive really do differ. (I also didn't read the comments you deleted, although I'm not questioning your judgment or your absolute right to remove them.)
This issue is resonant. Several months ago, another sewing blogger who posted in your comments section yesterday actively sought the opinion of her readers about Facebook. The lady has -- or had, I haven't been back -- a photo of herself and Hubby on her sewing web page inviting them to visit her personal FB page. I assume many readers asked to be designated as "friends."
One day, the blogger decided to clean house on FB. One of these virtual "friends" was hurt and the blogger wanted to know whether this wasn't ridiculous.
After pointedly saying that I don't have a FB account in part because I don't want inadvertently to hurt other people, I defended this poor soul. I said that although I thought FB friendship was kind of silly, it was conceivable that someone who had been a FB friend would wonder what she had done to be unfriended, or whatever the term is.
The blogger ended up cursing me out and making a complete fool of herself (referring to my "Anonymous Ass") and I was as reasonable as I am now.
Some people shouldn't blog. They don't have the temperament for it. They cannot entertain other people's views, even when they explicitly ask for them.
Lindsay, you have a better personality for this and provide good information. But it probably is a good idea that you post less on your daughter in the future. She's a pretty young girl and there are lots of creeps out there. If you haven't already, make sure you give her the Facebook Lecture to make sure no wild party photos show up anywhere.
In addition, some people like to publish anonymously. Over the past couple of years, I've posted many comments, all of which I believe were interesting and informative. (Fashion Design Books is the first choice of FIT students because it's generally cheaper; they go to the FIT Bookstore only if necessary, although the staff is nice, there's a great selection of books and there are some armchairs.)
But if you don't permit people their privacy, your blog will be the poorer for it. Your choice.
This may be my last post. I waste too much time reading blogs anyway.
Happy Memorial Day, Lindsay! Sincerely. The best to you and your family.
Lindsay,
I should add that I'm not actually completely anonymous. We had an email exchange in connection with something else. You asked who I was and I identified myself. But I do like my privacy.
Boy, I think I'll declare a moratorium on commenting on all sewing blogs! It's just too ... intense! :-)
I'm sad to hear that you had to deal with snarky, badly-behaved commenters! Anonymous cowardice is SO unappealing. Please don't let a few rotten folks out there stop you from posting about what you make for anyone.
The dress is gorgeous, your daughter loved it and she can rock the heck out of it.
I'm sorry you had this experience. I think you we one of the first blogs I started following when I got in this. You have inspired me to get back to my sewing, which I love. Your daughter is beautiful and so was her dress, very good job. Have a great weekend!! I'll be cooking, cleaning and hopefully sewing.
That is not cool at all! Sorry you had to read snarky comments! Just as many others have commented, the dress and your daughter are beautiful!
Oh gosh, I should clarify: Any Anonymous comments I did not delete are NOT ones I considered inappropriate. Many anonymous commenters leave me lovely notes and I appreciate them. The comments I removed were blatantly inappropriate by any civilized person's definition.
I'm speechless. Really. I'm sorry.
Haters always have to hate. What suckers! I had to change my comments to "first approval" for that reason.
I have even had people Google my blog using the search terms "I hate Knitters Delight". Seriously? Why do they waste so much energy hating on blogs when no one told them to read it in the first place!
I'm with Cindy; I can't imagine what nasty things anyone could have said about Annie or her dress. I also can't imagine why people think that it is their right to make nasty, snide comments or even to criticize what you or anyone else makes. You know the old adage if you can't say something nice don't say it. Well nasty commentators you need to learn some manners.
I'm sorry to hear this as well.
I've really enjoyed reading the back-and-forth mother/daughter exchanges you and Annie have when you collaborate; I hope that you continue to feel comfortable sharing that.
While I think it adds so much to a project to see it on the wearer, I totally understand your decision to pull back on showing the final result on Annie.
Though I love seeing how women of all sizes explore their style and deal with their fit challenges, I can't help but be aware of how easy the internet has made it to commodify and sexualize the bodies of children and adults. When I post images I know they could end up somewhere very unsavory-by-my-definition...seems like there's a "specialized" web site for just about everything/every part.
I don't mean to come across as fear-based, but I find myself agreeing with Poster Craigslist that "it probably is a good idea that you post less on your daughter in the future. She's a pretty young girl and there are lots of creeps out there."
Changing your photo posting style is a loss for you/your readers, but (sadly) it may be for the best in the long run.
It's such a shame that people can't keep their rude comments to themselves. For the record, however, your daughter is beautiful and her graduation dress is stunning and totally fun and appropriate for a high school graduation. Sic those dogs on the haters!
SOrry to hear about the haters, that is so sad, many enjoy your blog and I hope a few haters don't spoil it for us. Some people just don't have anything to do and need to get a life.
My 16 year old daughter and I were just reading your latest entry and we were preparing ourselves for some not so flattering pictures of your daughter, but when we found the picture we couldn't see what the big deal was. She looks pretty, and the dress is amazing..who in their right mind would have anything derogatory to say about your lovely girl? We both think she is smashing...and your clothes too.
Lots of love from both of us
I am so sorry you have to deal with this, Anonymous commenters should definitely be held accountable somehow.
Ugh! The asshats really ruin it for everyone, don't they? I always enjoy your posts about the adorable stuff you make for your daughter and am sad to hear that you'll be shying away from those in the future. Totally understand, of course, but I'm so sorry that you were hit with nasty and inappropriate comments. I hope you will continue to blog though, as I love reading about what you're up to and seeing examples of your excellent work. {{hugs}}
I didn't get a chance to post a comment on your beautiful daughter's dress; she looks stunning and the fit and details are perfect.
I can only imagine how awful you must have felt reading the comments you described. Like everyone else, I'm appalled anyone would post any kind of negative remark about that lovely creation (both DD and dress), but I'm thankful you wrote this post. My blog is low on the radar, but I'm now considering comment moderation. I'm not sure how I would handle comments like that, my guess is, not so well. I like to share my love of creating with likeminded spirits across the globe, but not at any cost.
I'm truly sorry you had to read such things, just try to remind yourself that those came from people who, most likely, are dealing with serious issues in their lives and is a reflection of them, not you.
This is the kind of thing that keeps me from blogging myself. So sorry you had to deal with this obnoxiousness. And I totally respect your mama bear response -- I would have the same reaction if anyone did the same to my baby.
Karen in Paris
What is with the internet lately? Between nasty comments left on blogs and virulent threads on message boards, it sometimes seems as if the sewing community is going to hell in a hand-basket.
I just try to remember that hateful words say more about the commenter than they ever will about the recipient.
You & Annie are adorable & I'd miss you both if you close up the blog.
Seriously, what happened to "if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all"? Sorry you have haters posting. I loved her dress when you posted it the other day, but rarely post a reply anymore because it's more steps when you're reading blogs in a reader. (((HUG)))
It was great meeting you too, Lindsay!
Funny thing, since yesterday afternoon I have had to contend with a verbally abusive anonymous blogger and today have decided to stop accepting anonymous comments. I want Male Pattern Boldness to feel safe both to me and to my readers.
I know it may mean that a few commenters will have to jump through some extra hoops and I wish it weren't the case, but alas, it is.
Don't stop blogging!
I feel outraged for you! Despite what one particular "Anonymous" has said, I do not feel your blog will suffer for the removal of inappropriate comments, particularly regarding your daughter. You are not a journalist, and folks do not have the right to exercise their first amendment rights in your comments section. This is your blog and you control what is published here. I am shocked that anyone would think they have the right to make crude, rude or otherwise inappropriate comments about your daughter. No one benefits from such dark criticism, and it has no place here.
Sewists and other like-minded people come to your blog to see what you are making, and I for one, get a little thrill when I see my RSS has updated a new post from you because the quality of your garments is inspiring, and I am eager to see what you've done. Of course, it isn't the same if we can't see the fit on the wearer. I am truly sorry that your posts became fodder for someone who is trying to impose upon you or your daughter their own moral code or personal taste, or whatever else they have banging around in the attics of their minds...
I know Gertie has been having issues with ugly comments from anonymous posters also, albeit none so personal as attacking your daughter. Nonetheless, if we were participating in a live group or sewing circle, certainly these unpleasant individuals would not be invited back. I hope they understand they are not welcome at your virtual sewing circle either.
As a public figure in a very small town, I have had my own negative experiences with online commenters throwing in their nasty two cents, and seen those who love me became enraged. I hope after you cool down, you will go back to posting and showing us your latest creations. It is because of your blog that I have worked up the courage to attempt a Chanel style jacket.
Good luck and bravo to you for being a fierce mama bear!
I was on the fence about whether to leave snarky comments on my blog or not. I've since decided it's MY blog. For the haters out there, they can go poo-poo all over their own blog and stay off mine.
Annie's dress was lovely and very flattering on her. After your vicious dogs are done attacking the haters, I'll send my grouchy cat (still has all her claws) to finish the job! I look forward to your posts.
What is wrong with people? I'm so sorry you have had this experience. If people don't like what you post, they don't have to visit your blog. I hope you do continue as I really enjoy seeing what you make and hearing what you have to say.
Stunning dress on a stunning daughter. Your blog is one of my favorites. Thank you for sharing your love of sewing and incredible talent. It's inspiring!
Lindsay, like so many others, I really enjoy your blog and creativity. You make such beautiful clothes and inspired me in my quest to make a Chanel jacket. Annie is lucky to have such a talented mum and she looks stunning in the couture dress! I hope she has a wonderful time at Graduation.
I am coming out of "lurkdom" to say I am so very sorry. I completely agree with all of the comments that say wonderful things. Your daughter is obviously a young lady with a wonderful mother. I think you are doing the right thing to let us know about the "mean girls/guys" out there that are leaving such nasty comments. Kind people need to say "no more" and continue to lead a gracious life. Again, I am sorry that anyone would even think of every criticizing your child. That is completely unacceptable behavior! Children are off limits. Thanks for sharing an absolutely beautiful graduation dress with all of us. You are inspiring.
So very sorry, it was a lovely dress and you have a lovely daughter. I agree with several people here, anonymous posters who say hurtful things just because they can are measley little people with no friends, no ego, no courage and nothing else to do. Unfortunately that doesn't help the hurt, and you are totally correct in removing their comments. Having their comments out there gives them strength, removing without saying what they stated takes away their power. You go. K
So sorry you and Annie were vicitmized. It must feel awful. I agree with Kristine. My experience over the years on various types of blogs and forums is that there is always someone who likes to stir the pot. And why are they always anonymous? Best reaction is to delete and ignore. These people get off on attention, so don't give them any. Just keep doing your wonderful posting that we enjoy and delete whatever you don't like. Thats what I do!!!
The dress was/is beautiful and she looked lovely in it. I must be naive because so far so good no haters, at least they're not leaving comments. I say sic em'
Hey Lindsay....
I found your blog unexpectedly!!
I hate nasty comment from anonymous and I was searching the topic "how to trace anonymous comments" and it led me to you:)
So I totally understand your plight and I can't fathom why people want to spew hatred. It is so much easier to just leave...
I looked at your last post, and I agree, the dress and the girl in it are just fabulous.... Why would anyone have anything bad to say about that!?
Hey 'Lindsay' I can't imagine what these people said to rile you so much. Don't give up blogging on their account.
My next comments are not a reflection on your post - I thought Annie's dress was age appropriate and beautiful.
I do get rather bored with commenters who will make positive comments about truly tasteless garments. Lack of constructive criticism seem to defeat the purpose of blogging. We have invented a culture where we feel obliged only to make positive comments and to leave any criticism (mostly constructive) anonymously, or as I do, not comment at all.
I was so sorry to read about the distressing comments that had been left about your lovely daughter, and I can understand why you would consider whether to carry on. I just want to say how much I have enjoyed reading your blog and seeing all of the wonderful things you create. I hadn't done any sewing for several years, and I credit some of the amazing sewing blogs like yours with inspiring me to start again. Sewing has been a dying art for some time, and I think blogs have definitely played their part in showing beginners what fantastic garments can be created at home and in rekindling the flame in people like myself. It is such a shame that a minority of unpleasant people can spoil something. Whatever you decide to do in the future thank you for sharing your skills with us.
Hi Lindsay,
I went on your blog today to look for the blog were you talked about ordering sewing labels for your garments. After reading that some miserable human beings would leave such things on your blog, I felt compelled to comment. I want you to know that I really enjoy your blog. It is inspiring, motivating and a tremendous resource. I have found that people who waste precious time on being judgmental, cruel and nasty are people who are miserable with life and themselves. Their goal is to plague the world with thier misery and distract others from pursuing postive things. I want to encourage you to keep blogging and ignore the stupidity of others.
I thought about your post when I heard this story on NPR:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=126782677.
It doesn't change the frustration you feel - but you are not alone in struggling with this!
Annie's graduation dress is gorgeous. I was inspired by it to consider more neckline details. I am so sorry that you received negative remarks. They are bad enough any time but about our children - URGH. I had to put a blurb by my comment box to discourage some people, especially annonymous comments. It's horrible that a few might ruin what's a wonderful way of sharing. I can't imagine why they bother. If they don't like my blog, just click away. Weird. I hope you won't be too discouraged. I appreciate your postings. - Myrna
Oh.... that is so scary. I am one of those 'silly' bloggers who think that only fellow sewers are looking at my kids. I'm scared now... and I'm so sorry that people were mean.
They are just jealous of your enormous talent and your gorgeous daughter.
Annie and the dress are both beautiful. As far as your anonymouse posters comment ... there are people that take joy out of making negative comments. I think one thing other posters to need to get a grip on is that blogs are public to the world and not just 'the sewing community'. The posters probably have never sewed a day in their life. It is for that reason that I will never post pictures of my DGD that show her face or give any information about where she lives.
It is probably better/safer for you not to post anything about your beautiful daughter. Please don't stop posting about the things you make her, however. Pictures on a dress form aren't the same, but they at least show us what you are making.
There are always a few people that are so unhappy with their lives that they want to make everyone feel like they do.That they would take the time to leave such comments says it all! Just think of all the great emails you received about your daughters dress and how nice she looked. You're blog is my favorite! Keep us informed of all your projects with your great pictures. We appreciate the work that it takes and how you inspire us.
:O)
I'm am very sorry that this has happened to you. Some people are just a--holes. Don't let them get to you, don't give them that power. I really enjoy reading your blog and seeing the things that you create. I am a beginner sewer and seeing your creations and other sewing blogger is very encouraging to me... so please don't stop what you do.
ohhh... i loxed the grad. dress it was beautiful
I am sorry to hear what happened to you and your beautiful daughter. people could be so hateful and disrespectful.
I do not blog( I do have a blog because I do not want to leave anonymous comments)
I love seeing what you make the stories and pictures that come with them.
I will miss seeing your daughter model your creations, but we must do whatever is necessary to protect our family.
Your sewing skills are wonderful and so are you. Don't give up please.
Why are people so rude? I see it all so much in my line of work.
I'm so sorry that people are like this. It's the anonymity of the Internet, combined with completely bad behavior of a few people in general. I don't understand, but at least MOST people are nice, and you know your sewing fans are.
my mother has always said, "If you have nothing good to say, sometimes it is best to say nothing at all". The fact that any blogger chooses to share their lives with the world is a brave thing. I hate to hear that it was a hurtful experience.
Don't let anyone rain on your parade and stop you from doing what you enjoy. As I said before your daughter looks gorgeous.
I am so sorry this happened to you . Please dont stop blogging . I really enjoy seeing what you are making and up to . You probably make alot of sewists all over the globe feel connected and that is seriously a very worth while thing to be doing . Dont let some sad grump spoil your good work .I do think though that it is mportent that people face the consequences of their actions so I think moderating comments or banning annonymous posts is a good idea. Sometimes I wonder if people just dont have the emapthey to see that what they are saying isnt necessarily what you might need to hear . I think we all need to be kinder to each other and so what if you dont like something . What makes us think that its so important as to insult or upset anther person by telling them and the rest of the world that we might disapprove of something .
Its rampant egocentricity and really pretty immature and sad!!
By the way Annie is a very pretty girl and your dress making as ever is right up there . Enjoy your beautiful daughter and the achievements you have both made . All the best.
I don't understand this. Lindsay - you do a great job, sewing and bloggging - please do not let haters get to you. it's stupid and silly & undoubtedly people who are bored with nothing to do.
Interestingly, I have found that in person most sewists are genuinely friendly people.Unfortunately, there is large element of people in America that love to tear people down. We have lost our civility and often times our moral compass. However, there are so few sewists left that blogging has created a wonderful community for us regardless of geographic distance. I love your creations and writing. Protect your daughter from the creepers, but please don't stop posting. It would be a big loss for the true sewist community.
I'm very sorry to hear that you have had to contend with this ugliness. I don't know what is in the ether, but the net has been distinctly unfriendly of late. I've moderated comments on my blog almost since its inception. I think it makes people think twice about what they post, knowing it may never see the screen. Annie is a lovely girl and you should rightfully be proud of her and the things you make for her.
I love your site, Lindsay - it really is one of my top favorites. Don't like a few bad apples spoil blogging for you, and us, your fans. Your work is beautiful and your daughter is just gorgeous, especially in the beautiful graduation dress you made for her! You inspire me to get my machine out and get busy sewing!
Wow, this is really sad. I have a mean ass pit bull if you want to borrow him! I'm with you on the commenting on the family thing, that is so out of line! It kills me when people choose to speak their minds under cover! That too me, shows how truly weak and unimportant/valid their comments are. I love your blog, info and sharing! Check you later!
snarky, schmarky. These folks can't begin to do what you do, so their "creativity" is trying to chop down your tree. Please don't give up blogging. I've learned so much from you, and I hope to learn more. As for your daughter's outfit--wowy zowy--she looks wonderful. And, of course, congratulations to the two of you for completing this part of your journeys in such style.
I'm sorry to hear about the negative comments you've received. I have always enjoyed your posts about what you were making for Annie. I have a daughter in high school, but she won't let me sew for her. Well, I could but she wouldn't participate guaranteeing I'd fail to please. I fantasize about making her dresses that fit instead of the ill fitting dresses she thinks are so much better. Now I'm off to make some straps for the strapless dress that she can't wear to school!
Your daughter is beautiful as is the dress. I notice when some bloggers post a photo of a child they crop the photo below the head. that could be a solution. It may also be a lesson to her- that not everyone is nice or smart.
Oh, please don't give it up! I live vicariously through you and my friend Sarah (lives in NY) when you shop for fabric all over my favorite city. In a way, I was surprised to see the photo of your daughter in her dress (I think she is adorable and the dress perfect) knowing what weird people lurk around these days. Oh what a cynic I have become - give me the good old days - a gentler and nicer time for sure. Keep sewing and posting so I can keep reading and drooling from NC!
Anyone who gets their kicks from leaving nasty comments on a blog about sewing should really find a hobby. As a beginning sewing enthusiast, and an advanced fashionista, I admire how your taste is as advanced as you sewing ability. You produce beautiful clothes. Please don't stop blogging!!!
What a terrible experience, Lindsay. You have so much to be proud of - an adorable daughter and unbelievable sewing talents. It's too bad that someone had the need to attempt to destroy the enjoyment both create for you.
As a newbie to blogging, I guess I'll need to be better prepared for the first time this happens to me.
Hi Lindsay,
This is also my first comment on your blog. I just wanted to say that even though you're discouraged, you have many more fans than detractors!
I'm a brand new to sewing and I happen to work in the Garment district, and I've been using your blog and map religiously to go on little lunchtime excursions into all the sort of intimidating stores near my office. I even went to that little French macaroon store on your suggestion last week.
Anyway, I just wanted to say I really, really appreciate your blog and just wanted to cheer you on, whether you continue in full or decide to take a little break.
You're great and we love reading you.
Cheers,
Meebs
Lindsay, Any lowlife(s) who would post such hateful words is/are simply jealous bitches. (BTW, what do you call a male bitch LOL??? Simply an ass?) Or maybe they can't find a job in this economy and rightfully so, but they have nothing else to do with their time.
Keep up the great work, great blogging, and great sewing!
I'm so sorry, some people are just cowards and I really don't know why they persist in this line of behaviour.
Post a Comment