I wasn’t really sure what I was going to write about today. I felt like I had a string of pretty fabulous ideas. Maybe I’d spark a heated debate regarding whether Debbie Gibson should really be posing in a bikini for US Weekly. Or perhaps I’d finally tackle why the Bloggess needs an internship team with me on it.
Nothing I had in mind was serious. My posts rarely are. I poke fun. I entertain. I write about topics I believe my very small community of readers and I can laugh over and enjoy.
And then something I said at a blog conference, known as Bloggy Boot Camp, in Baltimore, Maryland made it into the New York Times.
“My husband calls it my expensive hobby,” she said with a laugh.
Yup, that was me. In reference to blogging.
Taken out of context, I cringed when I read it. It may as well read, “she said with a laugh, while flipping her hair and giving a knowing wink.”
In my 20 minute conversation with a reporter from the New York Times, I said a number of things. I talked about my background, why I maintain a blog, my writing partner, Kacey, and a bit about my family.
I also responded to a question regarding why I would fly from my home in the San Francisco Bay Area in California to Maryland for a one day conference. I do not have an “A-list blog” nor am I making enough money to support my family through my website. My response included several points:
1) While I have a background in marketing and have been involved in marketing efforts that have been profitable within social media, what keeps me coming back to my computer are the personal connections that I have formed. A few years ago I considered people who made friends via the Internet to be complete freaks. What type of social handicap prevented them from having friends and family that they could interact with in person? Now, I know better. I have become one of “those” people. I am fiercely passionate about and protective of the friendships I have formed on-line.
2) Those involved in social media are doing much more than simply posting pictures of their kids and their pets. The women who are on-line are educated, motivated, and getting attention from corporate America, in political forums, and in mainstream media because of it.
3) Why would my husband be supportive of my spending money on something that I earn essentially nothing from? Because it makes me happy. Because I find it personally fulfilling. Because it gives me an outlet to think creatively and participate in something beyond my daily routine.
I made an off-handed comment to a fellow mom blogger with whom I felt comfortable with. The drawback was that she happens to write for the New York Times. She was also trying to tell a story that involves many facts, people, and opinions.
Because of that, she could not cover the entire context of our conversation.
I get that. And now you do too. It is just the rest of the country who only read the article that never will.
It really is too bad that your quote was given without the benefit of context, or even in its entirety.
I’m on the fence about that article. From this side, it almost seems like you all were ambushed. On the other hand, from what I see around the blogosphere, it’s hard to disagree with some of the things she said.
At some point, blogging seems to have become more about the swag for quite a few. I prefer the connections and the creativity, like you said.
Karen´s last blog ..True Romance
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It looks like her article backfired. It has everyone blogging and reaching out to each other even more. Stopping from SITS!
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That’s a bummer. I love your blog. I know I’m never going to be a PW but that’s now why I’m here. I blog for the same reasons you do – for community and to document our family. It makes me happy and don’t we have a right to that too?
jen@ourdailybigtop´s last blog ..I heart faces – bundled up
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jen@ourdailybigtop Reply:
March 15th, 2010 at 11:20 am
And other reason I won’t be a big blogger…can’t type. I’m meant to say “that’s not why I’m here.”
jen@ourdailybigtop´s last blog ..I heart faces – bundled up
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francesca Reply:
March 16th, 2010 at 6:45 am
You crack me up, Jen. I kinda figured that one out. That’s the beauty of bloggers, right? We know what one another is trying to say, even with the typos.
xo
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That is just bad journalism right there, I think. She knew what you were talking about, because that’s not the only thing you said to her. She knew where you were coming from, she should not have published that little part of your conversation, that does not portray your opinions.
We understand you, so don’t worry about it.
Syma K.´s last blog ..Nostalgia
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Some people just think they have to bash other people to make themselves feel better. Maybe aforementioned people should check into meds available for that, and leave awesome moms such as yourself alone
Julie´s last blog ..Frozen Hot Chocolate ala Hungry Girl
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I think it is pretty obvious that the journalist was trolling for soundbites. Sorry your lighthearted comment got ‘fished.’
I can’t remember where I read it now, but someone recently commented that bloggers seek these connections with each other because the traditional media seem so dead-set on trying to marginalize them. All anyone wants is a community of people that ‘get’ them, right?
Kirsten´s last blog ..Patrons with Beer and Chili
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That woman was a hater, nothing more.
Your site looks great!
Sadie at heyMamas
Sadie at heyMamas´s last blog ..Small miracles
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I hate quotes like that – they are always taken out of context.
I don’t think you sounded like an ass – I’m pretty sure they are the ones who did.
K´s last blog ..After The Happily Ever After
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That was the one comment that I couldn’t figure out in the whole article… it now makes sense that you were talking about bloggy boot camp and not your blog in general…
I wish that there’d been more column inches… I’m sure there would have been a much more insightful piece of journalism
Heather ~ Acting Balanced Mom´s last blog ..MMMMonday – yummy and healthy!
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This comment?
Class act.
Mom101´s last blog ..Honey, Don’t Bother Mommy. I’m Writing a Mildly Annoyed Letter to the New York Times.
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So sorry.. just goes to show you can’t believe what you read or hear in the media
Emmy´s last blog ..And That’s a Wrap
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You know, it’s all about drama. She was looking for what would draw attention, thus not writing more detailed about your conversation. She sounded like she was almost poking fun at bloggers, like us. So in essence she was picking up any little thing that would go along the mood of her article.
I feel about blogging exactly how you do! It keeps me sane and grounded!
Helene´s last blog ..They say it’s your birthday…well, it’s my birthday too
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oh but it’s so much more fun to take things out of context – that way more people will read her bias article!!!
no matter how much it evolves, blogging is, and will always remain, a loving and supportive community. you can’t market or advertise that which is priceless.
scrappysue´s last blog ..photostory friday: being neighbourly with eye candy
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Always taken out of context to support the slant on an article they’ve already written in their heads…..don’t worry. No one will remember tomorrow.
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And now I’m a follower.
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I totally get you. Ass or no ass, you were quoted in the New York Times!! Hello? If that isn’t a sign of total awesomeness, I don’t know what is!
I can’t imagine the dirt a reporter could get from my off-handed comments! Especially if you were the receiver of said comment!
Pooba´s last blog ..I Cannot Brain Today, I Have The Dumb
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I just didn’t get that article and when I read your quote I knew there was a reason I didn’t “get it”…it was all wrong…the entire article spun things to look negative and it was horribly written. Knowing (virtually) almost everyone that was quoted or written about it was upsetting to read the spin she decided to take. Sorry you had to be a part of that – YOU are much better than that and everyone knows it
mamajoss´s last blog ..Finished Crocheting: Bernat Cottontots – Toddler Hoodie Sweater With Added Scalloped Edge
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I am very glad that you wrote this blog post. I found your blog because of the NY Times article. I have to say that I was a little upset by how the piece portrayed moms who blog. I am new to blogging and I hope other newbies, like me, will follow the links and find your site. Don’t let the article get you down. I personally know of 5 other moms who have visited your site today that may not have found you otherwise. I suspect that has been the case 10 times over.
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It really makes me mad that you ladies were essentially ambushed and that the article spun things in such a negative way. I wish they would have provided context and spent as much time explaining the positive things about mommy blogging.
Love your blog. I get it. Rock on.
No Princesses Here´s last blog ..A Letter to my Daughter
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How dare you have an expensive hobby! For SHAME! Don’t you know you are not allowed to have an expensive hobby in this economy?
FWIW the lack of context for your quote was somewhat apparent. And even if it wasn’t, since when is a hobby a crime? Hello Golf, Fishing, Boating, Bowling, Crafting, Sewing, Decorating your Christmas tree?
No judgement here.
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francesca Reply:
March 17th, 2010 at 5:25 am
This was far and away one of my absolute favorite comments. The fact that the first four hobbies you listed essentially belong to men opened my eyes to how much of a double-standard this all is.
I thank you for that!
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That article was total garbage, and I am sorry your quote was taken out of context.
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I am glad I wasn’t there I would have said something about how Papa calls me a blogging bitch, and I couldn’t have that on my shoulders. (He only says that when I don’t come out of the office for hours at a time. He also says it while throwing back his hair and giving a knowing wink.)
Nana´s last blog ..Slap On The Preparation H Spicy Spaghetti Sauce….. I know that doesn’t even make sense.
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francesca Reply:
March 16th, 2010 at 6:39 am
I am going to make you my publicist, Nana. Anyone who wants a quote from me will have to go through you.
Because then we will really have something worth reading and getting all riled up about.
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Brilliantly handled…bravo! Can’t wait to read more from you all.
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I found you because of the article. Terrible article, but it put me on to some great bloggers. Bright side, and all that.
lifeinapinkfibro´s last blog ..The basics of shopping
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My dear friend and blog partner in crime, if it makes you feel any better I was once interviewed by the LA times and was quoted saying “like, and totally” about 1,000 times in one sentence. Sadly, it was not taken out of context.
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francesca Reply:
March 16th, 2010 at 6:40 am
How I did not know this? I must seek out said article and write about it.
Cause you know we are all about the controversy here at M&M.
xoxo
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I’m so confused about this “journalist” who disclosed that she was a blogger, yet failed to report about the main reason we blog…for a connection with others who are in the same boat that we are struggling to keep afloat, not to mention using it as a creative outlet which allows us (at least, me) to be a better mother.
Here’s my reaction to the article:
whatever.
Keep writing, Francesca!
Gibby´s last blog ..Wait, She’s Angry?? What About Me?
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oh jeez, I’m sorry, but it’s pretty cool that you traveled for a conference. Who cares what the New York Times writes we know you, that’s what matters:)
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As long as your happy and your family is happy forget about the rest of the country that may have read that article. There were so many inaccuracies in that article it’s kind of funny. We all, those who attended Bloggy Boot Camp and those who are bloggers, need to rise above and keep standing strong.
Frantic Holly´s last blog ..Words That Make You Go Huh?
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I find it incredibly horrible that people think interests are only worth pursuing if they make you money. Why is that the first question anyone asks? Things to ponder:
- Should artists stop doing art if they aren’t selling anything?
- Should musicians stop playing if they don’t produce an album?
- Should we stop going to sporting events? They are very expensive and they aren’t doing anything for us.
- Maybe my husband should stop playing golf. He takes money with him, but never brings any home.
What is it with people that they feel they can even ASK a question like that? I have to say – when people ask me that question, I’m personally offended. But then I have to stop and think – they obviously know nothing about blogging or that wouldn’t have come up. I mean, who’s business is it if you want to go to a one day conference or not? Nobody’s but yours.
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i’m with toni up above me.. my friend has said to me before.. why do you post EVERY DAY.. and play with your blog design CONSTANTLY.. it’s not like you make money off of it…
it really pissed me off.. i do it.. B/C I WANNA, IT’S FUN, AND I LIKE IT!!
i wouldn’t worry about that comment.. the ppl who know you would NEVER think you were being as ass!
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Francesca,
My husband sent me this article as I am a brand new mom and am still slightly torn over leaving a very fulfilling career when the work-a-holic in me thinks I can do it all. I didn’t see anything wrong with your comment–I guess because I can easily identify with it. I feel like my own blog–on vegetarian eating–is also an expensive hobby because food is expensive, and I understand that often time is money. So I can understand your being upset about the comment being poorly repeated, but know that it gave me a better day thinking that I’m not the only one who feels not only am I not contributing to the family income, I’m also spending a lot of money that could be put into savings for that ever increasing college tuition!
Thanks for the laughs,
Amanda
Amanda´s last blog ..Menu Plan Monday
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francesca Reply:
March 17th, 2010 at 5:16 am
I think your comment really exemplifies what blogging is all about, Amanda. The connections, the understanding that you are not alone, the feeling that you are a part of something greater are all reasons why my computer stays on.
I am glad to know that this is true for you too.
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Check out my most recent post. It’s an ode to you!
Jen´s last blog ..We are all just one decontextualized quote away from being an ass
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francesca Reply:
March 17th, 2010 at 5:12 am
Thank you, thank you, thank you for this, Jen.
(Am I starting to sound repetitive yet?)
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I can certainly see how you’d be upset that your comment was taken out of context, but I didn’t think it was bad. Overall, I thought the article was interesting and introduced me to quite a few new mommy blogs, including yours (the only negative being that I’ve now doubled the # of blogs I want to keep up on).
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brava!
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You poor dear! I never thought negatively about you from the article at all. In fact that’s how I found you! I read the article, clicked on your link and am now following!
Some things are a blessing in disguise!
Mommie LIfe´s last blog ..This or That Tuesday??
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I read the article already and hadn’t got that impression, so it’s not as bad as you think. =) Congrats on being quoted (even if out-of-context)!
Ronnica´s last blog ..My Early Blonde Year
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Eeek yeah. I read the article. The tone was not super. I didn’t really appreciate how everyone came across, but isn’t all press good press?
Maybe?
BTW, thanks for stopping by my blog again today! I had lost you guys when you made your blog switch!
Kelly Deneen´s last blog ..Random Tuesday Thoughts: Potty Training and Tacos
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You are fantastic! All anyone has to do is come over here and read you in context. Let it roll off you.
I was once on the PBS TV show SPARK. I had been interviewed and what they chose to show made me look like an imbecile. I believe I said something along the lines of, “I mean it’s always scary, but this is really, really scary.” I sounded like an inarticulate food. Whatever. People that know me didn’t notice because they filled in the blanks, everyone else doesn’t really care and you know what they say, “no publicity is bad publicity.”
You are loved and supported. I read the post you linked to on Twitter and it was wonderful. You are so much more than a stupid quote.
It is a good lesson to remind us all that when we read articles, we are never getting the full picture. Everything must be taken with a grain of salt.
Unknown Mami´s last blog ..I Have a Friend
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This really sucks, I’ve been quoted out of text before and wish they’d get the full story. It’s good to see you taking it so lightly I know many would be much more upset. I think honestly you can say it is an expensive hobby, due to the fact it costs money to have a website. haha. Like the comments above, look at this is a drive to your traffic, that’s how I found you.
Will be coming back to read more.
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I feel exactly the same way you do about blogging and the people i have met online. They make it totally worth jumping on a plane and flying across country. (all of my best friends in my life right now are people i met while pregnant with my twins through an online community)
I’m so sorry you were misrepresented. That whole article just left me with a horrible taste in my mouth. (I did a post about it a few days ago…)
debi9kids´s last blog ..It’s in the Air.
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YOU DID NOT SOUND LIKE AN ASS. That article made me so angry! Firstly, the title! I’m so tired of moms having to apologize for EVERYTHING WE DO. And even if it is a hobby (which it isn’t really) so what? Do men have to apologize for being on a bowling league? Or golfing on weekends? Ridiculous.
And, oh, Debbie. Oh no. Not the bikini. . you need a meal.
xo
Paula
http://www.adhocmom.com
adhocmom´s last blog ..Pee or Poop?
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