I'm Curious

I’m curious.

It’s been a while since I asked you what you find most interesting here at Chez Larsson. I’m not asking because I aim to please. I’m asking because I have a feeling that I’ve gained some new readers lately and have probably lost some too in the last year when my focus changed from posting about about a finished house to moving and renovating a new one. I know I sometimes loose interest in blogs that don’t “deliver” what I’m used to getting. So now I’m curious about those of you who are still around from early on and also those of you who are new here. What are your favorite types of posts? I’m not saying I’ll be changing anything, I’m just curious.

Is it organizing? Crafts? DIY? Decorating? Housekeeping? Daily life? Something else? I’d love to hear!

Ps. Thanks for the tulips Anne!

Comments

[Nicola]

Hi Benita,

I am a new reader. I love reading about DIY and organisation - you are so inspiring! It's also fascinating reading about daily life in Sweden.

And of course I love reading about Mini & Bonus. I have a cat too, you would love her - she's all white!!

Nicola (a Kiwi living in Australia)

[Robyne]

I'm afraid my comment may not be so helpful to you - I like all types of posts...DIY, organising, home life, garden...to me your blog is a daily ritual where the over-riding thing I get is a sense of calm. I just love your 'voice', the way you approach life and the way you share that here. I say continue doing what you do!

[Carolynn F]

Love everything just the way it is!

[Kathy]

I have read your blog for a long time, read every day, and look forward to every post! I really enjoy everything. I love the organizing ideas, reading about life in Sweden, your clean, simple style of decorating, your do-it-yourself posts. You inspire. I'm so glad you blog!

[Whitney]

I've been reading daily for a few years now (in fact your's is the only one I read every day!) and I mostly enjoy your posts on organizing and housekeeping. It's all good though!

[mary]

I love your clean straightforward and very stylin' approach to decorating and home renovation solutions. My hubby is a renovating contractor and he enjoys your approach on projects and your finished solutions. Besides we're very fond of Scandinavian style.

[Lorna from Atlanta]

Organizing a lot and 365 not so much. I still love everything. I'm an everyday reader.

[LauraC]

Hi! I'm new here, and I pretty much like everything. My favorites are organizing and decorating, but I'm just enjoying your blog, thanks for making it great.

[anna]

I've been reading for just under a year. Sporadic at first, then more, and now daily. You'll laugh but about three months ago I went back and read every single post, in order, as if your blog was a book. It's hard to explain but there's a certain bright energy in your photography and your writing is clear, funny, and positive, almost without fail. To put it simply, it’s cheerful! I love checking in to see what you're up to. You've inspired me to take on projects I probably never would have, use a lot more white :), and start my own blog. I'm also interested in Scandinavian design so learning how a real person lives a real life in Sweden has become oddly fascinating. Also, I'm continually blown away by how well you write in English. I lived in Europe for years and speak two foreign languages so I really appreciate that element of your blog. It’s been fun seeing you going through all the stages of taking the new house from where it was to where it will be. However, I'm convinced you have a gang of trolls living in your basement or garage who do all the work because you accomplish about ten times more than I do. Seriously though, you're an inspiration to your readers and a role model for bloggers. Thank you.

[April]

Definitely the organizing, as well as the before/afters. You do fewer organizing posts than you used to, and the before/afters generally don't show as many steps as you used to, both of which I miss. But you still do some so I stick around for those.

[Katie]

I been reading your blog for about a year now. I enjoy the organizing info., and anything about your country. I also enjoy your cats, I have one of my own.
The Canadian winters can be very long and dark and I enjoy reading about how you deal with the long and dark winter in Sweden.

[Dana]

Hey Benita! Love everything you do, especially organizing, DIY, cleaning your swedish lifestyle to many to list!!! EVERYTHING!!!! My family even knows who you are, as I often say i seen this on Benita's blog or Chez Larson. I have been a stalker in every since of the word for 2yr. Also I know I've never met you in person, butt I feel like I know you so well. If I see something I think you would like in the store i often say to myself i should send ths to Benita, butt I'm to chicken to ask if you would like me to send yousomething (is that wierd to want to sennd you stuff & I've never met you). Anywho I love.love this blog & appreciate your dedication to it. Also thank you for letting us look inside your lovely home & life. Give my love to willie,Bonus & Minnie

[Heather]

I love all your posts, from your kitties to your DIY. But I do especially love the organizing and the DIY the most.

[Lesley from Canada]

New'ish reader, though have had time to read just about every post now. I ended up here for tips on decorating and organizing on a dime and a tight timeline.

[Julie]

Looks like most of us are liking a lot of the same things. I think I've been reading about a year or two, and if I recall, I found you from reading Anna's (Door Sixteen) blog. I do like reading what your life is like in Sweden. It seems like a very civil society that values work/life balance and traditions more than just the lip service our institutions give in the States. I like reading about your daily routines (and look forward to you taking a break sometimes and sharing some cultural events and places with us), but I also love reading about your new house projects, renovating, decorating, DIY, and your organizing projects. I usually like to see more color in a home, but I really love the clean, organized, calming presence you've created in your home. It's beautiful. If I want to relax and feel calm, I always hope to find a new post of yours in my Google Reader. And then I want to get up and clean something! Thanks Benita!

[Emily]

I have been reading your blog for about a year. I love your style - especially all the white! I also get inspired by the decorating and construction that you do yourself. You inspire me to try it in my own home. I am in Sydney, Australia so I also love to see your life on the other side of the world. Thank you for opening up your home for us to all enjoy.

[r8chel]

Hi Benita. In my mind, you can pretty much do no wrong. Well, unless you stop using so much white in your home. Then I might reconsider. :) But seriously, I love the variety of posts -- I think you've found a great balance. Thanks for putting so much time and energy into your blog. I always look forward to reading it!

[Robyn]

I just love your life! Yours was the first blog I subscribed to years ago, and it's been interesting for me reading about your journey in the last year and how you are getting on with things in your new home without Martin. Prior to that I loved reading all your posts about DIY, organising and everything else. Your blog has many interesting subjects and I enjoy reading about them all. If I didn't, I would be one of those that you lost.
It also helps that you are obviously a genuinely lovely person. Your posts are one I look forward to reading every day.

[Robyn]

Anna,

I do this too. If I find a blog I'm truly enjoying then as long as it's not 5 years in the making, I go back and read every post too. If it's just too far back to read every single post, I read the last years or so.

[amanda]

I'm a relatively new reader of several months, I check in every day. I've always been a big fan of the clean crisp Scandanavian aestetic and you do it so well! I most like the decorating posts and always the posts with photos of Bonus and Mini!

[Nicole]

I read your blog more for your style then for specific content. You are creative with how you reuse items and organize things I would never think of! I find your style a refreshing option to the over-styled. So really whatever you post will be fine with me as long is it truly reflects you! Thanks for all your hard work!

[Lulu]

Since you're asking for feedback I hope you can take what I say not too personally. I can't remember how I found your site but I do enjoy it very much. I remember when I discovered it (just the past winter) I went through all of your posts in one sitting. The posts I enjoy the most have some sort of before or after shot such. They don't have to be a major renovation - they could even be DIYs, changing up wall colour or framed photos. The posts I enjoy the least are the ones I feel like even you know you "copped out." They are often just one photo and a short paragraph. When I see those photo I just feel very disappointed and I get the sense that you just want to slap something on so that you'll have something to post. Perhaps if you can't or don't have time to put together a proper post just don't post as often. I get very excited to check your webesite because I know you do update everyday so when I get those "fake" posts it's a let down. I don't mind if you don't post as frequently. Quality over quantity. Either way I do enjoy your website a lot.

[christine e-e]

Your blog is better than the morning newspaper (not so depressing)... I find myself getting carried away (to the point of being late getting ready for work & out the door) reading some of the "you might like" posts, especially if I don't recognize the photo.
My favorite blogs are your DIY + organizing tips. If I had lighter colored furniture I'd probably go back to shades of white living but I don't think my rather new (12 years together) husband would be able to handle such a significant change. Before I met him, my home decor was white + shades of blue. Anyway, I really love reading about your culture, community, traditions, & gardening. But, you could post pretty much anything & I'd continue my daily visits because I love your photography too!
Although I don't have any pets, I get a kick out of hearing about the kitty adventures. Especially about the escape artist!
Something I'd love to hear about is how you became interested in decorating & who your mentor was? perhaps something about the sort of career (jobs) you've had.
Your style of writing keeps me coming back!

[Cynthia Wig]

Another thumbs up for your DIY posts! You present them in such depth that I can't help but adore them. In general, I find that I tend to wander from blogs without a personal voice which yours most definitely has. Kudos, Benita! Don't change a thing!

[Michele]

I started reading your blog about a year and a half ago, I think. I love all the various things you blog about. I am a fellow cat owner and love to hear about your cats and see their photos. I enjoy reading about decorating and organizing (your organizational skills are amazing!). I especially like crafts. I really like your photography too. I also like hearing about cultural things and traditions in Sweden (to see how similar and different it is compared to the US.) Your DIY projects blow my mind! You are so very capable! I am totally inept when it comes to DIY. I've always been too afraid to try things. Luckily, my husband is pretty handy, so I've gotten away without having to do much DIY. But I do enjoy reading about your projects, even though it is unlikely that I would attempt them. I also want to say that I'm impressed with your command of the English language. I studied German for a while, but never became truly fluent (and have lost what little ability I once had.) I wish I was fluent in a second language! The bottom line regarding your blog topics is that it doesn't matter to me what you decide-- I'll read it and enjoy it, whatever you choose to do. I'm hooked! Thank you for sharing so much with your readers.

Michele in Seattle

[jan crowley]

i love your "before & after". your DIY projects and your organizational tips. i check your blog every day and even sometimes on the weekend thinking "...maybe she posted posted something today...i should just double check!". your blog is fantastic and even though i have a very different aesthetic to yours, i still find all your posts inspiring. thank you :)

[Ferun Namid]

Hi!
I am from Germany and started reading your blog at the end of 2011. Because I am a crafter too I like your craft and DIY themes. But I also love the skandinavian way of decorating apartments and houses.

[Anna K]

Hej Benita, I like seeing posts about your home and your renovation ideas. I think what you have accomplished with your new place is so wonderful! My husband is Swedish and I also like it when you talk about the places you go shopping in Sweden because it gives me ideas of where to go when we are there.

[Hxx]

You have it just right - I have loved seeing you turn your new house around, and love the mix of DIY and seeing your lovely belongings - I am a snoop!
Thank you.

[Elsa-Maija]

I love your blog :) The only posts that I skip, are those about cats.
I love your DIY's, crafts, organizing etc.

[Natalia]

Hi Benita,
I like your posts on decorating, tips for shops, new items in the house and mostly I like your 365 photo project, just like your eye for good photos of your days, cats, house, garden. I am a huge fan! Thanks! Natalia from Slovakia :-)

[annahokerberg@hotmail.com]

Hej!
Har precis börjat följa din blogg och tycker den är toppen! Tackvare alla dina organisations tips (och allt det andra) så har jag själv börjat rensa, köpa fina lådor och fixa.
Hittade din blogg när jag skulle starta en egen, surfade runt och fastnade här! Allt är så snyggt och fina bilder, skulle gärna få tips på hur man organiserar datorn! mappar,bilder m.m, hos mig är allt en röra:)
Tack för all inspiration:)
Anna

[Monica]

A little late to the party... I think I have been reading your blog for 3-1/2 years (which is when I started reading blogs). I love your sense of organization and style. Most blogs (pretty much all) that could be put in your category are too cutesy and usually trying to sell stuff. Looking forward to all of your future posts and am particularly curious as to what you will be doing with your garden. Thanks for years of excellent blog reading!!!

[MajsanGG]

Jag bara älskar ALLT!! Men mest av allt, organizing, decorating och Mini + Bonus. Just gotta love them!!!

Hittade din blog i mitten av 2009 (Annus Horribilis för mig), när jag tog ett år ledig för att plugga och var jag i Spanien rätt ofta. Ett måste varje morgon var mina internet föreläsningar, och strax efter det, gå o kolla vad Benita hade postat. Det känns som om du var en kompis!! Så underbart att ha hittat "Chez Larsson"!!!

[judith b]

Dear Benita,

I've been a devoted reader for at least three years and I begin my day with you at 9am ove ra cup of tea... I love everything about your blog! The fact that you provide fresh content and beautifully photographed images every day all by you makes you quite unique. It never gets boring! I love the organizing ideas and just your slant on fixing up and running your house, on Sweden and on life in general. Your personality, as reflected by your writing style, and your wry humor and honesty hold your readers too. But your new idea of showing us around Stockholm etc is very appealing!

Thank you for sharing all that you do and for being a role model to so many of us around the world!

[Jenny]

Hi Benita - better late than never. I am a new reader, maybe 3-4 months ago. I can't remember how I came across your blog, I have read every one from the beginning. I'm amazed that others remember how they found you 3 1/2 years ago! I hadn't really read blogs before I found yours so it's all a bit new to me. But out of all the ones I've discovered (I'm now a bit addicted) I love yours the best - it's the way you "speak" - it seems really personal and I like your sense of humour alot. I think "white" houses are now really cool, before I wouldn't have thought so. I love the befores and afters all through your blogs. There's not any one thing that I don't like and I read your blog every day religiously! Fantastic photos too - especially when your daylight hours are so limited, thanks for guaranteeing me 10 to 15 minutes of joy 5 days a week, jenny from new zealand.

[suzanne]

I am here for the organising! it's like porn to me! ;)

Now I'm in the middle of a big renovation myself I'm also loving the DIY posts. And I am in love with both your cats.

[catherine]

I read you every day, I'm french and it's the first time I live you a message. Me I love what you done in your new house. I love wath you done. It's gave me to do that by myself too. I'm sorry for my bad english.
The post I would like to see are: "Is it organizing, Crafts, DIY, Decorating, Housekeeping,...
Thanks for all

[Susan]

I'm late to join this party - also from Switzerland, and also love the mix. The DIY projects are very interesting - but like someone said above, love seeing a slice of your life.

[Maria M.]

Hey Benita,
I read you blog over 2 yrs, I suppose, but I have read almost all of your postings, so I'm not sure when exactly I started actually reading your blog. I'm here for your "problem solution and organizing spirit", (I'm also a solution driven and organizing persona...) so, I like to read posts about these issues. I also enjoy reading about life and living in general in your country, it is so different then mine, here in the sunshining Greece. Although I'm not font of snow, I enjoy seeing the Sweden way of life. Thank you for sharing and for the efforts you put in this blog so I encourage you to keep up the good work!

[Damla Sahin Altun]

Hi Bettina, I really enjoy reading your blog and everydat read it. Keep it up to writting. Take care, hi from Istanbul/Turkey

[Mary Hunnicutt]

It's the cats, definitely the cats.

[Stephanie in Amarillo]

Having given up on reading all the comments...

Amazed at how many of us readers from the Texas/Oklahoma area

Agree, I read for the mix of all things

Most favorite? The soothing minimalism that is a huge contrast to my own sloth!

[OrganisedPauper]

I like it all, but am particularly interested in organising and housekeeping.

[Ellen]

Benita
I have been reading your blog for a few years now. I love your style and the demonstrations you give of your DIY projects. Your projects are so accessible to me as a reader both in terms of being easy to understand and replicate at home. I have used many of your ideas to improve my home.

In common with many other readers I too am a swedophile. I like to learn more about the culture and way of life in Sweden and hope to live there on day. For now at least I have make do with annual trips and blogs to fill my need for all things Swedish. Your blog is the first thing I read every week day.

I am also glad that your 365 is back. I enjoy the variety of topics on your blog that are clearly carefully planned and thoughtfully constructed. I do hope that you keep your blog going for years to come as I am sure to remain addicted, no matter how it evolves!

[Sara]

Dear Miracle Girl: I read your blog every, every, every day and you inspire me in so many ways. I like most everything, but especially love the 'tutorial' blogging you do. It makes me feel like I could accomplish something too, though I'm fairly unmiraculous. :)

[mollysusie]

Hello, I really enjoy seeing your decorating/home improvement tips. I think I equally like the revamping/freshening up/redesigning your old home with the renovating/remoldeling of your new home. You really inspire me with how easily you dive head first into a big construction project and use power tools. The biggest power tool I've used is an electric screwdriver and even then I was scared (and horrible stripped the first screw). You also are an inspiration for me to organize and declutter, as I am ... well, a huge mess really. I hold onto things way too long, like about 20 shampoos I tried but didn't like but it feels such a waste to throw out! But your home is so beautful and clean and bright and that's what I want too! (Although I think if I had an all white kitchen where I live I'd have to put on sunglasses to go in it.) I really enjoy your blog!

[Nisa (Denver, CO)]

I haven't found a post by you that I didn't like. It's been fascinating watching you make the changes in your life, decorating your new home, and I even enjoyed the posts about selling your old home. Just follow your heart and I'll keep reading!

[jonie]

Hi Benita

You will definitely gain more readers as your blog is mentioned in Woman's Day magazine...the February issue. The reader mentioned she get inspiration from your blog.

I follow you from your old home to the new home...haha....i like everything about your blog...esp those neat DIY....alot of things that sounds/look so difficult but you managed to do it yourself...way to go!!!

/jonie

[Annika]

I like most the DIY and organizing posts. I like the other ones, too, but DIY with before and after pics are best!

[Valerie]

I really enjoy your blog. I especially like the organizing, DIY, housekeeping. I like to see the way that others do everyday tasks or organize things. I also enjoy following your pins on pinterest.
Have a good weekend!

[Sarah Gilmour]

You're on my "favorites" list on google reader!

I really like everything you post about! I especially admire your photography and that's one big aspect that keeps me coming back. You're able to capture more than just a scene - but also the feeling that goes with it! I also like your DIY and decorating posts, and I enjoy hearing about Mini and Bonus as well!

[Jen C]

Benita,

I have read your blog for 2+ years. I admire your aesthetic and find your posts inspirational. You truly are a professional and its a privilege to read your blog and see your work.

What I love most is that you consider even the smallest details and want them to be visually appealing. You gave me permission to evict all the coloured paperclips out of my desk drawer one day and it makes me happy everytime I open my drawer each day at work.

Here in Canada, in my neighbourhood, people seek out newer, bigger construction rather than make their home right thru hard work. I love that you can squeeze function out of every inch of your home and not waste a bit of it.

And the fact that you have the Martha Stewart seal of approval, be still my heart-wow!

Take care my friend,

Jen

[Kimberly]

Everybody has been so complimentary and said so well what we all love about Benita's blog -- but Helane has said it *especially* well!! Thank you Benita for putting yourself out there!

[Chelle]

I have been following your blog for a while now, probably about a year. I even sat and went through the archives too. I came across you initially for the organisational side - but as luck would have it, we have recently moved into a project home, so I get a lot from your renovation posts.
To be honest, you are first on my list of go-to blogs. I love your style, your tone, your photographs. I love that you still dote on your son, I can see myself still doing advent calendars like yours for my daughter (she is 2.5 at the moment) in years to come.
I rarely comment, but you have inspired me to start my own blog, although I would never come close to what you achieve. Keep up the awesome work!!

[Denise]

Hi Benita: I love your DIY and organizing posts the most, I love the pics of the cats, so adorable. I subscribe and I enjoy reading about your day to day life in Sweden. Did you know you were mentioned in the latest Woman's Day Magazine (Feb.)?

[Kristina]

I love your organizing and DIY tips, they're very inspiring. I look around my house sometimes and think, "Benita would never leave a project half-done like this for months!" and then I finish it. I imagine that I will have to write a blog post about it and take nice photos so I make it look as good as possible. (though I don't actually blog, I assume this must be great motivation for you to complete projects!)

[Ali]

All of it! I especially love the organizational posts. :)

[margo]

I look forward to receiving your blog in my daily inbox and I must say I have enjoyed every post, you have been an inspiration to me and encourage me to pick up a hammer every now and then.

Thank you,

Margo from British Columbia Canada.

[Julie]

I love before and afters. Even when you post small makeovers, I really enjoy it. It gives me so may ideas! The reason I originally came here was for organizing inspiration.

[Jill]

Dear Benita,
I am struck by the clarity of your posts - both the words and the visuals. In our busy world the "whiteness" of your home is a relaxing contrast to our own busy lives. I appreciate the time you take to make detailed posts about your DIY projects. These are both informative and encourage me to think laterally about solving storage problems in chic ways. I also enjoy the seasonal photos and customs you practice. I must admit to being very disappointed if you don't make a post and appreciate the effort that goes into making daily posts. I have recommended your site to friends and found you via Martha Stewart's website. I love your blog and aspire to be able to have the skills needed to create an organised home like Chez Larsson (^_^)

[Liz]

I love everything about your blog ... I've been reading it for several years now ... in fact it is the only one that I haven't grown tired of ... it has stayed as a top favorite ... I was actually quite excited to see you move and start all over again recreating your home ... when I pinterest items from your blog they become some of my most repinned ... Liz in Washington DC

[Lisa @ Cozy Condo Living]

I'm glad you asked. I started reading your blog about six months ago. My mom is from Sweden so I thought it would be fun to see how a Swede lives (one who blogs about it anyway). I think what I love most about your blog is your writing style. Your posts are fairly short and to the point. If you show how you did something you don't go on and on about it (I'm still learning that way of writing). You have great pics and you share a little of this and a little of that. I'm finding that the secret to having a great blog is not just the content, but how you deliver it. Keep up the good work!

[Hyeran]

Hi Benita, I think I stumbled upon your blog a month or two ago and have been hooked ever since! Initially, I was looking for inspiration for Scandinavian design because I like the bright, light, and practical way of decoration, and I was very impressed with your posts on organization. I also like your posts on DYI and decorating around your house. But most of all, your sense of humor keeps me coming back every day. You seem to have such a positive outlook on life which never fails to put a smile on my face after a long day at work. :)

[Monique]

I'll put the Kittehs first - because I've gotten to the point where I feel overwhelming relief every time I see a picture of Bonus and know he's safe at home where he should be. Because I do worry about him - the furry little four legged determined adventurer that he is - and I know how absolutely impossible it is to keep a Kitteh inside when that Kitteh wants out. So, yes, I'm a bit invested in your Kittehs - they are too cute not to love, and when Mini went through her accident I couldn't help but become attached.

I also love love love your before/afters and your organisational posts.

I love that you allow us to see the odd not-quite-success - letting us know that you just *do* things and hope for the best and sometimes things don't turn out, but you soldier on and keep doing what you do. I'm one of the vast army of procrastinators that believes projects need to be done perfectly, and therefore gets nothing done. Your willingness to leap first and give things a try cuts through my excuses and makes me think I could too.

I also love your photos; I think you use light and colour wonderfully - your photos are so crisp and clean - they are a big part of why your posts leave me feeling refreshed and motivated.

[Ingela]

I can´t choose, I love everything about your blog :-)

[Victoria]

Things I like about Benita's blog:
the photos and the way they are lit, gives everything a glowing quality; your willingness to take on seemingly big projects on your own is very encouraging; I like your unfussy and organized style; I am not a crafter but once in a while I will see something you did and have an a-ha! moment; your relationship with Wille and the kitty buddies; your honesty with matters of life as you share them with us; getting a glimpse of foreign life as you show us in your pictures, even the simple shape of your house or the layout of your new neighborhood is so different from what I see all around me; oh, and your consistency in posts is much appreciated, as I often drop people from my reader once they begin going months without posting.

[Carol78]

Hi Benita,

Maybe the 1st comment i write on your blog! what a pity as i read it for more than 2 years now...I enjoy every single post, i like your tastes and your way of life, your piece of advises and so much
Thank you so much for blogging every single day.
Carol from France

[Azy]

Hi Benita,
Like many others, I read your blog every day. But strangely enough, our lives couldn't be more different: I live with my parents, we have no pets (my mum is deathly afraid of cats), I am in control only of my bedroom in the house (and even that is out of control), I am messy and I love a good splash of colours. Yet somehow I feel like I can relate to you! So I guess what I love the most is your writing, no matter what type of post it is. Cheers.
Azy from Malaysia.

[beth lehman]

A little late, here, but... I love reading blogs from around the world. After a trip a few years ago to the Netherlands, I love the more simple, light, and less cluttered look of so many homes there - I find the same to be true of your home. My home is mostly cluttered and crazy (think three young children...) so I find looking at your home so easy on the eyes! I love the renovation processes you've shared as we have renovated several farm houses along the way. I love a good before and afters and I love your style!

[Mary Kay]

I am a daily reader from Seattle and late commenter because I've been very sick the past few days. I found your blog this past fall and love it ever so much! My favorite posts are the decorating and the organizing. I also enjoy your craft and DIY but feel they are beyond anything that I would attempt. I am totally amazed by the things you accomplish!
I also like the references to Swedish culture and your outdoor pictures so I can see what the Stockholm area looks like. Your photos are crisp and clean just like your immaculate house.
I am an early riser. Another thing that I really appreciate is Monday-Friday I can read a new post no matter how early I get up.
Keep it up - you are awesome!

[Lisa W]

I agree mostly with everything said here, but only want to add that your photos are extremely well done! It adds so much to your DIYs to have nicely composed, clear photos. your house & it's changes is nicely documented and also, the cat portraits are truly lovely. Your home is like a visual oasis for so many— my home will never look like yours, despite sometimes needing to solve similar problems. It's a lovely place to visit and you're a generous host.
Lisa from Chicago

[Kaye]

New reader (of about 6 months) and I love everything about the blog. I love the uncluttered way you decorate and am making plans to change some things in my own home. Your projects make me want to get in there and actually DO something. Keep it up! My husband lived in Sweden for a few years and he likes to see the posts showing the city.

[kate.mckenna04@gmail.com]

I like lots of your post topics Benita. Firstly, you are surely the 'Mistress of Organization'. Always something helpful there. Enjoy all your DYI projects and the can-do attitude. Probably empowering for many readers who are just learning which end of the cordless drill goes which way :) (Personally, I'm past beginner phase and am the proud owner of a pink tool belt). I've always admired Scandinavian design, so I find the home decorating and interior photos enjoyable. All in all, your blog is a lovely way for me to start my day and drink my coffee :)

[Josephine]

I've been a reader of your blog for about 3(ish) years? I started reading because I was inspired by your organisational tips as I was just about to move into a new home. I've kept reading all this time because I'm constantly amazed by your drive and energy, and all delivered with elegant good humour! I also like to check in on how you and your little clan are doing.

Being yet another Australian reader (from Sydney) I love the little glimpses into Scandanavian life!

[Laura Clawson]

I live near Seattle and read your blog daily. Your photography is awesome; I love the color white and what you do with it in your home; I'm interested in your life in Sweden; and while I'm not crafty or DYI, you explain your projects so well that I wish I was...and maybe will be! I enjoy exploring your past blogs (I'm a fairly new reader) and am never disappointed. I shared your blog on my FB page and a local architect friend raved about it. Yes, you're good!!

[ClaireM]

Since you asked, I have no idea why I like your blog but I do. Maybe it is your dedication to white - I have no idea how you do that as I really like wood and brown leather. I do like your bit of IKEA hack and also making your space work for you. I like that when you can't find something that is what you want in your minds eye, you make it and then paint it white ;) This is something that I can relate to but I have no idea how you manage to write a blog on top of it all. Thank you for taking the time to do this.

[Erin @ just add tequila]

I enjoy everything you post! From the DIY tutorials to your home decorating, to just seeing what life is like where you live (and of course the kitties)! Thank you for posting.

[Mihaela]

Hi, Benita,
I've been following you for ages.
I love 3 things the most:
1. Decorating the house, room by room, project by project. The old house was simply not a real challenge any more. I was very happy to read about the renovation of the new house last year. Renovations are my addiction. I love a good before and after!
2. Simple, clever, affordable solutions to everything. I like how you can organize anything you want. I love how you paint (almost) everything white, so the organizing solution in not only clever and functional, but also aesthetically pleasing.
3. Your photographs. They are a treat, you should go pro.

[Anne]

It's organizing, crafts, DIY, decorating, housekeeping, daily life and... your sense of style. I love it, and find your blog and pictures a huge inspiration. I notice my house is getting more organized and... whiter. ;-)

Thanks for all the effort you put into this blog!

[Adrowsy]

Jag gillar dina inlägg om renovering och organisering. För mig är det jätteroligt att du har flyttat till ett hus med renoveringsbehov. Du är så duktig och gör så fint och har så himla många bra lösningar! Många inredningsbloggar har alldeles för mycket pynt. Jag gillar verkligen att du målar betonggolv och sågar, heavy stuff liksom :)

[Where the journey takes me]

Hi Benita, I have followed your blog for a while now and I love the way that you attempt all your projects so methodically and enthusiastically and that you always see a project through to completion - something I am not always good at. I especially like the way that you adapt things to suit your organisational needs perhaps because they are not available to buy or you need to put a small or difficult space to good use. I often find I am having to invent and make my own storage containers etc in the same way until I can find the right thing to buy. I am always interested in anything that you blog about as they seem to echo my own interests too. Having just decided to start my own blog this year and trying to find my feet and my voice I realise what a commitment it is to blog nearly every day. Thank you for such an inspiring blog and I look forward to this years content.

[G.Sims]

I like bits of everything but especially your new purchases. I used to read several blogs as ME time. Now I only have 3 blogs and CL is #1. My top reasons for reading CL is making your home your own (DIY, craft, decorating, organising etc), life in Sweden and your photos. I think it's important to match the words with photos so that the reader has something to look forward to. If it doesn't then we wouldn't be here. Also, thank you for bringing back the 365 project.

[iva]

Dear Benita,
I've been following your blog for a few years and checking it has become a part of my morning routine :-)
I really enjoy your DIY posts and admire your skills, and above your style in interior design.
Warm regards from Zagreb
Iva

[Ruth]

I like to be tidy and organised, Benita, and you always inspire me to be more so, especially to take care of the little details (like putting electrical cords out of sight). You also have a nice writing style. As other Australians have said, it's nice to see a snippet of life on the other side of the worlds!

[paula]

i love tutorials and house problem solving...you are amazing at that! but the ones that keep reading your post loooove the way you blog, talking about your fav sneakers or your shopping list.

[Mayer Tanuan]

I follow your blog on my Google Reader which I view using Feedly. However, I go back to your site because it is delicious to look at. You post wonderful photos, always organized and are an inspiration as to how many people can and how I wish to live. Although you're style is very minimalistic, I like your storage solutions the most, and how you organize things, even though I know one must throw some items away.

Thanks for posting and keep on posting because you're so cool!

M

[Michelle]

Hi Benita -- I found your blog thru a post on Pinterest last summer. I have read almost all of it since then. Though I go in waves, as you see I am "behind" which I love since there is a nice chunk to read now.

So, what I like.

I loved your old house. I loved the decor and seeing how you organized everything. I liked seeing all the home improvement projects you do and you are excellent at explaining things. I thought the photos were like eye candy, very inspiring.

Reading your blog inspires me too tho I find it frustrating bc by the time I get home from work and can do anything I am so so exhausted. Basically I do my laundry, pack my stuff for tomorrow, and crawl into bed. Rarely do I have your energy. So seeing the difference between your projects and my own living space can be disheartening.

But I keep reading bc I really like being inspired to do SOMETHING.

I confess I don't love your new house quite as much, only bc it is so foreign to me, and the layout is odd by American standards. BUT you were running out of projects so I am glad you have had lots and lots of new topics!

What I like the very best is... how to explain... I like posts that detail your thought processes. A small example - when you bought the new house, you went to visit and you couldn't yet do anything as you had not moved in. BUT you were in the yard and thought, no one could object to me cleaning this up so you did a few little things. You showed before and after and I could SEE how the small changes did make a difference. These were things I might not even have noticed or thought about. Basically you see/notice details that I have learned to tune out, so I like that.

I also love that I have learned so much about SWEDEN from you. Swedish words, Swedish traditions, Swedish life. Much of what you do is so familiar and American - like watching Friends and Survivor, doing laundry, gardening, cleaning, touring New York. But much of what you do is so foreign and would be frowned on here - like your son not calling you Mom for example. Many things are very "foreign" to an American, like that religion doesn't really play a role in your life. Here, if you are not at least nominally religious you are fighting up the stream and it is a daily fight. Or when you got divorced, you separated and boom boom it was done. Here, you have to live apart 6 months to a year, everyone wants you to stay together, etc bc marriage has a religious component.

I also like how nice you are without being a doormat. I have never seen you get mad at a rude comment, not really. But here in the US for women, we are raised to be "nice" which usually means not standing up for ourselves at all in fear of offending anyone. I like that too.

I don't love every topic equally and really, I like to read. I like writing, not ONLY photos. But I enjoy the look here and your little mental space on the web. I would not do everything you choose to do but I like that you explain your reasoning.

[RC]

Michelle, I'm also an American woman and what you describe as life in the US sounds unrecognizable to me. I'm a Californian and now live in NY state. Are you by any chance from the south or the midwest?

To address the points you made above:

1. My sons call my husband and me by our first names and I've never known anybody to raise an eyebrow at that. While it isn't the rule here, neither is it uncommon enough to be the exception.

2. Religion has never been part of my life nor do I personally know more than two people who would say it is part of their life.

3. And as far as US women being raised to be "doormats," wow, this is a very upsetting comment! I'm really sorry to hear this has been your experience! My circle of friends and family are all professional women who are strong and well educated, I myself have a PhD and believe me, I've NEVER not stood up for myself! My parents, and especially my father, encouraged me at a young age to value what I have to contribute. I in turn pass this along to the young women with whom I work. From teaching at university I can assure you that the young American women in my classes, from all parts of the country, have no trouble standing up for themselves either!

I had to respond to this comment because I see Benita has readers from all over the world and I would cringe at the idea of anybody getting the narrow and very skewed idea that Michelle's experiences are somehow generically American. I'm not sure there is such a thing as "generically American" in a county as large as this - we have a population of +300 million and as the recent (2012) presidential election showed the world, the US is a country that is deeply divided along ideological lines. We just don't all fit into one mold and from where I sit, I can assure you, Michelle, that it's your experiences, not Benita's, that sound utterly foreign to me. I hope you will get a chance to experience other parts of the country some time and see that this is true.