Good Morning Crew!
I know, I know; it’s not morning to everyone who reads this. But it’s morning here, and I’m happy about it, so I’ll say it again: Good Morning!
I have so much to announce/ tell you / ask you this morning! Before we start, let me warn you, this is a little long and there are no pictures! But there is a payoff! This is the post that lets you put in your two-cents about this blog. You have an opportunity here to make this blog more helpful for you! Here we go:
First, for those of you looking for the post about the style shift and the economy, it’s on my bad side at the moment. When that post straightens itself out a little and acts like a big post, then I’ll let it out of it’s folder!
Which brings up a thought. I’m thinking the “Upcoming Articles” page is a bad idea, but I want some advice from The Crew.
Oh, did I forget to mention: I held a vote, and the unanimous choice for the “affectionate nickname” for regular readers is:
The Crew (cheers, hooray, amazing)
So those who are sort of testing the waters : Temps… right, like part of The Crew today, but maybe not tomorrow! I hope you decide to go full-time!
Back to the Upcoming Articles. I’m thinking it’s not so smart (I sort of had a clue when I scoured hundreds of blogs looking for something like it and saw zilch, nada, zippo).
My reason for developing it was that I wanted to let you know what was coming, I also thought it would make it clear that I’m committed to providing a continual stream of solid content.
My reason for thinking I should take it away: I’m no different than you. I also have to go out and get some fuel for my creativity train.
For those who don’t know what I’m talking about…you should go to the download page for Developing Your Dream – Part One and get that valuable, but free, resource. It’s the first part of a really helpful and inspiring guide to doing a great remodeling project, or two.
When you read that you’ll hear the following ancient proverb in the making “Inspiration is the fuel that keeps the creative train rolling.” It may not be rocket science, but it sure is good to remember.
But what I didn’t put in the download, that I probably should go back and add is that “Inspiration fuel has a short shelf life!” When you fuel up, you better be ready to rock n’ roll! You have to have pen and paper, or computer, or a crayon…whatever you have, you have to write down those ideas! Right then.
Long story short… I want to be free to hit you with something “inspired” if I get it! I don’t want to come up with some great idea and write a great post, only to put it on a shelf until the next open day on the calendar. Conversely, if I’m about to post something that was planned, but then decide it’s just not good enough, I’d rather put it back in a folder until it’s ready.
I’d like to put some really helpful content out there. Have you read these posts?:
The Top Five Money Questions for Remodeling in 2009
The Wintertime Blues, and Reds, and Yellows, and …
Lighting: A Key to Creating an Environment
If not, check them out!
So, all that to say that the calendar thing is gone for the time being. Let me know your thoughts, please!
Let’s see, what else?
Audio/Visual Posts
One of the things I’m working on that I’m really excited about is an audio/visual post. I’m not exactly sure how I’ll end up putting it together, but I think it’s going to be really exciting and fun! I’d like to get this to you within a week or so. I’m really looking forward to it!
What About the BUILD stuff?
I’m working on a way to provide some tips and ideas for the less glamorous side of this work I show you. But I really like to keep inspiring and visually engaging content on the front page. I have to come up with a section for the “Build” stuff.
In the meantime, I would love some suggestions as to what you want to know, remembering that I’m not the guy to show you step-by-step how to hang a door, or change a toilet. See the Mr. How To over in the categories.
A Forum
Sooner or later, I’ll come up with some better way of tracking and answering all of your questions. I think a forum type interface is the way to go. I’ll have that up and running asap.
In the meantime, I hope I haven’t left anyone hanging. I’ve tried to answer all of your questions and I think I have. Some answers are in the comments and some have been by email. Please feel free to email me if you’re waiting.
An Email Newsletter
Coming very soon, I’ll be putting out an email newsletter full of more tips and tricks… you know what! You’re witnessing the behind the scenes process of Remodeling Guy LIVE, RIGHT NOW. A really cool light bulb in an awesome fixture just lit up above my head… I have an idea!
I’ll put a bunch of the “Build” stuff in the newsletter (among other things). That format allows for lengthier details and more in-depth description, which the actual work part really requires. Now that the idea is formulating, this should be coming very soon!
If you’re interested in the newsletter, please email me now and let me know!
Open to ideas
I think that’s it for the moment! I do want to say how excited I am that you’re here! This blog is really only about three weeks old and we already have almost 200 subscribers! I’m so glad to see that. I want to provide you with incredible content that provides real value to you and actually HELPS you.
I think that the state of the economy is such that I really should gear this blog to those who need ideas and help with ways to either do-it-yourself or how to save money if you hire people. I want Remodeling Guy to be a place to help thousands of people through a rough time by helping make their home an amazing place to be!
The questions:
- What are your thoughts about the calendar thingy, is it okay to drop that?
- What would you like to see/hear in an Audio/Video post?
- What type of articles on “build” level things do you need to see?
- Would you be interested in a Forum to ask questions/ discuss ideas/ etc.?
- What would you like to see in an email newsletter? Would you like one?
- Any other ideas or suggestions (be nice!) ?
Please let me know your thoughts in the comments, always open to both The Crew and the Temps!
{ 16 comments… read them below or add one }
So, Ok…I guess I’m first.
Get rid of the calendar. Frankly, if I need to see a calendar, I’ll just click on the clock in the corner of the screen!! I’m on the fence as far as the forum is concerned…they’re great if there’s enough participation. I’d be all over a newsletter….as long as it isn’t too much work for you!! LOL. Lastly, you’re the Remodeling Guy aren’t you?? So give us those Remodeling tips and tidbits…I like the pretty stuff, but I can find that all over the place!!
My husband and I are at the point….to we sell and buy a bigger house for our growing family, or put an addition on? Where do we start, is it even possible, how much do they typically cost??
Thanks for giving us a say!
Love it that you are asking us for input! I think it’s fine to ditch the calendar idea but I can appreciate the thought. The audio/video post–I think it would be an awesome way for you to do some tutorials.
I think you are off to a great start with your content, your thoroughness (is that a word?) in following up with questions and looking to your “crew” for input!
Maria’s last blog post..Things I Love Thursday–Homemade Jewelry Cleaner
I love when you have taken a pictire of a gorgeous room and broken it down into elements. That helps me to see what I can incorporate into my own rooms.
I second getting rid of the calendar.
I think it would be good to add a search feature.
Forums are fun, but you usually need a strong following to get them going.
Sunny Daydreame’s last blog post..52 resolutions for 2009–update
It’s fun to get a teaser of what is coming up, but if it stunts creativity—get rid of it! Your blog already draws me back in because it is so much fun to read.
I love the pictures and how you let us in on your thoughts. The commentary style really works for you!
Plus, it helps me realize something about different remodeling aspects that I had never thought about before. Like trimwork…I loooove trimwork and the contrast it brings, but before you did that whole post on it, I hadn’t really given it much thought. (Was that a run-on sentence or what..lol)
And lastly, I love being a part of the Crew
Keep up the excellent work!
Oh, and thanks for answering my question about the popcorn ceiling. I really appreciate the advice. We are a ways out from doing anything about it, but it is nice to have all information we can before we proceed.
Also, I realize with a readership of 200 it is really difficult for you to visit every single blog in your Crew, so I really appreciated you visiting my humble blog and leaving a comment. ”
Blessings!
Mrs. Q’s last blog post..Money Management Or Lack Thereof
I agree that the calendar can go. You need to have the freedom to inspire at the time you are inspired. At least that’s how I operate. I can’t sit down and just come up with things….the inspiration comes at the most unexpected times!
I’ve never been involved in a forum so I’m not sure about it.
A newsletter would be great. More detailed information and tips on trimwork would be great. Our house back in the states was built in 1948 and not level so it seems like adding crown moulding would be tricky.
Audio/Visual would be nice. At hearing & watching someone do something can be more helpful than just reading.
I’ll quit rambling!! Keep up the much appreciated work you’re putting into this blog, it’s great!
JanMarie’s last blog post..Sunny Skies In Erice
OOPS! Towards the bottom of my above comment I meant to say at times.
JanMarie’s last blog post..Sunny Skies In Erice
So far…I like what I see here! Being an Interior Designer, while I always enjoy the “labor” part of it, I love the RESULTS!!
I am a little sad
to see the calendar go…but then, I’m a calendar kind a gal!! I’m not a “Follower” though…so if you don’t see me up there with all the rest of them…know I’ve got you on our blog list and will be checking back!!!
Anything you put out there…after seeing what’s here already…will get everyone’s interest!
Keep up the good work!
~Blessings,
Jan
Jan’s last blog post..2nd BLOG MAKE-OVER to be Given Away on Sunday Night!!
I would love for you to share basic how tos for those of us who are challenged with home projects. I would love a post on painting wood cabinets…hint hint! I also love to know what the new trends are with pictures. Did you get the e mail I sent you with pics of my kitchen?
I know that remodeling can span from changing doors and light fixtures to tearing down a wall or even a roof and expanding. I think it would be a good have a mix of all of it. Some of us have large budgets for projects and some of us not so much.
I love the idea of a newsletter! I would read it and then tell my husband about all the things I think we should do next and he’ll give me a smirk and say ‘okay’ and never realize he just volunteered himself to help :O)
not having a calendar is fine with me. if you felt the need for something and new for sure you were going to have a post, you could just make an upcoming list and not tie the post to a certain date.
Thanks for the inspiration!
jenn’s last blog post..I’m unholely
I’d love to hear more about materials and what jobs you need to use the “best” materials for and what jobs an you “save” money on. For example, when I went to buy mouldings- I left the store because there were too many options for materials. Same goes true for beadboard and the like.
Hey there! As a “Crew” member
, I agree that it was kinda cool to see what was coming up, but I also think that sometimes you just gotta roll with things in life, and for that reason, you probably shouldn’t have it. Lots of bloggers give a “tease” at the end of a post, saying tomm we’ll be discussing such and such, or on Friday come see my tutorial on…
I definitely think that the AV’s would be cool, especially a tutorial. I think a “basics” course in home repair/improvement with things anyone could learn to easily do. And maybe more “advanced” things too. I’d really like to learn how to join two pieces of wood where you go in at an angle??
I like all of your ideas, I’d just suggest maybe starting one at a time so you don’t get overwhelmed. Keep a notebook just for blogging with all of your blog ideas in it, and it’ll help organize you and keep future blog post ideas for you.
We are actually hoping to sell and move back “home”, which means due to the economy and difference in housing markets we’ll be downsizing into an older home. We’ll need lots of advice on updating and renovating!!
I’m going to add you to my blog list
by the way!
Stacey
Found remodeling guy from Nesters site.Like what you have done so far, especially when you break things down into smaller parts. I have you as a favourite and visit daily. Was a temp, I guess, but would like to be considered The Crew. Do not know what RSS feed means, I am more used to being a ‘follower’ on blogspot. Would be interested in newsletter if it was different from this blog as I already stop by each day. Thanks.
Hey Tim, thanks for asking for opinions, I’ve been here daily since shortly after Day One and love the way things are shaping up. You have a great blogging voice, and it’s nice to have a man around all us DIY women
)
I agree that writers have to go with the flow and remain flexible as to what gets posted when. As a blogger, I’m repeatedly guilty of saying “come back tomorrow/soon to see pics of my _____,” and then not getting them posted. As a professional writer, I meet deadlines when I have to, but I always take on more projects than I should, which allows me to complete Project A as a means of procrastinating about Projects B, C, and D. So I’m in favor of seeing a list of upcoming topics (if you feel like doing one), but think the calendar is a bad idea *unless * the upcoming article is already written at the time you add it to a calendar. Under promise and over deliver, Customer Satisfaction 101 …
Things I personaly would like to see you on your blog:
Top item is pictures of your own home. We’re all voyeurs, and if you’re The Remodeling Guy, we wanna see some of your personal work, either at home or on the job.
I think that some detailed info — with brand-name specifics or suggestions — for painting cabinets is a hot topic right now. Paint is cheap and easy, but many people are afraid to try it on cabinets, though they’ll do it on yard sale furniture. Cindy, at My Romantic Home, wrote about her method of painting furniture in August 2007, and her article comes up as the number 1 listing for “painting furniture” in Google, two spots above Martha Stewart’s instructions. So an article on painting cabinets would drive lots of traffic to your site.
I’m actually in the midst of painting my own kitchen cabinets black, and will be posting before and afters soon (lol … I’ve been promising photos for 3 or 4 weeks now). Blog readers love before and afters, along with details and good photos of the “during” phase.
I think there are a lot of people out there who’d like to know when to use a slanted brush versus a non-slanted brush … how to get masking tape to really prevent paint seepage … how to remove and replace edge trim … whether to choose wood, MDF, or molded vinyl crown molding … how to buy and use a miter box … whether or when to use screws versus nails … how to hang a picture or shelf … ad infinitum. Yes, that info’s already available online — Lowe’s how to site is excellent — but your readers would love to read about it from YOU, and would appreciate links to the actual how-to sites for specific items.
I also think that there’s a large audience looking for info on how and why you, The Remodeling Guy, decide on types of materials (flooring, countertops, etc., with so many different options for each) and also any inside info on sourcing and getting a great price.
A couple more thoughts … you might want to do a mini series of articles on a specific room, breaking it down into manageable chunks (or suggesting the right order of various projects, if someone is doing the entire room). And everyone loves to hear great stories, whether they’re successes or your worst ever experience (check out my own post about DIY Disasters … http://www.miniurl.com/6178).
Enough of my opinions for now, it’s officially dinner time in California.
Keep up the great work, I’m here every day
)
Victoria
victoria ~ auction girl vintage’s last blog post..Show & Tell Friday ~ World Market Cheese Plates
I think dropping the calendar will help your flow and stress level in the future.
I’m a DIY-er and I love coming to you for INSPIRATION! That’s exactly what I come here for!
And I’m excited about the A/V and the newsletters! Maybe you could do something about taking down that old, photo finish paneling you were talking about in a previous post (that might happen to have been built into a house in the 60′s and is 48 inches high instead of the standard 36) and replacing it with bead board or cuter paneling? …Just hypothetically speaking.
Dude. You are gonna take over the world.
Your faithful crew member,
The Nester
The Nester’s last blog post..10 Minutes to a Room You’ll Love:: Part 3 Bathroom
Crew member.
Awesome work here!
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