Saying No

I don’t like telling people no, but I do and I will, especially if it means that by saying yes, I’d shortchange you, my lovely readers.

Recently, I was approached by two companies to do reviews of their products. One company I had never heard of (nothing wrong with that) and one company I knew.

I turned them both down.

Why?

Because, I value you, and our relationship, more.

Here’s the thing: if I tell you about a product, if I go to the trouble to research and/or buy it myself, then that means I think it has value and I think you might find some value in it, too. Or not. No pressure.

I’m not saying I’ll never make a mistake, but I’ll try like hell not to, because you guys are always on my mind.

I want to share that which may be useful, or bring fun into our children’s and grandchildren’s lives. What I don’t want to do is sponsored posts for the sake of free products, giveaways or the added exposure if it doesn’t fit the heart of this site. It’s hard to say no in the beginning when you’re growing and looking to increase exposure, but I want you to know that when you’re here, I have your best interests at heart…always.

So, I said no.

When I envisioned this site, I saw a place where grandparents and parents could discover ideas/recipes/advice/products that they could take back to their lives to use and share: stuff to eat (so many things to eat), stuff to buy, stuff to snort over, stuff to drink, stuff to deeply think about, stuff to laugh and cry about…basically the stuff of life.

I saw a place of truth and shared interests (and more cake!). I saw open communication about things that have traditionally been hard to bring into the light. I saw a place that would lift and give and care for you…for all of us…in our parenting/grandparenting gig.

I want you to trust the information you find on these pages and to feel like you’re among your very best friends.

So, I said no.

I won’t always say no. Maybe tomorrow I’ll say yes. When I do, I’ll have you in mind.

I just wanted you to know, in case you ever wondered.

~smooches~

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Bethany the ngnrdgrl

Thursday 15th of August 2013

It's good to stay true to you and your philosophy. Your readers read your blog for you, not product reviews so that you can get free stuff. If it doesn't feel right, then don't do it!

Mrs. Tucker

Thanks, Bethany. I feel the same way, but if the guys who make the adult Big Wheel are reading....

Jill

Wednesday 14th of August 2013

I totally agree. If it's not related to what I blog about or personal to me in some way, I say no. While "free stuff" for review or giveaways are great, I try to keep it relevant out of respect for my readers!

The allure of free stuff is hard to resist! But, I'm working too hard to lose trust with an oddly-placed giveaway.

Amber Day Hicks

Tuesday 13th of August 2013

You are so awesome for standing up and standing strong for what you think works and wont works for us your readers. Thank you!

Thank you! Although if someone were to look thru the site they might come up with this: Big Wheel = YES! Something a bit more grownup = NO!

Cindi

I love the way you write, its comfortable, like you are actually having a conversation. And I like that you hold true to your standards and beliefs....that is found far and few between in this world.

Thank you, Cindi. That's really nice to read. I *wanted* to say yes, or I wanted it to be something I could say yes to, but in due time.

Trish Butler

You go girl. I am now a subscriber to your site. You have the old values that aren't tought any more. You stick to what you believe and you'll teach the world, one person at a time. I have a feeling, you have tought many over the years. Here's to the start of a friendship. Thank You so much.

Man, what a nice comment.I hope I don't let you down.