What I Learned When I Asked One Simple Question

For years, one of my favorite parts of running Saving Dollars and Sense has been hearing from you.

Not just seeing page views or email opens. Not watching numbers go up and down on a screen.

Actually hearing from real people.

The other day, I sent an email to my subscribers with a simple question:

What would you like to see more of from me?

Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect.

The internet has changed so much since I started this website. Social media algorithms come and go. Platforms rise and fall. People are busier than ever.

When I started Saving Dollars and Sense in 2007, Facebook groups didn’t exist. Instagram didn’t exist. TikTok definitely didn’t exist.

Back then, blogging felt more like writing a letter to a friend.

In some ways, that’s still what I want this space to be.

Sometimes when you’re writing blog posts, emails, and social media updates, it can feel a little like talking into the void.

So when the replies started coming in, I was genuinely surprised.

As I sat at my kitchen table reading through your emails, I found myself smiling, laughing, and even getting a little emotional.

There were moments when I stopped reading and just sat there for a minute, amazed that women I’ve never met in person have been sharing this journey with me for so many years.

After nearly two decades of blogging, you’d think I’d be used to it by now. But there’s still something special about hearing from the women behind the email addresses.

If you’ve ever created content online, you know how easy it is to look at numbers instead of people.

Open rates.

Click rates.

Followers.

Traffic.

But behind every email address is a real person with a real story.

A mom trying to stretch her grocery budget.

A grandmother looking for a new recipe.

A woman navigating a difficult season and looking for a little encouragement.

Reading your responses reminded me of that.

Some of Your Responses Made Me Smile

One reader wrote:

“I am absolutely one of those quiet readers who never replies to emails and I’ve only been here a short time, but I do see all of the work, time and effort you are putting into this and I really appreciate it. The tips, freebies, recipes and DIYs are my go-to’s, but I appreciate the whole package.”

I loved that phrase:

“I appreciate the whole package.”

Because Saving Dollars and Sense has never really been about just one thing.

Over the years, we’ve talked about saving money, recipes, coupons, freebies, budgeting, decluttering, holidays, family, faith, and the everyday moments that make up life.

Another reader shared:

“I signed up a few months ago for the money saving tips but have since really enjoyed your recipes and especially life stories and faith & encouragement.”

That one reminded me that sometimes people come for one thing and stay for something entirely different.

The Themes That Kept Appearing

As I read through your replies, a few themes showed up again and again.

You told me you’d like more:

• Money-saving tips
• Easy recipes
• Deals and freebies
• Faith and encouragement
• Personal stories and life updates

In other words… a little bit of everything.

One longtime reader summed it up perfectly:

“I enjoy odds and ends of it all.”

That made me laugh because it felt so true.

Saving Dollars and Sense has become a collection of all the things we talk about as women navigating everyday life.

Some days we’re hunting for a good deal.

Some days we’re trying to figure out what to make for dinner.

Some days we’re decluttering a closet.

And some days we just need a little encouragement.

A Few More Responses That Touched My Heart

Not every reply was long, but many of them stayed with me.

Another reader simply said:

“I have saved a lot of money. God bless you and your family.”

Short and sweet, but it reminded me of why Saving Dollars and Sense began in the first place, to help families stretch their budgets and make life a little easier.

And this comment perfectly captured something I’ve been hearing over and over:

“I enjoy your recipes, deals, freebies, and getting a glimpse into who you are.”

That last part meant more to me than you probably realize.

One Response That Really Touched My Heart

One reader wrote:

“I enjoy the content you put out and how positive it always is in a world that can get really negative.”

I read that more than once.

The truth is, there is plenty of negativity in the world.

If this little corner of the internet can be a place where people find encouragement, practical help, and a reminder that they’re not alone, then I feel like we’re doing something worthwhile.

One Response I Can’t Stop Thinking About

One reader wrote:

“I’ve been reading your emails since my kids were little. They’re grown now, but I’m still here.”

I keep coming back to that message.

Her kids were little.

Now they’re grown.

And through all those years and all those seasons of life, she was still here.

When I think about that, I’m humbled.

There are thousands of websites, newsletters, social media accounts, and podcasts competing for our attention every day.

The fact that you’ve chosen to spend a few minutes of your day with me is something I never want to take for granted.

Why I Started This Website in the First Place

Saving Dollars and Sense began back in 2007.

At the time, I simply wanted to share ways to save money and help families stretch their budgets.

But somewhere along the way, it became more than that.

It became a community.

A place where women could share ideas, encourage one another, celebrate wins, and walk through difficult seasons together.

Some of you have been here for years.

Some of you found me recently.

Either way, I’m grateful you’re here.

One reader told me she’s been following along for years.

Years.

When I think about that, I’m humbled.

There are thousands of websites, newsletters, social media accounts, and podcasts competing for our attention every day.

The fact that you’ve chosen to spend a few minutes of your day with me is something I never want to take for granted.

So whether you’ve been here since 2007 or found me last week…

Thank you.

Pull up a chair.

You’re always welcome here.

And because so many of you took the time to share your thoughts, I want you to know I was listening.

What Happens Next?

Based on your responses, you’ll be seeing more:

• Simple recipes
• Money-saving ideas
• Deals and freebies
• Encouragement and faith
• Personal stories from everyday life

In other words, a little bit of everything.

Because that’s what makes this community special.

Now I’d Love to Hear From You

If you haven’t already answered, I’d love to know:

What season of life are you in right now?

Are you:

• Raising young children?
• An empty nester?
• Caring for aging parents?
• A grandparent?
• Looking for ways to save money?
• Working on simplifying your home?
• Seeking encouragement in a difficult season?

Leave a comment below and tell me a little about yourself.

One of my favorite parts of this website has always been getting to know the amazing women who make up this community.

And after reading your responses this week, I’m more thankful than ever that you’re here.

Thank you for reading.

Thank you for sharing your stories.

And thank you for being part of Saving Dollars and Sense.