Thought provoking post. I'm so glad you blogged on this! I don't see the difference between mommy bloggers and other types of bloggers attracting the attention of corporate interests. Obviously the concern is so prevalent that the FTC is getting in the game. (Speaking of, this “Best practices when providing incentives to bloggers” template for corporations, based upon the new FTC rules, is a good resource for bloggers as well as businesses: http://www.socialmedia.org/disclosure/compensat...)

The focus of the L.A. Times article on the mommy bloggers is just one example of the bigger problem. It's about the inherent conflict of interest that exists when a blogger is in any way compensated for promoting someone's products or services. Doing so seems to (at least to some extent) erode the trust and reputation upon which successful blogs are built. The fact that this article focused on mommy bloggers doesn't diminish the fact that the concern is universal to all bloggers.

You asked: Where’s the line? Where is the point where you stop giving opinion and become influenced? At what point do you sell out? When do you stop being a blogger and start being a mouth piece?

My inclination is to say the line is drawn at compensation. But that's not an answer I like. It eliminates well-earned, well-deserving opportunities for income. Whether I like it or not, I think it's true. I think once you receive compensation, you become at least PART mouth piece. The more compensation, the more mouth piece. You're always a blogger. But when it comes to reviewing products and services, your blogging will always leave room for suspicion or doubt. Most people will pimp out whatever they have of value for the right price. It just depends upon how much they value what they have. If trust from your community, your followers, your subscribers is priceless to you as a blogger, then you might choose to forego any form of affiliate marketing or compensated endorsement. The best way to avoid suspicion is to avoid any perception or appearance of bias.

Though I cringe thinking about the ramifications of my own answer to your questions, it is the only answer I can offer. It's honest. I have to believe that foregoing compensation in the short term will earn long-term trust, and somehow that long-term trust provides value beyond any corporate compensation. I'd like to believe that anyway. The real question is: How can bloggers maintain their integrity AND pay the rent?

On the other hand, if someone wants to pay for a fully furnished house on 3 acres of land – with a pond – for me then you can bet I'd be all about talking about that builder – however, I have to wonder how many of my readers will actually listen or just tune me out!