Sunday, October 11, 2009

Nearing 1000.


I actually made something crafty today. And played around with a new banner to wish you all a Happy Autumn. The sun is out and it's {finally!} the kind of fall day I really like- crisp and relaxing.
Are you ready for some fun around here this week? This is post #997, so I was thinking that since it's so close to 1000, I should have a little giveaway. Just leave your name and either how you know me or where you live (city/state or town/country). I'll get some goodies together and then have a drawing. I might even pick 2 winners. Who knows. =)
But I promise it will be fun. And for those of you who like Starbuck's I have a hunch there may be a giftcard involved. So say hello here and cross your fingers that your number will be picked in the next few days!

143 comments:

Jessica said...

Jessica...Montgomery Village, MD and I don't know you :) I have no clue how I found your blog, but I know why I follow and keep coming back - Your testimony to seeking God in the midst of tragedy and the normal rhythms of life. Thanks for sharing bits of yourself and family with us.
Blessings.

Andi said...

Did someone say Starbucks??
::grin:::
I am not sure how I stumbled upon your blog, but have read every post since. Thanks for sharing your life and faith with us.
Barto, Pa - NW 'burb of a Philly 'burb

Laura said...

Hi! Like the first two, you don't me!!! :-)
I live in the 'burbs of Cleveland, OH and I can't think of how I found you... I think maybe you commented on someone else's blog and I hopped over - and was naturally hooked.

Belinda said...

Hi, Jody: When I started blog reading a little over a year ago, your website was on someone's blog list, and I read your story. I was totally heartbroken when I read what had happened to you and your family. But I was inspired by many of the things you wrote... your faith is amazing and your honesty even more so.

Also, it was about this time you had Crew, and since I'm a HUGE baby person, I followed along to see pictures of him and the rest of your precious kiddos.

You were one of the reasons I started a blog. Everyone has a story, and you never know who you will meet along the way who may need to hear your story or share theirs.

You have given my life perspective many, many times.

Happy, happy 1,000th post!

Belinda from Alabama

me said...

Have you tried the new instant starbucks packets? My loves them. I just picked up some for her coz she needs a little something. Anyway I am on the right side of our mitten state just north of Detroit. I often place your page on my computer while my students are playing. They love to see Crew and the others. I enjoy the music and pics too. Not to mention the extra God tune-up.

Mary said...

Mary, a college student in Minneapolis, MN. We don't know each other, but I've been reading your blog for a year or two -- I heard your story and came to your blog to see how you were doing, and was so inspired by how happy and well-adjusted your family seemed, your incredible faith and spirit, and of course your great writing and pictures. Thanks for sharing these past 997 posts, and I hope for many more to follow!

Deb said...

Congrats on your "nearly' 1000th post! I love your blog for it's honesty and faith building. I have five kids and can relate to so much of what you share! I love Starbucks almost as much as you do! I enjoyed a Pumpkin Spice Latte today while breathing in the beauty of a crisp fall Bon Air, Va day. Keep doing what you do, writing, mothering and sharing your faith:)

Unknown said...

What a fun idea! I love reading your blog - you somehow make faith seem so real and attainable. So encouraging! Thanks for the chance to win some goodies from you - love surprises!
Jennifer from Harrisonburg, VA =)

Lara said...

Another blog stalker here! I cried over your story and have been reading your blog ever since I found it. I'm in Columbia, SC. I love the owl you made & would love to see more crafty things (that are obvious how to make!).

Beckypdj said...

Almost 1000, wow. I was excited when I hit 100. I live in Alma, AR. I think I found your blog from Bring the Rain, been reading since a couple of months before you had Crew. Time sure go by quickly. Love reading about your family.

Aiden's Mommy said...

Hi Jody!
I'm reading your blog over here in Los Angeles, California. Your kids are adorable and I love to see what you are all up to. I have one son for now, but have always loved big families. Congratulations on your 1,000th post, wow!

Cillatater said...

This is Cilla from Shreveport, Louisiana! I have b een following you for two years, and look for your blogposts almost every day. God Bless you, dear Jody and family.

Beth said...

Congrats on making it to "near 1000"!!
I think I found your blog when SISTV first started. I've read your story and shared it with others who have benefited from your honesty, strength and inspiration.
Looking forward to reading 1000 more!!
Beth in Fredericksburg, VA

Anonymous said...

Jody, wow you have sure brightened my day....I am Melody and I feel as if we are friends...I love you and your family...thanks for sharing with all of us out here in blogville.
`blessings`
melody in mtz

PS....I tried your starbucks pumpkin latte and loved it....

Vicky said...

Hi Jody! I've read and commented on and off for over a year now, and I'd have a hard time saying for sure how I found it, but so glad I did :) 1000 posts is amazing! I was actually thinking of you today as I've also been going to my new church for a year now as well and thank you for that bloggy nudge you gave me oh so long ago :)

Blessings from MN!

Dana said...

Like a lot of others, I don't know you either. I found your blog on another blog. It's hot (87 today) here in Florida...want to send some cooler weather to us please?

julie.schellin said...

I am Julie, I live in Baltimore, MD and I have 7 kids. I have been following your blog for about a year...since the birth of your baby Crew. I heard about you when Becky Higgins had HER baby Crew, and someone mentioned you on her blog. Anyway, I was touched by your story of faith, and I love your spirit of joy. And any giveaway that includes craftiness AND Starbucks is right up my alley!!

Sheri said...

Happy Autumn to you too!
I found your blog way back when through Adrienne's. I read your entire blog and was so blown away.
Sheri
Houston, Texas

Unknown said...

Melissa from Moorhead, MN. I was actually told about your blog from one of my girlfriends and love to come here because of your honesty. Plus you seem like a pretty cool chic.

K.M.L said...

Happy Fall!!!! I stumbled upon your blog somehow and have been an avid reader since then... :) I am from Columbia, MO and love reading your story!

Betty said...

Betty, Birmingham, AL. A friend told me about your job and I love reading your story and all that God has done in the lives of you and your family!

SusanH said...

Hi Jody - I don't remember how I stumbled across your blog but I enjoy it a lot! I'd like to thank you especially for sharing your faith - this is a great place to find inspiration of all kinds!

SusanH, Greenville SC

Anonymous said...

Congrats on the upcoming milestone! You don't know me, but I feel like I know you! I can't remember how I found your blog... but I read it daily. Your sense of humor, while being a Godly Mom keep me coming back. I live in Statesville, NC!

Jennifer said...

Jennifer E.
I only know you from reading your blog :)
East Meadow, NY :)

Marie said...

Marie...Brighton MI...love your blog...love the banner too!

Lisa said...

I can't remember how I first found your blog but it was through another blog. :) I'm in Ontario, Canada and love to read your insights on everyday faith.
Thanks and congrats!

Karalyn & Jason said...

Karalyn - Fargo, ND! I only "know" you from sistv :) Love your blog!

September said...

September- Cedar Rapids, ia. I don't know you but I found your blog through another blog. I read your story and was so touched and blessed by your strength and tenacity.
My daughter is just 3 days older than Crew and it's been so much fun to watch them grow.
Thank you for your stories, memories, inspirations and love for Christ and your family. I really appreciate you.

Anonymous said...

Pam from Waynesburg, PA. I've been visiting your blog for a while now. I'm sure I found it from another blog somehow. You have inspired me to enjoy the everyday, the ordinary... I also enjoy watching your children grow up in photos. I have two of my own and they seem to grow more independent each day.

Unknown said...

Hi! I stumbled upon your blog a few years ago from Angela Corbin...I'm originally from Muskegon, but live in Albuquerque, NM right now. :)

Sarah said...

Hi Jody--You don't know me...I just like reading your blog. Congrats on your 1000th post!

Sarah
Madison, Wisconsin

Susan said...

Susan- charleston, sc. I found your blog through Angie smith blog a year ago and have been reading ever since. You are always so encouraging. Thanks, Susan

Alisa said...

Oklahoma City- And I do remember how I stumbled across your blog.
It was the only time I had read Grey's Anatomy (from when I used to watch the show) and I saw your link there. I was so captured by your story, and some of the links that you shared. So much so that I keep checking back-
Happy Fall to you!

Sabrina Rauch said...

Sabrina Rauch from Austin TX but originally from Grand Rapids MI. Found your blog from a scrapbooking friend online and have been reading ever since.

Anonymous said...

Love your blog! I read faithfully! I live in West Chicago, a far western suburb of Chicago! And I have a Starbucks only 1 mile from my house! ;o)

~Sue

Michelle said...

Michelle....Waltham, Massachusetts. While we have never physically met I have read your blog for a very long time and already feel like "cyber friends". Thanks for sharing so much of yourself with me and the rest of the world! I truly enjoy checking in with my cup of tea each day! Take care...

Kera said...

kera...i live in oahu hawaii and i dont know you and i cant remember how i found your blog. but i am facinated by your story and your faith and i keep coming back for more.

Leanne said...

Can't remember how I found your blog but have been enjoying it for well over a year now!

Leanne
Central City, KY

Rebecca said...

Becca... Houston, TX. Wow! 1000 posts, unbelievable. I think I'm around 200. :)

I've been reading your blog for a long time now, 2-3 years? I think I saw your blog through another blog. I love your testimony and the different font colors you use. Although, I tried scrapbooking to no avail, I do consider myself crafty. I actually made some fall crafts today too.

Anonymous said...

Jody-
We found you through AudreyCaroline. You and your family have been part of my healing process. We "lost" a baby at 14 weeks this time last year. My littlest (4 at the time) would climb up on my lap and look at pictures of your family. I would tell her about each of your children. She would say, "That one is in heaven with my little sister. I miss her (her sibling)..."

So, thank you for writing, the good and the not so good because we all have those days. I grieved a lot the last 12 months and didn't have anyone close to me who had experienced such a loss. Yours was different from mine, but your were able to articulate your pain and healing and sorrow and praise at moments when I could not. You showed me the rainbow.

Praise God for your honest blog.

Meg
www.homeschoolblogger.com.flossy
PS-If you search a bit you will find an entry about the baby.

Kim H. said...

Hi Jody! I'm from Salt Lake City, Utah and I have been reading your blog for so long, I can't remember where I found you. I love your honesty and your family stories. You've touched my life through this crazy thing called blogging.

Twila Bennett said...

Hi, Jody! I met you at the SIS get together at Pages in Time. I live in Rockford. I've read your blog forever. Love to see your family grow and love your scrappin' style. The owls are adorable...and Starbucks. Sigh. Thanks for your post and for allowing us to be a part of your journey.

Anonymous said...

Jane from Melbourne Australia.

xoxox

Chelsea said...

Chelsea from Greenville, SC.
I saw you on Oprah many years ago...
Then about two years ago we went through an unexpected situation with my daughter and I was really struggling with pain, suffering, and death from a Christian's perspective. Our daughter lived, but at the same time we were faced with so many dire situations with family and friends... Anyway, a friend of mine started a blog (I had no idea what that was!) and a link on her page led me to Angie's page, and hers led me to yours. Both of your stories and loss along with some other things God brought to me really helped me to gain perspective and not become discouraged when faced with tragedy. So now you are a reminder (as is my daughter) how every day truly is a present from the Lord and we need to live it as such. I appreciate you and your pieces and wisdom and insight- for the realignment in perspective you always give.
Thank you.

Hall Family in MD said...

Marlen from Glen Burnie, MD. I beleive I found your blog through Angie Smith's blog or it may have been someone else's, not really sure. But, I am so thankful I did. I love your testimony of joy through tragedy.

Rebecca.Alburn said...

Becca
from
Salem, Oregon
:)

Ellen said...

Ellen from Plainfield, Indiana :)

Anonymous said...

Hi! Its Erika from Columbus,MS! We've emailed before back and forth before and honestly can not remember how I came across your blog but am glad I did! You are so inspiring and your children are precious! Love--Erika

Jess said...

Jessica...Kansas City, KS. You don't know me, but I love reading your blog. Your family is such an inspiration!

Anonymous said...

Even without a Starbucks giftcard I'd stop in to say hey! I don't know you, and don't remember how I found you (maybe it was through SisTv?), but have been reading for a long time. I enjoy seeing your photos and appreciate your perspective on life and your love of God. You're quite an inspiration Jody! Happy 1000th post!

Lisa in South Florida

Anonymous said...

Laurel... South Lyon, MI

I met you through the internet. I used to live up in Lewiston and knew of your family through my church up there.

I love your posts... and your family is so amazing. There are days I can hardly get half of my chores done and my kid looks like she went through a wind tunnel... you seem so collected. :)

sandra said...

that's a lot of posting!
i came across your blog through SIStv. ever since then, i read your blog for myself and translate your posts to my mom :)

-sandra
chicago, il

Bri said...

Bri... transplanted to Lexington, Kentucky. Found your blog through a friend and just can't stop following. You are an inspiration to many.

Bills Family said...

Chrissy........I am a military wife living in the UK. I'm not sure how I came across your blog, but I've been reading it for a long while. I have read Teagan's story a few times...your strength during that time in your life is inspiring to me;)

Amy said...

Hey Jody,

This is Amy from Dallas, Tx. I came across your blog via another blog, to which blog I do not remember now! I chatted briefly with you over email a while back as I am a fellow Michigander (do they still call us/you that?), and was feeling rather homesick after one of your posts. I really enjoy reading your blog and especially look forward to when you have made one of your delicious recipes and are kind enough to post a picture! Congratulations early on the 1000, and I sure hope you plan on continuing on to perhaps 2000? Just think about it!

Amy

K said...

Yay for giveaways and I can't believe you have blogged almost 1000 posts!!! Way to go!!! We're in Bangkok, Thailand!!! And there's a Starbucks 1/2 mile away from us...mmm, caramel frappachinos in 97F weather!

C.E.R. said...

Happy 1000th Post from Grayslake, Illinois! Keep it up...coming here is such a delight and an inspiration!

Anonymous said...

Love your blog! I don't know how I discovered it but I've been reading off and on for a few years now.

Debbie
State College, PA

P.S. "Simple Abundance" truly changed my life.

Gay Stricklin said...

Gay Stricklin...Pearland, TX...I found your blog off a comment you made on the CK message board years ago and have been reading ever since!

Karen said...

Karen here from Frederick, MD. I started following your blog after stumbling upon it from another blog I follow. Congratulations on your 1000 post-or close to it!
(My husband works in the golf industry too.)
Thank you for sharing your life and your faith!

MH72 said...

Love give-aways :-) I am Marianne and I live in Denmark. I first "met" you in a scrapbooking magazine at a layout regarding the loss of Teagan (I think it was called "I should have known..." or something like that). Later I found your blog and I have been here since!

MelanieL said...

Melanie from Plainfield, IN...we had a couple beautiful fall days this weekend in Indiana and I was loving them too:) I don't personally know you but I feel like I do from reading your blog. Congrats on 1000!

Becca said...

Hi Jody! I have been reading your blog for at least a year now! I found your blog through Angie Smiths' and love reading your posts. I love the pictures or whatever thoughts we get to ponder! Congrats to 1,000 posts and here's to 1,000 MORE ;)

Becca
Lockport, Il

Anonymous said...

Jen from Indiana. We went to college together but don't know each other personally. I have no idea how I came across your blog, but I love reading it! I love seeing how crafty you are and that inspires me to be more with my kids....even more I love your faith in Christ!

Kristy said...

I live near Little Rock, Arkansas. :)

jenjock1 said...

No need to enter me in the giveaway. :) I just wanted to tell you those are the CUTEST freaking things ever. :) XOXO!

Anonymous said...

Starbucks!! Ooh! I'm Ashleigh, and I was introduced to your blog by my mom. I've been an avid follower for about a year now. I laugh, I cry, and so many days I'm pulled closer to Jesus just by reading about God's grace, mercy and kindness in your life. :) Thanks Jody!

Anonymous said...

Wow 1000 that's great - just think how many words & pictures went into those posts! You don't know me, although I've been following your blog forever and feel like I know you well. So many of your words have touced me or inspired me. Thanks for sharing. Sheila in Oklahoma

Susanne said...

Susanne
Plano, TX

i remember seeing you on oprah and then somehow found your blog. your story is so heartbreaking to me and makes you realize your life can change in an instant. when i was 9 years old, my dad was killed in an accident and so i know how quickly "normal" goes away and a "new normal" starts to evolve.
love reading how "real" you are!
happy 1000th post!

Misty C said...

Misty...Midwest City, OK
I don't remember how I found you but have been checking in for almost 2 yrs. I love your blog b/c you keep it real. It's not all sunshine and roses and you are inspiring and uplifting!!!
and I love your tunes -

The Brunner Circus said...

Hi Jody! I have no idea how I found your blog... but was hooked right from the start!! ;) The fact that you have a deep love of large families, the Lord, and Starbucks keeps me coming back! Crew is just a couple of months older than my youngest daugther. I'm in Des Moines, IA.. Happy 1000th post!

Darla said...

Darla... Bethalto, IL (near St Louis). I don't know how I found you, but I keep coming back! :)

Liz said...

I'm Liz from Cottage Grove, MN. You probably already know but we are getting a few inches of snow today! Yuk! I could use a little Starbucks! :) My husband went to Northwestern and did a little seminary work at Bethel for a while.
I found your blog through Bring the Rain and recognized your story. I had read about it before and continued reading your blog because of your amazing testimony. And 1000 posts! I am struggling just to make it to 100. I will keep reading as long as you keep writing! :)

Jenny F said...

Ooooh, I love Starbucks!!! :) My name is Jenny and I live in Thornton, Colorado. I found your blog a couple years ago when I was searching for Mom blogs when I was pregnant with my first baby. I love your blog!

Jen said...

Cute new banner! My name is Jennifer and I live in Yakima, WA.

Anonymous said...

Coming to you from Georgetown, TX. I love your blog and I love pumpkin spice lattes ;) God Bless!

Ashley said...

I'm Ashley- from Kendallville, IN. I don't know you... But I enjoy your blog and your family.... What a testimony you have... You are an encouragement to me!! Thanks for sharing your life so honestly with us!

Anonymous said...

Susan...Granger, Indiana and we met through my mom Fran! I love reading your entries/blogs about Wyndham, since I have a daughter with special needs too! Thank you for the smiles, laughs and good cries...

The Blackburn Buzz said...

Anne
Madison, WI

Not sure how I stumbled upon your blog, but I am hooked. You have a beautiful family! :)

Tammie F Flatt said...

I love Fall also. Not sure how I happened onto your blog, but, over about a month's worth of lunches, I read every word from the beginning. I know you are just an ordinary person, but I believe you reflect an extraordinary God. God bless. tammiefflatt@comcast.net

SAAM said...

Sabrina -Bentivoglio -Bologna from Italy.
Dear Jody will follow two years ago.Share the loss of a daughter and the birth of a son. your blog has given me the strength to react and write her.
Thank you share with are beautiful.
Excuse for my translation.
Bye

Two Become Three said...

My name is Meredith and I don't know you except through your blog -- what honest, kind words you fill the page with, not to mention inspiration driven by faith. Thanks for sharing your heart for all to read! I have been reading your blog from california, virginia, and now from hawaii! hope you have a wonderful day and many blessings to your family, and you, of course!

Whitney said...

I love your new header! I don't remember how I found you, but I know it was over two years ago. I am from a small town in North Alabama. :o)

sunset pines farm said...

Polly in hot, humid, and not-fall-at-all GA.
I miss Mitchigan weather!!!

Brianna said...

You don't know me, but I think you may know my mom (Jan). She scrapped with you once at a SIS crop in Michigan. I live in Huntsville, AL and love following your blog!

Ellen G said...

Ellen - Birmingham, AL
I don't know you personally, but read your blog. I found it through some scrapbooking blogs. Your faith and your charming family have kept me coming back for more.

Melinda AKA medialady said...

Those are so cute! Where do you find the time to craft with children at home - LOL!!! Mine are grown and I don't find the time! Have a great day!

Anonymous said...

Addicted to your blog! Thank you for inspiring me each day...
Beth in Chicago, IL

Shawnna Samples said...

Shawnna :)
Cabot, Arkansas

Amanda said...

Josy--I came across your blog a little over a year ago from Adrienne Graves, and have been a faithful reader ever since. I live in Griffith, Indiana.

Happy 1,000th blog post, and keep on trucking!! I love reading your blog!!

Kell said...

Hi, I'm Kelly and I'm freezing in Taylor, Michigan.

Erika said...

I love reading your blog! It has helped me through some difficult times in my life this past year. I'm not sure how I found it but I am SURE glad I did! I live in Pasadena, CA. Happy 1000th!

Beck said...

I'm Becky and I don't know you, either. :) I'm in Holland MI and found your blog while hopping innocently around the internet one day. :)

Anonymous said...

Hi! My name is Sharon and I've been following your Blog for about a year now, and find you very inspiring! You have hope in the midst of darkness, you show compassion where I would dream of revenge, you have a beautiful family, I love your sense of humor too!

Jennifer said...

I'm from Everett, WA ... I found you from SIS. :) Super cute little fall felties!

Anonymous said...

From Pittsburgh, Pa. and proud of it! I don't know you, but I've been reading your blog for a looong time. I think a fellow scrapbooker referred me to you. Love the new fall decos you created. Keep blogging! (Kate L.)

Veronica said...

Have been following your blog since you appeared on Oprah. Following your faith filled path to recovery and beyond. Pray for you and your family daily....because we can all use a little prayer.

Michelle said...

The little owls are so cute! LOVE your new banner Jody!!

Me?? Wellington, New Zealand.

Can't remember how I got to your blog, but I've gone back and read your testimony and all your stories. I love popping by to see all the new photos of your super cute kidlets too!!!

Have a great Monday!
xoxox

Patti said...

I stumbled upon your blog through Angie Smith's and have been a loyal follower ever since! :)

Patti from Hillsboro, OR (suburb of Portland)

Ann-marie said...

Hi! I think I found your blog by hopping over from Angie Smith / Audrey Caroline's blog long ago.... I've enjoyed following your blog. You are a true inspiration. And I LOVE Starbucks. It could even be an unhealthy obsession (but I'm ok with that now)! :-)

Ann-marie from Brookfield, WI

Rhonda said...

Rhonda....Georgia.
We don't know each other and I'm not sure how I found your blog. It might have been through Angie's blog. I love reaing and seeing the fun things you do with the kids.

Renee said...

Reneé
Missouri City (Houston), TX

I love your blog - it truly inspires me in many areas of life!

God Bless!

Deb said...

You're adorable!!
Deb from Wisconsin with a son at Bethel - love that place!!!

Susan said...

Susan from North Kingsville, OH - I cannot remember how I came to your blog but I am so glad I found you! I've been reading the blog since before Crew and your pregancy were announced.

Sarah said...

You don't know me but i am here through Angie's Blog. I have been popping in for a little over a year now. Thankyou for letting me share in your story.

Sarah
Mount Isa
Queensland, Australia.

The Hansen Family said...

Ashlee, from Jacksonville, Florida (where fall days consist of 90 degree weather). I found your blog from Angie's and I love it. Have a great day!

xxxxx said...

Hi Jody!

It's been awhile since I've popped it... been busy...sure you know how that is! Congrats on your (almost) 1000th post!

Tina
Clarkston, MI
Oakland County

Crystal in TX said...

Cute little felties! Don't know you personally, but found your blog by complete accident! I'd love to be entered into the contest.

Thanks,
Crystal C. in San Antonio, TX

Karey in OK said...

Congrats on your upcoming 1000! I think I may have found you about 2 1/2 yrs ago on the scrapbooking site where you post some of your work and I looked you up.
I am a woman of faith and enjoy reading what others have to share of their life. I began because I was interested in trying to copy others work (I don't have a design eye). Since I have given up and just try to buy already done work.
Have loved becoming part of the family and keeping up with your kids.

Daisy Path said...

Mindy and Bloomington, IN

I love to read your blog. You are such an incredible encouragement to soooo many people.

Anonymous said...

Hello!
My name is Christy & I live in Canton, OH. I found your blog via Creating Keepsakes Message Board a year or two ago. Being a fellow Christian, scrapbooker, mommy & (at the time) recently losing a young cousin & nephew kept me coming back. I love reading about your faith & everyday struggles and how you continue to persevere through grief & loss. You are such an inspiration! Thank you :-)

Jodie R. said...

I'm in the Florida panhandle, and we've e-mailed a few times. I went to Bethel, as well. Haven't commented in awhile, but continue to check in and and pray for you and your family! Many blessings to you in Christ today, Sister!

Anonymous said...

Hi, Jody! I don't remember exactly how I found your blog but I think that you signed another blog and I decided to check yours out. I am so happy that I did. Your story touched my heart and I love to come here for inspiration and strength. Congrats on nearly 1000 posts!

Linda in Kentucky

Janet said...

I'm not sure how I stumbled upon your blog, but I have read (ok, lurked) for about a year and a half. You are an incredible inspiration to me, and I'm thankful that you are willing to share a bit of your life and your family...
Janet
Stockton, CA

Magnoliawhispers said...

Jan K. in SC, been reading your blog for over a year? Heard your story from family in MI, we both have children in heaven

Anonymous said...

Becki..Cary Illinois
I have been reading your amazing blog for a long while now. Love it. So I do not really know you,but I feel like I do!

Anonymous said...

Not sure how I found your blog, but I've been following it for a couple of years. I enjoy seeing your family! You've been through a lot, but I appreciate you sharing your honest feelings and faith...

Christy said...

Hi, Jody! We don't know each other, but I wish we did! My little boy and Crew would be fast friends, I'm sure!

I'm Christy from Memphis, TN... yep, home of the blues and that cool guy Elvis.

Happy Fall!

Ashley Perrigin said...

Congrats on almost reaching 1000. Thanks for letting us into your ldaily life.

Christy B. said...

Christy, Grayson KY. Found your blog while reading a friends blog who had also lost a child prematurely to heaven.

darcie said...

Hi Jodi - I don't know you or even how I came across your site the first time - but I am from North Dakota - now live in Minnesota - so I sort of feel a connection with you there.
You are living my dream of having many beautiful children (my hubs is done at 2)
And I so enjoy checking in on you from time to time!
xoxo

angie said...

Angie, AZ.
I just love your blog!

Unknown said...

My name is Kendra and I live in Holland ,MI. I found your blog through a friend's blog and love reading! My husband and I used to live in Grand Haven and he is a golf pro in GR so we have that golf connection too!

Keshet said...

Keshet Starr, live in NJ, and don't know you. Find your blog through Carrie Colbert's blog a while back and love reading it!

heartsfulloflove said...

Hi,
I'm Melissa from Illinois. I found your blog in early 2008 because it was linked on Angie Smith's blog.
Your journey has had me sobbing so many times. Your children are beautiful and it is wonderful that all of these years later, Teagan and her story still touch so many!

amy & lisa said...

Love your owls!!
I'm Lisa. I know you just from blog hopping and have been reading for quite a while. I'm from ND. :)

Anita said...

I don't know you personally, but I check your blog every day. I love your honest look at life through the eyes of Christ. Your words often encourage me in my daily walk.

Anita, from China Maine

Madeline said...

I'm madeline and I've been reading your blog since you were first preggo with Crew! I can't remember how I found your blog, but what made me first click on it was seeing the name Teagan. It's always been my favorite little girl name so I was lured in. I've been hooked ever since! I am amazed by your strength, your forgiveness, your craftiness, and your ability to still find joy in life.

sheila said...

wallace, michigan - in the u.p. i've been reading you for a couple of years now!! your teagan & my taya are the same age . . . so i felt a connection to you because of that! we've never met personally, but we've chatted on facebook! :) i'm inspired and encouraged by you everytime i visit your blog! :)

Jessica said...

Hello! I got here from Adrienne's blog about 2 years ago. I read it in Verona, Italy.
Jessica

Anonymous said...

Hi Jody, I'm one of your many lurkers. I found your blog a long time ago..one of those "from blog to blog to blog" things that you never really remember how it started. I have been so uplifted by your story that I continue to read. Thanks for sharing your heart!

Heidi
Red Lion, PA (but I'm a Michigan native...Marquette)

Lauren said...

Lauren Kelly, Leesburg, FL.

And I don't know you personally but I LOVE you and your blog and the comments you leave me on Facebook :) :)

Anonymous said...

I think I got to your blog from a link to a link, etc. I read you regularly and gain some insight that I wish I had had when I was raising my children, who have children of their own, who have children, which makes me a great grandma.
Mary from Springfield, Virginia

Must.Be.A-Follower. said...

Well, I don't "know" you, but love and appreciate you via your blog! I hail from Oregon. (And Starbucks is SO appreciated in this gray and rainy state!) *wink*
Blessings to you and your fam!!

Juel said...

I live in beautiful Spokane, WA. I came her regularly then my computer crashed with all my favorites including your blog. Since you mentioned Starbucks I have to at least try for a give away ;o)

Ann said...

Love God's role in your life, love your words, love your ideas & inspiration. Love that I stumbled upon your blog.

Anjanette from PA

Unknown said...

I wish I had the creativity to be as crafty as you!

Shannon said...

I have no idea how I found your blog but I've been reading it for years. I'm encouraged by your honesty, faith in our Great God, and cute crafty ideas!

Shannon
Northern Indiana
(formerly of Michigan!!)

Jennifer said...

I stubbled on your blog about a year ago and have enjoyed how open you are about your feelings - thanks...and have loved your recipies.
Franklin, TN

Unknown said...

amy cutler (lorealle)...irvona, pa...and i know you thorugh the scrapping (and blogging) world...you are a inspiration to me as a christian and mother...thank you for sharing your life with us...

Becky said...

Hi Jody,

Thought I would enter this and then you could just give me my goodies at school:) Have a good day. I had a Pumpkin Latte this morning and thought of you!

Becky Postma

Tonya B said...

I believe it's been over a year now since I found you on some one else's blog and the moment I read the first one i went back to your beginning and couldn't stop myself. There are days when you bring me to tears and then there are days I sit in aw! You have such the faith i wish to have some day, maybe by reading your blog i will.
I love how you just can open up and tell the whole story.
You have inspired me to take one day at a time.
Thank you for all your wonderful stories, I check your blog almost everyday and when done with the post I still leave it on for your choice of music,
love it, and would love the chance to get to meet you some day.
Tonya
Rockford, ILL.

Melissa Jo said...

love checking in on you and your beautiful family! happy fall from Belington, WV