Thank You

I started this blog three years ago after finding Meg's blog, Whatever. I wanted my blog to look and read exactly like hers. I wanted her artsy-fartsy pictures and big house. I failed miserably.

Slowly I started writing exactly how I spoke. I do pride myself on being a great storyteller, but never thought about writing out the stories-- it seemed like too much work. Looking back at my posts, those stories are my favorite.

I know there are a lot of blogs I follow that have more than 1,000 followers. And like a number on the scale, sometimes we put so much importance into that little number. Love me, dammit!

But finally finding my writer's voice and connecting with blogging groups (just like high school ya'll) outside of my comfort zone has made getting to this number all the more sweeter. Last year at this time, I had 30-something "followers." So before I get into my thank yous, I would like to tip my hat of gratitude to Brandi (Mama Laughlin) for sending the 970 others my way.

So this post is dedicated to my top ten followers of all time. The original ten who have commented and stayed with me through my writing growing pains. The ones who blogged with me at 180+ pounds, when I wrote about losing weight but never did anything about it. The ones who still visited even when I would post crummy recipes and the worst DSLR photos of all time.

Thank you for sticking around.

April W.// My very first official follower. April has been a great friend to me through these blogging years. We met Pioneer Woman together and she even let me borrow some baby gear for Disney World.

Emily// We both lost weight at the same time. She deals with my novel long emails and randomville. We were able to have dinner when she was in town and she taught me how to Skype.

Alison// My first Canadian follower. She doesn't have kids yet, but always leave love on my Haven/Olive posts. Once she told me that she reads some of my posts out loud to her husband.

Sarah// Her and I were pregnant with our little girls at the same time. We both can get a few shades deep crazy, but have someone in each other to laugh it off. Sarah is a great mom to BG.

Megan// Or who Chris and I refer to as Island Meg because she lived on an island for her husband's job for about a year. She is hands down the best picture-taker. I can't wait to meet her next month.

Amy// My blogging twin. The wife of my husbands best friend. She has taught me all of the blogging ropes and is one of my few real-life friends that gets why I take pictures of my food and fat rolls.

Alexis// My skinny twin. She is such a great mom and wife to her little family. The great thing about her blog is that she is not scared to have a really deep post. I always get moved by her insight.

Allyce// She was also pregnant while I was carrying Olive. I always call her my little hippie friend. Allyce lives in the northwest and blogs about a little bit of everything. I can't wait to squeeze her one day.

Stephanie// She grew up with Chris and went to school with him all her life. That in itself qualifies for a lot of emotional pity. I like Steph's blog because she is never afraid to post outside the box.

April R// Gah, I love April. We are too much a like.. it's like the Nerd-Herd has arrived when we start telling stories. I am so glad I got to meet her in Tulsa this year.

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And if you're someone who reads daily, but never leaves a comment... please say hello today. :)

There will big giveaway on Monday...

Holly & Kristen's 1000 Followa Make Ya Holla Giveaway!