When it comes to blogging and writing, I’ve had both talent and luck on my side. I tend to be Teflonâ„¢ when it comes to compliments, hence my very self-deprecating sense of humor. I will acknowledge here, on this post however, that I do appreciate the talent I have for writing. Writing is what I love most (outside of the obvious: Nutty Bits, Sushi, Grapefruit cocktails… and my family), and I’ve worked hard to improve the writing I do, and to stick with it. So, I’m owning the talent part today.
The luck is a byproduct of  talent, and from there it’s a crap shoot. It’s a crap shoot because before luck comes your way, you have to get noticed. In blogging, getting noticed isn’t actually a given. Sure, you can visit lots of other bloggers and leave comments. Been there, done that. That is the number one piece of advice that bloggers are given to get noticed: notice other people, and they will notice you back. True, to a point. Some bloggers will notice you, but they don’t necessarily visit you back. There are folks who will subscribe to your blog and never read it. I’ve said before (Who Are You And Why Are You Following Me?), I try really hard to follow bloggers who I get to know, and who I truly intend to follow=>read. I make every effort to read each post that those bloggers write. I try to leave sincere comments.  More and more, I am letting go of blogging relationships that are not reciprocal. It’s just too self-defeating. Just the same, that is the standard advice: follow and comment = get noticed.
image: Innovation Excellence
Quite simply, luck plays a big role in getting noticed. When the blogging stars align then other writers really do follow you, they read your posts, they share their thoughts/comment– they make an effort. In some cases, those kind bloggers, your peers, go one step further in paying you a big compliment: They give you an Award. Those of you who are not new to blogging may be groaning right now. I get it. These “Awards” do spread like mold, it seems. They’re all over the place, and surely to some degree they are the ultimate in pyramid schemes. You compliment me, I compliment you, then we share with 10 more folks, and we all feel good.  But yes, that’s the cynical view point.
So step back from the snark platform for a second; check your cynicism at the door. These awards are also a very kind way of saying that you appreciate what others are doing. You recognize and appreciate their effort; and that’s no small thing. In the world of writing, where we are constantly told that what we do wont get us published, or where the odds always seem stacked against us, it’s really nice to be acknowledged. If you’ve worked hard to write material that you hope will matter, and you’ve worked to get noticed, and all those stars line up, then you can feel mighty good when others appreciate your work. I do. I feel really good, because I’ve had an abundance of warm kudos recently, and I’ve been horribly remiss in not thanking folks. I’m fixing that today!
I’ll start with the title of this blog, and a phrase I use quite often in my comments. A few of you have asked me why I say “Much appreciated” so often, when responding to comments. It’s simple; I really do appreciate each and every person who takes the time to read something I wrote. When you take the additional time to comment, I feel warm fuzzies all over; I kid you not. Warm, sparkly fuzzies from head to toe!  Some days, I actually get a bit weepy, feeling the love.  So, I have made that phrase my standard response, because I mean it. Your efforts are indeed Much Appreciated.
In the past month or two I have had some really kind nods– kudos galore, I would say! Mike Lince over at Applecore honored me back in August (I know; I have been very slack, and I sincerely apologize to Mike) with the Most Influential Blogger Award. Frankly, I was so tickled to see that Mike had gotten it, because he so deserves it, that I dropped the ball and forgot to thank him formally for passing it on to me. For the record, I did thank him (and all others) privately. Mike has been a wonderful supporter of Tales From the Motherland for ages! He reads pretty much all of my posts and faithfully leaves a comment. He’s true blue, and someone I feel honored to know. He’s originally from the same part of Washington where I live, and after chatting back and forth in our comments,  we agreed to meet face to face, on one of his trips home. It was  a delight, and the time flew by!  You can read about it here. I truly appreciate Mike and his continued support. His blog, Applecore, is worth your time on so many levels!  A few years ago, he and his wife, Florence sold everything and decided to start the “Six Monther’s Club.” They travel to amazing places and live there for 6 months at a time, then they move on to a new amazing place. Mike shares those adventures on his blog. So, if you like travel writing, you crave adventure and want to learn more about Scotland, Croatia (where they are now), much of South and Central America, and Mexico, follow this link and check out Mikes’ work. Tell him I sent you, and he will be extra nice to you… though Mike doesn’t have a mean bone his body, I think.
Shreya at Crossroads is a new friend in blogging. She started following my posts about two months ago, and I checked out her blog and began following her in return. Shreya recently honored me with the Versatile Blogger award. I’m happy that she finds my work versatile, as I try really hard to mix it up and keep things interesting. There is a certain tone to my blog; I’m probably not as edgy as some other blogs that I enjoy, but I try to write without filters and speak from the heart… or whatever body part happens to be talking the loudest. Stay tuned; that is an intentionally provocative teaser. Shreya lives in Delhi, India, a city I’ve visited twice and truly love. India calls to me, and my youngest son and I are looking forward to going there together, in the next year. Shreya and I have already agreed that we will meet up, when I get there. Her posts are funny, important and versatile; that award was well deserved for her. Check her out here; maybe you’ll find her work as fun as I do!
Bonnie at Ladyblogger nominated me for the Sunshine Blogger Award, because, well… I’m so damned sunny! Right? In fairness, I didn’t know Bonnie, and that is sad, because since nominating me, I took the time to check her work out, and her blog is fun, funNY, interesting visually (meaning she posts photos and tries to make it interesting for us readers) and she has some great advice to pass on. She’s one of those great people who decorate for Halloween and go the extra mile to make things interesting. She a little sarcastic, which is right up my alley, and she doesn’t take things too seriously. Like I said, the Ladyblogger is Fun! I so appreciate her spreading the sunshine my way, and if you want to see some fun Halloween ideas and other wild and wooly posts, check her out at The Ladyblogger.  * Please note, I wrote this endorsement with complete sincerity, despite the fact that Bonnie is from St. Louis and a Cardinals fan. I am from Boston, and a Red Sox Fan. If the Cardinals win this next game, it will be harder for me to be nice. Wink, wink.
Finally, the grand pubah of blogging: Fresh Pressed. That’s right, Tales From the Motherland’s post She Said What? was Freshly Pressed in September; this was my  second time (read the first one here).  I was at one of those big book stores, that I generally avoid, because I support our local book store… but I had to have this book that day, and it wasn’t in at my favorite store (can you tell I still feel guilty?)… and I got an email. I was so giddy when I read it that I almost told several strangers as we stood waiting for the store to open!
Giddy up! It was amazing! My emails went through the roof; my stats were just crazy; and, of course, I was floating on a WordPress cotton candy cloud all weekend! When you’re Freshly Pressed on a Friday, it’s a double delight, as it stays up for three days, and that equals lots of visibility! I cannot thank WordPress enough, for the honor. It means a lot to me, and I was thrilled to be featured. Shortly thereafter I crossed the 60,000 hits point: one more big kudos, booyah!
So, there it is: luck, talent and hard work… it’s all part of the big picture in blogging. I work hard at this; I don’t rest on Awards or kind comments. I think I’m a good writer: not the best, but not the worst. I try to keep improving the talent I have, and I stick to it, even when I’m not really up for it. Â I am lucky to have such wonderful readers, who support me and keep me excited, and motivated. I am honored that people read my work, and take the time to Like it, Subscribe to it, and honor it with these awards. I’m not foolish enough to think I can sit back now. There are MUCH bigger blogs than mine, much more successful blogs; but, I am truly grateful for where I am right now. It is sincerely, Much Appreciated!
Please note, there are a bunch of questions that come along with the Awards. I’m opting out on that. If you follow my blog, you’ve read as much as I need to share. I am also suppose to pass these awards along. I know I sound lame here, but I’ve done this so many times. I am truly honored to receive this kind recognition, but I am at a loss here. Instead, I am providing links to a few blogs that I’ve recently found and enjoy, aside from the ones I’ve mentioned previously in this post. Â These are all people who I recommend with real enthusiasm. Hit the highlighted links, to check them out for yourselves. You won’t regret it. Pass the love; leave a comment and tell them I sent you. Makes me look good, and makes you look like a really good person.
I’ve been following Lisa at Cyclingrandma for ages. She has lots to say, about lots of things. Â Check her out here.
Kat at Follow Your Nose is a kick ass writer and artist. I love what she puts out there.
Cathy at Large Self puts out consistently gorgeous photography and occasionally poetry and haikus. I never leave her blog without feeling happier.
Meagan at Hot Pink Underwear continues to write one of my favorite blogs. She is witty, intelligent and I have no idea what color her underpants are, but we did meet…
Yara at HearYouMeMyFriends is hands down my favorite new blog. She is crazy talented, and her letters to various things are stunning! She moves me, every. single. post!
I remain a devoted fan of The Waiting, Psychobabble, A Clown On Fire, all of whom are huge beyond huge, but continue to put out wonderful material! Le Clown is a mega star, who continues to amaze me, as well as n all around good egg. Lyssa and Emily have been great supporters of my blog, and good cyber friends. I bow at their collective feet.
TALES FROM THE MOTHERLAND 
Check the tag end of your entry. I think you’re not done with edits? Anyway, yes, Cathy’ s photography is fantastic. And LeClown is legend. I’ll have to check out the others you recommend. And kudos to your awards, especially FP!!
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Mariner,
A legend in my own mind, would say my wife…
Le Clown
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Glad someone noticed! Mariner was right on it… I was sleepy and lame.
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Eek! Thanks for pointing that out, Sue! That’s what happens when I stay up too late! You have been a great friend on TFTM, and I am grateful to your continued support. Today, I am especially grateful for your editing skills. 😉
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You are more than welcome. I was up way too late last night, and I’m paying for it today.
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I hear you! Can’t be good at all the things we do, if we don’t get enough rest. Seriously.
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Susan,
Thank you!
Cathy
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I just stopped by to say Thank You for your kind words. I love how you say the things I think about but never write, like how prolific blog awards are and like how you are supposed to say a bunch of things about yourself before acknowledging 15 other bloggers. Like you, I am selective on the follow-through. Nonetheless, I believe in giving credit where credit is due. Also, knowing you would never lead me astray, I will eventually visit your recommended blogs. Perhaps I will make a connection or two there, although I doubt anyone could surpass the bond of friendship, mutual respect and admiration that connects the two of us. – Mike
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Mike, you are the best! On so many levels. Thanks so much for all the support (writing and personal), the kind gestures, and for just being a all around good doobey! Love you mucho. d
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Congrats on the awards and FP; and thanks for the mention– MUCH APPRECIATED! I’ll check out the other bloggers you mentioned and agree that unless it becomes reciprocal like a friendship, I don’t do much more than a few likes these days. But frequent commenters I spend time with and maybe even invite to contribute to the next anthology!
Keep up the great work. Hugs.
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I’m lucky we met early on, Lisa. It’s been a fun, and mutually fulfilling friendship. One day, we will, no doubt meet… I may be in NYC in December! 😉
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Well written and heartfelt. It is a balancing act me thinks. And amazing how up (and down) one can feel when someone (who has never commented and probably never read one of your posts) decides not to follow you anymore.
A bit like life really.
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Mrscarmichael, it is indeed a balancing act, and some days the balance can feel all topsy turvy, while other days it’s a big ass joy ride! Do you get a notice when someone stops following you? I’m not sure I know how that works, though I feel pretty sure it’s happened. Just as I know there are a whole bunch of people following me, without reading or actually following, I try not to notice when the leave. It’s a bummer indeed! Chin up, you put out good work, so try not to let the uninterested get you down! I really appreciate you stopping by here and sharing.
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Dawn,
I would have made it here sooner, but my ego was getting a Brazilian wax. You’re growing, figuratively speaking of course—Le Clown is a douche but he is not insensitive. Your posts have always been great, but lately, they have been playing in the fields of magnificenceâ„¢ (see how poetic I can be? That’s because I have been reading too many nursery rhymes lately, which have also been feeding him me morbid images… Christ on a fucking stick—cause that ain’t morbid imagery— are they ever bleak). Love your progression, and your friendship.
Le Clown
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Just for the record, I called you neither a douche or insensitive… never occurred to me, I hope you know. I’m scared of clowns, but not you, my friend. (Ok, maybe a little, on certain days). I appreciate when you drop by, and while I wish you did it more often, I also have raised 3 kids (hence that last post, Open Letter) and I get that you are dealing with blog responses, issues, and scary nursery stories, on a level I can’t fathom! I always appreciate when you make the time to visit, and I appreciate your kind feedback. Hats off to you Le Clown! dawn
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Dawn.
Who ever said you called me a douche? Now, now, silly… As for dropping by more often, I can’t make this happen. Life happens, then my blog, then life, and more life. And that damn success. I am now at a point where the balance between my blogging life and personal life is working for me… But. Whenever you ring, I come. Keep that in mind.
Le Clown
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I get it. You just keep balancing… (( I’ll call when I need to.)) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPYese-Hl8M
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Congratulations on your awards. They’re well deserved! Your work is always a pleasure to read. 🙂
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Thanks Carrie. You have been a wonderful supporter of TFTM, and someone I really enjoy knowing. It’s the blog friends I’ve made that make this extra special. The writing is what I love, but fun relationships with other bloggers, is butter cream icing for sure! Thanks, Carrie.
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Dawn,
This was the best awards post, I’ve ever seen. You are a fantastic writer and I’m glad you know it! All of these awards are richly deserved. Congratulations. And thanks so much for the shoutout, my friend. I’m so glad to know you!
cathy
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It was easy, Cathy. I so enjoy your posts and the beauty you share with us all. I enjoy you, as a solid, good person… it’s an absolute bonus of this whole adventure. Thanks for all the support, kind words and generosity. You are Much Appreciated!
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This was honest and spoke to something that’s always made me feel icky. I so deeply appreciated these awards when I was starting out here, as they helped me build community, meet new bloggers, and gave me something to post about. Now I’ve actually taken them down from my site, as I noticed most “big” bloggers (What does that even mean, anyway? When does one cross over?) didn’t post them on theirs.
I suppose I think of them like the YA books I adored when I was in high school. I’ve somewhat outgrown them now, but at the time they really helped me understand myself… and I definitely still revisit them once in a while. Thanks for making me wrangle my feelings on this – and congrats for the many well-deserved kudos you are wrangling!
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Thanks so much Jennie. I have debated taking them down, but, as I said in this post, I really do appreciate what they represent. I am honored that my peers choose to read my work, and “Award” it. When I got my very first award, I thought it was for “real,” and I was so excited! As I realized that it was something passed around, I definitely felt a little let down, a little “played;” but with some time, and perspective, I believe that the good intentions are worth displaying, ever bit as much at the Featured on Fresh Pressed, or the Featured on The Outlier Collective… sorry dear Clown. They each mean different things, but both are an honor.
I’m glad I caused some wrangling… God knows I am the last person who can advise, as I still think wrangling involves jeans! 😉 That said, I’m sincerely honored to connect with people like you, share some thoughts, and be in the arena with such talented people… like you. Thanks Jennie!
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I came back to say… I put them back up. Because of your post. You’re right about what they represent, and I want to be another example to brand-new bloggers (as I’m still six-months new myself!) that these community-created awards are still awesome and valid. So thank YOU! I’m honored to connect with you, as well.
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I hope I didn’t bully you into that , Jennie?! I think everyone has to do what they believe in, but for me… they mean something. Not just bragging rights, but the honor of folks like you, and other bloggers– who I really enjoy, and respect, considering my work worth honoring. I love that you put them back up! 😀
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Bully?! You?! Heck no! This was never a big stance for me, I was just kind of following the WP herd across the plains… and then I caught sight of that little oasis where you were standing, and thought it looked nice, and detoured. Because all those things you listed – they’re all really good things. 🙂
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🙂 Glad to hear it. I think I have a decent oasis here. I love the wild plains, but no doubt, I’m in over my head there sometimes. wink wink. Sometimes, I most happy just sitting under a tree, watching and theorizing.
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Oh, you made that sound nice. Today I sort of want a rest from running, myself. Perhaps I’ll put my feet up for a bit. 🙂
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Highly recommended. I’m home SICK… No choice but to lay here lamely. Sometimes, you’re forced into it. 😉
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I hope you have good books around! Or good trash TV. 😉
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I have 2 big editing projects to get done. But pjs and a sofa are enough for now… Bravo TV later. 😉
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Oh gosh, I just saw this post!
How lovely! How sweet, but also how straight up, straight-talking you are – great post.
Cheers to our ongoing friendship… xxx
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Thanks Kat. My pleasure; I always enjoy your blog! Every single time, and your mutual support is much appreciated, and very much enjoyed!
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Dawn, thank you so much for the shoutout in this post. I have been blogging for kind of a while now, and just when I was getting to a place when things were becoming boring and I wasn’t meeting anyone new or reading things that seriously left me feeling full, I met you and became acquainted with your work. I can honestly say that every.single.time I read your writing, I know that my time has been well-spent. You give me a great example of what a writer who is also a mom looks like, and I am so grateful for that!
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Well, that is very, very kind, Emily! The feeling is entirely mutual, as you know. Thank you so much for so much support and fun chats. Your time and effort is always much appreciated. 😉
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Congrats on the awards and being Freshly Pressed! It’s been a good year for you.
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It has been a good year, Patti; and the best part, is that I keep meeting really great new people… like the Friday Fictioneers group! 🙂 Thanks for taking the time to read and comment. Much appreciated!
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:’)
I feel so loved! Yes, YES we are meeting for sure. Thank you so much not only for what you have written here but for always commenting on my posts, making the comments section immensely readable too. I am so glad you were Freshly Pressed so that I could stalk you, err, I mean follow you,
I feel the fuzzies inside.
THANKYOU Dawn.
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You are very welcome! It’s been a pleasure connecting, and yes, when we are in Delhi, we will have to spend time together! About a year away, at this point. 😉
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So much deserved love coming your way! We have only been reading each other for a rather short time now, but what a joy it has been to discover your blog. Whenever I do find some moments to scroll through my reader (which are not as plentiful as I would like), I know your posts will give me a good bang for my buck 🙂 And I also sincerely appreciate the time you have taken to read my posts as well. I will say I get a little giddy when I see I have a comment from you…because I know it will make me smile.
And I always appreciate some good references for new blogs to peruse. I’ve already discovered the wonderfulness of Shreya, and you know I’m down with my girl Emily. But I’m happy to have a few more names to check out! If they are fans of yours, we already have something in common.
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Oh, and if you do get all sassy with Bonnie, tell her to let me know. This fellow STL girl will have her back. I need to go check out another hometown girl! Go Birds!!! (This is a frickin’ ass crazy series, by the way! But it makes for good television!)
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Them’s might be fighting words missy! I will reframe from any further series words… I’m gonna stay wicked cool here. 😉
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Aw nuts. Congrats to the Sox. Ortiz just got himself a pretty sweet ride. 🙂
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Indeed! I’m glad I was gracious, and didn’t jinx us with any Cardinal slams! 😉
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The feeling is entirely mutual, Kelly. Meeting other fun and interesting people, as I blog is icing on the proverbial cake. 🙂 I’m sincerely honored that you enjoy my posts and comments. I try to be sincere, and make an effort, and it’s nice to know it means something to you too.
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Dear Dawn,
OH MY GOOOOOOD!!!!!! I can’t believe it! Thank you so much for the shoutout! That’s just.. AMAZING! You’re so kind for mentioning me in your post! Thank you, thank you, thank youuuu!!!
And very warm congratulations! You’ve really earned all of the awards, titles and you’ve definitely earned being freshly pressed! You truly are a very influential blogger! Yippie!
Yours,
Yara
http://hearyoumemyfriends.wordpress.com/
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YOU are way too nice. I am not an influential blogger, but I do work hard at it, and love the connection I’ve made with other bloggers. I’m happy to have you finally drop by my comments section. I’m not sure how many of my posts you’ve read, but I included you here because I think your work is FANTASTIC! I love reading your letters– your work is eloquent, heart breaking at times, mature and beautiful. I hope you continue in your journey towards healing and further growth, as I think you have a lot to share, as a writer.
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Dawn! I’ve been dropping by your blog lately and been wondering why I haven’t found you in my reader!! I don’t know why it said that I wasn’t following you anymore, which is weird because I’m the one who found you at the beginning!! There must’ve been a gkitch in the system!!! Anyway, my writings have nothing on yours!!! I’m very humbled by your words.. Really. You are far too kind, your constant support means so much to me, you have no idea!! I am very happy to have found you .. You truly are inspirational!!
Warmth,
Yara
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Well, we could just start a mutual admiration club! Love your posts, and your writing. ‘Nough said, darlin’. You rock!
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Congrats on being freshly pressed and winning all those lovely blog awards! 🙂
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Thanks Kourtney… it’s been weeks, but man! It felt gooood! Thanks for stopping by.
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