Well, I'm finally making the plunge into Blogland! And for the last few days I've been contemplating about what makes a good blogger. I mean, what is it about certain blogs that draw me every day...that make me care about what the person is saying or doing?

Many people blog to keep family and friends up-to-date, others enjoy sharing their interests and projects, and frankly, some just like to stir up controversy. But whether they realize it or not, bloggers do influence their readers, whether in a good way or otherwise...and that, my friends, is a big responsibility. Does my love of Christ shine through my words? Is the love for my family and home apparent? So these are my thoughts...

1. I want to encourage others to invest in their families and homes....just as I am encouraged by Lady Lydia at Homeliving Helper, Mrs. Wilt at the Sparrow's Nest, Mrs. Catherine at Making It Home, and Crystal at Biblical Womanhood. They also promote graceful and gracious living...true Christian ladies!

2. I want to encourage other large (and not-so-large) families in their homeschool journeys....just as I am uplifted by Mary Beth at Mary Beth's Musings on Motherhood and More, Kendra at Preschoolers and Peace, Kim at Large Family Logistics, Kris at Kris's Eclectic Homeschool, Kim C. at Life In A Shoe, and Spunky at Spunky's Homeschool.

3. I want to inspire others to enjoy life and laugh just for sake of laughing...just as I am amused by Boo Mama and Amy at Humble Musings. Of course, they also post many thought-provoking and serious ponderings as well, but let's face it.... those ladies are funny and they do make me laugh~

4. I want to share my thoughts on the writing life...as once again, I  enjoy reading about writing topics by Mary Beth as well as Cindy

Rushton. Because even though my family comes first, writing is a very

important part of who I am.

5. I want to spread a little sunshine each time I post...Jennifer, the Mississippi Girl, always does my heart good with her upbeat and happy posts. And again, Mrs. Wilt, is great at this too!

6. I want to encourage others (and remind myself) to be a good steward of the many things God has blessed us with...Meredith at Like Merchant Ships always inspires me to be frugal and creative! I want to do the same.

7. Most of all, I never want anyone to leave my blog without knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt that Christ is the center of my life!

Of course, there are other bloggers that are wonderful as well...ones that really have a way with words that bless my heart in many different ways.

Obviously, we each have our own strengths and weaknesses, and we can never be everything to everybody all the time.  So, I will do the best I can and just be...ME! Hopefully, that will be enough!

So there you have it...my very first post!

May I always remember that words do make a difference...perhaps more than we'll ever realize! And I pray that I will always be an ENCOURAGEMENT to any friends who stop by for a visit!

Blessings to all~

An extra note:

Wow! What a wonderful surprise to find that I already have commentors! Thanks so much for your encouraging words! And Sweetie's kind comment gave me another thought...she said that I have set high expectations. That is good. But, I guess a better way to say what I've said is this...these are things that I most admire about other bloggers, and I would be honored to follow their examples and inspire others as I have been inspired...albeit in small ways. There will always be hum-drum everyday type postings, but even in those I hope that the Source of my light shines through!

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Aug. 2, 2006 - I loved your blog..

Posted by blessed3times

I never really put that much thought into what people blog. You are very good with words. Welcome to blogging and I hope you enjoy yourself.

God Bless
Tam

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Aug. 2, 2006 - Welcome

Posted by Sweetie

Welcome to blogging! You've set up high expectations for yourself! What a great blog-analysis you have done :)
I look forward to reading what you will have to say!

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Aug. 2, 2006 - Thanks for sharing!

Posted by LittleEblingsAcademy

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on blogging. I agree.... I sometimes come here to get lifted, to smile, to share a prayer, to offer support... It is like a little community and we are all neighbors. :o)

I look forward to getting to know you....
And, by the way, WELCOME!!

Blessings! ~Beckie

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Aug. 2, 2006 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Happyhome

Welcome to the blogosphere! You make some good points. When I first began blogging, I asked myself what it was about certain blogs that drew me back each time. Those thoughts helped determine what sort of blog I wanted to have.

I would have to say Amy at Humble Musings is my hands down favorite. She has an incredible way with words. I find myself thinking, "Yeah...what she just said!" lol

On another note, I read your children's response to Kris' contest....very sweet!

Blessings,

Angela

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Aug. 5, 2006 - You won!

Posted by journeybackintime

I emailed you, but be sure to check out the post here - All entries win new blog design!. Contact me to claim your prize!

Congratulations!
Kris - kjpriceathome@charter.net

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Dec. 4, 2006 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Anonymous

I just now found your blog...how surprised I was to see Like Merchant Ships mentioned in your very first post! Thank you for the compliment. I'm enjoying your beautiful "home on the web." I love the soft colors.

Meredith

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