Weekend fun: De-Lurking
Where have I been? I guess house-hunting, packing, moving, pregnant, sick, hungry, on bedrest... and I almost missed National De-Lurking Week!
I'm not really exactly sure who declared it or how official it is, but that's beside the point: Come out of your hiding place and introduce yourself.
I know I do this from time to time, but it's always so fun and interesting that I think it's about time for another de-lurking. So, whether you are a long-time reader or brand-new reader, frequent commenter or someone who's never said a peep here, now's the time to speak up!
You don't have to give out any information you don't want to make public (you can even make up a name for all I care!), but just give us a simple introduction. Oh, just for fun, and since I'm sort of on a decorating "kick" right now, tell us whether you like to decorate or don't like it at all, or don't really care.
I'll start:
Hi! My name is Crystal and I've been reading this blog since, well, since I came up with the crazy idea to start a blog in the first place. I'm 25, live in Somewhere, Kansas, am married to the bestest attorney around, have two precious babies (one in utero), and am so thankful today that I was able to get up and do some things around my house for a few hours, as opposed to the bedrest I've been on all week. Right now, I'm sort of obsessed with decorating. In fact, when I woke my husband up at 5 a.m. this morning, first thing I told him was my great middle-of-the-night brainstorm on how we should rearrange the living room. Gratefully, he's such a patient, loving husband he tried to keep his eyes open through my whole animated explanation. And then, when 30 minutes later, I decided that I had changed my mind again on how to rearrange things, he intently listened to the new and improved plan. :)
There, see how easy that was? Your turn.
Too shy to comment or rather not? Email me! I love hearing from readers!
I'm not really exactly sure who declared it or how official it is, but that's beside the point: Come out of your hiding place and introduce yourself.
I know I do this from time to time, but it's always so fun and interesting that I think it's about time for another de-lurking. So, whether you are a long-time reader or brand-new reader, frequent commenter or someone who's never said a peep here, now's the time to speak up!
You don't have to give out any information you don't want to make public (you can even make up a name for all I care!), but just give us a simple introduction. Oh, just for fun, and since I'm sort of on a decorating "kick" right now, tell us whether you like to decorate or don't like it at all, or don't really care.
I'll start:
Hi! My name is Crystal and I've been reading this blog since, well, since I came up with the crazy idea to start a blog in the first place. I'm 25, live in Somewhere, Kansas, am married to the bestest attorney around, have two precious babies (one in utero), and am so thankful today that I was able to get up and do some things around my house for a few hours, as opposed to the bedrest I've been on all week. Right now, I'm sort of obsessed with decorating. In fact, when I woke my husband up at 5 a.m. this morning, first thing I told him was my great middle-of-the-night brainstorm on how we should rearrange the living room. Gratefully, he's such a patient, loving husband he tried to keep his eyes open through my whole animated explanation. And then, when 30 minutes later, I decided that I had changed my mind again on how to rearrange things, he intently listened to the new and improved plan. :)
There, see how easy that was? Your turn.
Too shy to comment or rather not? Email me! I love hearing from readers!
posted by Crystal Paine at 2:33 PM
107 Comments:
Hi Crystal,
Great idea about us all introducing ourselves, and we can imagine the real people who are writing in!! I'm Karen, and I'm almost 31 years old (!). I live in Glasgow, Scotland, UK. I'm a Christian and I'm wife to Chris (a scientist), and stay at home mum to Hannah (2 1/2). I came across your blog last summer and it has been a great blessing to me. Thanks for all your good work.
Love Karen
Hi! My name is Lisa, my hubby, two sons and I live in North Central Florida (I'm originally from Iowa though). I love to read, homeschool my boys, hang out with my hubby/best and am striving to become a better homemaker. We are in the beginning stages of an international adoption to expand our family, and are excited to add a daughter to our family sometime this year, Lord willing!
Oh fun! I didn't know it was "National Delurker Week." (Never heard of it, actually).
Well, you know me and I've not been a lurker but I thought it would be nice to say, "Hi" all the same.
Glad to hear you are no longer on bedrest. What a blessing. It must have been very frustrating after just moving into a new house and needing to organize so many things. Aren't younger sisters wonderful? My sister had been helping me declutter, rearrange and decorate my room a few weeks ago. (I guess I already told you about it when we saw you in town). She is amazing at organization.
Hope you are back to (near) normal soon. I will be praying for you all. God's blessings be upon you.
~Lydia
Hi! I live in Canada and found out about your blog from www.ylcf.org I think. :)I've been reading your blog for awhile but never commented 'till now. I really appreciate your blog with it's well written posts that stand unashamedly for the truth. As a maiden at home, I've been so encouraged to continue in this way.
I'm JustJana and I've been reading your blog for a few months. I don't remember how I came across it - probably a link from another blog.
As far as decorating is concerned, I don't have a "knack" for it, and until this year, we haven't had the resources to do ANY decorating. Our walls are pretty bare, and I don't like clutter, so we don't have much in the way of knick-knacks. BUT, I DID sew my first project in November - curtains for our dining room and kitchen! And I love them!
Hi! my name is Hannah and I've been reading this blog since September. I live in Northern Virginia about twenty minutes from D.C. I work at Starbucks as a shift supervisor. I love to read pretty much everything, and I love all kinds of music.
Thanks for writing here. I really enjoy reading your blog.
Hi! I'm Sara - a 28 year old SAHM to our two precious little boys. My DH is a super husband and dad. We live in Central KY and we're celebrating this weekend b/c DH got a promotion today!! Yay! I love knitting - rarely ever go a day without picking up the needles. I do like trying to decorate, but I don't feel like I'm very good at it. I also don't have extra money in the budget for it, so I have to come up with things that are really cheap or FREE. I look forward to hearing how others decorate on a tight budget. :o)
Hi Crystal,
I'm Brooke in Oregon. I have four little boys, ages 7 and under. I love Jesus, love my husband, love homeschooling my boys and watching over my family. Right now everyone is very sick (except the baby). So we've been completely off of school and just nursing everyone back to good health.
I am a good decorator if money isn't an issue. When it becomes an issue, I back off because I don't have time to devote to not only finding something perfect, but finding something perfect that costs next to nothing. So, I go in and out of doing a good job. I'm hoping to be better, though.
brooke
Hi Crystal,
There is show on hgtv called Decorating Cents - decorating on a budget.
Look here for some of their cheapo decorating tips:
http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/pac_ctnt_947/text/0,,HGTV_19176_31052,00.html
Sorry, I don't know how to hyper link.
Best,
Amanda
I didn't know there was such a thing as "National De-Lurking Week!" :)
I am Bethany, I am 20 years old, and live in Nebraska with my family (Dad, Mom, and 12 siblings). I have been reading your blog for, oh, I'd guess two years (?!) and have so enjoyed all your posts -- from practical issues, to heart issues. Thank you for blogging!
As far as decorating goes...I haven't done a whole lot on my own, but my sisters and I together do quite a bit.
The Lord bless you!
Hi, I am from Milwaukee, WI and I am a 24 year old wife, no children yet. I came across your blog because a family member of mine is a Christian homeschooler and I like to read her blog to hear about my adorable cousins. I am certainly on an incredible spiritual path right now and feel that God has wonderful plans from me. I come from a Catholic tradition, but my views differ vastly from both you, Crystal, and from most of the readers of the blog. However, I feel that I am here on earth to learn and explore different ideas and I do enjoy Crystal's well written, articulate viewpoints. It has actually opened my eyes in many ways and dispelled some of the stereotypes I've held about evangelical Christians, stay at home wives/moms and Submission. While I am not sure this path is for me at this point in my life, I have certainly had my mind streched by the discussions here. I never comment because to be honest, I've been a little scared off by people who write "I don't know why those people who disagree with you read this blog, anyway" and I really don't want to disrupt things around here, but rather just want to learn about different views. Crystal, I am so very glad to hear that complications with your pregnancy seem to be subsiding and wish you all the best.
Kathryn from WI.
Hi Crystal,
I'm Pauline and I AM 31 years old (unlike Karen!). I live in Manchester, England and found your blog last summer. As a stay-at-home mum to Daniel (15 months) I find the 'blog' world a useful tool for stimulating my mind. I've purchased some of your books which I have enjoyed. Its good to discuss and I think your blog is a great means to do that! I get annoyed when women leave all the 'thinking' to the men-folk. We all need to be working at making our calling and election sure.
I've just finished decorating our home, only to decide with my husband that now is the time to sell...yours, continuing to lurk...
Pauline
Hi Crystal,
I have read your blog for several months (I don't think I have ever commented) and enjoy it very much! I am a stay-at-home daughter and I desire to be a wife, mother, and homemaker. I am finishing up my last year of High School this year.
God bless!
Rachel
I'm Amy and I'm 39 yrs old. I live in NH and I have 3 daughters-13, 12 and 4 yrs old. I'm an RN at a hospital and hopefully soon I'll have my own business up and running from home and I can cut way down on my hrs.(I work 3 12-hr days each week now).
I'm a new Christian and I have a lot to learn. I'm becoming a member of my church soon and I plan to be baptized this summer. I'm also going to dedicate my youngest daughter. I attend a conservative Congregational church.
I like to make jewelry (soon to be a job) and my family and I enjoy tropical fish as a hobby and we belong to a fish club. We have several pets.
I started reading Crystal's site about 6 months ago, I guess. It's been a great help to me as a new Christian and has saved my marriage. Hopefully, my husband will be saved soon. My two older girls are.
Like Crystal, I like a very uncluttered look. I also like an "open concept" sort of look, so by the time the furniture, etc. is in place, I find the decorating is pretty much done, except for window treatments and wall hangings. I don't like curtains.
Oh, I'm 5'4", 134 lbs and I have short brown hair (cut that way during a moment of temporary insanity-I look like an elf). I have hazel eyes and I wear glasses.
I have a great sense of humor.
Hello, my name is Rosemary.I am 26 years old and a Christian, who thinks God is the most wonderful being. I am happily married to Eric. Next month will be our fifth year anniversary. We have an active two year old, Malachi. We live in east Tennessee. This is the first time I have commented. I love to read your blog. You seem like a very honest christian who isn't afraid to speak her mind. I love that. I think we all should stand up for what we believe.
As, well, in decorating, I love to decorate but since we moved here(just about a year ago), I am a lot behind. I am just now starting. One major tip to anyone who is trying to decorate on a budget. Look around your house and see what you have already got to use as something else in your decorating.For a small example, I have had this metal fruit/veggie basket,(you know the ones that hang from your ceiling). Well, the bathroom is very small and has very little storage, so I used these baskets to hang on the outside of my shower for storage,It has three baskets(1.soaps,2. washclothes,3. my son's toys.
Hi, Crystal! I'm Becky. I live in a far west suburb of Chicago with my husband of nearly 10 years and our three daughters - Hannah, 7; Rachel, 4; Abigail, 2. All three girls were adopted in China, and we are waiting for our fourth daughter, Sarah (hence my "name"). I'm a SAHM, keeper of our home, and musician (violin and voice). I found your blog, Crystal, last summer, and have found it to be a real blessing. Stop by our blog if you'd like to see more of our family and hear a bit about adoption from China! http://allmysisters.blogspot.com
Hi everyone!
I'm Stephanie, and I'm 26 year old stay at home mom and wife. I live in BC, Canada (about 3 hours north of Seattle), and nope, it's not really any colder or snowier up here, although we do have some snow right now! I have a wonderful dh who is a Sales and Marketing Manager and treats me like a queen, a darling little girl named Abby (who's 2), and another little one, due to arrive in May or June.
I heard about this blog from my MIL, who is continually passing on great Christian resources to me, and thought I would find a kindred spirit in Crystal and the issues explored in this site- to which I wholeheartedly agree and have been so blessed by this site and blog.
I'm not much of a decorator, at least not without a budget, but I'm inspired this week and have been working on ideas all morning. :) I'm more of a nutritrionist/natural living kind of person, and a keen student of how to home educate!
Love Stephanie
Hello. My name is Jessica (27) and my husband and I live in southern CA where he attends The Master's Seminary. I am an RN in the postpartum unit at a local hospital, which I enjoy but look forward to being home in the near future. I enjoy time with my husband (of course!), reading, exercising, and I recently started making an Americana Sampler quilt. It's neat because each block is different, so when you finish one you feel like you have really completed something (instead of having to make several more of the same one). I enjoy decoratng and I think I have a good eye for things, however, I must give credit to my mother (who is an interior decorator by trade) as she has helped with much of the decorating in our humble little apartment.I enjoy reading this blog and will try to comment more and not lurk so much :)
Hi there! I'm "Toblerone," almost 30, been reading your blog off and on about a year now. I've got an almost two-year-old girl who is a blast. We're moving overseas in a few weeks, so although I love to decorate, we've been living out of a suitcase for going-on-four-months. I'm really looking to decorating our new place, wherever it may be.
Hello~
I'm Rebecka, 36, wife to Dean and we celebrated our anniversary this week, too (10 yrs on the 11th). We have been blessed with five children, the newest is one week old today. I've been reading your blog since sometime last summer and enjoy your insights very much.
As far as decorating, well, we've been living in our current home for 2 1/2 years and not much has been decorated, lol! The desire is there, but time and funds are lacking. Maybe this summer...
~Rebecka
Hello ~ don't know if I've ever commented before, but I've been reading for some time now. I'm Charmin, way up in Eastern Canada. Congratulations on the baby, the job and a successful move!
I'm Heather. I post a comment very occasionally, but I've probably been reading at least 9 months. I'm 24 years old and have been married for 6 years to my dh, an engineer. We have 3 children that are 5, 3, and 1, and #4 is due in June. They are a joy to us in each stage we've experienced from baby up to the oldest learning to read/write/etc from Mommy.
Hey Crystal,
Claire here--can't remember when I started reading your blog (a year ago or so?) or if I've ever commented before ... I think I got the link from a mutual friend. I'm a medical student in Missouri, and my decorating efforts are currently confined to a dorm room. :) I enjoy your blog!
Hi Crystal,
My name is Ruth Ann and I found your site & blog sometime last year. I know it was because I found it in time to pre-order your wonderful book 'Handmaidens of the Lord.' I've enjoyed it so immensely! I'm 19 years old and live at home with my parents and 5 of my 6 siblings. I work 2 days a week at a Christian home for teenage girls, www.HosannaHouse.com and have a burden to see these hearts changed and for them to love the Lord. My whole heart's desire is to be a wife, mother & keeper-at-home, but during this season the Lord is so good! I would just hope I am a Christian example to the girls that I am around, and that they would see Jesus in me. I love being at home, planning meals, grocery shopping, cleaning house, and sewing for my family (and for others too!) I am busy all the time, and couldn't stand to go to college and waste 4 years of my life, when the Lord has blessed me with so much to do already!! I started reading this blog (almost the only one I read) regularly in September or October I think, and have sort of become 'addicted' meaning I check in every day almost. (except on Sunday when the computer is OFF) Anyhow I have been so blest and thankful for you sharing the truth of the Gospel. I say "Amen Amen Amen" (& Amen again!) Thank you so much! I have not commented before, but have always though I'd like to, and also to write you and tell you what a blessing you've been to me. So God bless you and I think of you so often. Great news on the baby, and make sure you rest!! In Christ, Ruth Ann
(from Jacksonville, Florida)
oh sorry I'm anonymous but don't have a blog or anything!
I've commented only a couple times before...I've been reading your blog since about when you started it. We found out about you when you had the Covenant Wedding site. :) I also took your first home business class.
My name is Sarah, I'm 20 years old, and I live in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.
Hi! My name is Amy, I will be 21 soon, and I am a dedicated follower of Christ! I have been reading your blog and enjoying your entire website for a couple months. Currently I live at home with my mom and siblings, but next week I will be traveling out of state to participate in a children's ministry training course for 12 weeks- I am very excited about this opportunity! I am engaged to a wonderful, godly man and we a planning to be married in December. I am really looking forward to being a wife and mother as I have desired this since I was in high school and it is so encouraging to read this site and be encouraged by Crystal and the many other women who are stay-at-home mothers. Sometimes society can be so unkind when people make that decision or express an interest in doing that! I have been specifically encouraged by the discussion of birth control/family planning. My fiance and I have been discussing this issue lately and feel that God has laid it on our hearts to let Him have full control of our family in this area. We are excited about this, but also a little concerned- I have type 1 diabetes and recently was talking with my diabetes educators, they told me that I could never have an unplanned pregnancy because it could be very harmful to the baby if my blood sugar levels are not well controlled, my endocrinologist has also said that I might only be able to have 2 or 3 children because of my diabetes- I don't think any of my doctors will like the idea of not using any birth control. We know that God can overcome these circumstances- He is the One who allowed me to develop diabetes in the first place-but I am in need of some encouragement in this area still- does anyone have any suggestions?
About decorating- I haven't had a lot of experience in that area but I do know that I want to have an "apple" kitchen when I am married!
Sorry this is so long, thank you for taking the time to read it through!
Amy =)
I'm Anne, 32 years old from Atlanta, GA. My husband and I are working toward me being a stay at home wife and mother within the next two years. I have enjoyed your blog for some time. Congratulations on the baby!
Hi, my name is Sharon and I just started to read your blog about a month ago. My sister-in-law really liked it and that is how I found it. I really enjoy reading your blog!
Hi Crystal,
I am a native of PA but have lived in Kentucky for the last 9+ years. My husbands grandparents were from Mankato,KS, by the way. My husband is an English teacher at a Christian school. We have three boys, ages 9 (almost 10), 6 and 2. Your blogging inspired me to start one. I have enjoyed reading yours so much and it's great to be in touch with other Christians. I enjoy your blog so much.
Warmly,
Amy http://blog.360.yahoo.com/acbmom23byz
I'm not a lurker, but I'll comment anyway. :)
I've been reading your blog ever since you started it, and I love it!! A lot of times I check YOUR blog before I check mine, if that tells you anything! lol
Hi Crystal,
I'm new to your site. I find you very refreshing. I wish I had known what your know when I was in my 20s...I'm now 39. All I heard growing up that I needed to be independent and take care of myself.
I went to college and later law school. I married a wonderful man looking for a woman just like "me". Before we married I told him that if he wanted children I was not the one. Children were a liability in my opinion.
After getting married we joined a church and I started attending a bible study and my life changed. My views didn't transform overnight, but I'm definitely a different person 14 years later. I began learning the real role for a woman.
We now have three kiddos and I'm a SAHM/SAHW for this first time this year. At the peak of my career, I left a job paying six figures because being a mom and wife is much more important.
Feminism is so sad because if girls fall for this lie (like I did), it is not easy to change course once you have a baby and realize how much your child and being a wife means.
Crystal, good for you.
Love,
Newathome
Hi! I'm Jaclyn. I've only commented a few times, but I read your blog at least twice daily! :) It's been such an encouragement since I found it as a link off another site last summer.
I'm a stay-at-home daughter and I graduated from home-school high school in June 2006. I'm attending our church's Bible Institute in order to continue my education. I have two sisters and a brother (all younger) and I've lived in Georgia, near Atlanta, for most of my life. But we've also spent 5 years in California while my dad was attending The Master's Seminary, and 5 years in Novosibirsk, Siberia where my dad taught at a seminary. I'm excited about what the Lord has done in my life and look forward to what He will do in the future!
Thank you for your encouraging blog; keep up the good work! May the Lord bless you and your family.
jaclyn
Can't seem to find your post asking advice on getting your daughter to stay in her bed.
Just wanted to tell you what my dad did w/my little sister. She was 2 and kept climbing into my parent's bed at night. Without saying a word, every time she climbed into the bed, my dad would gently put her back in her room, amid a lot of thrashing and screaming. This happened 152 in one night. After that, she stayed in her bed.
No yelling, spanking, punishments or big long explanations. That did it.
well, i guess i'll take a few minutes to introduce myself before i head off to bed for the night. wow, after reading all the other comments on this post, i feel like the grandma of the bunch. actually, i'm not one yet, but maybe someday. my name is joyce. we live in PA. i am 47, married for 25 years this june; we have 5 girls here on earth, ages 22, 18, 14, 12, and 3. we have 6 babies in heaven. my oldest daughter is getting married in two months, my second oldest is the decorator of my household- she studied graphic design for almost a year, but then switched over to massage therapy and is loving it. we have homeschooled all the way so far, and i figure i'm halfway to retirement as a teacher mom, having completed 17 years of homeschooling, and having about 15 yet to go! i am not sure how i stumbled onto crystal's blog, but i have enjoyed reading all the posts and comments. i just usually lurk, as we have 5 of us home most of the time, sharing one computer (see, that's why i do my stuff at 10:30 pm! when everyone else is in bed). i so appreciate this blog and the ways it challenges me in my motherhood- still learning after all these years!
(sorry for those who are frustrated by my lack of capitalization in typing- it's just quicker for me. in "real life"/homeschooling, i'm a stickler for good grammar and all that's associated with it)
My name is Claire. I am wife to Rob and mother to five wonderful blessings, three boys and two girls ( in that order). I have been reading your blog for well over one year and enjoy the encouragement I recieve from like-minded women. Even here in the deep south I am amazed at the affects of feminism and am seeking God's face in turning the dangerous tide that feminism has taken on the church, marriages, and families. May God bless you as you care for your precious daughter and nurture your unborn. What an incredibly exciting time in your lives.
Claire
Hi Crystal! I'm a 31 year old emergency room doctor, married to the man of my dreams who is also an emergency room doctor. We are both conservative Christians and have a 3 year old and a 2 year old, and hopefully more in the future! I love your blog and I find you to be a very inspiring lady!
Love,
Valerie
Hi! My name is Amanda. I am 20 years old and live at home with 8 out of ten of my siblings. Our family has moved three times in 15 years, and always into a house that needed work. We are currently remodeling our third house, and plan to stay and enjoy it when it is finished.
I like to rearrange furniture in our girls room, and I absolutely hate clutter. Sewing, cooking and gardening are also very enjoyable. We have a 6,000 sq. foot garden, so I have lots of gardening to do when in season. I help Mom with the younger children's phonics. I also hope to be married some day and be blessed with lots of children.
Hello, My name is Victoria and I live in Singapore with my family of ten. I'm not sure where I found your blog, but I think it might be through either YLCF or Tammy Luna. I enjoy reading some of your posts.
Hi! My name is Christie, and I live in Georgia with my WONDERFUL husband and our 2 daughters... we're expecting our third child in June. I've been a lurker for quite some time. I've thoroughly enjoyed your blog!! I'm trying to break years of a more liberal Christian mindset, and this blog has been a wonderful resource and encouragement! Congratulations on your recent move, and most importantly your pregnancy! My prayers are with you and the precious child in your womb.
Yay, introductions! One thing I loved about our old bible study was that they asked "Get-to-know-you" questions every week, even though we'd known each other for so long. So anyways:
My name is Beth, and I'm twenty....four? Yes that must be it. They say pregnant women are more likely to forget things and I got the heavy end of the stick in that area. I'm a SAHM to my 18 mo old, Olivia, and a wife to my dh of 3 1/2 years, Josh, who is working on his doctrate at Purdue. We have a little boy blessing us with his arrival around March 21, although by the size of my belly you'd think I'm past due. I was a teacher before I became a SAHM - I taught 3 year olds for a year and then my favorite grade - third! (Both at a Christian school).
We move around a lot - basically whenever my husband graduates, so we moved in 2004, 2006, and we'll be moving again in 2008 most likely. And actually, I'm hoping to find a different apartment with a washer dryer connection, so we might be moving in 2007, too! Anyway, all that moving has given me much more practice in the area of decorating than I've ever had before, and though I keep getting better (this is our best looking apartment yet), I've got a long way to go still (we need curtains, and I'd love to paint the walls, but if we're moving in a year, what's the point?) So instead of giving tips, I'll just be soaking in the tips from the more decorative and experienced commenters.
Hello! My name is Rhonda, and I am almost 35. I live in Georgia with my wonderful husband of 15 years and three beautiful girls (ages 11, 7, and 1). I discovered your web site about a month ago via another web site, so I haven't been a lurker for too long! I homeschool our girls during the day and work part-time as a medical transcriptionist at night, usually while everyone else is sleeping. My husband is a UPS driver and a part-time pastor for a small but wonderful and growing church in Alabama. As you can tell, there's not much time left for me to leave comments, but I really enjoy reading what you have to say. Your recent posts have hit home with me this week. I LOVE organizing/cleaning and decorating. As far as organizing/cleaning, I generally follow the Emilie Barnes plan of deep cleaning one room per day and just picking up or surface cleaning the other rooms on that particular day. I love her More Hours in My Day book. I read it years ago and it helped me get my home organized, and I've been pretty diligent about keeping it that way. My girls are a lot of help, and my 11-year-old can clean just as well as I can - the 7 (almost 8)-year-old is not far behind. As for decorating, I love yard sales! Not sure if this store is around your "neck of the woods," but I love to shop at Ross for decorating accessories. A big mirror with a pretty frame always makes a nice focal point, and candles can make any home more "homey," as well as live plants. It's the little things that make the difference.
I better get going, but thanks for this web site and all that comes with it. I still have so much to learn as a wife, mother, and child of God, and I appreciate sites like this that offer encouragement and help in these areas. Bless you and your sweet family!
Love, Rhonda
Hi! My name is Dawn, I am 25 years old, married to my hubby for 5.5 years and we have no children yet, but are working on that....LOL. I got saved 5.5 years ago as well and serving God is one of the greatest things in life. We currently live in Germany (it's all the Army's fault) but would much rather be back on US soil.
I enjoy penpalling, stickers, stationary, Hello Kitty, Thomas Kinkade, praying, weddings, Bible study, board games, cookbooks, candles, Pepsi and so much more.
Toodles!
Hi Crystal, Not really just a lurker here, but this is Martha, I live one of the Western states with my 4 boys and husband! I stay at home and homeschool our boys as well as stay busy caring for my grandma a couple times a week. I enjoy blogging when I get the chance as it gives me a outlet for my creative ideas and thoughts! I enjoy reading, cooking (usually) and learning new things! Someday I would like to learn how to write better so I can write a book about all my favorite books complete with reviews for all ages.
Hello Crystal!
My name is Sarah and I a 30-year-old Mama to 3 (5,2,4Months). We are currently livig in Germany but I have decided to move to Spain as soon as I can arrange it. I am a single stay-at-home Mum, working as a translator.
I think I found your blog in Spring last year and I love it very much. Your posts are very interesting and inspiring to me.
Thank you for always sharing your thoughts,
Love Sarah
Hi,
my name is Anna-Maria. I'm 32 years old and I live in Finland. I found your blog last summer and I've been visiting it since then.
I've been married to my dear husband Timo for almost ten years. Unfortunately, we dont' have children. Experiencing infertility has been the biggest crisis in my life but we are now living happily as a family of two, no plans for adoption. God has given us a peace with it, but of course there are sometimes difficult days, too.
I work full-time in the hectic IT world but reading your blog (and other blogs dealing with biblical womanhood) has given me a whole new perspective on my role as a woman and as a wife. Your blog is such an encouragement and inspiration to me - thank you! God bless you and your family.
I'm Sarah, 25, two kiddos ages 2 1/2 yrs and 11 months:) I rarely comment but read your blog very regularly! Starting reading.... when you started it!:)
I don't decorate much but would like to do more in our still-new home.
HI Crystal,
I am a lurker around here as well, but I do also have a blog. My name is Holly and I am married to the love of my life, John. We have 7 children here with us and 4 in heaven. We homeschool. I enjoy reading, scrapbooking, sewing, and crocheting. I would love to learn to knit! I would also love to adopt some children someday. Nice to meet everyone!
Hi, I'm Marla. I don't think I've ever commented. I'm 37, married to a navy pilot and homeschooling mother to 6 children. We live in Mississippi. I only discovered blogs after the birth of #6 in August when I googled "homeschooling with a newborn". I've been having a lot of fun reading over at homeschoolblogger and followed a link from there to get to you. Your posts bring back memories of when mine were all little. They range in age from 15-4 1/2 months now.
Hi Crystal,
I'm Dee from Des Moines, Iowa. I'm 33 years old, and just celebrated my 15th wedding anniversary. My husband and I have two sons, 8.5 & 7, who we homeschool, and we are praying for another baby. (Congrats on your pregnancy!) I love reading your blog. Your sweet spirit shines through your writing and is a great source of encouragement to me.
Thanks for all the time you put into the blog, and may God continue to bless you and your family.
My name is Leah. I'm 29 years old. My husband, Scott(32 today!), and I have been married for 6.5 years. We have 3 precious sons so far. John is 4.5 years old. Noah will soon be 3 years old. And Isaiah is 2.5 months old. My husband is an organic dairy farmer here in upstate NY. I am blessed to be a SAH wife and mama. We homebirth, homeschool, and homestead.
I'm not much of a decorator. And I don't like clutter. :)
Hi Crystal,
I'm not a lurker but just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your blog. It is one I check everyday. I can always count on you sharing a bit of encouraging advice about owning a business, raising a family and about what it truely means to be a helpmeet.
Thank you and God Bless,
Trixie
Hi Crystal,
I've been reading your blog for sometime. Thank you for devoting it to the godliness of women. It is so refreshing to visit here with you. Blessings be on you and yours during this exciting (and sometimes weary) time in your lives!
I am Marva from Alabama. I am a 30 year old child of God, mother to 9 month old twin boys, wife (of 8 years)to a God fearing hubby, John. I farm with my parents and brother.
I came upon your blog this summer while taking it off to take care of my premmie sons (early by 2 months). It has been such an incredible blessing to me! Thank you for all of your hard work and for "letting your light shine". Lifting you up in prayer!
Hello Crystal,
I am so glad to find out this is National De-Lurking Week.
My name is Deanna. I'm a 20 year old homeschool graduate from Maine and live at home with my parents and three younger siblings. I have been reading your blog for about a year (I think). Congratulations on the new baby coming this summer!
~Deanna
Hi, I'm Janna over at the blog "Bread Crumbs" and thought I'd de-lurk for you! :) I'm not afraid to write comments, but probably like most, am just too rushed to add some "two cents" that matter.
Sorry, I'm not into decorating, like you, but I need someone like you to fix my house! :)
But, I do love to golf, read, write, play the piano, watch college basketball (MU Tigers), & NFL football (KC Chiefs). I'm a Missouri gal living in Kansas.
Have a great day!
Crystal,
I'm so glad to hear you're doing better! You've been in my prayers.
I like decorating, when I'm not working absolutely from scratch. It's fun to find creative ways of using what I already have.
Since I'm living at home still, my primary decorating area is my bedroom. I'm fond of books, so there's plenty of those...on the floor, on the bookshelf, in the closet (!).
I also collect vintage linens and doilies (I've found great deals at garage sales), and I use them to tie together whatever "look" I want at the time.
One thing I have enjoyed doing is hanging a standard size poster frame on my wall. I found a large calendar at a giveaway once with beautiful castle pictures, so every few months I put a new one in the frame.
I guess you'd call my style lived-in old-fashioned. :-)
Hi Crystal~
I'm not a lurker, but I'll certainly re-introduce myself :-)
I'm Sommer in the bay area of California. I'm 31, married almost 9 years to my dear hubby. We have two beautiful daughters and are expecting our first son the first weekend of February.
I've been a fulltime stay at home mom since April of last year and I've been checking out your blog for about a year.
I love to knit, sew and read. I hope to start a small online business one of these days.
I like to decorate...I like my home to be inviting and cozy. Wish I had some ideas..but I'm trying to work on decluttering before my baby comes :-)
Blessings,
Sommer
Hi! My name is Kara. I have a wonderful husband - we've been married for 4 years - a sweet little boy (18 mos.), & a baby due in 7 wks. We live in Chicago.
This is one of the only websites I really visit so I enjoy coming here (and commenting) pretty often!
It is good to hear from so many others.
:)
soHi! My name is Kate, I'm 17, now the only daughter of my parents, as my big sis just got married! I've been reading your blog for quite a while, I think it was my mom who found it. I'm a dedicated stay-at-home daughter, waiting as patiently as possible for my Mr. Right to come along, and serving my Lord while I'm waiting.
As a matter of fact, it was your booklet about young women starting up home business (The Merchant Maiden) that gave me the idea to be a mother's helper, as well as start up a home business!
Hello, Crystal! My name is Ann. I am 33 yo from the Southeastern US. I am a pharmacist who works some from home, but mostly I am a SAHM and homeschooler to our two girls (and one on the way). I enjoy many activities such as cooking, sewing, and gardening. I love to spend time with my husband and girls outside with our horses and other animals.
I greatly enjoy your writings and your perspective. The fun and the serious posts have all been a blessing.
I do LOVE to decorate. One of the jobs the Lord provided during college was with an interior decorater who became a mentor and friend. I learned so much from her and was able to incorporate concepts (of decorating and godly marriage) into our home when my husband and I were married (10 years ago).
Have fun with your new home! God bless you and your family!
Crystal,
I'm a homeschool mom and wife in Phoenix, AZ. I have 4 children and have been reading your blog for about a year. When I saw the pictures of your lovely new home and read the decoration discussion, I just had to post. You blue sofa reminded me of the cover picture I saw recently on www.potternbarn.com. They show a beautiful family room with a blue sofa as the central piece. Maybe it will spark ideas for you..be sure and take a look at it!
Hi! My name is Jill, I'm 30 years old. My hubby and two dogs and I live in MO. I'm a nurse manager at a local hospital. My husband works for the police dept (cops and nurses, a natural combination!)I love to decorate. In fact, Crystal's recent move has inspired me to rearrange my livingroom and my hubby loves it! The main thing I watch on television are decorating shows-Love Decorating Cents with Joan Steffand! I am addicted to Hobby Lobby, I'm probably there once per week-got to use my weekly coupon!
Hi Crystal,
I'm probably the longest lurker you ever had, started reading well about a week after you started blogging. Never commented but liked coming by and reading. I am seventeen, live with my family in TEXAS on a farm where my dad and brothers grows mostly cotton, peanuts, and grapes (all organicly). I play the paino, cello, banjo, and I play with my family band(we have eleven children and we all play some instrument except the three year old). I really have enjoyed your blog.
Marissa in TEXAS
Hi, my name is Christian. I live in the southeast. I am 30 years old and have been married to my wonderful husband who is a professor for 7 years. We have two young sons, ages 4 and 1 who keep me very busy full time at home.
My husband and I enjoy modernist furniture, art, and architecture. Decorating in our home is a callaborative effort, in fact my husband has stronger opinions than I do so he mainly does the deocorating but I reserve the right to exercise veto power! We are constantly on the sniff for good deals on classic modernist pieces -- in fact we're not above dumpster diving from time to time in order to "rescue" thoughtlessly discarded mid-century modern classics.
Hi! I'm Anna Lofgren, and I've been reading your blog for a while, just not commenting. I'm 16, the 6th of 7 children. I enjoy reading, writing, scrapbooking, sewing, cooking, and a multitude of other things! I've really enjoyed reading all that you write, even though I'm not yet a mother. Oh - and I enjoy decorating as well. =)
I'm a 28 yr old Tx native living outside of Philadelphia with my husband of 4 years. we have an almost 2 yr. old, and after 2 miscarriages this year, are on our 3rd try (18 weeks - yay!). I've been reading for several months now, and while I don't always agree with little theological points here and there, overall I enjoy it, it has stretched me, and it has given me great frugal ideas since we have no $$!! (which as a result, we have a little more since i'm better at being frugal now)
Hi Crystal!
This is a great idea, I love reading the posts of other lurkers! I'm a 25 year old Pharmacist from northern Sweden. I first heard of you several years ago through YLCF, and have read your blog from almost the time you started it. I probably visit here once a day or every other day and I enjoy it very much although I have only posted once before!=) I'm not married and have no children, and live away from home(with a (female)friend) and work full time at a Pharmacy so one might wonder why I read your blog so often! We have lots of similarities though, I'm the oldest of 9 children, and am a Christian with pretty much the same beliefs as you. I would love to stay at home if/when I get married and have children, and am very much interested in homeschooling. This is a very foreign idea in Sweden and only 100 families homeschool in the entire country. Many who want to are not permitted to, so that might be a problem some day. SAHD/W/M are very, very unusual even among Christians, and therefore I'm incredibly glad to have found you and many others through the internet.
I'm still in the process of decorating my apartment, although I've lived here for over 6 months already. My life is so full of activities and decorating is not among my top priorities. I have a deadline set for May, and hope to be done by then!
Thank you Crystal for being so open and honest about your life and faith. I'm a much more private person, and also have very little time to blog myself(though I have thought about it several times) and really admire you and others like you!
God bless you!
Hi, Crystal! My name is Erin. I am 25 years old, living with my parents in the suburbs of Chicago for now as I pursue my master's degree in writing.
I don't remember how I came upon your blog a few months ago, but I've enjoyed reading it. One thing I appreciate is when you blog about your "imperfect" moments; it helps me see that you, too, are human and not this perfect, impersonal member of the blogosphere.
Hey Crystal.
I am needing some help!!! :-)
And thought maybe you could get your bloggers to help me to!
I will be getting married on March 9th. And of course with all the things to do and set up for a new home. I am kinda swamped!!!
I have been thinking about how to set up a NEW household panty/fridge/freezer/household goods items!!!!
How did you fair when you first got married? Did you plan for a few months ahead and buy tings way before? I am planning on hitting sales and things to buy household goods. Cleaning stuff ect... But I am at a loss as how to go about buying first time food!! I dont want to go out my first 2 weeks of my marragie and spend a TON of money on food! I have been doing coupons with my mom for about a year and she saves hundreds a month. So I am willing to do coupons but I was wondering if anyone had some sort of plan that they went by to be able to do it with there sanity still left! I know how to shop on a menu and that is no problem in buying the acctual food like for meal planning. I am needing more help with like spices/baking goods/ect ect ect!!! :-) any help would be soooooooo helpfull!!!!!
Thanks so much ladies!
Hi,
I love your blog and have posted a few times. My Name is Sara,I have a wonderful DH and 3 wonderful children 5, 3 and 1...so far anyway. I've been out for awhile do to our computer being down cause we put our tree where it goes. I'm in desperate need on decorating advice too. We live in a small apartment with flat white paint on campus. Can't do too much. WE dont have much extra as DH is a student, not working and I'm a SAHM. Plus we will be leaving in late 2008.
Hi, my name is Jessie, and I'm 17 years old. I live in South Carolina with my parents, my sister, and various animals. I love to decorate!
I'm Samantha, also Sam(antha) and Samismad. I'm 22, a new Christian, and single. Just finished uni, studied to be a teacher. I can't wait to get married and have lots of children. My blog is at
http://sam-is-mad.blogspot.com/
Crystal,
I have been reading your blog for a few months, and can't get enough of your frugal ideas. You have been such an encouragement and an inspiration! I wish I knew these things when I was 20, but I guess it's never too late to learn.
I am 34 years old and have been married to Mr. Hewett for 14 years this April. Two weeks before our 11th anniversary we were blessed with the birth of our daughter. Two months ago, we adopted our son from China. We live in Western PA and I am privileged to be a stay-at-home wife and mama. I love reading, genealogy, history and crafting.
We moved here 4 years ago this month into a house at least half the size of our previous one. We planned to buy a smaller house so we could manage on one income. The downside to that is all the clutter one accumulates. It was easy to hide in the bigger house (lots of closet space and basement storage), but in the little house, it has no where to hide.
I am currently trying to de-clutter ruthlessly and get things organized. I know after 4 years I should have already done this, but we had a storage unit to contain the excess. I say HAD, because we canceled our unit before our son's adoption in order to reduce expenses. So now the few tiny closets and small basement in our little house are overflowing with "stuff". The purging process is taking time, but we'll get there eventually - I hope.
I guess that's the long way of saying my current decorating plan is to de-clutter and organize. Once that herculean task is accomplished, I will be able to think about prettying things up. I think getting rid of all the clutter will be such a huge improvement, I may not need to do much decorating!
One thing I do try to do, is use items I have around the house in new ways. I need to be resourceful and use what I already have because our budget is small.
Well, this is a lot more wordy than I thought it would be. I'd better go before I ramble on any more!
Blessings,
Mrs. Hewett
Hi! My name is Anna. I've never commented on anyone's blog before! :)
I'm a 28-year old wife to Dan and mother to two precious daughters, ages 3 1/2 and 19 months. We live in Michigan. We recently moved out to a larger home on 7 acres where we hope to raise livestock and our own food for as many children as God will bless us with.
I came upon your blog about a year ago and find it to be a great source of encouragement. I appreciate your thoughtful posts. I do read and learn from several blogs that would be considered "older women teaching the younger". However, it is also very encouraging to read about other young mothers who aren't afraid to go against the tide of modern motherhood/womanhood. I can relate to your daily struggles and joys as I try and guide my own young children through each day.
I also admire the way you unashamedly look to your husband for guidance with your blog/comments.
Thanks for being an encouragment! I'll be praying for you and your new blessing on the way!
~Anna
Hi Crystal,
Thank you for your excellent blog. I have enjoyed "lurking" here for about a year now. It was actually from reading your blog that I got inspired to start my own.
I'm a stay-at-home daughter who enjoys music, reading, knitting, and cooking to name a few interests. And as far as decorating...I enjoy it, but don't do a whole lot since I don't have my own house! I am so glad that you and your family have a new house that you can decorate. :) God bless you all!
-Michelle
Hi! I'm not a lurker; I've been reading for about as long as you've had this blog, but I thought I'd reintroduce myself anyway.
I'm Carrie, a 29-year old SAHM from NH. I've been married to Jim for almost 7.5 years, and we have two precious children: Sam (2-3/4 yrs.), and Julia (8-1/2 mos.)
I enjoy your posts so much and have been inspired and challenged by your blog!
Hi! I'm a 20 year old lurker planning to be married June 2nd who much appreciates all your homemaking & wifely tips.
Hi! I started reading your blog a couple of months ago, I was looking for good blogs about Homemaking and such!
My name is Julia and I live in Oklahoma right now going to Bible School, but originally from Florida. I just got married in August of this year, and I am thoroughly loving married life! I really just want to be the best Godly wife I can be to my husband, and I love reading about all kinds of tips about cooking, cleaning, decorating, etc. I LOVE decorating!
Hi Crystal,
My name is Eugenie and I'm a journalist from New Zealand. Single, no kids. I'm not a Christian and I disagree with many of your views. But I like to read a wide range of materials, and I find your writing to be clear and very thought-provoking.
Hi! I'm Lisa from Ontario, Canada. I'm a SAHM of five girls and a boy, homeschooler, reader, gardener, cross stitcher, former RN. My dh is a high school teacher.
Love your blog. Continue being honest and approachable! Your daughter is adorable and I can't wait to see what new adorableness is in store in the form of your new babe.
I like to decorate, but I am sooooo not good at achieving the effect I really want. It's fun trying, though.
Hi Crystal,
My name is Bethany, I'm a 31 year old single Children's Ministry Director working in an evangelical church in Dubai (United Arab Emirates), struggling between my desire to serve God through my service at the church and my desire to be serving thorough hospitatlity in the home (even in the single state God has placed me). I've been reading your blog for a few months now...came across it while doing some research on Biblical roles of men and women to share with a friend of mine and have enjoyed getting to know you and your family through your blog.
As far as decorating goes, I love it. I've lived overseas most of my life (parents are missionaries), and love to travel and my small studio flat is a tribute to all of the beautiful places and cultures around the world God has given me the priviledge of experiencing. Between pictures and knick knacks it's a little more national geographic than home, but I love to have my memories around me.
Thanks for the encouragement through the blog!
Bethany
Hello, Crystal,
I live in the Pacific Northwest. I learned to knit a cable pattern in 1962 from my sister. I have knit several hats, sweaters and afghans since then.
Vera.
Hi Crystal! I'm so glad you're off of bedrest!!
I'm a 33 year old wife, mom and music director living in central Ohio. My husband, who is a music professor and opera singer, and I have 3 children- ds 6, dd 4, ds 1- with another boy on the way. I've been reading your blog for a couple of months and really enjoy your honest view of life, God, and your roles as wife and mom. I consider myself a SAHM, although I work at a church, and have found wonderful friends in the blogging world!
Thanks for your ministry!
Hi from south central Pennsylvania! My name is Jendi [pronounced Jen-dee]. I'm a 29 year old stay at home wife of 8 1/2 years with 3 children. [4 yo boy, 2 yo girl, and 7 mon. old girl] I do have a job I do from home that has been a blessing.
A friend recommended your blog this past fall and though I didn't care for it at first I'm hooked now! I especially enjoyed your "pajama" blog =).
I enjoy decorating...the house, the yard, the church, for parties, for seasons...even though it's kind of low priority right now. I would like to redo my house with more of a scheme for each room; it's just whatever I had/was given.
God bless you as you live for Him.