Ramblings on Gifts, Pies, and Blogs

Yesterday was quite an eventful day around here.

The morning was an especially early one for me ~ I spent much of it preparing for friends that were coming to visit in the evening.  Picking up toys, dusting furniture, running laundry... But then I baked one of these:

And also one of these:

Both are so very good paired with ice cream or coffee...

But, alas, I digress.

It was especially eventful here yesterday because of the many lovely ladies that came to visit Like a Bubbling Brook from Money Saving Mom.  Thank you, Crystal, for including my Homemade Chai Tea Kit idea on your DIY gift post.  It was a wonderful privilege to be included!

Yesterday's link lit an idea in me; I began to think of what a blessing sites like Money Saving Mom have been to our family - and many of you - over the last few years.  I remember following along with Crystal on a couple of her previous sites as well and was always so very encouraged by her posts.

So, today I thought I'd share a few of the other blogs that I've found to be a tremendous blessing, and each of these I've followed for at least a year, some two or three years.  Inevitably, I may not agree with everything they've shared on their sites over the course of time, but the inspiration has been invaluable ~

Eyes of Wonder - She doesn't post often anymore, but her photos, stories of family, and simplicity have been a treasure.  Her children are mostly grown and she has many lessons and thoughts to share.

Cultivating Home - She raises chickens and ducks, lives simply, is rehabbing a beautiful old home for pennies on the dollar, and has such beautiful children; we've never met in person, but I often feel like we are the oldest of friends when I am reading her posts.

The Prudent Homemaker - She says that her site is dedicated to all those who struggle to put food on the table, but I've found her site to be much more than that; her recipes are frugal and delicious, her gardening and canning abilities inspire me, and I really, really desire a thoughtful, well-stocked pantry like the one she's created.

And last, but certainly not least, is my sweet friend Mrs. June Fuentes's blog, A Wise Woman Builds Her Home.  When I first came across her blog a couple of years ago I had no idea that we lived near each other and would one day be spending time with each other's families.  She is a well of wisdom, and I never tire of gleaning from her.  I highly recommend her Christian Mother Series if you have the time.

Be blessed and encouraged today, ladies ~ you were created for such a time as this, in His image, and He knows the plans He has for you.

Do you have a favorite site or blog that you've followed for a year or more?  I'd love to hear about it in the comment section!

           Warmly,