Thanks Jan!

I remember a few years ago, my friend Jan suggested I read this blog called, "The Pioneer Woman."  First of all, I had absolutely NO idea what a blog was, much less this Pioneer Woman  All I could picture in my mind was Laura from Little House on the Prairie. (sidenote:  I LOVED those books, but hated the tv series; mostly because of Melissa Gilbert's teeth. )  (OH-sidenote to the sidenote:  she grew up to be a pretty lady, she grew into those choppers)

Anyway..... Like I said I had no idea what a blog was.  So, I admit, I kinda blew off the whole idea of looking at it.  Jan would continue to suggest blogs to me, and after being stubborn for just so long, I decided to finally CLICK on one she sent me.  It just so happened to be NieNie's blog.  Jan had told me about her accident, and I started reading just before she came back to blogging.  I got caught up in all the posts about her accident, her time in the hospital, her family, her challenges, and mostly, her strength.  I honestly don't know anyone who doesn't know NieNie, but if you don't know what I'm talking about, check her out here.  She reminds me, daily, what I aspire to be; a strong, beautiful, funny woman and mom.  And, she also helps me put things into perspective:  do NOT sweat the small stuff.

Well, after reading all this, I started to understand just what a blog was, and found myself reading all the blogs Jan suggested.  I read about moms who scrapbook, and women who just had babies.  I met Pioneer Woman (finally!!) and fell in love with her, her kids, Marlboro Man, and Charlie.  I honestly think she is one of my best friends; even if I've never won any of her giveaways.  (I'll never stop trying!)

I began to try her recipes.  A funny thing happened, I started to gain confidence in the kitchen.  I've never been much of a cook, but with PW's help, I started to make some good grub.  I'm loving cooking, and find it one of the most relaxing social activities.  I find myself wanting new pots and pans, new knives, a new kitchen, a food processor, and all sorts of kitchen gadgets.  Five years ago?  This never would have been a thought in my  mind.

And, then I started my blog.  Now, I find myself looking at the world in a different light.  "This would make a good blog" or, "I must get pictures for my post."  I love blogging and love reading other people's blogs.  I've made some good friends through blogging, that I consider to be very close to my soul.  I read some blogs on a daily basis, and truly care about the people and their lives.  I'm in love with blogging!!  I honestly feel that a whole "nother" world has been opened up to me. 

So, thanks Jan!  I'm sorry I was so darn stubborn.  I can't remember life before blogging, but I"m guessing it was a bit lonelier.  You've given me some friends, some role models, and probably an extra 10 pounds.  I thank ya!

(and folks, check out Jan's blog here!!)