Feelin' special!

Did ya'll know that there were awards for blogging?? Yep! And I have become the recipient of two this week. I know, I'm still baffled by it myself. :) I started out blogging to share pictures of the boys, their antics, and our news with long distance friends and family members (mostly my mom...). I really enjoyed it, and I think they appreciated the updates. After a few weeks I began to realize that writing is so much more than newsy updates to me - it is an energy giving weird cathartic type of passion (nice way to say obsession?). To me, words are beautiful! I love writing. Clear and simple! So, I began to share my heart a little bit more. Sharing our experiences from J.D. and K's early birth was heartwarming and special for me. Opening up our lives to be able to encourage others and show them God's faithfulness really excited me. And I was surprised by the response. People are reading my blog. :) People who I've never met are commenting and encouraging me. Who ever would've thought?! Not me.

Most recently you have traveled with me during our latest journey through loss. Something unexpected. A story line that I had not anticipated or prepared for. Most of the time through the posts of the last couple of weeks I have written for me. Sat down at the computer and used a keyboard to direct my focus and sort through my thoughts. I have at times almost forgotten that it's not just my little space - that people actually read it. :) And then I get the sweet comments and I'm seriously shocked at the response. By the way, I have become a bit weird about my comments now. Like checking e-mail often and doing a happy dance when I get them. I know - kind of sad, but I just don't get out much and it really means that much to me. :) You know if you are a blogger you can relate, even if just a teeny bit!

These are special to me. :)

The blog of distinction award was given to me by Sarah @life in the parsonage. If you've never checked out her blog, you really need to. :) It's a daily read for me AND I have actually sat down in her living room, ate food with her, and had Bible study with her before. Makes me close to a celebrity. Keep hoping, you may get the chance some day too. :) My parents and sister's family go to the church that her husband pastors. Yes she really is as nice and beautiful as she seems. :) This award was given to me by Christina @an unspoken story is shared when you take a photo! accompanied by these words which really touched me: "Wendi -I learn and grow every time I read her blog. She is so true to the things that matter most in life (her faith and family) and she stretches me in those areas with her amazing writing."

Christina and I both know a thing or two about little boys. :) Christina is a sweet, dedicated, hard working lady! I've met her in real life, but never really knew her until we began reading each other's blogs. Is this fun stuff or what?

There are rules that accompany these awards and one of them is to pass them on to other blog authors who inspire. I look forward to following through with that in the future!

Thank you friends! I don't feel like I have much to offer, but I appreciate the encouragement to continue doing what I love. Be careful though, you are really feeding an obsession. :)

(So blogger is apparently having some image issues. I don't have time to fight with it today. I had image issues today too, so I get it. :) If the pictures aren't coming through for you - use your imagination. And I swear I didn't make it up. They were cool and pretty and...)

Happy Independence Day! Looking forward to fireworks, camping in the yard, smores, watermelon, air shows, hot air balloons, more fire works, picnics - you get the picture. :) Lets share photos after the weekend! I can't wait.