“Theme”-day Thursday

So, I’ve decided that the theme for February will be Love Notes. A definite nod to the holiday that encourages amorous expressions to all we hold dear. And even though half the month falls after said holiday- I figure any time is a good time to tell someone you love them- and I hope to give you some ideas that you can use all year round.

The first idea I had was to show you some of the cards I’m making for my kiddos this year- but, sadly, my 2-year-old got hold of my camera yesterday. RIP my little Kodak easy-share- it was good while you lasted. Yes, my camera has gone the way of the dodo and is no longer in existence. So, while I figure out how to take pictures while I scrounge up enough money to purchase a new camera- I thought I’d share some blogging love notes with you all.

My first love note has to be to Martha Stewart. My darling lady- you are definitely a fearsome creature to behold. I would hate to cross swords with you. But, you have re-invented a genre- and encouraged entire generations of creative souls who will forever be in your debt. Through your magazines I have learned to knit, crochet, embroider and have expanded my creative horizons to include hundreds of “good things”. Martha- I love you. And even though I had to cancel my magazine subscription because it was making me crazy trying to live up to your expectations- you still hold a special place in my heart.

My next love note goes to Gwen, from Gwenny Penny. Gwen was my first real-life blogging friend. She linked to a couple of my tutorials, commented and I commented back. She is super talented and has a fantastic site. But more than that, she is a true friend- one with whom I can share my concerns and spew my most aggravated blogging angst. She shares more than one brainwave with me and I hope that one day we will be able to meet in person.

Jen from Tatertots and Jello– how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love your generous spirit- you share your hard fought spotlight with countless would-be craft bloggers like me. I love your gorgeous projects- ruffle pillows, trees and everything in between- you have a lovely style all your own and display it with pride (as you should.) I love your weekend wrap-up party- my first foray into linking was at your party. I have found great ideas through your feature posts, and you have sent many, many viewers to my little place on the internet– bless you. I love (well and kinda hate) how absolutely darling you are. Just kidding- I don’t hate it- you’re too darling to hate. You are kind and sincere and simply awesome.

Suzanne from Just Another Hang Up. I want to be you when I grow up. Seriously, I love your style, your blog and how you come across in your posts. When I am frazzled and feel like there’s so much chaos going on in my brain, I go to your blog to calm down. There is a sense of calm and serenity about you that works it’s way through the world wide web and seeps into my fingers. You are grace and beauty and I so enjoy spending time in your neck of the web.

Amy from The Idea Room. You had me at hello! j/k Actually it was probably different words, but from the moment I met you at Jen’s cookie party you have been so kind to me. You took my card, followed through and have given me so much encouragement. I love you for that! I have needed someone further along in this endeavor than I am to show me the way, and you willingly stepped into that role, just when I needed you. Genuine and sincere plus amazing ideas make you a true powerhouse in this world! 🙂

There are just too many to keep going: Amy, Leanne, Jonie, Andi, Abby, Samantha– you are all wonderful friends and I have enjoyed getting to know you all. And everyone else who leaves me comments or just stops by to visit- I LOVE you! Seriously, I LOVE YOU! You have been the motivation to keep me going even when I didn’t really want to. And I am so excited to see where we go from here. I love new relationships- they are so thrilling and exciting!

This is not all-inclusive by any means. There are so many amazing creative places out there- Lara or Ellie G or … :), Mandi, Amanda, Kari– I mean, I could {and too often do} get lost in you for hours on end. So if you’re not mentioned by name, please don’t take that to mean I don’t give away all my free time to you as well, but I have to wrap up this post at some point, right?

So, my idea for today- share the love. Write a post, or comment, or e-mail to those out there who inspire you, uplift you, or just make you smile- and share the LOVE!

XOXO,

Amy