Wednesday, January 27, 2010

because giveaways are fun

I decided to do a little giveaway to celebrate my third blogoversary (coming up next month) and also having 200+ followers (which is amazing to me--thank you! It's so fun to think that people are out there reading my little blog, which certainly was not the case when I started it!) Plus, giveaways are just fun. I really get a kick out of packaging up and mailing off a little parcel of goodies to someone who maybe loves homesewn goodness as much as I do.
So here is what you get (if you are the winner): a linen drawstring sack with a log cabin-ish heart and patchwork drawstrings (which actually are a little clunky to draw up but they are cute). This is a little bag for transporting your Valentines and chocolate hearts to work or school.
This book. I think my mom thrifted this for me awhile back, but it's a duplicate copy of what is contained in a larger volume that I own. I always browse through this each year for Valentine inspiration.
A very dark chocolate bar. I became interested in super-dark chocolate after reading Nina Planck's book. She mentioned cutting way back on sugar and weaning herself from regular dark chocolate to the 85% cocoa stuff. It's actually much better than you might think! And very heart healthy, of course.
A set of 6 of my photo postcards in a cloth pouch. I'm finding I really like the informality of a flat card instead of a folded one.
Okay, so that's it! To enter the drawing, just leave a comment on this post. Maybe ask me a question if you want (which I would try to answer in a future post), or I'd love to hear what you like about my blog or which type of posts you like. Or you can just say hello, of course. I heartily thank all of you who read my blog, comment, or send e-mails. I love love love the feeling of connection and belonging that blogging has brought to my life. I do wish I could send all of you a cheery parcel.

I'll keep the comments open through the weekend and draw the winner Sunday night. Good luck!

168 comments:

Paul and Ines said...

So cool..I'm first...Hi, I'm Ines!! And I'm your blog stalker...you make the best stuff & you are so talented. Do you have a degree in the Arts? Just wondered.

Your enjoyed here:) Have a good day!

Fun Mama - Deanna said...

Hi. I'm Deanna. I have been reading your blog for a few months. I especially enjoy your posts about food and sewing. Your photos are so wonderful!

Lisa said...

What a lovely and generous giveaway! I just recently found your blog, I think linking from another, although I can't quite recall. I love how you can happen upon new blogs unexpectedly sometimes. I've enjoyed your blog since!

stacief said...

I just love your blog! I think my mom turned me on to your blog, but I love that you have such a good balance of food, family and craftiness.

Jane said...

Oh, what lovely goodies!
Blog highlights for me include all the pictures of your sweet family, the crafty projects, peeking around your home, noticing that we almost always have at least one of the same books on the go, and hearing about how you juggle all you do and yet somehow seem to have a really good balance and a positive outlook.
It's an inspiring place to visit and I really look forward to stopping by each day.

Melissa said...

What a generous giveaway! I love reading your blog, and your pictures are always so great :)

Sarah said...

I love the variety of your posts. I appreciate your sharing as you go through your beautiful son's treatments, how you let us into your special birthday celebrations, and give us great ideas of simple homemade items to create. I just enjoy reading this little piece of sunshine...thanks :)

Jackie said...

Thanks for all the inspiration you provide on your blog. I can't remember how I stumbled upon your blog, but I'm thankful that I did! I enjoy reading about your cooking and the time that you spend together as a family in quality time.

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful giveaway! I LOVE dark chocolate so would love to try the really dark stuff.

Elfin Goddess said...

:) Everything about the giveaway is so you! I just wanted to say Im so glad I have your blog to turn to, esp on days when things are tough around here, and I need a quick, warm pick-me-up to remind me that I all I need to do to have a beautiful & blessed life is to give of myself, of my heart, my soul. And not only is the world outside transformed, but the world within has changed too. Cheers,Avril

Eagle Loft said...

Ooooh, a fun giveaway. I love the bag! Congratulations on your blogoversary!

Maria said...

Hello, Mary Beth

I've been reading your blog for a year or so. I love your books posts and all you do in kitchen and sewing. All this is a great inspiration for improving my life. Thanks.

1kiss.

Diane said...

Hi Mary Beth!

What a lovely collection of goodies; a very generous giveaway. If you're able to post overseas I would love to be counted in!

As you know, I love just about everything about your blog :-)

Diane

Melissa Goodsell said...

Your give away is beautiful and I love to be entered in the draw. I've been reading your blog for over a year now and what I enjoy most is your gentle approach to life and also seeing the sweet day to day activities that you do with your family.
I'd love to see more books from your bookshelf and also more photos from inside your home, if you feel like sharing ofcourse.

Yvonne said...

Hello. I just had to leave a comment - I love your blog. At first I didn't really get you and thought maybe you where just too good to be true and giving us all (read: me) a feeling of not being good enough. However, I got stuck following your blog and I love that you share hopes, dreams, thoughts and how everyday life (which is the best) sometimes just alters everything and it's still beautiful and meaningful. Keep up the good work, and continue to be an inspiration. A question? Do you get enough sleep?
Yvonne, Norway.

Rachael @Mogantosh said...

I love your blog too. Something about you is so calming and lovely...thanks for being you! x

Anonymous said...

hi
I love reading your blog.it inspires me in many ways.

Unknown said...

I read your blog because you are a real person living a simple natural life and love your family. It is kinda like home. Have a happy weekend! Good luck to the winner! Thanks for having your delightful blog,

Mica

Lilly said...

Dear Mary Beth, your blog is fantastic, full of all things I like, makes me joy and serenity and also gives me a lot inspirazioni. "Brava" continues, kisses =^_^=

rikke said...

I follow your blog all the way from Denmark, and I enjoy it a lot. Your photos of your family and everyday life are a pleasure, and I often think to myself, that this is what life is about: making an effort to fill our surroundings with life and beauty!

Paula Lemos said...

What a lovely and generous giveaway! I discovered your blog a couple of months ago and have been reading it through Google Reader. I love your photos and seeing the things you make. And I love the fabric wreath that is in the photo next to the drawstring sack; it's really cute.
Thank you for the inspiration!
paula_lemos at vodafone dot pt

thespookywaffle said...

A very lovely giveaway! I stalk your blog off and on. I love the posts about yummy healthy foods, and things you do with your family. :) I saw your post about organizing your craft area recently and that has inspired me to get my own craft area together! My husband and I are in the process of organizing our apartment so I can have my own craft area, I am really excited about that!

april said...

dear mary beth, as a mother of 4 children i like your blog very much. your blog is one of my favorites. it's like a cozy relaxing place. i like your thoughts and words, i like the fact that you try new things and that you tell about it: cooking, sewing, vegan month, another way of doing an advent calendar....i feel at home in your blog. sometimes also mothers need someone who pampers them. your blog pampers me ;-) i'm impressed how balanced you are. and i would like to ask you how you combine your work with your family life? is it difficult sometimes? second question: how do you manage your blog? do you have something like a blog routine? how do you keep on? it's a lot of work i think. i'm so in love with your giveaway and hope your 3th blogbirthday brings luck and sunshine to you and me. have a wonderful day*

erin said...

I'm new to your blog but have been (silently) enjoying it very much. Thanks for the giveaway, the bag is so cute and the chocolate bar looks yummy! I've been meaning to ask you about the patchwork wreath I've seen in a few of your photos (including in this post). I love it and would like to make one. Did you use a pattern for this or just make it up?

dodi said...

I originally started reading your blog almost a year ago, and have been coming back ever since, admiring your words and photos 00 inspired in how you find beauty in life, food and craft. Please don't ever stop blogging! ♥

Crazy_in_MD said...

I love reading your blog. It inspires me. It lets me know that kids can do more with less stuff but more of your time. :-)

Kristi said...

I would love to win this giveaway. I just moved from the States to Australia with my husband and two boys. Last week after buying supplies to make handmade Valentines for my little ones class, we found out they don't celebrate Valentines here. Gasp. I know. I guess only between couples, adults. This would be such a treat to get in the mail. Your blog, I stumbled upon it maybe a year and half ago and have been reading ever since. I enjoy all of it really. Congratulations on three years. It truly is a lovely blog. A question, what are some of your favorite blogs and do you ever read any of your readers blogs?

Karen said...

I stumbled on your blog last year while searching for a chocolate recipe, and I've been stalking it ever since. I love your pictures. Thanks for offering this giveaway.

Karen

Steena said...

Daily Love! :)

Unknown said...

Pick me, pick me! Love all the good things you are giving away!

allieanne said...

I like the simplicity of your life.. so it seems. Pictures are so minimal. love.

Kelly Dahl said...

What a fantastic giveaway!!! I would be so honored to be the winner.

I love your blog so very much. I love the serenity that you create in the space, your beautiful photography, and seeing all the ways you mindfully create a warm and loving home. I also love all the clean lines and uncluttered space I catch glimpses of.

A question....I haven't sewn since middle school home ec. class (over 20 some years ago, yikes!) and really want to re-learn. I would like to purchase a used sewing machine to start. Could you provide some advice on what to look for in a beginners sewing machine? Also, any good beginning sewing books out there once I find a machine?

Thanks!

Debs said...

Hello. I'm Deborah from Kent, England. Don't pick me - it will be expensive to post! But I love all the things you make and it's inspired me to get the sewing machine down from the loft last week. Unfortunately, it's still just sitting there. I never could get the hang of the bobbin thing. I will do something with it soon, though, I promise.
I love all the stuff you write about; your family, waldorf, everything and I have bought a few of the books you have mentioned. They're great. Thanks.

Anonymous said...

So enjoy your blog. Your real approach to living is just very inspiring. You seem to always have such a wonderful attitude--never negative or judgemental. I appreciate your simplicity. I look forward to more years of "knowing" you.

Alicen said...

I love your blog! I check in every day to see if there has been an update! I get so inspired by your projects and the way you focus on what is most important to you in life. I made bean bag frogs for my daughter and 4 nephews for Christmas after seeing them in the archives of your blog!
I'd love to own some of your beautiful handiwork!
Happy Thursday :)

Unknown said...

I love your blog. Reading about how much you think about feeding your family good food and enjoying the here and now. Thanks for sharing your life with us!

Tam said...

Happy Blog-versery!
I have been keeping up with your blog for about 2 years now - I'm not even certain how I first stumbled across it.
Thanks for the constant source of inspiration! Your posts add a bit of sunshine to my days.
Best wishes, Tammy

Lise said...

What a great giveaway! Thank you for the chance to win! I really love the patchwork on the bag. I've been reading your blog for a while now, and I think I got here through some photos on flickr...I remember looking at some clothing you'd sewn and loving it and your photographs and then getting drawn in by photos of your home. You have a great style and I love seeing what you're up to. Thank you!

Rain said...

I'm another fan of your blog too. I find your posts very inspirational. And they always give me the push I need to give something a try.
I love your postcards. Can I ask how you make them?
Also, what type of sewing machine do you use? And when did you learn to sew?
OK that should cover it! lol

Evenspor said...

What a generous giveaway. It's hard to say exactly what it is I like about your blog - just the overall feel of it. You are a lovely, uplifting person.

Anonymous said...

I love your blog. Your crafts and healthy recipes are probably my favorites.

Gina said...

Hi. I'm Gina and I am from Alabama. I love reading all about your family picnics and parties. I love your handmade gifts and love reading your blog to see what you are up to next.

Thank you for the opportunity to glimpse into your life as well as for this giveaway.

Anonymous said...

I love reading your blog, and I love your photos, too! Thank you for the constant inspiration!

~Kristi

Gretchen said...

I just wanted to let you know that my husband and I LOVE your black bean soup recipe. We make it regularly, and I am always telling people about it!

Veitch said...

I love your posts about your cooking and sewing and of course, your family. I keep wondering what town you live in! Ojai, Oxnard, Ventura? I know it must be somewhere out there.
Thanks for your inspiration.

Cfmommy said...

Hello! Thanks for doing this giveaway, even if I don't win I have to say that I simply LOVE your blog! From your blog, it has encouraged me to eat much happier and live more simply. I love how everyday things are cherished with your family.

From Canada, thank you so much for opening up your blog to us readers :o)

Desiree said...

I really enjoy all your posts - especially the food-related ones. Very inspirational - especially because you work outside the house!! I don't know how you manage it all and make it look so good!

J. MacIsaac Studios said...

Hi, my name is Jenifer. I write two blogs currently. One on Montessori and stuff and the other is a story telling project that I starter as a New Year’s Resolution. I have been reading your blog for about a year and I really love how inspiring it is. You are a strong woman who has been through a lot! I love the little peaks into your home. It seems to me that your home is light and airy and filled with wholesomeness and creativity which is something that I aspire to. Thank you

Katherine said...

I love your blog, for the recipes and creative ideas you share! Happy blogoversary!

Manders said...

I've only been reading here for a few weeks but I love your recipes and crafts and stories. Thank you for sharing!

Anonymous said...

happy blogging anniversary! that's so fantastic!

Unknown said...

I have followed your blog for a while now. I am drawn to the things you sew and cook. Thanks for sharing and inspiring me!

tawnya said...

Hi! I keep coming back because you live the type of life I'm trying to cultivate myself. The simple, the true. Love it.

Andrea said...

I love reading about another working Mama who is able to squeeze peace, beauty and creativity into her busy life. Your posts are always such an inspiration. I also like how you don't sugarcoat--you let us know when you feel cranky (but I also love your pursuit of happiness as well!!!)

Laura said...

I would love to win this giveaway!! So generous of you. I am also a fan of dark chocolate :)

I enjoy your blog because it shows the everyday life that you share with your family....I like hearing about how you organize different aspects of your life....schedules, menu plans, goals etc...I love catching glimpses of your house and the warm, simple, clean decorating.
I'm curious about how your parenting style may have changed (if it did) from when Jacob and Faith were little. Do you 'do things' differently with Dieter and Rainer???

Have a beautiful day,
Laura :)

Amy said...

I missed reading your blog and many others last year while I sucked up all the baby goodness in our house! Now I am back to reading and writing and can't wait to catch up on everything! I have soooo much to learn about you and many others! The boys look so great! So happy and healthy!

Andria said...

What a generous giveaway! I love your blog and check in frequently. I've even tried a few of yours posted recipes!

Jennifer said...

What a fantastic giveaway, I love the drawstring bag. I really enjoy reading your blog and look forward to seeing what you are up to for quite a while.
theprairiegirl.com

Sarah said...

How sweet! I enjoy all of your sewing projects. Thanks for sharing!

Little Ol' Liz said...

Well....since that chocolate IS good for the heart, count me in!

I enjoy reading your blog because, well, you aren't what I consider a flashy overachiever blog lady. You know the ones? Pitching for a book deal? Living full open to the world and capturing every. single. moment on the most expensive digital camera known to man at this very second? Trying to change the world, one blog reader at a time? For my tastes, you're the right balance of craft and family and life.

Happy everything to you and your family. What a joyous time!

AM said...

I just love your blog and all the inspirations I receive from it! What a beautiful giveaway. Thank you!!

Holly Summers said...

This is the first time I've read you blog...I picked a good time to stumble upon it, it will be one of my new regular spots :)

Ayelet said...

I'm Allie :) I've been reading for about 6 months and I really enjoy the craft/family/what life throws at you balance. You inspire me!

Lia said...

I would L-O-V-E to win. You are such a talent. Congratulations on three years.

Katie said...

I love the way you take the time to do special things with your family even in the midst of what appears to be a very busy life!

Thee's Mom said...

I love your blog. It brings me a moment of peace

Daniela said...

Hi,I'm Daniela!I have been reading your blog for ore than one year, each post you wrote!As I wrote you in other comments, I love the sense of joy of your pictures and in you kid's smiles, and I like reading of your cooking-crafting projescts..you are very down to earth and I like it :-)
hugs Daniela
www.ilcoltellodibanjas.blogspot.com

dymphna said...

Crossing my finger and toes! Hope your Valentine's Day is a Romantic one.

Nettie said...

I truly enjoy reading your blog, it's very real. I also love your cheery positive outlook, on everything, you truly know how to appreciate the everyday things. I wish more of us were able to do this.
Cheers.

Aimee said...

love your giveaway...beautiful items!! love all your calm creative photos.

Ashley Ann said...

Wow! Amazing giveaway! :D

My favorite posts are usually crafty ones or posts with pretty pretty pictures.

Keep up the great work!

Its_Lily said...

So that's how you do a giveaway. Cool! I've got something I wanted to give to, but now I'll add some great items to go with it and just post it out there. Thanks for sharing this.

Nonie said...

Such a lovely idea! I love your postcards! And chocolate ... well, who doesn't love chocolate?

Kelly said...

What a fun giveaway! I love your pictures of your home and family. They are beautiful!

Chris said...

I enjoy reading about your family and the simple but fun and beautiful ideas you share. Just a glimpse into your life reminds me to slow down, worry less and enjoy my kids as they are. And wow! Nothing like a giveaway to bring your readers out of the woodwork!

Lisa said...

Happy Blogiversary!

I've been reading for quite a while, I think my favorite posts are your crafty ones. I love seeing what you make for and with the boys. I also love your devotion to simple lives (wooden toys, etc) with them, and I wish I were better at that.

Kristen said...

What a wonderful giveaway! I've only been reading your blog for about 4 months, but it's the first one I check every morning. I love your sweet posts and the love you have for your family!

I would love to know what types of thrift stores you go to. I've also been wanting to make the Mama's Bag, but just can't find any lovely vintage fabric. Maybe I should try etsy, but, oh how I would love to stumble upon some at Goodwill or Value Village. :)

Nicole Vangen said...

I enjoy your blog very much. Thank you.

Here is my question - How many times do you read what your write before pushing the publish button?

#206
Nicole

Congratulations to you! I just started a blog and I have 6 followers. Woohoo!

Fiona said...

Hi Mary Beth! A wonderful giveaway of beautiful things. What are your top 5 sewing tips for a beginner?

wayfarer said...

I really enjoy your blog and have read it for over a year now. I like the peacefulness and thoughtfulness that you put into your home. It's something i'm trying to put in effect in my own home. Even if we just eat dinner once a week together i try to make it more of an event now...mood, etc. More thought put into it...

periwinkle said...

Love your photos and your blog - you always make an interesting read :-)

Rachel Dobbs said...

I love the contents of your goody bag and the goody bag itself. Once again, you have inspired.

I love that you are having a give-a-way. I love that your blog inspires me to get more organized with my life, my kids's lives, and my crafting. With all talk of love, Valentine's Day must be around the corner. I am going to create my own goody bag and send it to Willow, in the case that I don't win.

Remember that one VD party you had here in Lawrence? Besides all the fun Valentines we made, we ate Tempeh Reubens and they are still on my family's meal list to this day. As usual, you enlightened me to something new. In this case, cooking with tempeh.

Good luck. Can't wait to see which one of your devoted followers gets the fun of receiving that parcel in the mail.

Tonya said...

Your 'heart' bag and goodies brought an instant smile to my face. Valentine's Day is one of my favorite holidays (I send V Day cards instead of Christmas cards) and I love when others get excited about it too! My favorite thing about your blog is the variety and seeing your great sewing projects! They inspire me to make time to do some of my own. Thanks for sharing!

Julie said...

Congratulations on your upcoming 3rd anniversary. I can't remember how I found your blog but I love reading it! I love how you love being a mom and how you are so intentional with how you live! Your blog inspires and brings a simple and warm feeling to my day.

Leslye Leigh said...

Wow! What a great giveaway!!
I don't comment much, but I really enjoy reading your blog. Everything about it is right down my alley. The crafts, cooking, home keeping, everything is so wonderfully put together. Keep it up!
Leslye

foreverfamily said...

Yippy! I love give aways and I adore your blog. You've motivated me to try new recipes and given me hope that balance can be achieved.

GAPTERRA said...

I have been reading your blog for over a year now. I was excited about the way you celebrate life and special occasions. I have 2 sons: a 3 year old and a 2 week old baby. I love the way you make birthdays and holidays so special in simple ways. I want to make it about life and the special little boys they are. NOT about stuff. Thanks for all the wonderful ideas!

Jenna said...

What a generous giveaway!!! I am a huge DARK chocolate lover...but I would be even more honored to receive your handwork! I've been reading your blog for over a year now and enjoy the inspiration of living simply and trying to balance it all (ha! I know, right?). Over the last year+ I've had to really watch my computer screen time, but yours has always been one I've followed!!
Happy Blogoversary!
<3

Anne said...

Hi! I found your blog while looking for some christmas gift ideas & have been reading ever since. (I ended up making everyone 'maya' bags because it was such a perfect idea - thank you.) I really appreciate your views on simple family life. It really clicks with what I'm striving for with my husband & daughter. Having enough and pursuing a life - not a 'lifestyle'. Thanks!

Cole said...

your pictures, creativity and calm voice are what drew me into reading your blog. I love it! Thanks for the chance

Annette said...

I stumbled upon your blog awhile ago, and as I went back to work and life got busy, I deleted most of my Google Reader blogs, but I've kept yours for inspiration. Thanks for the beautiful ideas and sunny outlook.

Jessica said...

I've been reading your blog for years now-I think from the beginning or close to it. Definitely, yours was one blog that inspired me to blog! Who is your bloggy inspiration?

Jennifer said...

Hi, I love reading your blog. My favorite part is getting inspired by your crafting. I also love your pictures. You even inspired me to get the acorn cakelet pan last fall!

coloring in my life said...

What nice giveway! I've been following your blog for awhile Mary Beth and I really appreciate your honest voice. Thanks for sharing with us all.

Arrica said...

So sweet. Love the gift-away.
Thanks for sharing your creativity and a bit of your story. It has been a heart stretcher reading about your journey!

We are actually making the crayon/wax paper hearts you featured this weekend.

Blessings!
Arrica

Rika said...

What a great giveaway. I read/check your blog daily and love your honesty of trying to balance it all. I like how you mix it up with recipes, handmade ideas, kids, etc. Please keep blogging!

Cheers - Rika in Utah

sewfunky said...

Please enter me in the draw...

I'm having a giveaway too.

hi_missy said...

You are one of my favorite daily blog-stops. I would love to win your lovely and very generous giveaway.

Anonymous said...

luv ur blog, how could you manage your time, with your 5 kids??? and you still do art and healthy cooking!!

Erin said...

Mary Beth-I read you and Soulemama every day, and as early as I can.
-Erin

Erin said...

Mary Beth-I read you and Soulemama every day, and as early as I can.
-Erin

hanna said...

I would just dance a wee jig if I won this :)

Erin said...

I love reading your posts! You are so creative.

JessTrev said...

I love your recipes and photography.

Digital Misfit said...

Lovely giveaway!
Your blog is always an inspiration.
I enjoy your sewing and thrifting posts the most.
hugs,
Heidi
heidig@gmail.com

mom2dagny said...

Hi I also enjoy your blog! I especially like the way you frequently end with a question to your followers...it is so endearing!! I've also gotten some great ideas and tips and just fun things I've downright copied from you...keep of the great work you are very much enjoyed!!

Amanda said...

Hello! Thanks for the lovely giveaway. I just recently started reading your blog and you have already mentioned several books you have read. How do you find time to keep up with reading while doing all the other amazing things you do?

emerzim said...

I am certainly happy that I found your blog.

e.r.i.n. said...

this is so lovely and generous of you...i am always inspired by large families, and especially crafty mamas with large families who make it all work.
i have a blog too - you can check it out if you like...
www.itslikethiscat.wordpress.com
thanks! erin

FrontierDreams said...

Count me in! What a wonderful giveaway! Thank you!
farmergopi@yahoo.com

katie said...

Hi! I'm Katie from Minnesota! I love how your blog is a little of everything, food, sewing, family life etc. thanks for your writing and the giveaway.

deetles said...

Beautiful blog and beautiful give-away! Thanks for all you share, I am definitely inspired regularly!

PumpkinFreckles said...

Happy Blogiversary. Thanks for the give away. That book looks awesome, especially in that cute heart bag. I would love to know what color and paint you used on the aqua door. What a splash of color.

LorenaT said...

Hi I am Lorena. I found your blog on another blog and was immediately attracted to the name (I very much enjoy unexpected delicious combinations).It has been a pleasure looking at beautiful things, reading about family and delicious food and getting inspiration for activities with my kids. Your blog has been a respite at the end of the day when the kids are asleep and the dishes are done. Thank you.

The Robertsons of Mumbai said...

I enjoy seeing your sewing projects, as I am hoping to take my first sewing class this summer (I have never sewn before)!

mara61 said...

hi! I love stopping by your blog, I always leave with that feeling of having spent time with a really good friend. You write warmly and from the heart, the crafts that you do are awesome and I love the close relationship that you have with all your children regardless of their age. That is something special!

Tracy

Janae said...

I just love your organization skills. You work, have a family, yet still manage to find "blogging time", "cooking time", and "kid time". You are an inspiration. I can tell since you've got older kids and young ones that you know how precious little ones are and how quickly they grow. I only have little ones now and so your constant reminder helps me on days I'm struggling! Thank you for doing this blog.

Martha said...

I've been reading your blog for almost 2.5 years now. I really like that you share recipes and a bit of crafts and parenting. All things that I like to have a daily dose of. I live in Switzerland with my three kids, but still don't have a blog.. : ( One of these days!

Tori said...

Thank you Mary Beth! I've been following your blog for over two years now ever since I google searched home-made apple chips - (which turned out yummy by the way) You have some excellent recipes and take the most lovely photos! Thanks for being a source of inspiration! I too would like to know how you manage to find the balance of time to blog and still focus on your beautiful family and be able to create as well. Happy Blog-iversary!

Allison said...

I really enjoy seeing all of the crafty things you make. I love the mama bag you made recently and want to try to make one of my own sometime. Thanks for the inspiration! and of course thanks for the giveaway!

melissa s. said...

Your blog is always a breath of fresh air. I've enjoyed "getting to know" you and your family and seeing your beautiful creations~

mkellas said...

I love your blog and enjoy all the wonderful things you make! I am envious and wish I were a better sewer...something which I am working on!

Machelle said...

I love stalking your blog and reading what ideas you have for your family. You are truly inspiring. Question for you is, are you still knitting and do you enjoy it now that you have done more of it?

Mama.Bird.Anne said...

I love it. The photo postcards are a great idea!

Kunklebaby said...

What a wonderful giveaway! I love the postcard images!

You have a wonderful blog that I enjoying visiting often! Lots of inspiration and food/book recommendations!

Karen said...

I love your blog. The photography is great. I like how you are trying to be more mindful and live a simpler life. The recipes and crafts are great and I am a knitter too!

aralyn said...

This is a wonderful giveaway! I've been reading your blog for a little over a year. I love so many of the topics you discuss... natural parenting, cooking, creating a waldorf-inspired home, and crafting. I hope you keep blogging for many more years!

Christy said...

I love your ever-changing nature/seasonal table for the boys. Could you tell me where you got your little frame w/the postcards?

Unknown said...

I love that Trader Joe's 85% "Chocolate Lovers" dark chocolate. Years ago, I decided to cut a lot of the extra sugar out of my diet.
Over time, you get accustomed to it and things that you don't normally think of as sweet (such as almonds) taste sweet, and things that are sweetened,(such and candy, pastries, and milk chocolate) taste disgusting.

Rachel said...

Congratulations on three years of blogging! What a gorgeous giveaway you have put together, I love the pink patchwork heart!
Have a great weekend
Rachel x

Julia Reeb said...

I found you through a friend's bog - and am so happy I did! I really love your pictures - and I too am a big postcard fan. What type of camera do you use and have you had formal photography training? Thanks for a fab giveaway - they are fun!!!

HBB said...

What a sweet giveaway. I love your blog; you are realy inspiring. Thank you!

Michelle said...

What a great giveaway! This is so thoughtful of you. That's probably what I like most about your blog. It's so obvious that you love your family and want the best for them. I love the personal qualities of it. Plus, you take gorgeous pictures. :) Thanks!

Beth- the mama bee said...

Thanks for the giveaway. What I LIke about your blog is thatyour family/house just seems so calm (I know no house with little boys can be always calm, but...)

Holly C. said...

Love your blog!

Please enter me.☺

We Blog Artists said...

I'm so new to your Blog...actually I think I have been a member for a LONG time...but have found you again...you know when you first start out and go on a crazy"OMG this is awesome...a world of bloggers who are creative and can cook!" and then...well Life gets busy...but I'm back and looks like at JUST the right time!!!
YAY!THANKS for the GIVEAWAY!
Char

Babiebluz said...

Hi, it's Kelly from NH. I love to read blogs. But there are a handful of blogs that I read for peace and as reminders of the simple life even when the world is crazy. When I have a rough day at work I love coming home to see what you have posted, whether it be a project, photography, or the day's adventure. Your blog is real, it is comforting, but mostly for me it is inspiring. Thanks for taking time to share your life's moments, I with a happy heart appreciate it.

North Corona Life said...

Your blog is one that I read every day. You have such wonderful ideas!

Anonymous said...

Excellent giveaway...beautiful photos on your blog, so colorful!

ekcelliott said...

I'm crazy about your blog! Love the bag and all the amazing books!

Karen said...

so sweet of you to do! i'm a lurker, mostly ... but i do love reading your blog and seeing that we somehow have many of the *exact same* thrift finds ... and that we both adore trader joe's! i love your little bits of happiness that you find and share ... it's truly inspiring. keep up the great work, you seem like an awesome mama!

Kelli said...

141 comments. holy cow. I so wish I would win, I love all your homemade items. But what I really love about your blog is the healthy approach to food. I am such a junk food junky and I have probably made more of your recipes than any other blog which is so unlike me, since again, I love junk food. Also I love that your a nurse. (since my son Kyler has had two kidney transplants) I tend to be drawn to nurses and then later find out that they are a nurse. so funny to me (and I wish I was one) Even if I dont win, GREAT giveaway

brooke said...

I love the photos, the family-ness and the inspiration found on your blog. Congrats on 200+ and 3 years!

ellie said...

I just discovered your blog, and have already bookmarked it (and added some of your photos to my tumblr page - with link backs to you, of course). The colour of your wall is amazing, your beautiful artworks, photos, craft really stand out against it.
What a delicious giveaway - I love the fabric heart on the bags; I can see some snippets of fabrics I love, and some I don't know. How special to win this prize!
Ok - back to reading more of your blog now.......

Christa said...

Hello- I enjoy your posts about crafting and family (as I am currently about to start my own:)

Nat said...

oh, i'd love to win.

kathabelle said...

Hi there! Cograts on your blogiversary. I read it regularly. I, too, have been in a cooking rut so I have been enjoying the inspiration. And the giveaway is lovely!

ikkinlala said...

Happy blogiversary! I love the recipes and photos on your blog.

RR said...

What fun! I lurk here. Your posts on projects always inspire me.

Breanna S. said...

Hi i am a new reader! I love the pictures and inspiration I find in your blog. I never thought to hang inspiring pictures in my work space. I have a small amount of space in our living room for my sewing and I plan to hang a shelf and a wire for pictures! Thanks again for the inspiration.

Gerardo & Suyai said...

Thank you so much for your blog! I find your writing quite inspiring, especially when you talk about play and your little one, even when you don't even intend to, you're teaching us all a great deal. I would love to hear more about projects and maybe even tutorials! Thanks for the lovely/yummy/awesome giveaway! I have been reading your blog for a year now... time flies!

Anonymous said...

What a sweet giveaway. I am very happy I didn't miss it, and had I know that Trader Joe's had a chocolate bar like that I would have snagged one this morning while I was there. My question for you, for the sake of asking, is how do you find time to sew/craft? Do you set aside a regular time to be creative or is it sporadic?

OnceUponAParent.Blogspot.com

amanda said...

Hello!
I love reading your blog. It has a very good feel to it and I amazed by all you do and that you work full time as well! I love when you post activities you do with your children as well as the sewing creations you come up with. I'm guessing you don't watch a lot of TV in your house and I wondered how you keep the boys away from it. It's always such a struggle here. :)

Michelle said...

Hi! :-)
I love reading your blog! It's on my list of Favorites. You inspired me to get some fabric (I haven't bought fabric in years!) to make those adorable patchwork teatowels!
Thanks for showing us all your ideas!
Michelle

Cindy said...

Your blog was one of the first I discovered in this a
amazing community. Thanks for all you share. Your giveaway is such a fun combination! When do you find time to blog?

LittleSunshine said...

What a cute and literary sweet give-away. So, I've one of those stalkers, which read but normally do not comment. However, seeing this give-away, it reminded me of a very special family which I hold very dear. I baby-sat/kid watched for them a year while living in the US, and I'm wondering if it should be that I would win (wow there are 154 others in front of me) could I dedicate that present to them? As my Valentines gift for them?
No matter what, I'll keep reading and learning from you.

Tania said...

Hi there..

I think your blog is fabulous. I love reading about all you do...you are inspiring.

I LOVE your photo postcards. I would love to win this giveaway just for those alone! Do you sell them?

Take care,
Tania
lovebigbakeoften@gmail.com

Michele said...

What a charming giveaway....so fun! I love reading your blog and seeing all of the beautiful things you create...very, very inspiring. Thank you! =0)

Jen from SewnNatural said...

I just discovered your blog (very long story), and am sooo pleased! What a very lovely & sweet giveaway... I'm new around here but I hope to visit often.

Thanks!

Amy said...

Amy here the L&D nurse from San Diego. Wondering what you thought of the savory Calfouti recipe I sent you and if you decided to make a Valentines wreath.. mine turned out adorable and our Daisy Girl Scouts will be making a smaller version at the next mtg. Cheers to you and fingers crossed to win the giveaway- thank you.

Mel G said...

Hello! I'm Melanie. I've been reading your blog for a while now, I love dropping by to hear how well your little one is doing! I also look forward to your cooking posts. I go through cycles of cooking three meals a day, then not cooking for a week. Reading your blog reminds me to strive for balance!

nicole said...

happy 3rd. dark chocolate rocks.

Sarah said...

Congrats on your blog anniversary! I enjoy reading about your crafting and everyday life!

pilgrimama said...

Mary Beth, thanks for the giveaway! It looks lovely.
I enjoy your blog because,in part, you come across as maintaining an attainable level of loveliness and calmness. The blog feels real.
I find so many posts interesting it's hard to pick,but the book posts especially grab my attention!
Cheers for your 3rd blog anniversary!

Lisa Renata said...

What can I say...I love your blog because (here are just a few reazons): a)I found you just around the same time I found out my best friend's 2 year old had a brain tumor and cancer (free of both now- YEY!), b) your a crafty mama like me. c)and you live in my native state!

Congrats on your 3rd year!
=)

* * said...

Thank you for sharing such a gorgeous giveaway! I appreciate the peace that you bring to this space. Your simple creative style always shines through, it is lovely to see glimpses of your family life. Your postcards are lovely! I would love to do a swap of my photo cards for yours : )

KC said...

I enjoy reading your blog!

Shawn said...

Lovely giveaway. Your blog is one of my favorites. I enjoy your blog as it seems like I can relate more to your blog than some and it's always an inspiration. Keep up the fantastic work. I guess I have a question or rather a request. Could you please touch more about how you balance your family and work. I've been reading many fantastic books written from primarily a Waldorf perspective and while I love them it's my opinion that they can be hard on the working mom such as myself. I believe that our family has finally found a wonderful rhythm but I my heart is still conflicted.