Thursday, October 21, 2010

My First Post

was on October 17, 2006, this is the day I started my blog.  I had no idea what I was doing but after reading Elizabeth and Debbie's blogs, I knew that's what I wanted too.  I had great computer skills and knew that while this was all new to me, I felt I could tackle the new world of blogging, so off I was to start a new adventure. 

When I would tell friends or those in the antique business that I had a blog, they'd get this funny look on their face and then they'd say, "What's a blog".  It's funny now thinking back at their expressions but trying to explain what a blog was then was even harder.  I would just tell them, here's my link, you'll just have to see for yourself.  Before I knew it, they were emailing me that they had a blog.  Now 4 years later with over 600 followers and 596,000+ visits, and with over 640 posts I think I've accomplished a lot in four years, but I couldn't have done any of this without you, my faithful readers!! 

I had no idea where this blog would lead to or who it would lead me to meet.  My goodness, I got to meet the two that so inspired me most through magazines and then their blogs and have met so many other wonderful people as well.  And the friendships I've literally made through blogging is priceless, the doors it has opened for me that I probably would never have had the opportunity to make is just awesome.  A dream of starting an online journal came true.  I started out thinking, what will I blog about, who will read it, maybe I'll do a post just once a week or once a month.  The thought of doing several posts in one day, almost daily, never even occurred to me, but this is exactly what I've done and more in the past four years.

For me, to write a journal, of the events that are forthcoming or to write about something or some place or someone that has inspired me is so rewarding.  I am passionate about blogging, it's a joy not a chore for me.  

You can read my first post HERE.  This first post I mentioned meeting TOT and we've stayed friends ever since our first meeting at Marburger Farms.  I then mentioned my favorite places, Leftover's, Uncommon Objects, and favorite websites like Sue Balmforth's of Bountiful and Gloria of ShabbytownUSA ~ See Gloria you were mentioned way before I got the opportunity to actually meet you!!  What a dream come true to meet all these wonderful people, Elizabeth and Debbie, as well as meeting each and every one of you that have stopped by and told me you read my blog (and some of you even said DAILY~no pressure there to produce something that will interest you, right!) and especially for those of you that leave me such wonderful comments.  Dawn was also one of the first ones to leave me a comment and while we've never met in person, I feel as though I know her.  What a gem she is in this blogging world!

Thank you so much for those of you that stop by to check on me, that have left such wonderful comments, that follow me daily (even though you may not have a blog), I am truely thankful for all of you.

I know that my Anniversary date has come and gone, but I didn't forget it.  I kept thinking all week what can I do to thank you for the joy that you've brought me through blogging.  So, I've come up with two great gifts to give two of you.  If you would like to be considered for this, all you have to do is leave me a comment on this post, or you can send me an email here.  You don't even have to have a blog to be entered for the giveaway, I want to include you too because so many of you have told me you read my blog and I want to be able to include you as well, so just email me. 

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Here are the prizes:
1.  One of the lastest issues of the Jeanne D'Arc Living Magazine (if you've never seen this magazine just google it on images and you'll be amazed at the great pictures) or a year's worth of your favorite magazine.
2.  A $10 gift certificate to Starbucks Coffee

I'll choose the winners on November 1st!

72 comments:

  1. OMGoodnes girl! I love a good giveaway! You can count me in! I'm so gald we met and a stayed friends even though you have so sense of direction!! LMAO!! But you know I still love you!!

    TOT

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  2. Congratulations Theresa on your Anniversary! I know how you feel...it is a BIG wonderful world out there, and blogging brings it into us just a little bit closer =)

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  3. I always enjoy your pictures and each new post you do. I am new to blogging and I too have blogs that are inspiration to me. Congrats on your year. Those are both wonderful give-a-ways. I have never seen this magazine except the few snippets that show up on blogs. I have ordered a old issue of the Christmas one and I just can't wait to see it.

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  4. Congratulations on your anniversary date. I know that my experience with blogging has been enriched by the interaction that I have had with you and so many others who share the same passions that I do. But I just wanted to say once again, thank you for being such a great blogging friend. You always have kind words and promote others and get me so excited when you start writing about the wonderful shows that you do.
    So Happy Anniversary my friend. And one day someday I will step into your glorious booth in TX and hug your sweet neck!!
    Hugs
    Becky

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  5. Hey Sweet T, what a wonderful giveaway. When I began reading blogs several years ago, your blog was one of the first ones I read. I have not missed a day since. (no pressure...LOL) Thanks for being the 411 for all the best places to shop, but more importantly, for your listening ear and kind heart! Much Love, Patricia

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  6. I just read your wonderful account of how you got started in the blogging world! I met you recently at Warrenton, and as I told you then, I am in AWE of your energy and your talents, as well as your sweet personality. I feel as though I REALLY know you--your blog reads as though we are friends talking over a cup of coffee! I am one who stops by DAILY--and I am NEVER disappointed; always delighted! Thanks so much, and I am not saying this only because of your contest :) It comes from my heart!

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  7. Congrats!!!!!!!!! I so enjoy your blog.... I would love to be entered. Thanks, Stanna
    (shabbyloft@aol.com)

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  8. Hi sweet girl!!!! Happy Blogiversary!!!! Deb and Elizabeth's store blogs are what made me start The Plum Tree blog and ultimately my own too!!!! It's so amazing how our blogs make the world a little bit smaller, isn't it? You are so sweet to mention me and I always, ALWAYS have loved visiting your blog...your style and spirit are both beautiful Theresa!!!! Wishing you many, many more years of blogging and sharing to come, much love to you, Dawn

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  9. I love your blog...i subscribe via the rss feed so easy and you always know when you have something new...what a great way to communicate....

    Thank you

    c

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  10. Blogging is so very rewarding...in so many ways. Thank you for sharing, and a chance to win. I only recently fornd you...through other blogs...and I am hooked!

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  11. Theresa, I am just one of the hundreds of people that YOU have inspired to start a blog. I didn't know what a blog was until I "accidently" found you. Then MY life changed. You inspire, give, and shape the lives of so many people! We WILL meet someday. Just know we all love and appreciate you so much!
    Debra

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  12. Congratulations on your anniversary Theresa!! 4 years and still going strong! YAY!
    I would love to be entered in your wonderful giveaway! Keeping my fingers crossed and thank you so much!!
    Blessings~

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  13. Happy Anniversary Theresa. I blog because of you. I didn't know what a blog was, then I got your blog name and I was hook for ever. When I want to explain or get somebody to blog I used your blog as a starting point. I still link from your blog to most of the others. Your taste is exquisite and you are not selfish, you share so much info in a day and age where so many people are about keeping info for themselves. Thank you for sharing, for so much beauty and ideas, for getting so many of us inspired. Blessings, Marta.

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  14. Congrats Theresa! I check your blog every day..I always love it when you take me along with you on your Texas adventures in shopping!!
    Blessings to you!!
    Myrna

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  15. Happy Anniversary, Theresa! Although we still haven't met in person, we have come pretty darn close!
    Pam

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  16. Congratulations!!! You were one of the first blogs I read & a great example for what I wanted in my blog. So glad you started blogging. Thanks! Jan

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  17. Theresa, Congrats on your anniversary! I only found you a few months ago but I always enjoy my visits here and appreciate all the inspiration.
    xoxo, Sherry

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  18. Please count me in! Thank you!
    Jeannie
    juanakmcd@aol.com

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  19. From Mary Koepfle~Queen of Blogland!
    Hi Theresa - I own a great (most days) store in Cottage Grove, Oregon called Farmhand Feed & Home Co. We are ten years old. I came across your blog a few years ago and was smitten by your style and wonderful information on what was going on out their. When you have a store you can't always get out for yourself. All these years you have gotten out there for me and shown me all the wonderful displays and vendors that make them happen. So thank you for what you do. You really deserve a crown for being The Queen of Blogland! You can check out my blog (inspired by you) at www.farmhandfeed.blogspot.com
    Now enter me in your drawing cause I love my Starbucks...Mary
    P.S. Congrats on your new blog too - I will be a regular there too!

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  20. WOW Time Flies... I have enjoyed your blog...SOOOOO MUCH EYE CANDY and INSPERATION given so freely...That,s what I LOVE about blogging.Would love to be entered in your giveaway. Looking forward to lots and lots more posts...

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  21. Congrats Theresa on your Blogaversary, I enjoy your Blog so much and your contribution to Blogdom is nothing short of uber-impressive. I can so relate to so much of what you've experienced and shared in this Post... well, with the exception of being great with computers *wink*... were it not for my Grandson, who was nine when he helped me set up my site and mentor me, I would not have the satisfaction of my Blog Journal. It truly is a wonderful way to express ourselves on our Journey of Life, share and connect with others around the world... and for Artists and Business Owners it is an invaluable way to network, be mentored and present what we have to offer. I'm squealing with delight at your generous Give-Aways... LOVE Jeanne D'Arc Mag and who isn't all over a Starbucks delight *wink*. Thanks for visiting my Post and encouraging me about my misadventure, it's comforting to know others have found a way around running out of storage space *LOL*... Blessings,
    Dawn... The Bohemian

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  22. What you omitted was how many of us you helped get started. You and my daughter are the reason I blog. You approached me at Zapp (with TOT) and encouraged me then and there. You've bailed my butt out of countless problems 'cause you are a computer whiz kid...answered all my annoying questions until I got the hang of it...and "introduced" me to your audience. The last is a biggie for a beginner blogger otherwise I'd still be waiting for that first comment! I owe you so much...so here's my thanks...and here's my heart! I love you!
    XOXO
    Debbie
    P.S. I still can't visit here without thinking of Sue's (VRS) comment calling you Chickapedia...so true, my friend, so true!

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  23. Hi Theresa! Congratulations on your blogiversary! I started by blog in 2006, also! It sure does open up a whole new fun and wonderful world, doesn't it?
    Michelle

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  24. Wow, 4 years! You're a pioneer!! Your blog is so consistently beautiful, informative, and friendly...you're the one who should get a prize!!

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  25. I am so glad I found you a few years ago when I learned what a blog was and was one of those who didn't even know what a blog was. My daughter had started one and from her's I would surf around and find beautiful sites. Yours was one of them. I'm not sure how you manage to do all that you do, but am so glad you do.
    Congratulations on the anniversary of your beautiful blog Theresa!
    hugs to you from here...

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  26. Wow! FOUR years??? A big congratulations to you! You should feel very proud of how much you have accomplished in these last four years!

    Malisa

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  27. Girl, I don't even care if I win a prize, because finding you was the greatest prize of all.

    Had it not been for you and your unbelievable influence, I might never have even started a blog.

    You have inspired me, motivated me, and as everyone knows, you are my fairy blogmother.

    And believe in fate, much?
    Your first post was on my BIRTHDAY.

    Love ya bunches!!!
    Anne

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  28. Count me in for the giveaway! I love your blog and the inspiration you give us other bloggers, I admire you for sticking with this blogging world, I hope to be such a "famous" blog such as your own one day! The fact that one of the prizes is Starbucks, can't go wrong there :) Congrats to you and your wonderful blog! xoxoxo www.1942charm.blogspot.com

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  29. Congratulations on so many years of blogging, Theresa. Wow! You are a true veteran of the blogging world. I feel so lucky to have stumbled upon your blog, but even more so because I have had the wonderful privilege of actually meeting you in person, in Texas at your booth at Zapp Hall. What a treat!!! A very special person, blogger and seller, indeed :)

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  30. Congratulations T.! What an accomplishment! Yours was the first blog I ever encountered on the net when I googled in Vintage Garden Antiques. And you were the first to say," You should start a blog!" I consider you "blog central", like reading the daily paper. I don't have time to be as plugged in in the blog world as I would like, and I count on you to catch me up on things. I've taken you a little for granted, I'm afraid, and not let you know just how much I feel like you sponsored me into blogland.You have inspired so many of us! Thanks so much for your wonderful blog! Jacqueline

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  31. Congratulations T.! What an accomplishment! Yours was the first blog I ever encountered on the net when I googled in Vintage Garden Antiques. And you were the first to say," You should start a blog!" I consider you "blog central", like reading the daily paper. I don't have time to be as plugged in in the blog world as I would like, and I count on you to catch me up on things. I've taken you a little for granted, I'm afraid, and not let you know just how much I feel like you sponsored me into blogland.You have inspired so many of us! Thanks so much for your wonderful blog! Jacqueline

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  32. I really enjoy reading your blog. It is always so interesting and I LOVE the pictures! Your blog is listed on my blog roll so I don't miss it.

    - Teresa

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  33. I love your blog and would love to be entered in your giveaway! Congratulations on your Anniversary! terriklugh@gmail.com

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  34. Congratulations on your blog Anniversary! What a lovely post♥

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  35. Theresa...
    YOU are the Sweetest!*!*! Your blog has brought myself & others so much joy & inspiration... You truly have been blessed with a gift... Happy Blog ANNiVerSaRy!*!*!
    Jeanine, ChiPPy!-SHaBBy!

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  36. happy blogerversery Theresa! My they come and go quickly dont they. I dont always leave a comment (which is naughty) but I do love to visit
    aLicia :0)

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  37. congrats to you on such a huge milestone. you touch so many and are loved by all.

    hugs,

    shelley

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  38. Your giveaway is pure bliss-sitting with a Jeanne D'arc mag AND a starbucks-please, oh please count me in!! Congrats, and thank you for the inspiration, and for enriching so many of our lives out here in blogland!

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  39. Funny how fast that time just FLIES by? I always love your blog, because then I ALWAYS know what's going on in your home state. And the pictures are the best. What is even better is that even though I haven't been able to get to Texas, my CR family such as Gloria and the rest of the bunch have. Small world! Congrat's to you on four years of great blogging.

    Take care, Sue

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  40. I think it's awesome that you have inspired so many people out there ! You show so many things out there...people,shows,homes,prayers for some even some blogs you take us there to many things that we can't always be at.You deserve a hug and a pat on the back.Thank-you Theresa, for taking the time to be there.Happy Anniversary !!
    Best of Wishes...Fun Finds 2 U...Chickie

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  41. Wow! Congratulations! Four years. Think how many people have dropped out since then. Glad you've hung in there. Your blog is always a joy to see.

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  42. Running into you at antique events around my end of Texas makes reading your blog even better, or is it that reading your blog makes saying hi to you here and there even more meaningful? Either way, I enjoy reading your daily reports and seeing all the pictures you add.
    Thanks for offering the giveaway. That just makes reading your blog just as much fun as scouring another antiques show.
    Thanks Teresa.
    Susan
    PS Baby granddaughter isn't here yet, but doctor says she will surely be a few weeks earlier than we expected. Any time now!

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  43. What a wonderful blogworld we live in! Thanks for being a front runner for us all...

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  44. Theresa,

    Your blog was one of the first blogs I started reading. The funny thing is, it was the first blog that I added to my favorites, and somehow I managed to save it with your first post... to this day, when I make my daily visit to your blog, it comes up with your very first post and I have to go to the bottom of the page and click the "home" button to see the newest edition. I don't know how to fix it.LOL
    Thanks so much for introducing me to so many other fabulous blogs that I now have saved in my mile long list of favorites, and for taking me places that I've not been able to visit myself.

    Smiles,

    Carol Casey

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  45. I just love this story and have to tell you Theres, you were one of the people to inspire me to start one myself. You were also one of the first to sign up for my WW theme and I appreciated it so much. I love how you let us less fortunate ones get a view of all the great Texas shows and I love your decorating style.

    Happy Blogiversary and please sign me up!

    Take care,

    Kathleen

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  46. Congrats on the success of a very inspirational blog! I know I'm a schmucka and don't comment as often as I should but I do spend quite alot of time drooling on my computer with ya!

    Missy-JunkFest

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  47. Congrats on your blog Anniversary... how exciting!!! I think at the end of Nov. will be my 1 year blogging Anniversary, I've really enjoyed meeting all the wonderful people that otherwise I would have never known if it hadn't been for blogging. I would love to be entered in your wonderful giveaway! Hope you have a great weekend! Blessings~~~ Daphne

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  48. Great giveaway and great blog! I always wonder if people read my blog, if its interested, whatever...but I really blog just for me! Congrats on your anniversary!

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  49. Happy Blogiversary.... I always EnJoy Reading your posts ~ Keep Up the Great Work.
    Cheryl

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  50. Always enjoy your blog. Beautiful.

    Nice giveaway and congratulations!!

    Please enter my name.

    blessings

    barbara jean

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  51. Congrats on your milestone! Loving your celebration bouqet, just gorgeous! I'll be keeping my fingers crossed!!

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  52. See how much you've influenced the blogging world? What shines through the most is your sweetness and thoroughness and ENTHUSIASM!

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  53. Congrats on your anniversary. I just started a blog but don't know what the heck I'm doing. I'm still trying to figure things out.

    Please enter me in your giveaway. What a lovely way to celebrate.

    Linda at loveofwhiteonwhite.blogspot.com

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  54. Happy Bloggiversary! Count me in for that great giveaway.

    All the best,
    Judy

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  55. My goodness! I've followed you for a long time and enjoyed every delicious vignette! I still wonder how on earth you get around as much as you do and still find time to blog...a woman of many talents! Happy anniversary, sweet T!!!!

    kim

    p.s. Jeanne D Arc is my favorite mag, what a treasure (of ideas)!

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  56. Congratulations on your bloggy anniversary, love your blog as you are an inspiration to us all.

    Leeann x

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  57. Don't have a blog, but I am a follower of yours - I really enjoy your text and pictures and news of what's happening in the Antique World. Happy Anniversary - Blog On!

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  58. Congrats on your anniversary! I popped over here from Fiona and Twig....

    You have a beautiful blog! Thank you for having this giveaway.
    Penny

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  59. I feel so luck to have found your blog..no gift needed here! Just happy to pop by now and then. You are my blog star!
    xx
    Carole

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  60. Just found you through Time Worn Interiors. Look forward to following your blog and reading more.
    Thanks for a wonderful giveaway. I do not have this magazine but have seen it before and would love to have one.
    Thanks so much!
    ~ Julie

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  61. congrats on your anniversary!! love your blog & stop by often for inspiration & happy thoughts. thanks for the giveways, been wanting a JdA mag!

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  62. What a great giveaway....a magazine and cup of coffee! what more can a woman want?? Please count me in. Happy Anniversary, how time flies when you are having fun, huh? I am hitting my two year next month ~ and started just like everyone else, not know what I was doing, but knew I wanted a part of it! :)

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  63. Hi, it it my first comment to your wonderful blog, and I would like to say "Congratulations on your anniversary date!

    When I was searching about Round Top Antique Show, somehow I reached your blog, and since then I have been enjoying visiting here. It inspires me a lots.

    I have never seen to the magazine, so it would be nice if I have it : -)

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  64. I wish you well on next weekend's show. I especially enjoyed your older post re your desires for the upcoming year. I hope that you're well on your way toward a simple life, full of learning, and selling antiques.
    Carolleegail

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  65. Happy anniversary! That magazine looks fab!

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  66. T, congratulations! I love your blog, I always leave here inspired, refreshed, and like I've visited a friend. How fun that you know {and love} Gloria, too, she is such a darling girl, isn't she?

    So happy to be able to visit you here, hopefully someday in real life.
    xo Lidy

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  67. Congratulations on your blog anniversary ~ I'm new to the blogging world but since joining the big cyberspace clan I've found such inspiration and wonderful advice yours being one of them ~ not sure if your giveaway includes UK residents but if it does count me in ~ if not I'm just so happy to have found your blog *hugs* Mandy x

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  68. Count me in! Yippee, I love a contest!
    jackie
    bliss farm antiques

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  69. Congrats on being a poineer! I know I've been a stalker for a long time. I cannot figure out how you fell off my blogroll but I fixed it. Anyway, I loved meeting you in person & I enjoy reading your blog even more now. I'm showing a couple of bloggers your booth tomorrow. They have never been to McKinney & I can't wait to show it all off to them. Lisa

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  70. Theresa, it is amazing how time flies. Your blog is such an interesting read...each post keeps you wanting more! Thanks for all the info and inspiration!

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  71. Congratulations, Theresa! Your blog is wonderful. I am always so inspired when coming here and seeing your beautiful photos. You bring us the best of the antique world. Meeting you at the Zapp Hall show this fall was a real treat.

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  72. Happy Anniversary!

    ~Melanie
    www.theoldwhitecottageblog.com

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