And Then My Blog Turned Five Years Old {Party!}

UPDATE: Congratulations Donna Livingston you are the lucky winner!

In the 8th grade, my Language Arts teacher, Mrs. Abernathy, a heavy, somewhat grumpy teacher, peered over her glasses and  told me  (without smiling) that I was a good writer. It took just those few words of encouragement for me to decide I wanted to grow up and be a writer someday. She was my favorite teacher–not so much for what she taught me, but for simply believing in me when I didn’t really believe in myself.

Eventually, my love for writing (many rejected manuscripts, critique groups and writer’s conferences later) morphed into blogging when I was 34 years old.

Today this space turns five years old. 5. That’s half a decade.

And the best part of blogging isn’t a platform or occasional free stuff, it’s you, the reader. Because an unread blog is just a diary. But when you take the time to laugh, cry and dream with me, we change the world, my friends.

What I’m trying to say is, I love you. We make a great team. Let’s do another 5 years, shall we?

In honor of you, I’m giving this WATF Reader Appreciation “Basket” to one blessed reader. Your comment entry:  Tell me why you read here.

Basket contents:

Valued $200

NOW SOLD OUT

AND, SUPER BIG, AMAZING DEAL in honor of 5 years, Dayspring is offering one of my top favorite items for ONLY $5<———insane price!

Ever Grateful – Memo Board with Easel for only $5!

It’s valued at $34.99 and makes a fantastic gift. {Christmas is coming!} There is no limit on how many you can purchase (while supplies last) and shipping does apply, but you get FREE shipping for spending $50 or more. So, basically, you can knock off ten people on your Christmas list for $50 and get a value of $349.90. Amazing, huh? This deal expires Oct.15 , but supplies won’t last long. Use code at checkout: WATFmemo

Don’t forget to leave a comment for the basket and then grab this deal. I just ordered 5 for $25. Merry Christmas to all the teachers in my life!

*Dayspring Affiliate links

Happy birthday to us.


Comments

  1. 151

    I read because you are a wonderful example of an ordinary person who is letting God do extraordinary things through her. I love your REAL-ness, your heart for the least of these, your encouragement to women….the list goes on! Congrats on five years! Thankful for your willingness to let Him use you and your blog! :)

  2. 152

    Congrats on a huge milestone! It’s amazing what you’ve accomplished for those in need. I love your site because you are so real. Keep up the great work and inspiring words.

    vicki

  3. 153

    Great content for five years. Can’t wait for the next five! Congrats…

  4. 154

    Congratulations, and Thank You!

  5. 155
    Tricia McLain says:

    I read because it is fun, light hearted and inspiring. Never condemnation and always such a sense of acceptance. I think we all have a deep burning desire to be a part of something bigger than ourselves and through Mercy House- we can be! You inspire everyday families to just follow that sweet whisper beckoning our complete abandonment to He who loves us.

  6. 156

    I read your blog so I can feel normal. :)

  7. 157

    Congratulations on 5 years! Happy Birthday!!!

  8. 158

    Ooo! I’d love to win the basket. Loving the new U28 shirts. Congrats on 5 years. I’m almost to 3 1/2.

  9. 159

    I read (I mean love) your blog because you are real – not just touting all that you do well, but sharing all that you do. Life. I am encouraged when I read about the things that are going well and the things that you are struggling through -

    So keep blogging!!
    Many blessings,
    Janelle

  10. 160
    april carssco says:

    Not only are you inspiring but you remind me that i’m normal. It also challenges me t go beyond who i thought i was in Christ!

  11. 161

    About a year ago, I was having a difficult day with my children! My mother suggested I buy your book “Don’t make me come up there”. It made my day! I have been reading your blog ever since. I have your website bookmarked in my phone and read it all the time, almost daily. Your writing is honest and funny and your faithfulness inspires me. If I win the basket, I will share your book with all my friends!

  12. 162

    Congrats on 5 years! I read here because you are funny and real and inspiring. Thanks so much for the memo board deal. I just bought one for myself and took care of 4 gifts as well.

  13. 163

    It’s not letting me comment….here’s try #5.

  14. 164
    Jacquie Olsen says:

    Happy 5th Anniversary to one of my favorite bloggers! I visit your blog to be inspired, to laugh, to dream and to relate. Thank you for sharing your heart so openly.

  15. 165

    I read your blog because it is so encouraging and inspiring. Thanks for all the advice, tips, and motivation.

  16. 166

    Happy blog birthday, Kristen! I’m not a mother yet, but I read here to read truth, to read passion, to read wisdom from the kind of wife and mother I want to be. Thanks for your voice!

  17. 167

    i read because i love your heart. i love the encouragement that i get here as a mom and a wife and a friend. you inspire me to be a better woman, to seek Him and his will [no matter how BIG it is] for my life. so thanks! and thanks for the awesome deal … i just ordered TEN for christmas gifts. so thanks!

  18. 168

    I look forward to reading your blog everyday because I appreciate your transparency. Your honesty is refreshing and encouraging. I can empathize with the disappointments yet love the reminder that God is amazing and forgiving. And my eldest son and your youngest daughter were born within days of each other.

  19. 169

    I love your blog because you are delightful, honest, hilarious, and so easy to relate to. You always make me smile and brighten my day. But more importantly, you let God speak to my heart through your words. Thank you! Oh and thank you for the memo board deal. I have 4 kids and can’t believe I just took care of all the teacher Christmas gifts for $50—and it’s an awesome gift!

  20. 170

    I read your blog because you’re real and I need real right now. You’re on an adventure and there’s mess and miracles and ups and downs and that’s life … and that’s sweet.

  21. 171

    I read here because its wholesome, food for thought!

  22. 172

    I tried to post earlier, but my internet keeps going on and off. :-(

    I started reading when you started hosting Works for me Wednesday. I keep reading because you inspire me!

  23. 173

    I love reading your blog because you are so REAL!! and I love knowing that others have problems too….and manage to work thru them.

  24. 174

    I read because I need to believe that a Christian mom with a blog can change the world…

  25. 175

    Thank you! I read for inspiration.

  26. 176

    Thanks Kristen and Dayspring! I just ordered ten! I don’t even remember how I found you, but I’m glad I did. I love the way you keep it real and I love the mission work you do!

  27. 177

    I love your blog! I read it because I feel like you speak to my heart. And I love the reminders to work on being a mom and being a wife… Your faith inspires me and I am uplifted when I read your words. Thank you for blessing so many strangers.

  28. 178

    Congrats on your anniversary! I love where your blogging journey has taken you, and I know the girls of Mercy House are forever thankful. One of my very favorite blogs for sure!

  29. 179

    I just found you a short time ago, enjoy your sharing…would love these items!

  30. 180

    Weighty Words here. Deut 32:47 – No idle words. They are your very life. Joy. Hope. Courage. Thanks for five great years!

  31. 181
    Carol Darden says:

    I read here for encouragement. I read here for news from Kenya. I read here to see a person be real about their journey with God. I read here because I think your love of family is wonderful and I love being able to peek in and see God working.

  32. 182

    I love your blog and come back because you tell it like it is and are real! Thank you for that! Keep up the good work! Congrats on 5 yrs!

  33. 183

    I feel inspired by your blog! Happy blog birthday, may God bless you with many more years!

  34. 184

    I used to read here for the home decor tips, way back in the day. But now I read for encouragement!

  35. 185

    Happy happy birthday!! Just found your blog not too long ago and love it. Also, thanks for the huge Dayspring deal– I bought way too many :)

  36. 186
    Vicki Gladson says:

    Just found you — thanks to Mom Creative! Love how you share your Christian faith.

  37. 187

    Congrats! And the basket looks amazing! Would love to win it!

  38. 188

    I used to come for WFMW but now I also love the Mercy House updates. I also enjoy your honesty. You don’t sugar coat anything. Even though you are doing what God is telling you to do, it’s not always easy and you let us see that.

    Keep up the good work you are doing here and at Mercy House. I am quite certain that when you get to heaven, He will say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

  39. 189

    I read because you encourage me to be brave and to live my faith BIGGER. Thanks so much for sharing your life with us!

  40. 190

    I read here because its encouraging, and mostly because I love hearing about the Mercy House.

  41. 191

    I’m so glad Mrs. Abernathy spoke such words of truth to you so long ago! I love it that you write here and share the good, bad & the ugly with each of us.
    You’re a special place to sneak away to and find ——> everybody’s trying to make it!

    I <3 WATF & WFMW !!!!!

  42. 192

    I love reading because I love your ministry and am so uplifted by your faith and walk with God!!

  43. 193
    Stephanie L says:

    Just found your blog! Can’t wait to read the articles! Happy 5th!

  44. 194

    I read because I like to hear what you’ve learned.

  45. 195

    I read you because you are so real ! You share your struggles and, most of all, your love for our amazing God. Thank you for letting us be a part of it . And your teacher was true : you are a good writer !

    Congrats on this milestone !

  46. 196

    Congratulations on reaching this milestone! I would say I read because you’re real, sharing not only successes, but also failures – while managing to encourage readers through it all!

  47. 197
    Kathy Stafford says:

    Because you are a breath of fresh air for those of us just trying to keep our heads above the chaos !

  48. 198
    Sheila Laurence says:

    I am enjoying your faith journey. Well, ‘enjoying’ isn’t exactly right, because some parts have been hard, but I enjoy the fruit of that labor may be more accurate to say. Happy blog birthday!

  49. 199
    Ashley MS says:

    Congratulations! I love your sense of humor & you have a way of speaking truth so plainly and honestly. Your posts make me laugh & inspire me, too!

  50. 200
    Mary Jepperson says:

    I love your heart for God and your willingness to share your journey as only you can…it’s real! Happy birthday WATF! Congrats, my friend…what a milestone!

  51. 201

    I love how real and transparent you are on your blog. Congrats on your five year anniversary!

  52. 202

    Congrats on 5 yrs! I like to read your blog because of how real you are about all areas of your life. I appreciate how you encourage others to have a strong marriage.

  53. 203

    I read because you are real and open with your thoughts, your feelings, and your heart. You make me smile, laugh out loud, and cry on a regular basis. Happy Anniversary and keep up the good work!

  54. 204

    I read because you are transparent and authentic as you chase grace and chronicle it.

  55. 205

    I read because your honesty makes me smile and laugh and cry. Because my house is much like yours and my children are normal and my husband is real but my GGod is bigger than all that and gives me strength to get up every day and love them all again. And you write your version of that story every day. Thank you!

  56. 206
    Kristy Lynn says:

    I came to WATF from a link about Mercy House and I fell in love with what you are doing for the young girls and babies in Africa…then I read your blog and fell in love with your genuine honest heart towards God!

  57. 207

    I read because of your honesty and generous spirit. You are an encouragement to me and I enjoy your blog so much! Congrats on 5 years!

  58. 208

    I read because I am inspired by all our falability together.

  59. 209

    I read because I love your heart for God and others! …and I value your honesty and encouragement:) Thank you for using the gifts God has given you to serve and encourage so many.

  60. 210

    Wow! Congrats! You must be so proud!

  61. 211

    I started reading your blog after I read “Don’t Make Me Come Up There” and I am hooked! I enjoy reading your blog because you are honest. I love the stories you share and I often find myself laughing out loud or crying as I read. You do not pretend to be a super mom or a super Christian- you are just REAL. Thank you for sharing with us!

  62. 212

    I read because you write from the “trenches” and encourage me as a mom & wife. Thank you for being REAL and sharing how God is at work in your life. I also read because of Mercy House. I want to keep up with the miracle God is doing as young women are shown his love. Congrats & keep using your gift for His kingdom!!

  63. 213
    Mary Johnson says:

    I read your blog because motherhood is HARD! You encourage me to keep going and to keep my focus on the Jesus!

  64. 214

    I love reading your blog for inspiration, encouragement, hope and challenging insights. I feel like I can/do relate to you and pray you continue for many years to do the things God has placed on your heart. Blessings!

    Megan

  65. 215

    I read because it inspires me to be more real with others…thanks for being authentic in your struggles! P.S. You really are a great writer!

  66. 216

    down-to-earth and funny!

  67. 217

    I read because I love your humor, thoughtfulness, ‘keeping it real’ moments and Mercy House! Happy birthday!

  68. 218
    Rene' in Florida says:

    I READ YOUR BLOG BECAUSE….you inspire and encourage me and remind me of God’s great love for us. Your blog reminds me that God uses everyday people to reach others for His kingdom. I love that you are real….you speak what many of us feel but are afraid to say. (You)r blog is a TESTIMONY TO OUR ALL POWERFUL GOD…that HE CAN DO THE IMPOSSIBLE! I also LOVE that you encourage us to LOVE OUR HUSBANDS! THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR LIFE WITH US! CONGRATULATIONS ON 5 YEARS….MAY GOD GRANT YOU MANY MORE!

  69. 219
    Natalie Alderson says:

    I need the encouragement and advise to be the best wife and mama I can be.

  70. 220

    Happy Blog Birthday! I so enjoy reading your blog, tagging along your God inspired journey of faith, marriage, motherhood, friendships, charity, and HONESTY. May God bless you and your family and Mercy house with an incredible year ahead and that God also blesses you to continue your blog for another 5 years to encourage and inspire us all:o)

  71. 221

    I stumbled on your blog from a friend of mine. I keep reading because of your humor, encouragement, love for Christ, selfless love for others and great ideas for loving my husband and hopefully family one day! Thank you for this blog!

  72. 222

    Happy Birthday! I read WATF because your posts are authentic! You are honest about how God is working in your life and I appreciate that.

  73. 223

    I read because your blog is an inspiration of someone who God is using in a very special way!
    Nicole

  74. 224

    Happy bloggy birthday!!! I read here because I love you and I miss my friend and this helps me stay connected. And because I think you’re a great writer. And because I think what God is doing through you in Africa is amazing.

  75. 225

    I read here because you’re real. And because you’re living the gospel – not just preaching it but putting hands and feet to it. And because you have a tattoo. I mean, anyone who’s got a tattoo can’t be taking themselves too seriously, right?? ;) And because you have a strong-willed child. And because you and your husband have been to hell and back and have lived to tell about it. Yeah, that about covers it. Oh, and because you’re a good writer. Thank you for sharing your gift with us. –

  76. 226

    I read because I relate! You are honest, a godly example of motherhood, and just plain fun! You make me feel like I am not alone in this journey, thank you. And thank you for this great giveaway!

  77. 227
    Nicole Gaylord says:

    I read for many reasons. 1. Because you are the realest person I “know.” I get so tired of people only portraying that everything is “perfect” all the time – your honesty is refreshing. 2. You are relatable. 3. You don’t just preach it- you live it. 4. I read and am encouraged. So excited to be celebrating 5 years with you!!

  78. 228

    I read because I see in you what I want for myself…to be used of God no matter how crazy His plans may seem!

  79. 229

    I read bc your posts are real, inspiring, and funny!! I love the way you write and your commitment to the family is very encouraging.

  80. 230

    I read WATF because of your honesty. I started reading during your first trip to Kenya. And have followed you since. I love watching God’s Spirit in this world move through you and this site. I have identified with your struggle to discover what life looks like after Africa. Thanks for the time you share with us all.

  81. 231

    Congratulations! How time flies! I can’t even remember when I started reading your blog, but it’s been years and this is STILL one of my favorites. Thanks for keeping it real and challenging me all at the same time!

  82. 232

    I read because you aren’t afraid to be honest. You keep it real and let all of us see God do amazing things thru you and your family. Plus you just crack me up!

  83. 233

    I read because you’re real, normal and encouraging. I love seeing how God is using you and Mercy House too.

  84. 234

    What a great giveaway and deal! I read for encouragement and to be pushed harder to do more for the needy all around the world. Thanks for all you do and Happy Birthday!!!

  85. 235

    I read you because you inspire me, make me laugh, and make me cry…often, all on the same day. And that’s my favorite thing!

  86. 236

    I read here because you make me laugh, cry, and dream! For Real! I love that you’re THAT family. I like to think my family is THAT family in our little world most days. I’m encouraged, challenged, and just feel plain normal here! THANKS!

  87. 237
    Shannon P. says:

    Thanks for all your hard work, Kristen. You are inspiring and encouraging. I read WATF because you help me keep my eyes on the Lord while all us moms do life together. Happy Birthday!

  88. 238

    I read your blog because you are real, and I love to read about your hearty for God!

  89. 239

    You are real. You are refreshing. You speak the truth. You and your husband faced a painful painful time and you have allowed God to use it for good. Thank you!

  90. 240

    I read here because you are real. Here it is: sometimes I read blogs and think to myself :”That isn’t real. That women isn’t real. She isn’t acting real.” But you are being Jesus to so many, loving on so many, sharing your story and I can tell you are so REAL doing it. I just LoVEd Don’t Make Me Come Up There because every story oozed of real, which I’m totally loving in this unreal world.

  91. 241

    As many have said before me, I read because you are real. Thank you so much for being honest with yourself and with your readers. Everyone needs someone with whom they can relate and they also need to realize it’s okay to be real because they may be that person for someone else.

  92. 242

    HaPpy celebrating!!! I don’t remember how I found you, but I a, so glad I did! You inspire me to be a better mom & a more appreciative & loving wife!

  93. 243

    I read because then I know I’m not the only one out there feeling like this. And because I feel so uplifted when I read. And because I share a birthday with the blog!! :) Okay, I’m just slightly older…

  94. 244

    I read here because you inspire me . . . the hard stuff and the magnificent.

  95. 245

    I read here because you are just as real as if you were sitting right next to me. I’m certain the picture I see here is the one your best friend sees. No masks, no pomp, no fluff. The real amazing you. You’re relate-able. THAT, my friend, is priceless! If a woman can share experiences and encouragement and advice across the miles via this amazing outlet when it is sometimes difficult to do so within her own circles, she’s found gold.

    {YES, I know that my own community of believers is of great importance. Just thought I’d throw that in. Grateful for you, though!}

  96. 246

    I read here because you keep it real and because I love Mercy.

  97. 247

    Where to begin… All the comments here say it all. You’re very real, honest, loving, funny, and strive to leave this world a better place. I don’t tend to leave comments often however, I want you to know that thru your words you help us to serve better as well and to be better people. For that we should thank you! I look forward to reading your blog each and every day and yes for another five years and more.

  98. 248

    I read here because your real and I can relate to that…and you make me laugh

  99. 249
    Vanessa Gooch says:

    Congratulations on 5 years and I look forward to reading for many more years to come! Like so many other readers, I read your blog because you are so REAL, down to earth, honest, open, sincere, faithful. Your writing oozes with sincerity which i find is hard to come by. I love your Ministry and how honest you are about it (especially since we are now starting one up and wonder every day how on earth we are going to do this, or why God wants us to do this). You present the good and the bad, the joys and the struggles, the praises and the fears. I love your ideas and thoughts on parenting, you challenge me to do better. Oh I could go on, just don’t change a thing. Remain faithful to Him in all you say and do! God Bless You!

  100. 250

    Lots of reasons I read here – you challenge me as a wife and mom, you make me laugh, you’re not ashamed of the gospel and to live it out….I could go on, but I think the main reason I read here is because you are real. You share the good, the bad and the ugly of your life. Thank you for your willingness to be honest and real in front of so many people.

  101. 251

    I love reading this blog because it is real life, it is inspiring, and you share loves of things I love: husband, Africa, life, family, creativity, art :-)

  102. 252

    I love your blog! So glad you’re a writer. I read because you are real, honest, follow God even when you don’t know where it might take you, you love and serve those in need in Africa, value following God and not comfort. you’re a great mom, respect your husband and you inspire and challenge me.

  103. 253

    Why do I read WATF? The first post I ever saw made me laugh and cry and totally relate. I was hooked. Then, I found out about Mercy House, and I was hooked…right through the heart. Nice to be able to be a voyeur into your life. thank you for sharing!

  104. 254

    I LOVE reading your blog because you are so real!! And I love to read about all that your family is doing at Mercy House. You are giving so much to your children through all you do. So great to see families like yours. Blessings to you and your family and congrats on 5 years. :)

  105. 255

    I like how you keep it real. You are encouraging to push through the struggles/shortcomings for God’s glory.

  106. 256

    Your honesty and transparency is so refreshing. You write in such a way that makes me feel like we’re just friends hanging out yet God always uses your words to teach me something. Thank you for sharing your gift!

  107. 257

    Congrats!

    I read because you have a way with words…witty, inspirational, real.

  108. 258

    Congrats on your anniversary. You are so far from my world (and island in the Indian Ocean) and I had thought about unfollowing you as I spend too much time reading blogs, but your writing is real, refreshing, sharing a different reality, open, encouraging and fun. A bright spot in my day. Thank you.

  109. 259

    I read because you and your husband are honest, and that shows me the grace of God. Also, like most of your other readers said, I read because you are an example of what God can do through a humble and obedient heart.

  110. 260

    I read your blog because you are such a genuinely good, real person. You’ve made such a difference in this world, in Kenya for sure, but also my little spot in Kentucky too! God Bless You!

  111. 261

    I read here, because you are inspiring and encouraging. In my walk with God, my relationship with my husband, and my life with a new little baby in it. Thank you for writing here, even in the hard days. When you do, you help make our days a little less hard… because we know we’re not alone.

  112. 262

    I found your blog on a link-up from To Love, Honor, and Vacuum. I can’t remember what that first post I read was about, but continued reading for a few different reasons: 1) As a victim of childhood sexual abuse, your efforts with Mercy House resonated with me, and continue to make my heart glad for those you can help. What powerful things God does with ordinary people. 2) You, as a Christian woman who has been married for several years, have a perspective that I, a Christian woman who has been married for only a few, can learn from. 3) You are SO honest about both the struggles and joys that you go through. Too often, we Christians are happy to share our joys, but try to keep the ugly parts hidden away so no one will think less of us because we’re not perfect. You just put them right out there, and your honesty is encouraging and refreshing. Keep it going!

  113. 263

    I read your blog because it is a great encouragement to me.

  114. 264

    It is a blessing to see God use His children to bring Him glory! That is what you are about and I love it!

  115. 265

    I have to just say- I have started reading your blog because I admire your strength to follow God in the good, bad, easy and tough moments. Your honesty in the way you live has inspired me to always be transparent about how God is working. I appreciate the ‘real’…the real struggles, the joys, concerns and just ‘real life’ that you share with us, your readers. It was something I couldn’t do in blogging, I was fearful about being ‘real’. Thank you for the last several years, that I have been reading, and I am very much looking forward to, at least, five more!! I pray God continues to use you as a vessel for so many wonderful and important things.

  116. 266

    LOVE your blog, love your ministry, love that you are not perfect and don’t pretend to be…….congratulations and may all of today’s comments be as encouraging to you as your teacher’s words so many years ago! Thanks for your blog! May God continue to richly bless you as you encourage the rest of us just plodding along through this journey called motherhood!

  117. 267

    Love your ministry and your willingness to do something totally out of your comfort zone – that’s when God works His very best is when we let Him do it :) Thanks for being real though – awesome!

  118. 268

    Congratulations on your blogiversary!
    I read here because you are real. I love reading about how God works in your life.Your love for what you do is evident.I love your stories and you are so funny!!!
    monk5 at charter dot net

  119. 269

    I love your down to earth humor that you find in all of life’s challenges. I love hearing about the girls at Mercy House. I love the way you encourage and challenge us to grow as wives and mothers. Looking forward to the next 5 years!

  120. 270

    I don’t know if it is too late for the birthday giveaway, but happy blogging birthday! You inspire and encourage and are appreciated. Sometimes blogs make me feel like I’m lacking in so many areas – I’m not always the perfect cook, photographer, mother, crafter, and decorator. It is good to be reminded of what a real mom, wife, and family looks like.

  121. 271

    I read here because of that last paragraph in the “About Last Night” post…because you are so gloriously, beautifully real! I read here because you make me laugh, and I call my sister and read out loud to her, and we laugh together! I read here because you make me cry and then smile and then nod my head and say, “Oh, I’m so glad I’m not the only one!” Wasn’t it C.S. Lewis who said, “We read to know we’re not alone”? That’s why I read here! So grateful for you…

  122. 272

    I love that you DO share your icky sides…and always couple them with God’s grace, even when it’s hard to grasp. You are a beautiful writer. I also like that you share some things about your personal life but don’t reveal everything. Your blog is one of the refreshments of my day!

  123. 273

    I just started reading your blog -like last week. I started reading because my middle child just arrived in Kenya -to spend a year working in the Dow Family Children’s home, and I want to learn more about Kenya and those who have a heart for the Kenyan people. But, I will KEEP reading because you appear to NOT have all the answers but are honestly trying to follow the ONE WHO DOES. and enjoying the journey

  124. 274

    I read your blog because you are an encouragement to me to be a godly wife and mother. Thank you for a pick-me-up every few days!

  125. 275

    I read very few blogs, but I keep coming back to yours for your honesty, for your faith, your parenting advice, and to hear more about Mercy House. You have an amazing heart and story. Thank you for sharing with us!

  126. 276
    Rosanna R. says:

    I was just referred to your site by a friend! Excited to begin sharing your journey and thoughts! :)

  127. 277

    I don’t remember how I found you, but it was way back at the beginning…and we were both new bloggers. I loved your honesty, writing style and humor. I can not separate them, they are what makes this blog special. When you took over WFMW and I watched you blossom and soar as God led your family, I was in awe. And thank you for being honest about how scary and hard it is to follow fully!!!!! We work in ministry too…we get it!
    Love your daughters observations….getting older does involve more liquid. LOL
    Happy Anniversary to one of my favorites!

  128. 278

    yay for being “a WHOLE hand”! (that’s what we call 5 at our house)

    i’d love to win this great gifts! thanks for the chance to enter.

  129. 279

    So sad the board was sold out. It’s way cute! I read here because it’s encouraging me in the journey of parenthood and marriage. Thanks!

  130. 280
    Nora FitzPatrick says:

    I read you because I think it’s fascinating to read all that you do-and realize that I have a similar life and could be doing something similar. We all have our own God Whispers but we don’t often meet people who do something about them and I love seeing how this is all changing your life. It has definitely made me more in tune with mine and open to what the future might hold. As a mother I love to be able to relate-sometimes I think we’re living in the same house!

  131. 281

    Because my name is Kristen. And I love sweet tea. And I have 3 kids, about your kids’ ages. Also 2 girls & a boy. You are real. You are normal. You aren’t perfect, but your God is; you love and serve Him. You make me feel normal. I feel like I can relate to you somehow and I appreciate you. Don’t ever go away! Happy Birthday!!

  132. 282

    I love your real-ness and encouragement! Thanks ;-)

  133. 283

    I want to win! ;-) I started reading here when WFMW came over and I’ve stayed–because you post every day, because you’re funny and you share stories of real life/daily struggles….

  134. 284
    Shawn Bensley says:

    Your real, that’s why I enjoy reading your blog.

  135. 285

    Congratulations on 5 years! I love reading your blog…it’s real and it makes me laugh, cry, and think. Here’s to another 5 years! :)

  136. 286

    Congrats ton 5 years! I’m Real-ly encouraged to read about real people, with a real marriage, raising real children, with a real and honest heart!

  137. 287
    Chelsea P. says:

    1st off Congrats!! Second I read for the encouragement and the insight!

  138. 288

    Happy Birthday! I read your blog because you inspire me to be better than I am and to do more than I am.

  139. 289

    Happy birthday! I read your blog because you’re honest about the challenges of life as a mom. Also, I read for your updates about Kenya. My husband and I spent a few months in Kenya working with orphans and have had a heart for Kenya since.

  140. 290

    In the beginning I think it was WFMW that brought me here. But as I read your blog, your honesty, your humor, your willingness to be human and exposed in front of the whole world is amazing to me. Then when I learned about Mercy House and all that God is doing through you, I became fascinated and completely humbled. I like hearing the success stories of the Mercy House. I like hearing how you and your husband have stuck things out in spite of your difficulties. All of these things are truly inspirational for me. My life has been truly blessed because of your blog. Happy Birthday!

  141. 291

    In the beginning I think it was WFMW that brought me here. But as I read your blog, your honesty, your humor, your willingness to be human and exposed in front of the whole world is amazing to me. Then when I learned about Mercy House and all that God is doing through you, I became fascinated and completely humbled. I like hearing the success stories of the Mercy House. I like hearing how you and your husband have stuck things out in spite of your difficulties. All of these things are truly inspirational for me. My life has been truly blessed because of your blog. Happy Birthday! p.s. I also feel like “THAT” family….most of the time. :)

  142. 292

    I’m late reading this blog post and if the give away has ended that is okay. I LOVE your blog and how honest and open you are. I love that you long to please and honor God in all you do. I love how you are a daughter of the King serving Him in all you do. Your blog makes me want to start one, only I’m not a writer. I will just keep reading yours!
    May God bless you and your family and your ministries!

  143. 293

    I read for your real-ness, your making-me-feel-a-little-normal-ness, your God-in-the-midst-of-everyday-life-ness :)

  144. 294

    I read here because you make me smile and I love your writing!

  145. 295

    I read because you are real. It’s inspiring to see how you handle the challenges God has given you, and to see how you respond to what He has called you to do.

  146. 296

    How neat! I’m actually celebrating 5 years of blogging this week too! It’s amazing how fast time flies!

  147. 297

    I’ve loved reading this blog – I think I’ve been reading it almost 5 years! You make me laugh, you make me feel less alone, I relate to you, and I admire your faith. You don’t try to be perfect and I appreciate that so much! Thanks for being amazingly imperfect but perfect in Him!

  148. 298

    You are an inspiration. You are real as is your faith. Your real daily life stories keep me in check knowing that being “one of those families” is heavenly. Thank you and congratulations.

  149. 299

    I read here because you are hilarious and encouraging. You make me feel like I am a good mom in a crazy world. Thank you for all that you do and write. You are a blessing to me!

  150. 300

    I started reading because of WFMW. I have learned SO. MUCH. and found some really great ideas – and other great bloggers because of WFMW. I keep reading because you are SO. NORMAL. and proud of it. THAT is really awesome in this virtual world where some bloggers seem impeccably perfect and their lives are unattainable. You are real. Authentic. Funny. Sad. and it’s good for my soul.

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