Thursday, June 14, 2012

Celebrating Three Years with YOU !


Welcome in everyone !

I am so glad you stopped by today because it's a pretty fab day
for me as I am celebrating my 3rd anniversary here at
The Open Window.

If you've not been a part of our Facebook PRE-party, you may not be
aware that we will be celebrating for the next 
FOUR DAYS
and during that time, there will be
$500 + in giveaways
provided by generous companies & designers who have
become my friends along the blogging way.
There were over 300 FB friends & acquaintances who RSVP'd
to attend and I welcome you all !

What I really want to do during this celebration is
pay tribute to YOU . . .


 and share stories, photos & projects that I have enjoyed
during the past three years.

Each day, I will post at least once . . .
maybe twice . . .
yep. maybe three times . . .

There are lots of giveaways and lots to share.
You won't have to hop from blog to blog to have a
chance to win.  All you need to do is :

Stop by and check out each post . . .

Play in the occasional game . . .

Leave a little love to let me know you came by . . .

And cross your fingers that your name might be drawn !

Yes, the posts might be lengthy, but I am going to have a difficult
time narrowing down the stories I share.  In some cases, I will
share the links to the original story so you can check them out
when you have a moment.  Make sure you do though, because they
may be a part of the 'game' for that post.

As in the speeches at the Oscars or the Emmy's or the Grammy's,
I am scared that I may forget to mention someone who is
very special to me . . . I'll do my best.  What I know is if you've
visited and followed my blog since the beginning or if today
is your very first visit . . . YOU are the reason I am still blogging today.


This was the very first photo I posted.  I had absolutely 
NO IDEA 
what I was doing with my first post, but thanks to this book


and one of my best friends in the world {literally},
I was on my way.

That friend . . . none other than Sarah Anderson
who just months earlier, started her blogging journey as well.
She is a great tutor, considering she lives over 3600 miles away
in the UK.  By the way, have you been to her blog
'The Art of Moodling' ?  Do you know what 'moodling' is ?


She is a brilliant paper crafter and by the way, she will be
featured in an upcoming issue of 'Art Journaling' and
'Cloth, Paper, Scissors'.  I told ya ... she's terrific !

Yep . . . there is a reason behind the name of my blog.
I don't know about you, but I took quite awhile deciding
what it would be before starting my blog.  Once I knew I wanted
to be a part of this community, I think it took me 5 days or so to
find the name.  When I did, it wasn't but 10 minutes later that I
asked Blogger to please let me have the name.
They said yes.

Btw . . . you probably noticed I use a lot of
. . .
when I communicate.  Don't know why.  Just do.

I clearly loved blogging from the moment I wrote my first post.
As I began during the middle of the month, I posted 30 times
by the end of the month.  LOL
I still enjoy blogging just as much as I did when I started.

Before I go any further, I want to thank Emily,
the lovely owner of EAD Designs
She has offered a


to a lucky winner today !
 I am blessed to be a designer for this terrific company.
I LoVe their vinyl 'Stickerz' and use them on just about
every project I share during the Monday Team Blog Hops.
The sweet owls in the first project above are from EAD.
So is this fun little guy . . .


Hmmm . . .
I'm still on the first day of blogging, so I am thinking it
would be best if I skipped around rather than telling stories in order.  LOL

How about another prize giveaway instead ? !


 The talented & generous Kim Hughes of
is also celebrating with us !

Here is a litte something I created for Earth Day
{you can see the original post HERE}
this past Spring using Paper Smooches . . .


I was VERY inspired by one of my besties THIS side of the Atlantic,
Savannah O' Gwynn
She happens to be the DT Coordinator for Paper Smooches too!

I know I haven't gotten too far down memory lane
with this post, but there is still a lot of the day left to share.
So before I bring this post to an end, I'd like to share my
family with you.  These are the people that give my
life purpose every. single. day.

This is my husband Paul and I celebrating our 20th anniversary.
He is the love of my life.  It is only by God's grace that we met
23 years ago, as he too, is from Manchester, England.
I could tell you THAT story, but that would take more than the four days
we are celebrating.  Trust me.  He is a gift.


This photo is a few years old, but it's one of my favorites.


My daughter Mallory, who turns 28 in just a few weeks,
and my son Alex, who turned 24 just a few days ago.

Mallory is mom to these fabulous boys . . .


CJ (9)
Caleb (6)
Finn (11 months)

and Alex is dad to this precious one . . .


Alex jr, who just turned 4


Now that you know just a bit more about my family
and the wheels that spin within my mind, it's time for you
to have a chance to win.

Here is how you have a chance to 
win during the celebration:

Each day, I will be posting several giveaways.  You will have
a chance to win any one of them by leaving comments on each
post that goes with that giveaway.
For example, this post has two giveaways and two winners will
be chosen from this post. Some posts will ask you to answer
a question or participate in a game, others will just ask you
to leave a note to let me know you stopped by.
So make sure you check each post carefully.

Additional posts will pop up during all four days (with at least one
post per day) with various giveaways & ways you can win.
So make sure you pop by often, check Google Reader,
subscribe to my blog or watch for me on Facebook.
{I'd love to be your FB friend}

Although each post will have it's own winners, I will not
be drawing the winners until Monday, the 18th.
I will plan to announce all winners on Tuesday, the 19th.
So you have all four days to check in on all the posts.

Thanks so much for hanging in with me on this very first post.
I am excited to share more stories and links with you as the
party continues.  Today was just a 'taste' of what's to come
and I'm looking forward to sharing more.

To have a chance to win one 
of these fabulous prizes today,
leave a note and tell me 
how you came to find my blog.
I would love to read  
that part of my story 
directly from you !

I'll see you soon !

A BIG thank you to:
EAD Designs
Paper Smooches

 

189 comments:

Hannelie said...

I found you via CAS-ual Friday blog Julie... started to follow you because your example cards inspired me!
... see I tend to use ... these a lot too!

My Happy Place by Vanessa said...

Julie I can't really remember how I came across you or your blog but that fact that you were from my home town at the time and you work with my son Toby:) Congratulations on 3yrs of Blogging!

~Vanessa Wachlin

Fiona said...

Hi Julie :) I'm so glad to be one of the first to stop by to wish you a happy blog birthday. I don't remember how I first came across your blog, but I'm fairly sure it was via The Play Date Cafe. Thanks so much for the opportunities you make available for many of us (myself included) in the crafting world. I'm sure, just like me, everyone who meets you has something positive to take away - that little bit of something good they've learned along the way from Julie!

~amy~ said...

girl, how do you do it?! I LOVED reading this post:)

Let's see, how did I find you? I can't remember but now I'm oh-so-lucky to be on 2 design teams with you:)

Dontcha just love this blogging community? I'm so very glad that we're bloggie friends and BTW, I do this alot too --> ... <--

Lizscraps said...

You found me on FB and I became a fan and follower. Fun fun fun. congrats on 3 years and all that you have accomplished within your creative sphere. Enjoy your posts and works and will stop by often <

Jingle said...

Julie, congratulations! The day is finally here!!! YAY!!! So excited for you! How did I find your blog? Well, I found you, first...somewhere out in crafty/facebook land. And eventually I found your blog! LOL! Not sure of the specifics...but I'm glad I found you! :-)

Margie said...

Hi, Julie! I *think* I found your blog through a Twinery blog hop-if not, I am sure it was through some kind of hop-that's how I find most of the crafty blogs that I follow! Thanks for all of the inspiration!

Unknown said...

Hi Julie! I found you either through a Twinery blog hop or a Craft's Meow hop... either way-I'm glad I did :)

Lin said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Amy Kolling said...

Hi Julie!
I'm not really sure when I visited and found your blog for the first time. But I've worked with you on several DTs and am FB friends! Congrats on 3 years!

Lin said...

Julie, what a fabulous idea to let us get to know you better....this first post was really fun. Now I understand the reason behind your blog's name! Your family is lovely and you are SO blessed to have those adorable grandsons!
One last thing.....I am prone to these "......" alot, too, and I have no idea why either! Hugs on your anniversary and here's to many more!
Oh, and I almost forgot....I found you from the Play Date Cafe challenges, still one of my favorite challenges.

Unknown said...

I can't recall how I came upon your blog probably a blog hop and then I became a follower

Kathy Skou said...

Yea Julie...happy 3rd bloggerversary! I first found your blog when you invited me to be part of the Twinery team!!! Sending hugs!

Tami Grandi said...

Hmmm... (I use those a lot too!) I am not sure when or how I found your blog- probably through a blog hop of some kind and something you wrote struck a chord with me and I knew I had to start following you. I love reading your posts! They are so full of life and passion!

Jessica Buffa said...

Happy Celebration Julie. I love the stories and projects you have shared today and look forward to reading and seeing more. I first came to know your blog through the PDCC challenges I think, but if memory serves me correctly, I stumbled upon one of your creations through a mutual friend on FB and and just had to send a friend request. It has been a pleasure learning more about you and I am so happy to are celebrating this wonderful accomplishment with all of your readers and friends!
:O)
Jessica S

Sandy said...

Hi Julie - Happy Blogaversary! I found you during a CAS-ual Friday challenge, if I remember correctly. I'm glad I did!

Deborah Johnson said...

Hi Julie - and congratulations on 3 years!!!

I found you after Krisy Lee asked you to blog hop with us in May - been following you since then.

Pattie said...

Hi Julie! Congrats on your 3rd Blogaversary and thanks for so many chances to win some fabulous prizes! I found you through The Play Date Cafe!!! Although I wish I had more time to play along...I love the color stories and I love to get inspiration from your DT! Have a great day!
Hugs,
Pattie

Alina said...

Happy Blogoversary Julie! Ha...this is a hard one! I don't really remember how I found you in this big Blog land. It might be from the twinery, but I am not really sure. If I see something that I like I follow that blog..and on your blog I find each day something nice!
Happy blogging further!
Hugs!
Alina

Jessica Pascarella said...

Congrats on 3 years! I came across your blog when a number of you friends held "Operation Smile for Julie". Looking forward to seeing what you do in the future!

Annette Allen said...

I actually found your blog through the Twinery Blog. I was new to blogging and was looking up all the company blogs and seen an amazing project that you had made and followed it back here. I have had the opportunity to play along with you with The Craft's Meow...I am so excited for our new friendship...

Happy Blogaversary....

Cindy Coutts @ Cindy B Designs said...

Congrats Jules! I just came across you and don't remember where because it's been such a long time. Oh, I remember now! It was when we all got together and I read about your dental work from another blog as I had been through dental hell myself, braces at 44, that fun stuff (NOT) but you gotta do what you gotta do, and could totally relate to you and what you were going through (especially the financial part, like signing your 401K over to the orthodontist as 2 other kids were in braces too - we bonded) so I contributed and we've been friends ever since AND now we both have awesome smiles that will make Julia Roberts envious. So that's how I met you. Teeth brought us together.

I've always wondered if you named your kids from that 80s TV show Family Ties.

So my dear friend, Happy 3rd Blog Anniversary, or whatever the technical term is for that. You sure do know how to throw a party.

Also, I don't want any prizes from you. I just want to celebrate with you.

I also love your fabulous presence and personality online. You're like the den mother taking care of everybody. I think there should be a badge for that.

Hugs girlfriend!

Jamie Lane Designs said...

I found you through Miss Monika about a year ago...(if not a little longer!) and have been stalking your blog since! I love your creativity and the love that you put into each project you do! Congratulations on 3 years...and over 1,000 fans, so wonderful!

Miriam Prantner said...

Julie, what a fun celebration and pre-party this is! I've been looking forward to today! It's hard to nail down how I found your blog because you're kind of ubiquitous! It's either through PDCC or CAS-ual Friday, or SSS, or the Twinery, or or or. I mean, the fact that there are so many amazing sponsor banging down your door to contribute to this party speaks volumes. You've brought together tons of people and companies, and provided encouragement to many of us along the way. Thanks for hosting a great party!

Sue VanDeVusse said...

I found your blog through The Play Date Cafe. I love the inspiration you provide here.

Jennifer Scull said...

well I am a newbie here who happened to read about you from the Free Digi site. so glad I have found your blog though because your creations are so much fun! :)

can't wait to read your other posts and catch up on all of the excitment! thanks!

Suzanne @ Day to Day said...

My friend Julie Smith owner of Paper & Such directed me to your blog.

Julie Shearer said...

First off, A Big Congrats on your 3 yr. Blogversary !! That is great . I do not rember how I came across your blog...it's been a long time. Keep up the great work and thank you so much for all of the inspiring inspiration you share everyday.
julieshearer@sbcglobal.net

Kaylee Snyder said...

What a fun party. I stumbled on here via Free Digital Stamps and am excited to find a new craft blog to follow.

*Alison* said...

So fun Julie.. I remember surfing blog land and came upon your amazing blog. i was so blown away by your talent, then you had a DT call for "what is known know as PDCC" but in the beginning I remember the "behind the scenes" of it all, picking names, discussing what kind of challenge it would be. :) so much fun! i am so blessed to have you as a friend in my life.. HUGS

lynda said...

I came here from the Crafty Corgi. I am now going to subscribe to yout blog so I can keep up on the giveaways. Congrats on 3 years!

jessica said...

Congrats Julie on 3 awesome years!!! You are truly an amazing crafter and an inspiration to me!!!
I have enjoyed seeing all your projects with the Twinery...that is how I found you and then so glad to share E.A.D Designs as a fellow DT sister!!!
Congrats again and thanks for sharing your story!! You have a beautiful family and gorgeous grandchildren!! You are so blessed!!!
Thanks for the chance to win!!
Jessica
chick-n-scrap.blogspot.com
eschfamily@yahoo.com

Unknown said...

Congrats & Happy Blogaversary Julie! Love the pics of the family!
I found your blog thru "The Play Date Cafe" about 1-1/2 yrs ago. One of the other crafter's I follow had a post and I follow the PDC blog and then added you in to the many blogs I follow! ;o)

Ashley Bores said...

Julie - I'm not only stopping by for the giveaways (who doesn't love a few good prizes?), but also to wish you an amazing 3rd Anniversary! I feel so lucky to have gotten to "know" you these last few months and I can't wait to learn even more. ♥

Sassy said...

Happy Blogebration! What a fun idea and look how many lives you have touched! I love reading true stories and so far I will be hooked here waiting on your next post. This one was a hoot to read already. How did I find you? I was looking at EAD and "click" - the rest is history.

Cheers!

Anita Braddock said...

Wow Congrats on 3 yrs. I love the post thanks for sharing.
I have been a friend for some time you had done a blog hop that i was checking out and loved what I say and became a fb and blog Friend. thanks for the chance to win.
www.anita-craft-corner.blogspot.com

Tracy said...

I found your blog from The Twinery's blog. You are very talented and I love your work!

Jenn Borjeson said...

Well hello there and it's so nice to meet you! :) I love your blog! I found you from Alison Spelman! Thank you for the chance to win, such fun!!!

Lisa Hjulberg said...

Congratulations Julie! Great post! <3

Froggietalks said...

Love your cards, I wish I could do the CAS style half as well as you do! Thanks for the chance to win some great goodies.

Marcy said...

It's nice to meet you. Alison of TAWS invited me to your anniversary, Your work is beautiful! I became a follower, too.

Romaine said...

Julie, I have seen you connected to so many DT and connected first on FB. I'd been to your blog so many times, I was sure that I was a follower and was surprised to find that I was not!
Congrats on 3 years of blogging!

José said...

Hi Julie, Alison sent me ton your blog. Happy Blog anniversery. You have a great blog, and i will become your follower.
greeting, José

Cristine said...

I can't remember when or how I came across your blog, but I have been coming here for inspiration for over a year. You are insanely talented and you deserve every bit of success you have achieved. Happy Blogiversary!

Melissa said...

My friend Heather Lynn invited me to your celebration via facebook. And I'm so glad she did! Congrats on your 3 year anniversary, here's to MANY more!

kelseymel.blogspot.com

Jennifer said...

Happy 3 year blog anniversary! Sounds like it is going to be a fun filled 4 days =) bummer I missed the Pre-party.

I am a new follower and found you through the PDCC. I love your work and stories and am so excited to hear and see more about you.

Your grandkids (all boys!) and family are darling btw...

jengd said...

Happy 1. blogiversary, 2. birthday to your son, and 3. upcoming birthday to your daughter. :) While I've only recently started to follow you, I've popped in now and again over the past year or two. That's from seeing your work on different challenge sites and the fundraiser last year.

Janet said...

I've been following you on blogger for a long time now. I found you on someone else's blog when I was looking for inspiration, and had to add you when I visited your blog. Thanks for the inspiration and congrats for all you for all your celebrations!

Cyndee K. said...

Happy blog anniversary! I found you thanks to my scrappy friend, Cristine!

Denise said...

Congrats on such a fun journey, Julie! I found you through the Cafe and that, as they say, is history. ;)

StampinCathy said...

Congrats on 3 years and 20 years with your best friend. I'm not sure how I found your blog, but I know that I'm glad I did. I just love your creative and inspiring MOJO!

Kara Lynne said...

Hi Julie, I came your way from the Play Date Cafe. I've only been blogging for three months, but I feel like I've known you through your blog for years! Love the stories today, and the chance to meet your family.

Lisa Elton said...

First Julie congrats and BIG HUGS on three years! I peeked in your Open Window about a year ago at the Play Date Cafe!

Stef H said...

big congrats on 3 yrs!

Jackie said...

Huge Party in the House! LOL Hey Julie! Congrats on hitting 3 years of blogging! I found your blog when you wended up on the AI DT with me, we had a great time as designers and it was fabulous getting to work with you! Hugs!

dawnmercedes said...

Let the celebration begin!!

I believe I found your blog b/c we are facebook friends. Honestly, I think I accept just about anyone on Facebook who looks like they are crafty and contact me. haha. You sure are crafty!!

These are great gifts...and well..I'll be keeping my inky fingers crossed that you'll draw my name on one of them!

Stephanie said...

Happy blog anniversary Julie! I believe I first started following your blog when I joined The Twinery's team & I'm so happy to have found you :)

Patty said...

I am searching my brain with no results on how we met :-) I just know I am pleased as punch that we did! I was invited to your blog hop last week and had an awesome time looking at all the amazing creations! I look forward to this celebration as I will get to know you better and follow in your steps as you learned and grew :-) You are an awesome person Julie and I wish only the best for you! I am sharing on Facebook and on my blog :-) Love you, Patty

Jackie Randolph said...

Congrats Julie!!! A beautiful day to start the celebrations of your three years of blogging!! I started following your blog after hopping along a blog hop with The Craft's Meow and was inspired by your fabulous talent and creative side. I am so happy to have found you and enjoy your post each day since then!! Hugs!!!

Carolyn King said...

Congrats to you as you begin your 3 year anniversary extravaganza! Here's to the next 30 years :) xo

nancyparker55 said...

Hi Julie, First, congrats on 3 years, how wonderful. I've only just found your blog today, but love what I see, so I'll be back. In fact I just became a follwer. I was over at the Free Digital Site and Allison recommended coming by...so glad she did! hugs

Donna said...

I am a first time visitor to your site today. I found you through the Free Digital Stamps web site. I really love your photos and I'm looking forward to hearing your stories as I "catch up" on your last three years. Congratulations!

Sharon Roselli said...

Congradulations on 3 years! I think I found your blog from the twinery blog hop or maybe the crafts meow. not quite sure. I have loved all the inspiration you share. Thank you

Diana Maldonado said...

Julie, first Congrats for this awesome celebration!! it's great to know a bit more about you!! How we came across? you sent me a friend request, I checked who were you, lol!! and I found you were an amazing person!!! So glad you did it!!

Love,
Diana

Sandy S. (CraftyCreations) said...

Happy blog Anniversary! Following your blog now and look forward to seeing more of your fabulous creations!

Happy Crafting!
Sandy
http://thecraftycreationspot.blogspot.com/

Veronica Z said...

Big big congrats on all of your achievements! I believe our first meeting was your friend request via Facebook! I have really enjoyed getting to know you through your blog, email and facebook posts!

Aimes said...

Yay! Let's get this party started! :D
I found you a while back via a challenge site...PDCC I think but I've come to know you much better through our time at TCM!
Hugs!
Aimes
x

SusieScrapper said...

We're friends on FB and you invited me to your 3rd Anniversary party! You're awesome and thanks for the chance to win such cool goodies!!

Audrey said...

Congrats on 3 years! You have accomplished SO much in that time!! I came to find your blog through the Playdate Cafe Challenge blog! :)

Viji Siddharth said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Viji Siddharth said...

Congratulations on completing 3 fab years!! I came here from the twinery! Thanks for sharing your blogging journey!

dreenie said...

Congrats on three years!!! I found your blog through facebook!!! i love interacting with all my crafty friends!!!

Heather Lynn said...

Hi Julie! Happy blogiversary! Somehow we became friends on facebook..I am not positive if you sent the request or if I did. I found your blog by visiting your about section on facebook. :) Thanks for the sweet giveaways!]

Hugs,
HL

Ashley Pearl said...

Hey Julie~ I'm a new follower of your blog. I happened to stumble across it from a post on facebook (the post was from the Twinery)! I'm excited for your celebration!! Thanks for the chance to win!!!

Virginia L. said...

I think I found out about you through the HA flickr..as you were inviting people to apply to CAS-ual Fridays DT! How time flies! Anyhow it's been awesome to know about you and your extraordinary talent in stamping and coordinating skills! And finally I am very happy seer your lovely, gorgeous smile! Congrats on your three awesome huge ginormous success in blog land and everything you do!

cropmom66 said...

I found your blog through a Facebook post from the Twinery! Congrats on your 3 years....and your 20 years of marriage!!!

judybob3 said...

Just found you through a post on fb by the Twinery. Fun stuff!! :)

Anonymous said...

Hi Julie. I found your blog through Freedigitalstamps.blogspot.com. Alison let all of us readers know about your anniversary and your blog. I have been blogging for a little less than a year now and I too love it.

Congratulations,
Maureen

Jan said...

I happened upon your blog via The Twinery. You are very very talented. I will visit often.

Melissa O said...

Hi Julie ! I just found you through a post on fb by the Twinery. Happy 3rd anniversary !!! Your cards are beautiful. I'm glad to have found you to today. Have a good day and Thank You for a chance to win some great prizes!!! : )

ilmy3cats@yahoo.com

Vera Yates (Ling) said...

I couldn't remember how I found your blog, but I sure do remember having the pleasure to meet you in person at CHA last year!! Congrats on 3 years of blogging and here's to many more!! :)

Jackie said...

I found you through a post on Facebook by The Twinery.

Crafting With Jack said...

Hi, this is actually my first visit, Alison sent me from Free Digital Stamps!

Pam said...

Hi,

Just discovered you through Free Digital Stamps, liked what I saw - so subscribed!

Congratulations! Let the party begin :).

Chiwei @ One Dog Woof said...

I found your blog through a facebook post by The Twinery, and I'm so glad I did (I'm following now)! Even in one post, you sound just wonderful! Plus, it was my birthday this week, so I'm hoping for some fairy dust in winning one of your giveaways!

www.1dogwoof.com

Handmade Creations by Stephanie said...

I have a really bad memory but i think I found you through some one else's blog. Anyways big congrats to you my friend you have been such an inspiration to all of us!!!

Katie Skiff said...

YAY Julie - this is going to be fun!! Good for you!! i am sure I found you via The Twinery. I have you in my Google Reader, so I'll have to pop back for each post!! Have a fun celebration!!

Christine said...

Hi Julie!! Congratulations on your milestone. I loved hearing your story and I can't wait to hear more. You have a lovely family!! I only found you recently because you invited me to your blog celebration through Facebook but I can't believe our paths haven't crossed before now since we are both pretty involved in the industry. No matter, so glad that I found you and that you invited me. It's been fun following along with the pre party so I am sure that the real party will be even more spectacular!! Can't wait!
Have a wonderful day!!
xoxo, Christine
BTW, I had once thought to use a similar name for a store I wanted to open, My Scrapbook Window, but it hasn't come to fruition yet. Maybe someday. So I love your blog name and think that great minds think alike! :)

Lisa's Creative Niche said...

Yay for you!!! I love love love your works and find you a huge inspiration... I am not sure I know exactly how I came across your page, but I know it was after seeing one of your entries in a challenge and that I was blown away by your work! Thank you so much for this wonderful celebration and can't wait to see what the "games" are that you have in store!
Lisa

julie e said...

I'm not sure how I first ended up here - maybe through a twinery blog hop - but I stop often and always enjoy your posts. Congratulations and thanks for the chance to win!

Jessica Fitzgerald (aka MommaJess) said...

First off I want to say congratulations on this milestone. I came to your blog through your FB. I started off being a fan of the Twinery, then you friend requested me and I have been following your crafting escapades ever since. You are an inspiration to me with my mediocre abilities. I love to see what creative things you come up with and then try to incorporate an idea into my crafting. Thank you for that.

Anonymous said...

This is the sentence that got me.....
[quote]Btw . . . you probably noticed I use a lot of
. . .
when I communicate. Don't know why. Just do. [/quote]
I do that constantly with the .....
LOL!!
Congrats on the 3 yrs blogging.. Someday I'll get one, but not yet.
I came here thru Facebook and the Twinery (LOVE their stuff....)
Anyhow, congrats on the 3 yrs, and what a cute blog you have!!!
I'm L.r. Smith on fb and Weezie13 on the Cricut.com Message Boards

Anita Rex said...

Congratulations! What a 3 years this has been! Love reading more about you and seeing photos of your family! That Mallory is inspiring in herself being a mom to three kids and a doctor! WOW! :> I found you through the Twinery, and the playdate cafe! I think it's just been over a year now? :> Looking forward to all the posts you will bring and the stories you will tell! :>

Ashley Newell said...

Congrats Julie! What a great accomplishment! I found your blog through Savannah and probably PDCC which I found through Sav.

Tammy V said...

I believe it was through Market Street Stamps. You are incredibly talented and it always makes me look to see what you are up to next!

ShelleyJo said...

Congratulations on three years!! I found out about you today from The Twinery facebook post and I am glad I did!!

Irit Shalom said...

First of all- juge congrats on your celebration1 Second- you made the most fantastic event ever! And now for how I did found you? We are FB friends for a long time and I was invited to tyhe event and as you can see, I am here to celebrate!I am totally not sure when and where I met you, but I totally sure I read your posts all the time and I like them (Like)

Arnoldo L. Romero, MLA said...

I became acquainted with you through the Play Date Cafe just a couple of months ago. I found the blog and after I entered a couple of challenges, you made some encouraging comments on my blog. You even joined my blog, for which I still feel very honored. Congratulations and may your blogging continue to thrive. Blessings!

donna mikasa said...

Happy Blogaversary, Julie! I've always admired you from your early PDCC days, and I was honored to be on Sweet Stamp Shop's DT, working with you! You continue to amaze me with your coordinating skills and you're an awesome cardmaker as well. It's always a pleasure to visit your open window!

Jay Gee said...

It is so interesting to read how others started their blogging journey. I found you through CAS-ual Fridays and am now lucky enough to work with you, LOL, kind of. Thanks so much for sharing... looks like it's going to be a fun few days :)

Cathryn said...

I was introduced to your blog by a friend of mine who I also met through scrapbooking. Her name is Cristine Redmond!!!!

Suze said...

I have just come to you via Free Digital Stamps. Congrats on 3 years blogging - I just started out in February this year and learning all the time.

lydbug said...

i was introduced to your blog by TheresatheScrappinqueen.
love your blog. so fun and easy going.
congratz on your 3 yr blogaversary.
thanks for sharing.

Jennie said...

Wow Julie! Huge congrats on THREE years...time just flies. I remember you first via STV where you would leave comments about checking out the Play Date Cafe Challenge and was always so inspired by the color combos featured there. Then I saw you via FB and amazed with your networking skills...truly AMAZED! Love your designs you shared on this post and have to say the friends you meet via paper crafting are such a blessing. No matter if we are miles apart (even continents divided) paper crafting brings us all together. Blessings to you and happy celebration :)

MicheleT said...

Congratulations on 3 years of blogging! I found out about you from The Twinery facebook post..

Amy C. said...

I found you through The Twinery!
clayandamy@sbcglobal.net

rlovew said...

I found you through blog hopping with either The Twinery or Craft's Meow. I started following both about the same time so I can only guess which came first.

Josie Cox said...

Wow, 3 years and counting. I to came to you from Alison's and have been meaning to get on this site, but you know how you get up in the morning and you go to town to pick up one thing and then that leads to another project......well, that is me. This is my first time to your blog and I just started my blog last year and need to tend to it, but then there are cards to make, cakes to bake, flowers to plant, whew, I think I am going to have a class of wine and wine down,he,he. Congrats and I will drink a glass to you...really don't need a reason. Hugs, Josie

Josie Cox said...

ps meant a glass not class. Josie

Unknown said...

Hi! So nice to hear more about you. I'm not really sure how I found you LOL but I'm always watching for posts :) I would love to hear more about how you and your husband met? My fiance is in Australia. We are going through all of the immigration stuff right now. Hate being apart from him. I hope you have a great day!

Caroline said...

Hi ! I found your great blog by free digital stamps blog (http://freedigitalstamps.blogspot.ca/)and I'm glad I followed the link...

Ruby said...

Well I found your blog by joining THE most amazing design team in the world, PDCC!!! I owe you so much Julie, when you chose little ole me to be part of your DT I did the happy dance and you gave me the confidence to try out so many new things. As part of this journey I also got to meet and become friends with Sarah and also Savvy, so it was really lovely to read all about them. All the very best with your blogging anniversary and thank you for all you do in the blogging world, you're one lady with her finger on the pulse and full of creativity too! Love your post!!!

Meagan Vaughn said...

I found you through the CAS-ual Friday blog, you have inspired me in many ways. Thanks for everything you share!!

Tana said...

To be honest, I have no idea! LOL! It seems like I've known you forever! Love your inspiration! Here's to the next 3 years!!!!

Lindsey said...

Congrats on three fab years of blogging, Julie! If I remember correctly, I found your blog (long ago) through the Play Date Café.
P.S. Great new profile pic!

Nancy said...

I found your blog via your FB post.

Nancy
allibrary (at) aol (dot) com

Heather (goldiecar) said...

My friend Cristine Redmond sent me!!

terriavidreader (IN-USA) said...

I've been a follower, I don't remember exactly how I found you in the first place~!

Karen B. said...

What a fun party Julie. I sure remember when I started following you. It was when I received my third comment on my blog, yes, third...I had entered a PDC challenge and there your eyeball popped up (that was your profile pic back then!) What a great journey, eh? Congratulations!

April said...

How fun! Thank you for celebrating by giving us the chance to win...you're so sweet! I found your blog through a link at Facebook and I'm so glad I did. ;) And by the way I use tons of ... myself, lol!
- April

Edwina said...

I know it was from another blog that mentioned you. as to which one I just am not sure. Thanks for sharing. Edwina Brown edwina.brown@live.com

Creative Mayhem said...

I was invited via Facebook to join the party so hear I am! Your work is really beautiful and am glad to have found your blog. I'm a follower now! Thanks for the invite!

C'est La-Vie Designs Unlimited, LLC said...

Thanks for the inspiration and the giveaways! I have been connecting with lots of crafty folks on FB and one of them sent me an invite to your blogiversary. I am now a follower and look forward to getting to know your creations. Please feel free to check mine out as well.

La-Vie
L_borde at yahoo dot com
http://www.cestla-viedesigns.blogspot.com/

Sugarlips said...

The layout of you and hubby is so cute.

I found your blog through FB a friend invited me to the event.
:)

Ruby said...

I found you by answering a friend's invitation to join your party. Congratulations on your blogging adventures! Now a follower and looking forward to more!!

Cathy said...

I found you via Jessica Shelton on facebook
cathyplus5.blogspot.com

KelliJo said...

Not so much to win but I did want to comment on you and Paul... I see your happy on FB when he comes home early, eating lunch with him days off... It just warms my heart that two people can be so happy!!! I love reading about how you started and the DEEP thought that went into your blog name... it's almost like naming your child, but you don't have to worry about a last name being attached... lol
Looking forward to seeing your trip down memory lane and LOVE all the love you have received from so many companies/friends!!!! <3 YOU BE GOOD PEEP JULIE!!!!!

Arielle H Gordon said...

I found you through Play Date! Congrats on 3 years, Julie!

Elizabeth C. said...

Congrats on 3 fab years! Wishing you many more. Thanks for the great giveaway!!

Carol said...

I saw a post from the Twinery telling me to come enter a contest to win a mega twine pack! Who knew I'd find such an awesome blog?! Congrats on 3 years!

Stephenie said...

I hate to say it, but I do not remember how I found your blog. I tend to hop from blog to blog depending on the links and what is going on, I can get 4 or 5 blogs deep from where I started. What I do know is that when I find a blogger whose card making style I like, I will subscribe to their blog. I really like your style, so "ta-dah", I am a follower! Loving the giveaways and the generosity of your sponsors!! :)

Kathy Martin said...

I don't remember how I found your blog. Through facebook I think. I subscribe to blogs that I think are what I am looking for in a blog, and yours did. I love all the ideas I get from here.

Savannah O'Gwynn said...

OHHHH! I've enjoyed reading your post today! I love seeing how you got started in blogging--love your creations (I didn't know you made scrapbook pages! LOVE!!!)!!! I love that PS card--I was just using that stamp set the other day! FAB pics of the family--LOVE LOVE LOVE x10!

Congrats on 3 years!!! Here's to 100+ more! <3

Ceal said...

I found you through blog hopping and I love your work!!! Thanks for a chance to win so many prizes.

Anonymous said...

I found your blog while visiting another blog. I love your ideas..Congrats on your 3 years. Thanks for sharing..And thank you fofr a chance to win!

Froggietalks said...

I found your blog through the Play Date Cafe challenge blog. That, and I'm sure I've had over 100 tweets of cards that were linked to your blog.

Felicia - Scrapper in the Making said...

Hi there, Happy Blogaversary!
I came to learn about you through a FB post from The Twinery. Glad i stopped by. Smooches... Felicia - frankleecrafts [at] gmail [dot] com

Denise Bryant said...

Congrats on 3 years!
I found you through The Twinery! Thanks for the chance at some FABULOUS prizes!
DeniseB

Kelly Sas said...

I just found your blog for your anniversary from Twinery's FB post. I KNOW I will be back and also "like" you on FB because I don't want to miss anything!

Moments by Marla said...

Beautiful family - beautiful cards. Thank you so much for sharing with us.

Mrs. Brown said...

Honestly, I was just surfing the web and put in crafts and here I am!

kellybrown28021@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

LOL i can't even remember how i stumbled upon your blog, oh i think it was something on facebook and i always check out all the scrapbooking stuff, lol
Good timing too with all the prizes. Sure would love the chance to win.

Suzane

Unknown said...

I found you because The Twinery posted on their FB wall that you were having a giveaway!

My Paper Epiphany said...

I found you first through Playdate Cafe, my fav challenge. Then when you became a follower of my blog I was very excited. I enjoyed reading your post today and hope you have a wonderful 3 year anniversary! I don't know how you manage to get so much done! Thanks for all your inspiration.

Amy S. said...

I found you through the Twinery Facebook page--can't wait to see what you come up with next! Love your blog!

Angela said...

Congrats on your three years! Came across your site from the Twinery. I have a love addiction with twine right now. I set up my own blog a year ago to showcase my craft obsession but havent done anything on it. I was definitely drawn to your mentioning of the google blogger for dummies book. Must purchase!

Anonymous said...

Not sure I found my way to your blog. Congrats on 3 yrs!! Hope my name is called! Love the Twinery and all the great colors!!

Unknown said...

I have been watching your beautiful creations for a good while now, but I think when I really got to know you was from the Twinery and then the Craft's Meow. I'm a big fan and congratulate you on this fabulous milestone.

Venus and Luanne @ Sisters Craft Cafe said...

hmm let see... I'm at work today and it's lunch time meaning facebook access is open for everyone and I am online checking what's new on one of my favorite shop page on fb then browse on my other fave feeds then I got one from The Twinery, yes! I got to know you and your wonderful blog and projects from them. Congratulations to you!

Luanne Pang (Sisters craft Cafe)

Stephanie Sam said...

I got here from randomly clicking around =]. Congrats on the anniversary!

Ssam87@hotmail.com

Emily H said...

Wow! I love resding your stories. You have a lovely family! I found your blog through a blog hop I believe. I joined your facebook pre-party. :)

Lyndal said...

Hi Julie
I found you through The Play Date Cafe and CAS-ual Friday Challenge sites - you were my very first card-making blog follower :) :) :)

Becky G said...

Sounds like a lot of fun to be had in the next few days! I found your blog by way of The Play Date Cafe and facebook! Love your work!

=) Becky G

Deb (Two Cheeky Monkeys) said...

Congratulations on 3 years in the blogging world! I'm a little embarrassed to say I don't remember exactly how I found your blog. All I remember is seeing a link to your blog on someone's Facebook post and it really caught my attention. :)

debyeo at hotmail dot com

Sandra said...

I'm pretty certain I came across your blog through via The Twinery and I liked you enough to stay by adding you to my Google Reader!!

Anonymous said...

I found your blog via The Twinery on F/B. Keeping my fingers crossed!

Steph Ackerman said...

Found you from The Twinery - lovely stuff! Great blog.

Shendy said...

Happy Anniversary! I came upon your blog thru the Twinery on Facebook. I love their twine and the amazing colors!!

Thanks for the chance to win!!

Kirsten @ Mushki Loves said...

I also found you from the twinery on FB. I think the picture has something to do with color pallettes...am I right?

Thanks for the chance to win!
Have a great day!

Unknown said...

Congratz on 3 years. Hope many many years will follow.I can't remember how I found you. I'm a follower for long time. So it's a short story :-)
Thanks for the chance to win.

Sarah Anderson said...

I can't believe it's been three years! And so much has happened since then, some hard things, some good things. Congratulations though on your successes over these past three years, you truly found a great home here in blogland, and I'm truly, truly honoured to be your friend xxxx

Indy's Designs said...

Congrats on three years! I can't remember how I came to find your exciting site. Probably through a blog hop.

Kerry said...

When I first started blogging a year ago you and some of the other DT members at Play Date cafe became followers right away. It meant SO much to me and was so encouraging. I try to make it a priority to play with PDCC when I can because of that early encouragement you all so generously gave me. Congrats on your anniversary. This is such a lovely blog design and idea. Thanks.

Ruby Taylor said...

I found your site by accepting a friend's invitation to stop in. So glad I accepted the invite!

Rozy said...

Hi! I found you on the CAS-ual Friday blog...and boy am I happy I did! Your blog is fun and amazing! Happy Anniversary! Thanks for sharing!

Unknown said...

Hello, I found your site from a post on Free Digi Stamps -- you have a gteat writing style and I am glad to have found your blog.

Angi Barrs said...

Congrats! Congrats! Congrats! on your 3 years of blogging. I loved reading about your journey in blog land. I found your blog through the Play Date Cafe. After seeing your creations over there I decided to click on your link and it brought me here! So glad I decided to visit! :)

Andrea Murdock said...

congrats on such a fun anniversary to a part of your life that has had a big impact and fun journey. I don't remember how we ended up Facebook friends about a year ago but you introduced me to the playdate cafe and I love their inspiration

Tonya said...

Happy Anniversary!

I found your blog through Ali.

Lisa Arana said...

It is so fun to read your journey! Don't you just giggle over the early days. ha. I honestly don't remember how I found you, but sure glad I did. You are the sweetest Julie. I may not visit everyday, but I love our facebook friendship and your big heart. Congrats on your 3 year anniversary. Hugs.

Erin (Homemade Cards by Erin) said...

Play Date Cafe :)

Mrs. Brown said...

Oh gee, I love your blog. How I got here, I do not know exactly. I am sorry. I have been following you for a bit....sometimes I don't always remember things! LOL

kellybrown28021@gmail.com

Chriss America Real said...

Hi Julie,

I was told about your blog by my arch-enemy and blogging rival Jessica Sheldon. We are having a duel to the finish to see who can win the most prizes (so far she is winning), but one day, I shall rise up and defeat her!

Just kidding, I really love her more than beans & rice! She tells me about blog prizes and I tell her. Although these days, we seem to enjoy giving away prizes more than winning them.

Hugs,
Chriss
america57@comcast.net
www.chrissandlou.blogspot.com

arlsmom aka Lynda said...

I think the first time I saw your blog was when Jamie Cripps posted about something and followed a link over to your blog...love your stories and projects!

Sheri Gilson said...

Congrats on 3 years!! I first came across your blog after we became fiends on FB!! :)

Ivanka said...

Congrats on your 3rd anniversary...I found you first thorough PDCC...now I know you from everywhere!! :)

SandiB said...

I found you through the Twinery on FB. Just became a follower of your blog. Going to start with the first day and read through all the posts. I am sure that I will gain lots of inspiration along the way. Thanks and congrats on this being your 3rd year anniversay.

Sue D said...

I usually come to your blog during The Craft's Meow releases.
slrdowney at hotmail dot com

Karenladd said...

What an absolutely wonderful 4 day hop. I am a huge fan of blogs and I subscribe to many, but I find that I am always wanting to know a bit about the person behind the crafting. I wonder how they came to be a crafter, what they do in their off time, what motivates them and what keeps them blogging. I first found your blog through the Crafts Meow and then I just started seeing your name everywhere! Now I have officially "met" you and am looking forward to enjoying your gorgeous projects for years to come!

Houses Built of Cards said...

My internet was too slow all weekend (grrrr...) to be able to read all of the posts and leave comments, so I'm catching up now!!! I found your blog through Operation Julie's Smile! Still remember that! Thanks for sharing the pics of your family - they are BEAUTIFUL!!!

housesbuiltofcards@gmail.com
www.housesbuiltofcards.blogspot.com

SHartl said...

I actually found your blog through my Mom who is a stamping fanatic and gives me a heads up to some amazing blogs and Facebook pages! I am a fairly new scrapbooker and card maker but I love to spend what free time I have creating. That is, when my little 2 year old daughter allows it!

Amy C said...

Hey Julie,

I came to find your blog through PDCC and The Twinery. You always have such heartfelt posts and tons of inspiring projects. Thanks so much for sharing with us!!

Hugs,
Amy
http://www.scrappingmommy.com

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