One of my favorite scenes in late summer... tomatoes picked fresh from the garden sitting on the windowsill.
Every now and then I feel the need to take a moment to post a thank you for reading and this is one of those times. Thank you so much for following along, for reading, for your encouragement and friendship. This year I've found myself having a difficult time blogging. Every time I think about writing a post, I seem to draw a huge blank. I've had the hardest time thinking of anything to share! I think somewhere along the way I forgot the reasons I blog. Forgetting that while my postings may not be very personal, they record little moments in time, things that I value or take simple pleasure in, adventures that are fun and crazy and not always easy (like our ongoing home renovations)... it's like a special journal, one I think I'll treasure as I look back on. So I'm going to keep plodding on ahead, but I wanted to thank you for being here too. Because it just wouldn't be the same without you.
Have a wonderful holiday weekend!
Every now and then I feel the need to take a moment to post a thank you for reading and this is one of those times. Thank you so much for following along, for reading, for your encouragement and friendship. This year I've found myself having a difficult time blogging. Every time I think about writing a post, I seem to draw a huge blank. I've had the hardest time thinking of anything to share! I think somewhere along the way I forgot the reasons I blog. Forgetting that while my postings may not be very personal, they record little moments in time, things that I value or take simple pleasure in, adventures that are fun and crazy and not always easy (like our ongoing home renovations)... it's like a special journal, one I think I'll treasure as I look back on. So I'm going to keep plodding on ahead, but I wanted to thank you for being here too. Because it just wouldn't be the same without you.
Have a wonderful holiday weekend!
I think you stumbled onto the most important reason to have a personal blog. It is a journal of simple snippets and sometimes large moments of our life. Every time I think I might stop blogging I glance back at the journal I'm leaving for my family long after I'm gone and I press on. Sometimes just taking a little break from writing is all the motivation I need to start once again.
ReplyDeleteAndrea,
ReplyDeleteYou could just post a picture here and there throughout the year and I would still "read" your blog. :-) I love the snippets of your life you share with all of us. Thank YOU!
Hi - I'm a new reader, and so happy I found your blog. I find myself gravitating to blogs that are simple, calm, peaceful and that is what I find here. I love your country life, your old house - all things that I strive for in my own life. I have recently "retired" to keep my 22-month old grandson, and though we have a couple of acres in the country, we've been too tied up with work, church, etc. to really enjoy it. Our back acre grew wild, but recently we had it cleared and had a slab poured for a barn. My plan is to get chickens by spring, and enlarge my tiny garden (3 tomato plants and some herbs). I *love* your kitchen, and love that you embrace the imperfections of your home. That's what makes it HOME. We found a sink similar to yours when we cleared the back, and I hope to use it as part of a potting area.
ReplyDeleteAll that to say - keep blogging! You do inspire others.
The tomatoes in the kitchen are also one of my favorite things. I always feel a little sad to think that soon the tomatoes we eat will not taste nearly so juicy and flavorful as the ones that we eat during the summer months. For various reasons, I have not been able to post lately, and I can relate to the writer's block you sometimes experience! I enjoyed your thoughtful post!
ReplyDeleteYou hit the nail on the head. I feel the same way about blogging lately. Please don't stop. Your home is beautiful!
ReplyDeletePlease don't stop blogging! I discovered you about 6 or 7 months ago, and each time you write a new post I am so happy! But, as others have said, if you just posted pictures I would still read it! I draw such a sense of calm from your blog! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteKathy from Colorado
I always enjoy your blog posts and the beautiful pictures you take. You may not realize it but you are an inspiration to many and I appreciate the time you take into what you share with your readers!!!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy the holiday weekend!!!
Please keep blogging your projects and your "moments". I am inspired by your ideas and pictures. Thanks so much to YOU. I recommended your blog to my newly wedded daughter in Nebraska today. She is used to our cabin/cottage stone house in WI and her first house is not a cabin. " I am trying to figure out what kind of house mine is, Mom, and it is taking me awhile." So I sent her to you.
ReplyDeletei love your blog-it's one of my favorites. even if you think you have nothing of interest to say, you can always just post a simple picture. i've never been bored by anything you've written and i love your pictures-they always speak to my domestic heart. :) so, never apologize! and thank YOU for taking the time out of your busy life to post here-your blog is a blessing in my life. joanna in ca.
ReplyDeleteAndrea, I am not a blogger but only a reader.. and as for me, this is why I come here... Inspiration, Friendship, and when I find life throwing me stressful moments, I can slow down and just read ... It helps to just change the passage in my mind... So Thank YOU for sharing all you do .... You are a blessing to many... Have a wonderful weekend too...
ReplyDeleteDitto to all of the above!
ReplyDeleteOh wow, your comments have warmed my heart. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteHugs.
ReplyDeleteI look forward to your blogs, I love your simple homey style and your pictures are always beautiful. Thank you for all you share with us!
ReplyDeleteEsther
You were one of the huge inspirations in getting me to take the leap and renovate a farmhouse and blog about it along the way. You have a great voice and a wonderful eye with a camera. Keep writing, you'll find your voice again. I love seeing you pop up in my feed!
ReplyDeleteYou have something very special about your blog, Andrea. It's heartfelt and realistic, and a welcoming place to share and enjoy life. I get excited when I see a new post from you, because I know that I be encourage and inspired. I love the simplicity and the gratitude that you share in the things that are already around you. Your blog is my favorite! Thanks for all you do!!! Deni
ReplyDeleteP.S. I would love to see a post on your cleaning routine ;)
i love a glimpse into a new project you are working on, your family or in that magnificent garden of yours. Always looking forward to it.
ReplyDeleteWell I'm happy that you blog. I love reading your blog and seeing you lovely life in stills.
ReplyDeletexoxo
Lisa
Leeshideaway.blogspot.com
Hello Andrea, reading all the comments, I agree with them. I think, to me, reading your journey of making a house a home for your family resonates. When I see your property around your home with no fences and all the green makes a peaceful place to raise your girls. Have a wonderful Holiday with all your family, Kathleen in Az
ReplyDeleteLove reading your blog! The simple, clean, real family life is why I enjoy it. From a simple (but SO cute party) to the tomatoes on the windowsill, a recipe that doesn't have more than a few ing. that most people have on hand or at least can pronounce! I do get such a "peaceful feeling" every time you post. May seem like a simple post to you, but to your readers, it's just what we love about your blog. I feel the same way about a post from you as I do opening up a new Country Living magazine. Any post on simple living. Favorite recipes, cleaning, beauty products,pantry items...the list could go on and on! What may seem not so worthy of a post to you, will be a treat for us! Your photos are SO good too. Thank you so much for taking the time to blog.Yours has been my favorite since finding it.In this fast paced world, I wish my inbox was filled with blogs like yours! Have a fun holiday weekend with your family
ReplyDeletePatty
When I see one of your posts in my email, the first thing I do is smile. Then I take a few moments just for me and read the whole thing. I look at your images and try to figure out what lens you used. lol. They quite simply make my day. Keeping It Cozy is so much more than a blog. It's your life. I am grateful that sometimes you give us a little peek. Oh and if if weren't for you I wouldn't be friends with your mom. :) Have a lovely Sunday my friend!
ReplyDeleteI think the answer to the "why blog?" question can be more complicated when you're not blogging to make a living or promote a cause. If it helps you to sort through the question, here's why I read your blog (not in order of importance): 1. It's aesthetically beautiful--I love your photos. Not just the subject of them (though I love looking at your flowers, your home, your garden, and your sweet girls), but the ways in which you render your subjects. Each is a little work of art. 2. I like you. You are very different from me, but I like the you I've come to know through your words. I like your positivity and humility and gratitude. Those qualities of yours help me find the same in myself. 3. You share great information. As you know, your buttermilk biscuits are now a favorite in my family. :-) So are the chicken and dumplings you shared quite a while ago. And your garden is part of the reason I've started one of my own.
ReplyDeleteBe well, and write when you feel like it. You come into my inbox, so it's easy for me to know when you've got something new up. :-)
Just having you pop in and share moments.... the girls, the garden, the chickens, etc is wonderful. Like keeping up to date and viewing your world through your camera lens. Sometimes the moment speaks more than words. Please keep sharing. Love it all! Patty/NS
ReplyDeleteI am a long time follower and love your blog. Your pictures are gorgeous and depict a peaceful, sweet country life. I learn so much from you; from decorating, gardening, cooking. My family loves some of the recipes you have shared: the slow-cooker chicken, the chicken and dumplings, sweet potato fries, potato salad, biscuits. I would love to see more recipes for simple every day family meals. Also some one above mentioned learning about your cleaning routine- that would be so helpful. Lastly, I know it is very personal- but you once mentioned sharing your wedding story- that would be such a treat!
ReplyDeletePlease keep blogging- your blog is incredibly special and calming and inspirational.
Can I add my amen to everything everyone has already said?! The tomatoes on the window sill were enough to fill my heart.
ReplyDeleteJohanne
When I see your newest post in my e-mail, I always smile. You never know when a kind word, a sweet photo or a post on a difficult situation will resonate with someone and make a difference in their day. I think you spread tranquility. Perhaps that is your fruit of the spirit.
ReplyDeleteI always enjoy your posts. :) I DO understand about mind-block & a blog post tho....*sigh* !
ReplyDeleteI love your blog and enjoy every post you write and share with us!
ReplyDeleteCroydon End of tenancy cleaners
Sweet Andrea, you will have a follower in me for as long as your hardworking fingers tap those computer keys! The great thing about when you blog, is that it's always meaningful. I always take special time to sit when I see you've posted. Be encouraged, Sister...you are worth the wait!
ReplyDeleteAndrea- I am just back from a blogging break and I think you have wonderful posts- just sweet snippets of time with your family and sharing your life here. That, to me, is what blogging is really about. Hope you had a wonderful Labor Day weekend with your family- xo Diana
ReplyDeleteI agree with everyone else! I love your blog...your sweet family and beautiful pictures! You always make my heart smile. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI just want to encourage you to keep blogging! You inspire me to keep a cozy home, and also to create delicious meals for my family. (we have 6 children ages 21, 20, 6, 4, 2, and 1) We absolutely love your recipe for Baked Oatmeal, and have enjoyed it with blackberries and another time with blueberries. I would love to see more posts and pictures of any other yummy meals, etc., that you make for your family:) Have a happy Fall!
ReplyDeleteYour blog is just beautiful, inspiring and a little ray of sunshine. Thank you for taking the time to share snippets of your wonderful life you are creating for yourself and your family. Cx
ReplyDeleteAwww, nothing like fresh picked tomatoes - - wish I would have planted some this year.
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to say that your blog is always an inspiration to me and a constant reminder to slow down and enjoy the simple things (like a row of tomatoes in a sunny window). The simple moments in our lives have a power all their own and I for one enjoy following along with you as you enjoy life in your farmhouse. So I thank you for the friendship, the inspiration, and the encouragement you give us as readers.
Believe it or not, I get so excited when I go to open your blog. I just never know what is on there. I love your decorating ideas, your recipes, your family and just about you blogging about the simple pleasures in life that somehow has disappeared from when I was a child. Please keep it all coming.
ReplyDelete