Thinking Awards and other nice things...

In spite of a few minor set-backs in my little life this week (see post below) I have also had some nice surprises along the way, too.

First of all, I found out that I had been tagged for the thinking blogger award by my good friend, Susie. I just love her....and she said such very sweet things about me in this post.

I must say that it's always nice to be recognized for putting thought and sometimes our very hearts into a post. Not that every post is this way, but some are for me. I wish I could say they all trickled effortlessly from my fingertips to the keyboard, but some posts actually make me feel exhausted by the time I hit "publish" and I'm ready for a nice soak in the tub.
So many of you also put so much thought into your wonderful posts- and therefore, it's truly hard for me to pick just five other bloggers to award this to, in return.
Because that's what we are suppose to do...nominate five other bloggers and "pay it forward".

So...although this is nearly impossible and I want to name 50 instead...here's just five:

1) E-mom at Chrysalis
She has written some incredible "thinking" posts about so many topics. She has an endless supply of references and quotes, Scriptures for the topic, and fun pictures, too...I can honestly say that not only am I blessed whenever I stop by, I usually learn something, too!

2) Joyful Woman
She is a superb writer (a published one, at that) and has written so many posts that have caused me to think. She can be at times witty, poignant or inspirational...and if anyone deserves the Thinking Award, she is definitely one!

3) Susan at Learning for a Lifetime
I just met her through the Ultimate Blog Party and I just love how she speaks from her heart. She seems to have such a wise and caring heart, and I've been blessed each time I stop by!

4) Chris at Come to the Table
Another new blog friend, and she is even newer to me! But her posts also speak eloquently from the heart as she writes about parenting and growing in Christ.

5) Linda at 2nd Cup of Coffee
Yet another new friend whom I met at that cool blogging party!
She is not only my exact age (we're starting a 40's club for this awkward, wonderful stage of life!) but she has an incredible talent for getting her point across by lacing it with humor. I just love her style!

So, there are my picks...and let me tell you, it was tough! Just know, if I read your blog at all, that means there is something about it- or you- I really, really like a lot!



The other nice surprise this week was finding a box on my doorstep. You see, I won Pea's One World HeART giveaway and my prize finally arrived!

I hurried and opened my box...

Isn't that cute? And then I lifted the lid...


I oohed and ahhhed... isn't this so incredibly beautiful? And to think it has chocolates inside, too...


And then I gave it a place of honor on my island counter, complete with petals from my camellia bush!
Thank you again, Pea!

And as for my previous post, let me just thank each of you who gave your own personal thoughts on the aging process and the "40's" in particular. It so helps to get those other perspectives- both those that are a bit more positive than my own at the moment...and those that can also relate. And those that are a little of both!

Oh, and yes, Mom...I know. Eye doctor and reading glasses soon...promise!
(Funny how moms are still your moms no matter how old both of you get!)

I won't be posting again for a few days, but will be around to read your posts when I can. My husband has a couple days off and we're all heading to the mountain before the snow melts. I promise to bring my camera!

God bless and have a wonderful weekend!