16 April, 2011

Five Years Ago...


...in July I entered blogger-world and posted for the very first time. I was very reluctant in the beginning and, truly, only began at the urging of my son; I doubted I'd have anything to say! I suppose that hasn't been the case... 1,000 posts later! Yep, this is a milestone post from The Strawberry Patch and, of course, to celebrate (and show my appreciation for you stopping by and reading whatever happens to cross my li'l ol' mind over these past five years) I will host a giveaway. A LOT has happened since that very first post: our son is married, my husband has retired, grandchildren have arrived, Sundance moved in, quilts have been made (some have even been completed!) tips, tricks, techniques, recommendations, sorrows, joys, challenges and victories and have been shared with all of you, my blogging friends and family. I've only felt love and support every step of the way and I've never looked back. To enter the giveaway, leave a comment and I will draw a winner next week, on Easter Sunday. Make sure I have your e-mail address, or a way to contact you, should you be the lucky winner! There are no bonuses or gimmicks to enter multiple times, that confuses me way too much. Just a comment, that's all. I thank you and look forward to many more years, and posts, together.
Life is Good!

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90 comments:

*karendianne. said...

Oh congratulations my friend! What a milestone. I love it. Wish I were there to give you a big, warm loving hug. It's been my honor to share all the wonderful things that have transpired over the years at the Strawberry Patch. Coming to mind… weddings, new job for son and moving, a dog visiting, trip with DH to learn about Sundance for a week, Alaska vacation, baby arrivals, thoughts of Fannie and new adventures lately… including smocking which you've really showed a talent for but none of us are surprised. Oh… and there was a series way back - a thoughtful series. My brain is stretching but I know I learned more than a thing or two.

*karendianne. enjoying the celebratory parade that's soon to begin...

Kathy ... aka Nana said...

Congratulations. I'm a relative newcomer to your blog, but I love following along. We have so much in common ... quilting, grandkids, pups, retirement, etc. I can't wait to see what fun things you'll share on the next 1,000 posts! ;-)

Irene said...

Congratulations on your milestone post! I enjoy your blog very much and love the posts from Hannes in particular. I have also followed your journey with Sundance as we got our machines around the same time.

Janet said...

WOW - 1000 posts is certainly a milestone to celebrate! I know how hard it sometimes is to come up with something worthwhile to say but you never disappoint. Nice positive, uplifting, inspiring blog posts are sometimes hard to find, but I can always count on the Strawberry Patch to be worth reading! Thank you! and Congratulations!

Angie said...

Wow, Mrs. G, 5 years blogging! That's HUGE!! Congratuations!! :) This is a great photo of you and that gorgeous Hannes. :D
Hugs, Angie
badgershipley@gmail.com

Jocelyn said...

Wow 5 years!! Congratulations!! 1000 posts, what a milestone. Thanks for sharing with a giveaway :-)

Helen said...

Congratulations on your 1,000th post! Five years, wow!

I always enjoy reading your blog and look forward to each post.

Here's to another 5 years and another 1,000 posts that will keep those of us interested involved in your happenings.

Again, congratulations. Have a wonderful and blessed Easter.

Paula, the quilter said...

Congratulations, Mrs. G! I had to go look to see where I am: 738, a ways to go yet. I've enjoyed seeing and reading your posts.

Domestic Designer said...

Congratulations! This is truly a milestone moment. I enjoy reading all of your posts. You do a wonderful job of sharing your life with all of us. Thanks for being such an inspiration to us all!
Blessings,
DD

Trudi said...

Congratulations Mrs G! You hold a special place in my heart for being the very first person to welcome and comment on my blog when I first started. Wow 5 years and 1000 posts, I have a way to go! lol sending a massive heart felt hug with love and thanks for all your encouragement and inspiratation :)

Karen Newman Fridy said...

Congratulations on this milestone! Love your tips, tricks, wisdom, pictures and keeping up with life in the Strawberry Patch!

Great photo of you and Hannes too! :)

Nancy Near Philadelphia said...

Knowing you through blogland has enriched my life immeasurably. I anticipate with such joy and eagerness our real-life meet-up in a SCANT three months. Keep at it, my friend. Life is good.

LizA. said...

I'm raising my glass to the past 1000 and looking forward to the next 1000. Thank you for enriching my life with your always thoughtful, often thankful posts. Your posts often make me stop and think about what is truly important in my life. Arlo says to give Hannes a cookie in celebration.

AnnieO said...

And how happy we are that you returned after taking a break! Congratulations on gracing blogland for so many wonderful posts, and hope there will be many more.

Marge said...

Thanks for your 5 years of blogging. I have only been reading blogs for the last 1-1/2 years but have enjoyed life's ups, downs and quilting being shared. It has been very rewarding.
Thanks again, Marge

Beth said...

Congrats congrats congrats!I love your blog and quote you all the time "life is good!" Heres to many many more posts!

Baby Steps said...

Congratulations! I love you!!!

Barb in Mi said...

Dear Mrs. G, congratulations on your 5 year / 1000 post anniversary! I have been stopping by ever so often, and yes: you do have things to say and it is inspiring to read!
To many more blogging years and posts!

yorkie mom said...

Congrats on your 5 year anniversary! I really enjoy your blog! Allison gougeonathome@charter.net

Anonymous said...

Congratulations on five years. I sure enjoy reading your blog.

Gari in AL said...

5 years and 1000 posts is quite a milestone. But most of all, I LOVE your dog. Doxies are my favorite and I've always wanted a blond longhair. I do enjoy your blog.

Carol said...

I think I found your blog through Bonnie Hunter when she moved to NC and have been a follower since. Yes, life happens while we make other plans and I have enjoyed your thoughts and sharing of life in the Strawberry Patch through lots of adventures. Looking forward to the next 1000 posts!

Linda (Petey) said...

Congratulations and thank you for sharing snippets of your journey. You are a wonderful inspiration reminding us that 'life is good'. Happy Easter!

Ancestor Collector said...

Five years and 1000 posts....gosh, time flies! Think of all the things you've shared, the quilting knowledge you've conveyed, and the inspiration you've been. Here's to many, many more posts and wonderful stories to tell. Love you! :-)

quiltmom anna said...

I have enjoyed reading your blog Debbie - it is a great accomplishment to have posted 1000 times Wow- May you continue to enjoy blogging and sharing you and your family's life journey.
Sending good wishes to your mother in law too.
Warmest regards,
Anna

Lynn Dykstra said...

I enjoy your peaceful blog--and your use of orange in your applique!

Zlaty said...

Woo hoo 1000 posts! Way to go! I enjoy reading your posts very much! For many more!

Mrs. DillyDally said...

Congrats on 1000 posts and 5 years of blogging! I check your blog every day and have enjoyed it very much! Thank you for sharing with us all!

Cari said...

Congratulations! I'm pretty new to your blog. I love the little baby things you make...you're such an inspiration!

Kind Regards,
Maria Salvador
salv29@bellsouth.net

gemini47quilting said...

Congratulations Mrs Goodchild - 1000 posts over five years, a milestone to be proud of. I found your blog about a year ago and make a visit once in a while and enjoy your musings. I am not a blogger myself, just a lurker. Thanks
Glenice
jong2505@hotmail.com

Jittina said...

Congratulations on your 5th blogaversery. And 1000 posts!
Thank you for sharing your life with so many people (including myself).

Jittina, the Netherlands

QuilterLaura said...

Congratulations on your 5 yr blogiversary! I have enjoyed your posts very much over the years. Here's to 5+ more!

Mary Lou Casada said...

I was so blessed to find your blog, Mrs. G! Your words are always encouraging and inspiring -- often hilariously funny and wonderfully observant! You are a blessing! Keep up the excellent work (and God bless your son for suggesting it!! :-D)!
Love,
Mary Lou

JudyCinNC said...

Life is Good - while I have not been in blogland five years, I have certainly enjoyed all the blogland friends I have made and you are certainly among the most appreciated. I so love your positive, Christian attitude and wisdom and thank you for sharing and being the special person you are. Many more happy years. Judy C www.judyandmartyn@nc.rr.com

Yvonne said...

Congraulations on your milestone. Although I mostly lurk, I enjoy your blog very much.

StitchinByTheLake said...

What a wonderful day to have your drawing! Easter Sunday, a day of new beginnings and great joy. We have similar stories because my daughter encouraged me to start blogging after I had a mild stroke. It has brought me great joy and more new friends than I could have ever imagined. God works a ministry wherever we are willing to serve him - even here on our blogs. Congratulations! blessings, marlene

ljgctn said...

Congratulations! I check in to visit each day, and just love reading your blog. Laura

Unknown said...

Congratulations on reaching your 1000 post - that is quite an accomplishment!!!!!
I visit when I can but don't leave many comments but be assured that your wise words are always heeded. Looking forward to the next 1000!!!!

CarlaHR said...

Oops - sorry about that South Shore Quilters Guild is me - I forgot to log out and go back to my own account after checking the Guild's e-mail.
CarlaHR

kynomi said...

Congratulations on your 5 years and 1000 posts. I always enjoy reading your posts, and so many times receive blessings and inspiration from your insights. Thanks for sharing, and yes, "Life is good", because God is good!

Margie said...

I thought you had stopped blogging some time ago. Guess you changed your mind!

Margie said...

OOPs My e-mail is fassler@bresnan.net

Valerie said...

Congratulations on 1000 posts, that's quite an accomplishment! Hope you will continue to blog for another 1000.
valekort at yahoo dot com

Becky G said...

Congratulations! Although I am fairly new to your blog, one of my very favorite memories from Church is your response to my son's baptism and confirmation many long years ago. Your blog is always uplifting and a soul soother. Many Happy Returns... and looking forward to your future posts. B

Salem Stitcher said...

Congratulations on the milestone and thank you for sharing your life and wisdom with us! You're an insirpation to me!

leigh anna said...

i'm glad you decided to try putting your thoughts out there! :) even if i lurk most of the time!!!!

Susan said...

I don't know which I like better, the quilt notes or the grandchild photos! Please keep writing. =)

Susan R.

Carole said...

Congratulations! Bloggins has truly been great! I have come to know so many people that I would have never crossed paths had it not been for blogland! Here's to another 1,000 posts! Cheers!

kutiequilter said...

Congratulations on the milestone! Love it all!
Thanks so much!

Joyce said...

Congratulations!! I love your blog.

MJMR said...

1,000 posts. Wow.

Sel said...

I've been following for a few months, although I haven't left comments. But thanks so much for your wisdom and insights into life as well as quilting - they're much appreciated.

And congrats on 1000 posts and five years!

Sherrill said...

I've enjoyed reading your blog for quite some time now even though I don't post often. Congrats on making it so far..I do remember when you posted 'last one out, turn off the lights' and was so disappointed & then delighted when you returned. Thanks for the giveaway.

Pat said...

Yours is one one of the first blogs I started following, after that infamous one Near Philadelphia (grin). What a milestone you are celebrating, and what a circle of friends you have collected!! Congratulations!!

Unknown said...

Stopping in at the Strawberry Patch is a highlight of my day. It's like settin' a spell on your front porch. Thank you for sharing your beautiful family, positive thoughts and gorgeous quilts! Here's to a million more! Grace and peace.

Sandy said...

I enjoy reading your blog every morning. It is always so positive as you travel through life's journey. Congratulations on 5 years.

Andrea said...

Congratulations! I love following your blog, your thoughts on faith, family, and quilting are very inspiring. Thank you for taking the time to blog. ajks100@gmail.com

Charleen said...

Congratulations on your milestone! I've only been following you for the last year or two but have enjoyed reading all about your creative projects. I've made several of the machine embroidered burp cloths and get so many compliments. Thank you for sharing your expertise!

Mama Spark said...

Congratulations on your 1000 posts!!! I hope to be there someday too. It has been fun getting to know you over the years and I look forward to the next 1000 posts too!!

Leslie's Itchin to be Stitchin said...

Wow, 1000 posts, that's unbelievable, congrats. I loved your blog about pansies, you're so right, I wish they would last longer, into the summer months. Thanks for the chance at your giveaway, and again congrats at your milestone

Patricia said...

Good Job of keeping at it! I've been reading your blog for several years and find your posts uplifting. You have a gift for identifying the more important things in life, putting all in perspective. Thank you for taking the time to share your life and faith with the world.

Nane said...

You got me started blogging too! Love the mix of family/quilting/and other wisdom...thanks for sharing friend, Love Ya!

Unknown said...

Congrats on your milestone. I always enjoy your blog and your beautiful embroidary work. You seem like you have a very happy and uplifting view of life

Jim Robson said...

I only found your blog recently, but as soon as I did, I became a faithful follower. I am a quilter and love to see what you have going on in your life and sewing room. I love your name, Mrs. Goodneedle!

Frances Robson
frances@robsonclan.net

sewdoll2 said...

Congratulations on your milestone post. I enjoy reading your tips and your pictures.
Thanks for hosting a giveaway.

I Quilt for Fun said...

Wow -- 1000 posts. I'm at 26 (or maybe I'm up to 29 by now) as a new blogger at iquiltforfun.blogspot.com. Trying this out as I hope to be retired within a year and staying in touch with the quilting community is high, high on my priority list. Congrats on having that much to say!

Jan

Quilting Memories said...

Congratulations on your milepost. I would just like to let you know that about 6 years ago you said something to me that changed my quilting perspective a great deal. You left a lasting impression with me for which I will be forever grateful. Thanks, and thanks for all the wonderful post....You are the greatest.

JoyceLM said...

Congratulations on 1000 posts. I've only been reading your blog a short while (just recently discovered quilt blogs-what a joy!), so I have lots of backlist posts to wander through. Cute dog!

Carolyn said...

Congratulation on your 5 years of blogging. I am a new follower to your blog and enjoy your posts.

Sarah said...

Congratulations on hitting your1,000th post! I always enjoy popping in to see what you are working on, even if I don't leave many comments.

Toni said...

Congrats hun! I love reading your blog with such positive inspiration and simpleness.

Nancy said...

Congratulations. I think you should buy lots of the Strawberry Fields fabric to celebrate. isn't that fabric just yummy!

Catskill Quilter said...

CONGRATS! Five years is incredible! Your blog is always interesting - your son was certainly right! Good luck in the next five years!

Knit One Smock Too said...

Congratulations on 1000 thoughtful and uplifting posts. Glad you're smocking AND quilting with us! Hang in there with Mom. One step at a time...

Bonnie K. Hunter said...

Congrats! My life has been so blessed because YOU are in it! Your warm welcome and the tour of WS when I was in the midst of relocating reign forever in my mind as one of the kindest gestures anyone has ever shown.

Much love to you! Keep Posting!
Bonnie

beth said...

congratulations. BLogland IS a great place to be!

Quiltdivajulie said...

And to think, in the vastness of cyber-space, we found each other (sisters separated at birth) ... who could have known?!?!?

Congrats on a major milestone and here's to many, many more!!!

HUGS, Julie

Terri in BC said...

Congratulations! It's not easy to find 1000 things to blog about, and you have done a great job of it! thanks for the great read, Terri in BC

Purple Quilter Queen said...

Congrats! I enjoy reading your blog - those grandbabies are getting too big! Jenn

Barb said...

I always look for your post because they are always interesting. I have not known you for the whole 5 years, but that is quite a milestone of 1000 posts! I am glad that I met you and you DH in Carroll, IA that year at the classes... Congrats to you!!!

Karen said...

What a milestone it is!!! Congratulations to you! I always enjoy hearing from you, seeing your projects and especially your FAMILY!

May you have many, many more milestones such as this!

Hugs, Karen

All8 said...

Wow, 1,000 posts is a huge accomplishment. The strawberry patch is what a blog should be, a little bit of this, and a smidge of that, just like life.

Congratulations and thanks for the opportunity.

Pat V. said...

Congratulations on your milestone! I think it takes a certain amount of courage to put yourself out there; I'm glad you are still thinking of things to say!

Melanie said...

An awesome feat-- 1000 posts...I love your posts on quilting and grandkids. I miss your discussion posts. I pretty much sew alone except with bloggers and I always learned alot.

Gloria said...

Congratulations on 1000 posts. I enjoy reading your blog. I have been thinking of your comments on finding a facility for you MIL, we were bringing my mother home from a rehab facility at that time. Hope all is well and she is progressing.

Gloria
gyates625@bellsouth.net

Carol Sc said...

I've enjoyed reading your blog (though I didn't start five years ago). Your approach to life makes so much sense and your willingness to share it all is a blessing to your readers.

J Barham said...

I always love to read your blog and the uplifting contents of it.
Congratulations on your milestone!
Five years and 1,000 posts. You are an inspiring lady! Thanks for the giveaway and I'm glad you are back from your break!
Joyce B.

Quiltsmiles said...

Congratulations of the 100oth post as well as 5 years. It nice visiting your blog and stories from the strawberry patch and fell that you have enriched my life, thank you. I wish you 1000s more posts and many more years. hugs!

Jane

Teresa said...

I love reading your blog and seeing all your wonderful pictures and your thought provoking comments. Thanks for sharing with us.

Shelina (formerly known as Shasta) said...

Happy blogiversary Mrs. G. We are glad you are here.