curious

photo of cupcakes from back in the day bakery- these have nothing to do with the post but i do NOT like photo-less posts. haha!

i'm curious. i'm curious who reads this blog. what type of person.

are you a paper crafter? do you craft at all? are you a mom? are you a woman? where do you live? why do you read this blog?

i'm very curious.

oh, i know...i know...we blog for US and no one else.

well goodness,that's true in some ways i suppose...but why would i have a public blog if that was 110% true?

i also enjoy the community and quite frankly (when j is gone as much as he is) companionship this blog creates.

i notice that on the giveaways lots of you come out.

i notice that now and then i'll get a comment from someone saying they've read for years but never comment.

there are many of you (jennifer,tara,shannon) that always comment.♡

lots of times i hear that you want to comment but feel like i'd never read it. i have read every single comment on every single post over the years. and responded to any question. of course i read them. why have comments if i don't read them?:) :)

sometimes posts on layouts (those posts take forever to write but i love sharing layouts and think that you probably like to see links for the products) but get the fewest comments.

and before i get a snarky comment...i don't base my self worth on comments or praise. but i think about all of you when i blog.

back when i first started blogging i was very different. i look back and gosh, i complained a lot more. gosh, i was more dependant on comments than i should have been. ew. old blog me kind of annoys me. but it's a learning curve i think...wouldn't you say?

it's funny. i see lots of message board posts saying that blogs should be for scrapbook layouts and that people want more layouts. but i swear those posts are the ones i don't think anyone is interested in on my blog!

why am i asking this? why do i care?

well, first of all, i'm curious. and second, i'm working on some fun posts for february...and i'm debating what i should include.

the emotional posts are worth the work b/c they are my therapy.HA!

but i'm not sure about the craft posts. i think this blog a personal blog,mom blog,army wife blog,home decor blog,but is it a craft blog anymore? hmm. deeeeeeeeeeep thoughts. HA!

so i'm asking.

who are you? why do you read? what makes you tick?

and also i want to say thank you. thank you for reading. thank you for being so encouraging. and thank you for being you!

i hope you all have a beautiful and blessed tuesday!

xoxo

 

Comments

[Monica]

I read b/c I love listening to your kids stories (b/c they are SO like mine minus the TWINS!) I also love to scrapbook but don't do it nearly often enough and you motivate me. But also b/c I met you, you gave me your blog and let's face it I'm a blog stalker. HAHA!

[Danielle Higginbottom-Brown]

Hi Steph!!! Don't change a thing! I read your blog everyday! I have it delivered to my inbox so I don't miss and entry!!!! I am a mom, a crafter/scrapbooker.....and I get inspiration from all your posts! keep it coming!

[Adrian V.]

I love the crafting (I scrapbook) and all of the family stuff- I am a mom to 2 boys. I wouldn't change a thing!

[Nicole]

I read, but often do not comment. I'm 26 and I scrapbook. No kids. While I think your girls are adorable and the stories are cute, I come here for the crafts (and because I recently moved to GA and love love love Savannah). I enjoy the personal stuff on your blog, but for me, it's the layouts I like. Okay...I guess I really like the pictures of the twins. Omg cheeks! ahaha

[sherried]

Steph,
I am a single, middle aged, full-time working woman. I love to scrapbook, too. I love reading your blog because you are so authentic. I love seeing how your family is growing. I also have shared some of your posts with my sisters and ask if they can relate. :0) Please keep writing and sharing what you want to share. Look forward to whatever your present.

[gabby]

i read because i love you and your chickies!
my favorites are the ones about your family life. because that's me.
you do everything beautifully-- your pages, your craft posts, your day-to-day life posts.
xoxoxo

[Katie Rose]

I am definitely guilty of not commenting much but I do read your blog all the time. I am a scrapbooker and a mom so I read your blog for both momma posts and crafty posts. I discovered you through scrapbooking and am so inspired by your work. I also have a little girl Harper's age so I can relate to a lot of what you post:)

[Juanna Sia]

i'm your regular blog reader, enjoy reading your posts on my way to work. its always so interesting, always inspiring and also so fun esp the posts with photos of your children. personally im a scrapbooker so that's how i came by your blog. i live in Singapore, a small island in Asia. not married yet but soon so reading about your family life, about your kids, it always makes me look forward to my own family life in 3 years plus time. (: thanks for being so open and sincere to share all the time! p.s i follow your instagram too ;p

[Amanda J]

I love reading your blog, I love the openness and honesty you have. Those are the posts I always read and usually comment on, your life posts. I am a scrapbooker, and I love seeing your layouts, but usually just glance through at the photos...whatever path you choose for your blog, I will still be a follower and be inspired.

[Rachel]

I must say I found this blog when I was getting into scrapbooking, I was reading blogs everyday and stumbled across yours. I was hooked, I think then (maybe 3 years ago?) there was more scrapbooking layouts. That being said I LOVE this blog! I have told all my friends about it. I remember waiting up (being in Australia) because I was waiting to find out if you had given birth to the girls yet :) (Yes I know kinda stalker-ish) I feel like I know you though I never meet you. I read this blog as it makes me happy, as a mother of 5 I can relate to your little stories, the funny, crazy, loving moments that you share. And I must say it is now the scrapbooking posts that I glanced at and don't read word for word. Don't change a thing, your inspirational and love being able to have a glimpse into your life!

[marianne b]

I am a loyal reader of your blog. I am a woman, mother, paper crafter, pinner, vintage decor lover. I normally don't comment because I figure you've got enough to do. I will make it a point from now on.
p.s. I LOVE when you post layouts! =)

[Michelle]

I am a mom, a paper crafter, a blogger (www.whatsseldomiswonderful.blogspot.com ) a part=time photographer, a mom of 2 special needs kids who I foster from a drug background, a wife to a lovely but lazy man, an only child of a single mom who is my best friend and we spend every weekday together as she helps me mind my kids, I work part-time for a training company, I have a wonderful DD who is 15 doing her exams (stress!!), I am nurotic, A+type personality, can't sit still, can't relax, try hard, and take too much on, Project life-ing, speak before I think, fortright, honest and too emotional for words!.... Did I forget to breath??? Oh and I live in Ireland!

[Karen C.]

I am a mom, wife, scrapbooker,crafter, etc... I love reading your blog because you are an inspiration. You are a great mama, I can tell you love your hubby and your kiddo's. You aren't afraid to share what is on your mind. I love your personality, you are you, and I see that in your blog. You don't hold back and to me, that makes you REAL! I am dying for your February stuff to show up. Crafts, Yes, please share! :)

[nicole]

I came across your blog because of crafting, specifically scrapbooking. I have stayed for your point of view, stories, photos, and your honesty. I absolutely love your scrapbooking posts but that is not the only reason why I come here. I do like seeing photos you post one week pop up again in a LO. I know you don't post as much scrapbooking as you did previously but I don't think it would be the same without it. That being said that would not deter me from stopping by. When it comes down to it we don't have much in common, besides our fondness for a glass of wine at the end of a stressful day, but I think that your life is one that is filled with things that I can relate to, or one day hope to experience so I think that really grabs me.

[Heather T.]

Oh my goodness, please keep the craft posts! LOL.

That's how I initially found you... because I loved your work. I love all of your posts, though. I don't comment very much, but that's only because I have such a huge blog roll... commenting on all of the posts I read would take an immense amount of time away from my family.

I'm a busy mom and crafter just like you. I can't wait to see what you have planned for February!

[Nikki]

Hi Steph
I'm a regular reader - first time commenter, all the way from Australia! I found your blog through scrapbooking originally but have continued to read as I love the way you say it like it is and love reading about you and your girls . You seem like the kind of person I'd be great friends with if I ever met. Please don't change - i love your blog just the way it is!

[Shara]

I love your sense of humor, the pics you share of your girls, and just catching up on what's going on with you. Your layouts are great, but since I have little to NO interest in scrapbooking, it matters little to me how often you post on scrapbooking!

[LouiseB]

I read because you tell it like it is and "keep it real"....the strength you find when J is away is inspiring to me...my husband works overseas and I have two small boys...I'm a scrapbooker/stamper/crafter ans although our scrapbooking styles are nothing alike, I love your layouts....keep doing what you're doing- I love it! (LouiseB from Australia)

[Agnieszka]

Hi Steph, I'm 36, divorced, no kids, living a creative life in Poland. I'm a lighthouse lover.
I follow your blog via RSS for about 2 years now... really enjoy what you do, it appeals so real to me, you as a person - a mom, a wife, a crafter, a crazy gal and so on... and your sense of humor speaks to me so much! :D As a scrapbooker I find a wonderful inspiration in your LOs, they touch the core of scrapbooking, thank you for that.

[Anna]

This is the first time I comment (I'm a total lurker) but I have been reading your blog for quite some time now (your on my google reader list). I'm a mom (two girls), wife, laywer and a scrapbooker. I work fulltime outside of the Home. I'm in Europe (Iceland) Your blog is one of my fav. I love your stories/thoughts. I love the scrapbooking/craft side too. You really inspire me in so many ways.

[Sharyn]

Hi! I love your blog and the whole mix of content. I'm 30, a scrapbooker and due with our first this June (yay!!!). Your honest and emotional posts always get me, and I love the posts about your adorable and hilarious kiddos, too. And I LOVE your crafting posts... I hope you don't do away with those! Your blog is authentic and multidimensional, I believe because you are, too. I wouldn't change a thing, unless it no longer makes your heart happy.

[Tracy O]

I love your layouts! I don't comment all the time, mostly because I read your blog in google reader so I have to click over to comment, but I can tell you that many of your layouts are tagged in my reader for inspiration.

I found your blog through scrapbooking but have come to love all of it. I am a stay at home mom and a military wife.

[KateT]

Hi Steph. I'm a UK mum, crafter and great-aunt to twin boys. I probably found my way here from May Flaum's blog and I visit often because so much of your blog's content is relevant to my life.

I really appreciate my 'blog friends' I love my family and local friends but it's my blog friends that I speak to every single day.

** Kate **

[Jenni Hufford]

YES i love your craft posts!!!!! please keep doing them! that is how i found your blog and fell in love with it! i love how i see your blog posts and layouts merge together. often i we see an amazing post here and a few days later a layout that corresponds to the post. you have inspried me to use my blog as a tool in my scrapbooking (as in it's a form of scrapbooking-- and i use it as a resource of my memories). i have to say what i love about your blog is that it's not ALL craft posts, but all posts ARE a part of memorykeeping. does that make sense? its real and raw. i love reading and enjoy each and every post!!! xoxoxo

[Brooke]

Why do I read your blog? I read your blog because you are honest with your feelings -- and that is very rare these days. All around me I hear women telling me how everything is perfect in their lives...and it makes me feel like a failure. I read your blog because I miss my kiddos being little -- mine are teens and let me tell you, some days I just want to go back when the parenting was mostly physical and not heart-wrenching emotional. I read your blog because I am amazed at how crafty you are and how you make time for crafting because it is part of you. Too often I feel guilty for taking time for me. Anyway, too long of a comment but I felt I must.

[Laura]

I read everything you post and tend to comment more on the emotional posts for some reason, but I loooooove your layouts. I'm in my 40's, wife, Mom to a 7-year-old daughter, scrapbooker.

[Kelly R]

i am a mom, card maker, craft lover and more. i've read your blog the past couple of years, but have only commented a handful of times. probably because i simply do not have time comment on all the blogs i read. i probably would have never come across your blog if it weren't for you scrapbooking...i remember that's how i found you. i love the mix of things you talk about here.

[Julie]

I originally came to your blog b/c of a "blogging your heart" type of post. I am also a military wife, mom to 2 girls (10&13), and currently a SAHM. I love your layouts, but I really love your story! You are real. That keeps me coming back! ;) I blog too and it is super therapeutic for me as I like to share the ups & downs of raising a daughter with autism. I definitely keep it real!

Thanks for continuing to share your life!

[obxwench]

56 year old, mom, grandma, wife, sister, daughter, aunt, friend.
my dad and husband both army men, so i have been in an army man lover my entire life, literally!
paper crafter. love the beach.
read your blog for your crafting inspiration, your stories, your love of family and because you use words like snarky and stink eye. love them. :)
you're the real deal. that's lovely.
thank you for your inspirations and for sharing.

[Justine]

Good Morning! I read your blog as a fellow mom with all girls :) I love your perspective on life, mothering and your Faith in God. I consider myself a little crafty, but I would say the posts I am the most drawn to are the ones where you share about your life and personal experiences. I hope you have a great rest of your week! P.S. I loved your post from yesterday!!

[Kathleen]

I originally found you through Studio Calico and came to look at your scrapbooking projects. Over the years, I've come to know you and your family and enjoy reading about your personal life. I grew up as a navy brat and I enjoy and can relate to your experience as a military wife. I find the blogs that I enjoy the most are ones where the blogger writes from the heart and talks about what is important to them. If you enjoy writing your blog, that will come through and readers will continue to return because you are genuine and not trying to be something that you aren't.

[Victoria]

Hey, Stephanie! It's Vicky from Angleton, TX. I read your blog for so many reasons. I started reading years ago because I love your layouts especially the journaling because it spoke from the heart. You are able to capture in words exactly what I feel about my kids and you do it without rambling on and on in circles like I do. HA! You are a beautiful writer. And so, I kept coming back because I enjoyed reading your blog posts. And, of course, once we get to know your family a little bit, we are hooked. I love to read/watch videos of your kiddos because they are beyond precious and always make me smile. I have boy/girl twins that will be 8-years old in July. I get to relive some of those special baby/toddler moments through your kids - the special moments I trudged through because I was so overwhelmed. I don't know how many times I have told my hubby I wish we lived near you so I could help out. :) BTW: I think you are doing an AMAZING job with your kiddos. I have shared your blog at times with my husband, my mom, my dad and mother-in-law. It truly is a special place. I also come back because of Jimmy. He is a wonderful example and reminder of how great it is to be an American. He helps keep me grounded and thankful. Have a blessed day, sweet girl!

[Jennifer Henson]

I'm a mom, a wife, a teacher, a crafter-when I find the time! ;) I love reading your blog. I have subscribed in google reader so I get to see all your new posts and enjoy each one. I comment sometimes, but I'm always appreciative of each new post. I enjoy your realistic perspective, and your awesome creativity! :) I look forward to lots of February posts! :) I truly find you a blessing and hope you know what a blessing you are! :)

[Kirsten B]

I read because you first inspired me through SC and then I fell in love with your girls and their fun quirks (I have the same differences only with boys!) and now because I need to keep up with all of your action! And yes, I'm one of the "read for years and never comment" people! Keep up the fun! And thanks for adding some sparkle to my day!

[Susan]

I'm a 33 year old Mom, Wife, & Scrapbooker! I LOVE reading your blog for inspiration!!! Thank you!

[Kirsteen]

Hi Steph, I am a 32 year old Mummy to a 3 year old boy with a bump on the way (due 19th August). I work part-time as an elearning officer in a unversity and live in Scotland, UK. I read your blog mainly because I am a scrapbooker and discovered it through scrapping but I subscribe because I like your style, I like the way you write and what you write about.

[BreAnn]

Hi Stephanie. I'm a 30 year old speech language pathologist and sometimes scrapbooker, and I read every day! I live in Georgia by way of Waco, so I was drawn in when I realized we had those two places in common. I absolutely enjoy reading the stories about your girls, and I love seeing your crafty and scrapbooking posts. And I've been looking forward to your February love series since you announced it!

[Alyssa O]

I've been following your blog for at least 5 years and commented only a few times. :] I found your blog through scrapbooking, but now even though I don't scrapbook anymore, I still love to come and read. I'm a mom and have 2 young girls. I love all your posts!

[Gabriella Józsa]

Hi, I'm also a scrapbooker from Hungary (Europe), have a daughter (5), and love your blog both for the LOs and the everyday posts. I admire your honesty and your style, like your super fotos about your family, but I've found you thanks to scrapbooking. I often find inspiration in your LOs (thanks for that !), but I also like to read about your everyday life. It's good to know that I'm not the only mother who has not only ups, but also downs. And yes - I do not really comment, because I think you have quite a lot to do even without my comments :-) Keep on logging on whatever pleases you ! You're doing a great job !

[Corrie]

Good Morning Stephanie. :) What a nice post to start my morning off with! I am a single 25yr old, working full time as a nanny. She is just a few days younger than your twins and it is so fun to see different milestones she hits right after yours. I don't scrapbook but love seeing what you write on your layouts. It intrigues me, this idea of writing down your children's story in such beautiful ways. I read through RSS so it's hard to comment. But I love when I do because you always comment back. I don't remember what brought me to your blog it was so long ago but your's is one I always look forward to reading! Keep up the good work!

[Molly]

I'm 27, not married, no kids and not really a scrap booker but I am crafty. So basically on paper were the exact opposite, other than the crafty part. ;)
I really enjoy reading your blog because I think you have such an interesting point of view. You have a sense of humor but it's portrayed in a very graceful and thoughtful way. In a lot of ways I love reading your blog because I just think you're a tough lady that has chosen to have a great, honest attitude about life and that is something to admire. I also love seeing pictures and hearing stories about your adorable children. I am so excited to start a family some day. I hope you'll still be blogging then! Oh and of course you are a totally talented scrap booker. Love seeing your work!

[Lisa Wilson]

I read your blog everyday! I have just turned 50-ugh and am raising my 3 yr old great niece. I swear her and Sadie were separated at birth. They don't look alike, but their actions and faces are identical. I love your scrapbook pages too. Please don't change your blog. I love it!

[Fia]

Hello from Sweden! I'm a scrapbooking twin mom and I initially just read your blog because of the scrapbooking pages. I love your style. But I really love your stories about your family as well. Don't change a thing!

[Emakhtila]

No just US I read you in France (and my english is really unperfect !!!). I discovered you by the scrap but I follow you every post (but no comments ...) because first i like your scrap, it's fresh ! and i love you pictures ! i like how you discuss of your life !! So I'm just a french scrapbooker/photographer (in unprofessional) who like take 10 minutes of her time for read your blog !! So don't stop ;-) !!!

[Jennie m]

I love it all! I love the mix of topics ... I love the s rap book pages (why I started reading!) but I love the stories and the authentic you. :)

[Rita Legge]

I'm sitting here trying to remember when & how I started following your blog. I think it was around the time H arrived, and back then I was scrapbooking ALL THE TIME. Right now I'm a 42 year old full time mom of teen boys(the oldest just got his driver's license!), and wife to a chemical engineer and I also work part-time as a PA. I still scrapbook on occasion, but I've started knitting thanks to a close friend & joined a book club!! YIKES, life is busy! So here's what I LOVE about your blog:
I get my girl fix! HaHa.....love the frilly girl stuff & pink parties & tutus! The stories of life with girls simply cracks me up.
Although I don't scrapbook your style, I love looking at your layouts. Your journaling amazes me, and it sometimes kickstarts me into action. Scrapping Sunday is plenty for me.
I miss the "flea market" trips, but with twins I'll let that go:-)
Happy Tuesday~

[Andi Sexton]

I'm Andi.. been here for 'years'. Have gone through some serious life changes ... I am now on the road to becoming single (after 16 years of marriage), living in a cute three bedroom house, co-parenting with my significant ex to a a 14 year old dd and soon to be 13 year old son (ex is 7 miles down the same road - we live in a very rural area). After being a stay at home ranch wife, I went back to work full time, last July. Then moved out in October... and I am on the road to starting over ... because my marriage was not to 'my best friend' or even someone that loved me. Why am I here? I love scrap booking and paper crafting and capturing those sweet moments that prove 'life really is good' despite the curve balls and crud we get bogged down in - inside of our heads... and I love your humor! I snort when I laugh.. and love it when I find someone else that falls into that category as well. hugs... see what happens when you ask????

[Mary Jo]

I'll try to keep this short (lol)
I am a 40 year old mom of two whose husband travels A LOT and is home only on weekends for long periods of time. So to an extent, I can empathize with trying to parent on your own. I have gotten a lot of good tips from you on surviving it :) Especially traveling alone with kids!
I know it's not quite the same as having a dh off at war. And so it makes me appreciate our circumstance so much more. And it keeps the complaints in my life down. Because even though I know as mama's we shouldn't compare, on the rougher days I find myself saying "if steph h. can do it with four kids and a husband who doesn't come home at all for long stretches of time, then I have no reason to complain" :)

Another reason I read, I used to be a preschool and kindergarten teacher. Love your posts where you talk about your teaching days. Especially the recent one with letters from a former student. Brought back fun memories and I actually shared some of my former student letters with my kids which they love.

I am a scrapbooker, so that is mainly how I found your blog. Through Studio Calico from when I was subbing.
I do love your scrapbook posts and have been inspired to scraplift ideas from you before, so don't stop those posts please :)

Anyway, I am not much of a commenter on blogs where people get lots of comments. Especially if I don't know them IRL. I sometimes feel like it's all been said and I really don't have anything to add. But sometimes I do. So I will comment here and there. It's not because I don't think you read them, but because I just feel redundant I guess :)

Just one more thing. I really do love your posts that encourage moms to be supportive of each other! I think that is so important. It's not about being in a competition but holding each other up. Especially on those rougher days :)

[[email protected]]

Hi Stephanie. I'm a regular reader of yours but usually just lurk, rarely comment. I am a single mom, physician and paper crafter. Your daughter Sadie reminds me SO much of my own daughter, both in looks and temperament, but mine is grown now. I enjoy your take of life, motherhood, and scrappy goodness. I live in Texas and get a charge out of seeing all the places the Howell family moves to! Thank you for bringing a little slice of your life my way. Celeste.

[Sarah]

I think I originally found your blog from TwoPeas around the time your twins were born. I love your writing, love watching your girls grow up because I have a 2 year old DD. Honestly I enjoy watching how you do it, often alone, with 4!

[Leslie Murphy]

I am a mom of three and a scrap booker. I live in Kentucky and read your blog regularly. You do a great job with those four beautiful girls of yours! Have a good day.

[Monica]

I'm Monica. I live in the midwest. I am a mom to two boys. I am a scrapbooker and I started following your blog after you were on Paperclipping Roundtable. Your layout posts are my favorites. I pin your layouts all the time. And I know other do too! Check out this link to see how many people pin your layouts http://pinterest.com/source/stephaniehowell.com/

I do like hearing about your life too. My husband has deployed several times as a civilian contractor. Not the same! But I can relate to the back home side of things. Missing him, and being a mom all by yourself. You are one of the few blogs that I always read.

I know how nice it is to get comments and how frustrating it is to work on a post and have none. And yet, knowing that, I still rarely comment. Thank you for the reminder! I commit to commenting more often on posts I enjoy, both here and elsewhere. :)

Have a wonderful Monday!

[Cathie]

Hi Stephanie! I love your blog and found you through the Paperclipping Roundtable - your blog was a pick of the week - and I've been hooked ever since.

I'm a work-from-home-mom of 2 little boys (10 mos and 4 yrs). I'm a Canadian and pretty jealous of your Savannah weather. (we're getting 10 cms of snow today. *sigh*)I am mainly a scrapbooker but I do other crafts when the mood strikes.

I visit your blog daily. I come for the stories, the layouts and because you are so funny. I love your perspective on parenting and just life. You make me smile all the time - that's probably why I keep coming back.

keep doing what you're doing!

[Cari Skuse]

I enjoy reading your blog everyday! Don't change anything -- I love the mix you have of everything, including crafting. I have learned so much from you about the military and military families and I am so thankful for that!
And reading about your girls and especially the twins brings back so many wonderful memories of my kids when they were smaller. I consider you a friend!
Love you Steph!

[Cathy]

I read all your posts...I paper craft and I'm a Mom, I try to decorate and I have days just like you. I like hearing about ALL your posts...and was looking forward to the project life posts too and how you are going to record life while J's absent. You make me laugh and sometimes cry. Isn't that just a sign of the best blog? I love your honesty, and your humor, your funny photos and the paper inspiration. Keep on blogging!!

[suzitee]

Hi Stephanie! I have read your blog for the longest time(when Sadie was just a baby, I think) but very rarely comment. There are a lot of things that make me come back...I love your scrapping style, and how you are true to the way you want to do it, rather than trying to embrace every new trick and technique. I often relate to your army wife talk, not because my hubby is in the military, but he works away from us on an isolated mine site, underground and dealing with explosives...and the emotions that I feel when he flies out seem to be similar to when J goes away. I don't ever watch your home movies...I feel a bit uncomfortable about them? I love seeing your flea market finds, and other crafting bits and pieces that you make. I understand some of the reasons why you blog...and as much as I think I blog just for me, I love the interaction and support from others, especially when my husband is away and I'm doing the single parent thing. I have 3 kids, but my youngest is almost eight :)
I'm a scrapbooker, cardmaker, quilter and fabric lover from Perth, Western Australia...

[Shannon Shurtleff]

You make me smile! I started reading your blog after a friend of mine (who is an awesome scrapbooker) told me about you. I was an avid scrapper, but then had another babe, so I just kind of lost all my mojo for awhile. With her special needs issues, I haven't been able to scrap for so long. I am just getting back into it...(project life) so, besides that, I am an Army wife...(which I know you know) LOL! I am a Mom...a very proud Mom... and I am a woman. A friend, a sister...who loves lipgloss, and high heels...and who loves hot pink toe nails! XOXO~I read you because you are real girlfriend! You don't claim to be perfect, you juggle children...being an Army wife...being a crafter...all beautifully and with class! I like everything you write.

[Jennifer Harris]

I am a scrapbooker. I am a wife to a man that carries a weapon for his job (not as dangerous as your army man, but it connects for me). I am a mom of boys (thus why I love reading about your pile of beautiful girls). I am a chick with snarky thoughts and love when someone else actually says them out loud like I do. And I visit to hear you talk of your everyday life, to see your beautiful girls grow and recall my own childhood, to see someone else who isn't afraid to be real... well and my weakness for handsome men covered in girls - makes my heart tender. Thank you for being you. I don't comment all the time, but please know I read and laugh far more often than I would without you. (hugs)

[Angela Dennison]

Hi. I subscribe to your blog because I find it interesting. I initially found you through someone else's (I can't remember whose though). I am married and have a wonderful two year old daughter. I like to read your posts because they make me feel better about some of my own parenting (ie. I did something right or something new to try) and also because I'm curious about how you manage with 4 kids! I only have 1 and a full time career and feel as though some days I'm failing at both! Ha! I like the craft posts but I do like some diversity - for instance I just bought the e-book (The No Brainer Wardrobe) because you liked it so much. I mostly scrapbook and even though your style is very different from mine I enjoy seeing what you've done. So please keep on doing what your doing and know that we appreciate all your craftiness!

[Karin]

I read because I love to see the crafts and scrapbook pages you share, and because I love how honest and open you are. It's nice. Please keep sharing your scrapbook-related posts!

[Diana.D]

I'm a avid blog reader for your blog all the way from Singapore!!! I'm 19 going 20, still a student and I love love love reading all your post, be it from you ranting about how you feel, sharing with us about how wonderful, pretty and adorable your girls are. How you don't give up when time are bad and it actually encourage me to be stronger as a teenager and as a person not only that, you also make me appreciate things/life better and of cause how can I forget your layouts. How simple your layout would be but yet it so fantastic! I wasn't a scapbook-er when I first visited your blog but now, slowing picking up scrapbooking. You inspire me in lots of way! <3

[Robin G]

I am a soon to be 45 year old wife and stay at home Mom of two girls (one 16 and one 8 year old). My husband is retired USAF and we live in Georgia. I honestly can not remember how I found your blog but it was through scrapbooking. I always read but rarely comment but when I knew we were making a trip to Savannah I emailed you for help and you were right there with A great list! Thank you so much! We had a wonderful time. I have saved your list as our oldest made All-State Chorus and we will all be there the end of February to watch her have fun and enjoy Savannah as a family. Both I and my girls love reading your blog and my girls love your girls! Thanks for being you always and being real about everything! I will read anything you post!

[Julie V.]

There are many reasons I read your blog. If I had to narrow it down, I especially look forward to the layouts. They are so inspirational and fun. I like that the pages usually focus on the photos and memories, rather than just the supplies or techniques. The fact that you also share those real life mommy moments is an added bonus. I usually don't comment, but since I am a mommy myself, I often nod and smile along as I read these posts. Thank you.

[Danielle]

i'm still reading your blog from when you lived in waco! i'm a mom now, but i wasn't when i started reading...i like to think i'm a little creative, but honestly my scrapbooking has changed quite a bit since having a baby...so i do love seeing your layouts and i *think* about traditionally scrapbooking again someday (i mainly do project life right now)! but i LOVE your cute/funny stories about your life as a mom and things the girls do and say! i think moms of toddlers like knowing they are not alone in the rollercoaster of child raising ;)

[Sharon]

Stephanie, I am a wife, a mother of three grown children, mimi to six grandchildren and owner of one crazy cat. You know how I ran onto your blog because I mention it frequently. It is the first thing I read every morning. Without fail:) Anyway, I always love to read about you and your girls. You know, we have actually watched Cate and Lucy change through the year from little babies to little toddlers. When I started reading your blog H and S were pretty small. However, I do miss, really miss, seeing your layouts and knowing what products you used. I have learned a lot from looking at your layouts and I have also used them a lot for ideas for my own layouts. So, pleeeeeeeeeease keep posting scrapbook layouts and ideas. Oh, and last but not least, I really like when you show things you have done in your house..so,keep everything going pretty much the same..more lo's please.

[Rebecca B]

This is honestly my favorite blog, and the first one I go to everyday. I am a married mother of four boys age 3 to 14. I read your blog for a few reasons. 1. I love your girls and I admire you as a mother. I identify with you. Your love for them, your worries, the fun you guys have together, the rough days. You are a great mom. 2. I am an aspiring photographer and I know you are going to laugh but your pictures are always gorgeous! 3. The military aspect. I don't know a single person in the military. When I read your blog I feel like I am looking into a window to what that world is like. I learn from it. Thank you to your family, from my family. 3. I am not a scrapbooker, I'm a little bit of a crafter. I get inspiration from your posts on things like the girls' birthday parties, play time, home decorating. 4. Sorry for saying this but girl your husband is hot! I may have a mini crush on him. You are a lucky lady! That is about it. I hope you run your blog however makes you happy in the future regardless of what your readers want. Because every post should be about what is on your heart and what you are wanting to share.

[Hanna]

I'm a crafter, yes originally why I started following your blog. But I'm a mom (of twins too!!!) and I also love a sneak into your daily lives. I know by your blog your a great mom and I love the funny stories, the honesty that sometimes its hard. Love seeing preschool projects too. Love your decorating. Gosh, I almost feel like a stalker - LOL.

[Emilie]

I read because I have a J who is also in the military, who also leaves and I get lonely... I read because I am a mom and I love that you keep it real... I read because, when you keep it real, I too can relate. I read because I may... Or may NOT (kinda embarassed to admit) that I scraplift.. But when I have LOADS of laundry to do, bottles and sippy cups to wash, two boys who need to be fed and bathed, I may not have much creativity in my in the wee hours of the night. I read because I enjoy your posts.. I read because if you can do it with 4 girls while your J is serving our country, I need to pick up my big girl panties and quit complaining and DO WHAT I HAVE TO DO when my J is gone... (and I only have 2 boys age 3 & 1) i read because you give me inspiration... In life and in craft. Thank you!!!

[Jane]

I often read your posts, but don't always comment (if I commented on every blog I read, I'd never leave my computer!)
I read your blog because I love the way you tell stories about your family and life. I love your writing "voice" - you're eloquently honest.
I scrapbook, but my style is a lot simpler than yours. I am crafty though, so feel free to include some crafty things for Feb :)
Oh, and for the record, I am an Australian military wife without any kids currently living in Malaysia. How's that for global ;-)

[Jill]

I started reading for the craft posts, as I adore your scrap style. But I've found myself anxious to see what is going on with you and your family just as much as I am anxious for your scrapbook layouts! So, I'm in it for the long haul with you, for crafts and kids and life and anything else you wish to comment on! Thank you for such a great blog :)

[Joeynumber41]

I found your blog right before the littles were born. I love it. Keep up the great work!
I am a mom. I have 2 kids, my daughter is engaged to a wonderful guy(they live 5 hours away) and my son is active duty Army stationed at Fort Bliss, TX and is being deployed to Afghanistan in June. I collect more scrapbooking supplies than I use. I am also an ex-Army ex-wife. I totally relate to the craziness and also rewarding task of being a single mom during a deployment. Keep smiling!

[Julie Mitchell]

Good morning from Canada,
I enjoy reading your blog. I especially like that the blog is alive with lots of posts and a wide variety of entertaining material. I am most interested in looking at scrapbooking projects and I think you are very talented. I like that you don't overthink it and still create awesome things. Reading other blogs, I normally skip over the personal stuff but you are the exception. I like your writing style, straight from the heart. I always get sucked into your beautiful family's stories! You are a very good storyteller and those girls are absolutely adorable. You are one of the few bloggers that I feel I know as I "friend". I am positive that if I ever met you, you would be the same as the person we read on your blog. You are genuine. Be proud of that.

[ginny]

I first found you through Studio Calico. I've never subscribed to them, but I liked your style. My sister is an army wife, so I enjoyed hearing your perspective on that. I'm a mom to four boys, so it also interests me to hear about the life of a mom to girls! I am a scrapbooker and a card maker, so I fall into that category as well. Keep it up, Stephanie!

[Linda in aus]

I am a mum of older children, I am a paper crafter, I'm from Perth, Australia and I have read your blog for years. Why! Because I love your posts, I love to follow your journey, (I'm nosey), I love your crafting style, I love seeing the everyday things in people's lives from another country, I have great respect and admiration for anyone in the military family, oh my list could go on and on. I don't comment all the time and I actually never comment on giveaways as I feel postage would be too much to Aus, and if I ever get to the USA I am coming to meet you.
Xx

[Michelle L]

Hi! I found your blog through the SC blog. I'm a scrapbooker and I'm on the messageboards there a bit too. I really like all of your posts not just the scrappy ones! I'm a mom also except to 2 boys. I love when you post about being a mom too becuase it's honest and often very hilarious.
You've had a couple of posts about people asking you if your kids are twins and how you do it with so many kids and I can even relate to that sometimes. My boys are adopted and some of the questions I get make me want to scream.
A lot of times I read your posts and I wish I could call you so I can vent! Keep posting and have a great day! =)

[Brandy Wasko]

Hello! I've never commented before, but I read every entry. I am a mom of 4, 3 girls 14 years, 12, 7 and 1 4 year old boy. I scrapbook. I love seeing your pages! You are such a great scrapbooker/crafter. I also love the family posts, they make me see my house is not the only 4 kid crazy house:) Please keep your blog the same, I love everything about it! Thanks, Brandy

[Stefanie]

Hi Stephanie, I love reading all of your posts, the crafty ones, the venting ones, the photos of your gorgeous family, everything just as it is.
I am a 40 something Mom of older kids, work from home and a digi scrapbooker and memory keeper. Reading what your girls are like reminds me of my children at that age and is often the beginning of a reminisce trip for me. I am so one of those women who would say "are they twins?" because I am terrible at making small talk and that would be an opening line.

[Carin]

I am someone who pops in and reads often but doesn't often comment purely because you get so many comments I didn't think it would make a difference but I think I will make sure I comment in future! I love reading your blog as you have a gift for putting things down in writing, I love your sense of humour and how much you love your husband and girls and OMGosh you just have the cutest little girls ever! Your blog posts make me smile, laugh and I have even shed a tear a few times! I love your layouts and their easy style and I admire you and think you are quite a superwoman actually, (I think I would be a gibbering mess if my husband was away alot and I only have two kids! lol) four very loved, happy kids, a husband who is often away and you still manage to squeeze some scrapbooking in there and do things like make beautiful parties for your children, I wish I could be so organised! Reading your posts always makes me want to hug my husband and be a better mother to my kids :)

[AnnElise]

I've been a reader for about a year now and love your blog. As a navy wife, mom, and crafter I love all of your posts. My vote is "be you!" that's what we come here to read! :) if you haaaaad to add something maybe a home tour or home decor post? I love those.

[Kaila]

I mainly read because I love scrapbooking. I have scraplifted from you on more than one occasion! I am a full-time mommy of two boys and a nursing student. I love blogs that inspire and make me appreciate the small things in life - your blog does that for me.

[Lynn]

41 - married for 20 years this year - momma to four beautiful boys - ages 14, 11, 8 and 6. Read your blog...because you make me smile...so many times what you write is exactly what is in my heart. Makes me realize I'm not alone in my thoughts...so community. Love watching your girls grow. Love seeing the SC sneak peeks and your style. So...I love hearing about your family and I love your crafty posts!

[Sarah K]

I am a wife and a mom to one girl. I am a Christian who lives in the Cleveland area. I am (in theory) a scrapbooker, though it's been years since I've done it with any regularity. I do like to do craft projects with my daughter. I've been following your blog for years, and I used to enjoy the posts about your layouts, but since I don't scrapbook much anymore, I usually just skim over those ones now. I usually skip your giveaway posts altogether. I just enjoy reading about your day to day life and your take on things because of your transparency. I feel like I can relate. Your blog gives me the sense that you are being you and not trying to put on a show here for your readers. I appreciate that. I do miss your flea market finds posts, though I can't imagine you strolling through many flea markets these days with four girls in tow, but if anyone could do it, I think it would be you. I love your blog and am so glad that you find a way to continue posting regulary. I would miss it so much if you decided to stop writing. I wish you and your family all the best. Thanks for sharing your life with us.

[jen kinkade]

i read for the whole enchilada!! ;)
i love it all! you, your girls, your scrappiness, your creativity, your humble sharing of your life.
i know i missed something, but you get it...
i think your blog is stephanie's blog and you share what your heart tell you to share!
i admit most of the time i don't comment b/c i read your posts via twitter links. BUT today i made an effort to go to the computer, send you some love and say continue to do what you do...sharing the life that you live and love!!
have a blessed day, friend! xoxo

[Ann T]

I first visited because of your beautiful layouts, and stayed because I fell in love with your blog and writing style. I love all your posts, but I know I'm a rare commenter. I just a housewife who currently lives in Georgia, but my husband's new job is moving us to Mountain View, CA in just 3 weeks.

[yvon]

Hi Stephanie, i love to read your blog and look at the photo's.
I'm married without childeren, but i work at a daycare centre with kids from 10 weeks until the move on to the next group when they are 2 years old.
We have 9 kids in the group so it can be very hectic.
I do mostly cross stitching now , sometimes i make some scrapbookpages or cards.
I'm from the Netherlands and love all the things you write about.

HUgs Yvon.

[Elina]

Hi Stephanie, I first started reading your blog because I admire your scrapbooking and love to see your layouts. But I also admire your honesty, positive attitude and I very much enjoy reading of your everyday life. Your life is so different from mine! I'm married mom of two boys, work full time and we live in Finland :) (And I'm a scrapbooker too.) I wish you'll continue your blog a it is now: fun, real, mix of this and that... that's how life is!

[Valerie]

I don't remember how I cam across your blog. I'm a crafter, but not a scrapbooker. I primarly stuck around for your more personal posts. Someone I loved very much was deployed when I came across your blog, and it helped to read. I love the way you write and have so much respect for the life you lead (army wife, mom of 4, crafter, and still awesome...). Not to mention, your girls are PRECIOUS!

[ginny]

I read your blog every morning with my coffee & have since Sadie was a baby in Waco. Please don't change a thing. I love seeing your layouts & crafty projects. I love the funny stories about the chickies' antics & the stories that tug at my heart.

[Misc Jenn]

I like reading your blog because you seem more honest than most. Your craft posts are inspiring (although so not me) and I like knowing that there is someone out there who values the escape of art/crafts as much as I have come to. I also once dated a West Point fella, so I feel as though reading your blog is sometimes a glimpse down the path less traveled.

[Laura]

I read all the time, but inferquently comment. I'm not sure where I found your blog (I know it was before I started "really" scrapbooking), but I love the creativity and sincerity. You were my introduction to SC as well, and now I'm hooked! I'm not as dilligent about crafting as I could/should be, but it's an nice outlet for me. The layout posts and Scrappy Sundays are SO helpful to me - I love that you give tutorials and products used. I really try to model your layouts because I find them so wonderful, and those help me a ton. I only wish I could do as much with a 12x12 sheet of paper as you! I also follow you on Instagram, because your pictures of your girls and the captions make me laugh :). I live in Wisconsin (via Chicago), recent college grad in betweeen schooling right now (scraping has replaced homework, woo!). Looking forward to the February posts.

[KristynKG]

I am a 30 year old mother of 2, scrapbooker, runner, and regular blog reader. I "met" you through Noell Hyman almost 4 years ago and have always enjoyed your posts. I like that you are honest and don't ever try to paint some unattainable perfect life picture. You are REAL and that is what keeps your blog readers here year after year. I love your scrapbooking style and am waiting on pins and needles to take a class from you-wasn't there something in the works with BPC? On your craft posts, I like when you explain a special technique or something unique that you did or used, but I don't necessarily look for the product links. I just like to see the layout and then pin it for future inspiration!! I have used quite a few of your "basic designs" over and over again.
I also take a lot of parenting tips from you. You help me to remember what is truly important in life. Just continue to be YOU and ignore those random snarky comments you receive sometimes :)

[EvelynB]

I have been a follower for a couple year now and I'd say I read your blog for all the reasons you stated. I got here because of the scrapbooking and I love seeing what you create. I also come here for the fun stories about your family and like it when you post what it's 'really' like as a mom (I have a 5 and 3 yr old). I like posts that make me laugh. Like those photos of S with the tree branch. heehee. It also doesn't hurt that you had an absolutely adorable family (all of you! although the chubby twins are my personal faves) so it's enjoyable to see pictures. As for commenting, for some reason it sometimes feels strange to comment since you don't know me at all, so unless I have a question or a really compelling comment and want to show support, I keep it to myself as to not be that 'freaky person you don't know who comments all the time'. And I never comment on the giveaways -- those are actually my least favorite because I never win anything but it's nice to be introduced to small businesses that I might be interested in supporting and buying from. I am pretty much addicted to your blog -- as soon as I see it on the Facebook feed I go directly to Google Reader (your blog is the first in my long, long list of blogs on Reader) to get my daily fix. :-) Keep doing what you are doing. I'm enjoying it!

[JillT]

Honestly I never remember how I got started (other than it was definitely steered here because of scrapping) . . .only why I stay. I love the inspiration I find here, but if I were to cut back on virtual inspiration (as well I should--what's that saying about spending time on Pinterest is not actually creating :) I would still come here because I feel like family now. I would miss hearing updates on the chickies, and I want to hear about Rhode Island and real family time. When I don't comment, it is because I don't feel I have anything new to add to the conversation. (except this time I'm breaking that rule :) Anyway, I love visiting you every day.

[jackie]

hi stephanie. i have five girls (my younger two are twins)...been with my husband for 21 years (who works long hours 6 days a week). i work from home in indiana. i read your blog because i feel like i can relate to you in so many ways. i love your sc layouts because it inspires me to do so much more with my kits. don't change a thing...because i love reading your blog!

[Lisa]

Hey there, My name is Lisa and I live in Texas, I have posted every now and then, I have been reading your blog for many years, I love reading your blog, you post great stuff, and i like that you don't post the picture perfect family, we all have quirks, you amaze me, 4 kids!! wow! I look forward to each day and to see all the cute pictures. I love the paper crafting stuff that you show, its perfect the way it is, no changes necessary. just keep posting. ha!! hugs and thanks for all of the smiles

[Chandra]

Hi! I am 31 years old, married to a man in the Army, am the step-mom to a 13 year old boy, and pregnant with my first child. I am also a crafter, so I love to see your layouts, but I think I love your family life posts the most. Being an Army wife myself (although I never think of myself that way) I love when you post about military life. My husband has only had one year long deployment since we got married and his job on base is pretty much a regular 9-5 type job. He does leave every now and then for a week or two of training, and your blog reminds me not to get my panties in bunch about it cause he could be gone a lot more. Thank you for the perspective and keep on keeping on!

[Kathy R]

Guess I'm more of a lurker...but I read your blog daily and hope you keep it as it is. I'm a grandma and love reading about your children (my grandson is a lot like your Sadie) and family. I scrapbook and love your creations.I do enter your contests, even won once!, but I read your blog because it makes me happy. Hopefully it makes you happy too.

[tara pollard pakosta]

Well you KNOW who I am!
I LOVE your blog!
I love your heart! I love your scrappy posts BIG TIME!
do NOT stop posting those!
I LOVE mostly pictures of your kids and your posts from the heart, because of course, I can relate to those.
I love your blog because you are real, honest, and someone I admire and adore.
and those 4 little girls, they melt my heart!
I really LOVE every single thing you post. DO what
makes you HAPPY~

tara

[Jennifer H.]

I am an Arkansas mom of two little girls, ages 3(will be 4 in March) and 2 (just turned 2 in October). I am also pregnant with our third, we do not know what it is is yet. I found your blog because I am also a scrapbooker.

This may sound a little freakish or stalkerish (I don't think that's a word but I'm going with it) but when I first found your blog I had to go back a read all of your past post. It took me a few days but the blogs that I follow on a regular basis, that's what I do. I feel like if I start in the beginning with them I really know the person much better.

I have also been through a deployment (Army) so I relate to you on the Army side too. I did not have kids at the time of the deployment but I was married. I appreciate what your husband does for our country.

What keeps me coming back? I come back each day to check your blog because I feel like you are real on your blog and not just some overly perfect woman in this perfect world that only you and your family live in. I love the posts that you tell us exactly how your live is. I also come back everyday because your Sadie girl is so much like my 3 year old its not even funny.

I would like to add that I love your blog and wouldn't
change a thing. Ok maybe one thing more pictures of the girls.

[Deanna]

Hi Stephanie,

I read your posts mainly because of your honesty and your humorous accounts about motherhood. Also, I am a mom of twin boys, 9 months old, so I read your backlog stories of your twins so I know what to look forward to in the coming months. Your scrapbook pages is what drew me in but your honesty is what keeps me coming back. Your blog is one of four that I follow daily. I think you are absolutely an amazing person, mother, and wife and I wish I knew you personally. You remind me to appreciate al the good in the world.