Apparently, today is the last day of “National De-Lurking Week,” as I discovered over at Carmen’s blog. So, won’t you please take a moment and leave a comment? And if you feel really chatty, tell me how often you come by and read.
Meanwhile, I haven’t ventured beyond my mailbox since Tuesday night when I went to the grocery store in preparation for the impending storms. Sure enough, we ended up with two snow days this week and freezing temperatures. Although we only have a few inches of snow now, the less-traveled streets are coated with compacted snow and ice. This morning, my husband couldn’t get our van up the slight incline of our driveway. (Later in the morning, a third try was successful.)
Frankly, I’m flushed with cabin fever, although at the moment, aside from two preschoolers playing upstairs (slamming doors? what’s that about?), a ringing doorbell–be right back–okay, make that one preschooler, since that was a dad picking up one. . . where was I? Oh, I was just saying how quiet it is at the moment–one teenager is watching cartoons, one is reading a book (the sequel to Eragon) and my other son is at his friend’s house, playing. This contrasts to yesterday when I counted five extra boys here and I kept hollering “Close that door!”
Tomorrow, my husband has a meeting, which means, of course, that my snowbound incarceration continues, even though I would brave the icy patches for a little freedom. I’m crazy like that. And also fool-hardy and desperate.
I hope that by Sunday, the ice melts, crocuses blossom, birds burst into song and spring arrives with an apology for showing up on the East coast rather than here, where it belongs. I’ve always thought that spring should appear right after Christmas. I am the impatient sort who sees little value in forty-days and forty-nights of gloomy rain. By February, I’ll be moseying around the yard, examining the dirt for green signs of life–other than weeds–poking through the dead soil.
Now, don’t forget to de-lurk and leave a comment. I know there are quite a few of you–mostly friendly, I think. I remember when I first started blogging in October of 2004 and I was absolutely thrilled if my daily twelve readers showed up. I’m still thrilled when my readers show up, even though I don’t exactly know who you all are, where you’re from, if you come by because you like me or because you just can’t believe anyone so judgmental and self-centered really exists outside of fiction. So, thank you for stopping by. I’d offer you an oatmeal cookie if you were here.
Actual Unretouched Photo 
I am more than a lurker, but probably lurk more than comment! I read what you have to write because I find it so real and true, especially from a Christian woman’s perspective. I won’t find fluff or flake here and if I do, you usually call yourself out on it anyway! I found you long ago when I had just started blogging and you’ve hooked me since, no cookie needed.
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I read this everyday and can’t wait for a post most of the time. Being on the East cost we have to wait awhile for you West coasters! LOL! Love BOTH blogs…keep ’em up!
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Hi Mel,
I haven’t been by in so long. I had some problems with my site and lost all my links. I’ve slowly been adding back as people commented. I’m glad to “find” you again.
(it’s freezing here too!)
🙂
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I read but rarely comment (maybe once).
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I read probably every post (you’re in my bloglines and I read all of them). I imagine I stumbled on you off of a homeschooling site but I no longer remember.
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I read every single day 🙂 I love it…I check multiple times a day for new posts from you!!
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i read every day, sometimes check back more than that. And i read your other blog too. I relate to your life stage (kids galore) and your frank, laugh out loud writing. I often send my friend to you. My of-late favorite is Compare and Contrast.
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OK, up until yesterday, I had never commented on any blog. De-lurking Week has pushed me to go ahead and comment. Yes Mel, I am one of the many friendly lurkers who read this blog every day.
What you probably think is mundane, everyday life is very interesting to all of us who enjoy your wonderful writing. It’s encouraging to get a glimpse into someone else’s house and see that my house isn’t the only one where doors are slammed, dishes sit ripening in the sink and laundry piles grow while I play referee and break up fights. You remind me that my frustrations are not just mine. They are absolutely universal to parenthood. For that I thank you!
If I lived anywhere near, I’d certainly stop by for that cookie! I’m sure we’d have a nice visit-but I’d have to bring my kids.;)
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I think I’ve commented on your other site, but to officially delurk, here goes. I check both your blogs almost every day. You have a great writing voice, honest and funny. I love it! Thanks.
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I read you every day! I love your blog. You make me smile. Okay, okay. You make me laugh too. Thanks!
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You’re on my RSS reader, so I read all your entries and I love them. Keep it up! I found you through clubmom and I read both blogs faithfully.
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You know I love you! You so often seem to put into words what I am feeling or thinking.
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It’s up and coming soon! What… 16 days??
Note… I’m NOT lurking!!
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Greetings from Missouri where we are getting the ice storm right now. I don’t remember how I found you but I love your writing and check in here and at The Amazing Shrinking Woman for updates.
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I think I was one of those first 12 readers. I’ve been with you for a looooong time. I don’t even remember how I found you, but I’ve always enjoyed your blog. I too read on bloglines, though I don’t get a chance to read every day, which in a way is more fun because then I have a few posts backed up to enjoy. So of course I’m not a lurker, because I often comment, but I couldn’t read this post and not say anything because then that would be lurking.
Can’t wait until it gets warm here again. My teeth are still chattering.
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totally enjoy your site! You are a peach, thanks! 🙂 I randomly found your blog through other blogs…wish we could all plan a trip to Atlantis in the Bahamas and just lay out in the sun and soak up some rays…and bring our husbands to watch our children or maybe leave them at home…boy am I dreaming, ha!
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Hi Mel…
De-lurking…just because it is the last day, after all!
I read you most days. You are on my daily list of blogs to check! I don’t know what it is about peeking in on other people’s lives that is just SO interesting! Perhaps it is the smile & nod thing when we share common *Mom* experiences, and realize we are *normal* after all! You make it an enjoyable read! You have a great way with words, and a great sense of humour. So…if it’s okay with you…I’ll keep dropping by for a read!
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Delurking to say hi. I’ve read you for a long time, can’t remember how I found you, but I’ve enjoyed you both here and at clubmom. I live near Seattle as well, have three kids 17 to 9 and enjoy hearing about your life. I love your blogs.
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I hate when people make me delurk, it’s so nice in lurkdom:) I can’t remember how I found your site but I do enjoy it on a regular basis. Fading happily back into lurkdom…….
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I have a blogreader and eagerly look forward to reading your posts. You are one of the most regular posters I know which is great cause I have something to read every day. I can’t remember how I found your blog but I have been reading for about a year, maybe more. Thanks!
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I check your blog d-d-d-daily.
L-l-l-l-look forward to your new posts.
I’mmmm ssooooo c-c-cold right now
I can’t t-t-t-t-type very well,
fingers are frozen,
What’s the deal, even with the furnace on, heating the house all day long, my nose and fingers are COLD!
Can I tag along on the trip to Atlantis in the Bahamas? I could use some sunshine and tan lines!
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Every. Single. Day.
Reading here is my ‘treat’ at the end of a day of at-home mothering. I know that I am not alone in my struggles to parent and somehow not go insane, but I’m often too tired to comment intelligently. I’m sending warm, sunshine-y thoughts your way from Venice Beach, CA.
-Tracy
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I am here. Me too. Every single day. I love reading your blog, and if you aren’t there, i go to see what you are doing on your other blog. So “hi” again, from middle England!
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I read every day via bloglines. I suspect I’ll change feed reader this year, but I’ll take you with me and continue to lurk.
Living in the Central time zone I like these late night treats from you as I work on my Irish KC blog, but 2007 sees me returning to live in Ireland so I guess they’ll be early morning treats then. That’ll work. Thanks.
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I’m here too!! I visit you every day. It’s hard for me to wait until you’ve posted, seeing as I’m in a totally different time zone, all the way here in Australia
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G’day from Oz!
I check almost every day to see if there’s anything new because I love the way you write about things. Keep up the good work!
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Heather from VA. Mom to two precious (they are sleeping right now obviously) children and hoping for number three soon. We live in Central VA. I read your page as often as possible via Google reader.
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I read you every day but have never commented. Just wanted to say hello and love your writing. You always put a smile on my face!
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I read both of your blogs almost every day, as I have been pretty much since day one. You are a gifted writer, and I love reading about your family.
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Delurking to let you know I’m here. Both your blogs are in my Daily Read Bloglines folder.
I love the way you capture life with kids as it really is. I’m older now, but your blog brings back the memories of my years as a mom. I often marvel at your energy. You really are amazing.
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Hi, I’ve been lurking for a couple weeks, and loving your honesty you’ve made me laugh.
It’s cold here in Ontario too but not much snow. Boy would I love one of those Oatmeal cookies…
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Out of all the blogs I like to peruse, you’re my favorite! I think you are funny, heartwarming and very real. You make me laugh out loud and I can relate to so much of what you say. I think we have a similar sense of humor .
I live in Seattle and have 3 kids (2 girls and 1 boy) ages 4-7-10.
The post about “Alma” and your sister the other day was timely as I have been going through something similar. Although I’ve talked it to death with my friends, it was nice to hear that someone I respect is dealing with a similar situation in much the same way I am. And the fact that it’s coming from a Christian perspective also helps.
Keep up the good work, Mel. And if you ever want to meet up let me know!
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Sometimes I comment, often I lurk, but I read all your posts.
Sometimes I get a little behind and read 3 at once though.
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I read everyday. I don’t comment very often. ::::waving::::from Texas!
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I’m here! I check in daily. Love your blog! 🙂
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I guess I never really comment, but I love your writing! I read both blogs every day. 😀
Greetings from Finland! (why don’t we get any snow this year?!?!)
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Hi Mel…I think I’ve commented a time or two, but just wnated to go ahead and say “hi.” You’ve been a real inspiration to me in my own fitness journey, and I love your attitude and style!
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I’ve told you before, but I love you and your blog!
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Hello Mel!
I read more than I comment but that is because I think that sometimes silence is better than opening your mouth and inserting foot:-)
I find your blog slightly addicting so I try to limit how many times a week I stop by. So many blogs, so little time.
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Now I can relate to this: “I’m crazy like that. And also fool-hardy and desperate.”
And girly… if you can honestly get out there and look for signs of green in FEBRUARY I’ll hear of no complaints from you! ;^P We get our official last BIG snow dump near the *end* of MAY! And March is the biggest snow month of them all. It’s a far cry from my California days for sure where Spring really does invade Christmas day.
So, I’m here sharing in your cabin fever angst. Heck, we look forward with excitement to the days when it’s just above freezing. Those are locally known as “balmy” days here during the winter.
I probably come by your blog once a week. :^D Though I know I would be here more if not for a shameful message board addiction.
Nan – who thanks you heartily for your link to me in your sidebar! :^D I really appreciate it!
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Hi! I am a bit spotty in stopping by as of late. Sounds like a LOT of snow – more than we’ve had all winter and we usually get tons.
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Your blog at the end of the day brings back fond memories of when you and I would sit in our dorm late at night, drinking Diet Coke (sans the lime) and talking about whatever came to mind. I knew then how fabulous you were– it is great to see your blog fan club lining up to echo the same sentiment.
We now live on different coasts but it is a joy to have the same connection.
P.S. It’s your turn to email me!
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Hi Mel–I stop by as often as I can, usually every day unless chaos hits here. I love the way you write, a lot of the time it really hits home. I feel like I am having time with my friends when I go blog-surfing.
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Hey Mel,
I only recently stumbled upon your blog. Now I’m taking the time and reading from the start. I’m by November ’04
!Yay for me!
I love the way you write, it keeps me entertained on so many levels.
I like seeing life through other’s eyes. I’m 19, I have no children and I’m not married but for some reason your experiences speak to me. Maybe it’s cause you and my Mom sound so much alike.
*shrug*
It’s weird I know, but what can I say? Your writing style is addicting.
I’m here almost everyday keeping up with the new, while reading the old.
I also plan to read your other blog once I’m done. I only noticed it yesterday.
Now that all is said and done I’m going back to lurking…
*Waves good-bye*
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Of course you know I’m here. I stop by every day and I scarecly ever lurk.
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I lurk! I’ve been reading for a while…not sure when I found you, but I love your blog.
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Hi, I come by everyday to check out what you have to say. I enjoy your writing – I have only commented one other time – but I am listening.
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There, you see? We LOVE you, Mel!
Does it ever “creep you out” (as my 10-year-old would put it) that we feel as if we know you, as if you are a good over-the-backyard-fence friendly neighbor of ours, when you don’t know who the heck we are…or even, how many of us there are?
I think you are so courageous, to put yourself out there each day the way you do. You have friends all over the world and most of us don’t even comment and make ourselves known to you.
So, here I am, standing up and being counted!
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Hi Mel, I come by almost everyday to lurk. You make me laugh and sometimes I relate so well to your pain that I come away close to tears. I also have three boys and one girl (she’s my youngest). I’ll try not to lurk so much and comment more.
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I bet you wish I’d lurk!
You are my favorite writer in the whole wide world.
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I am LOL because if your were to come to MI, the Detroit area, you would see signs of spring. Yes, in January. I have hyacinth that I planted last year, the bulbs. The little buggers are starting to come up and my lavender is starting to turn green. Last week I was driving home and trees that have flower blossoms were starting to do their thing too. I had to cover up the hyacinth with mulch again, because today we have freezing rain and next week the high each day is to be 25. Ahh, MI if you don’t like the weather wait 5 mins.
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i read every day, and comment often, although I can’t say the same for you on my site!! but that’s okay, you’re forgiven, i feel a bond with you due to our love of 24, dietcoke with lime and cemetaries in a certain WA town!!
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Dropping in to say hello.
Did you get _any_ time for you this weekend?
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First time here so I guess I don’t qualify as a lurker. I’ll be back from time to time to see what you’re up to.
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So..I think I may have left a comment before, but can’t be sure. I found you thru the League of Pastor’s Wives,and your on their blogroll. I tend to pop in atleast once a week, but like many, don’t always leave comments! Do enjoy reading your posts tho – keep it up! Now, I’m just disappointed I didn’t tell all those Lurkers, to de-lurk on my blog too! Oh well, maybe I’ll jsut extend de-lurking week, for an extra day or two – and say it’s the time difference. ( I’m from Western Canada!)
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daily reader, infrequent commenter. Found you through a moms bulletin board – this was the first blog I ever read – you’ve since gotten me hooked on several others in a very short period of time. We have daughters the same age. I work in a church. I’m 41. I’m the older sister. I think we’re the same height.And that’s just the nominal things we have in common – never mind the similar outlooks on life.
Thanks for writing a great blog.
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I’m a relatively new reader, but a very regular one. You have helped to inspire me to combine my weight loss and my blogging. Thank you so much!
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Hi Mel!
Belatedly delurking. I post sometimes over at your other blog. Just thought I’d let you know I read this one, too. 🙂
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Hi Mel,
I’m a bit late to the party, but figured I’d say Hi anyway 🙂 You’re in my feed reader so I get everything you write sent down a pipe to the UK.
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