can we be friends

once upon a time I started a blog
...just for family

and then I accidentally discovered a glimpse of blogland
I met my first blogging friend
and my thoughts on blogging were reinvented.

I used to have 100 views a day
and I thought that was huge.
mom's were reading my blog and commenting
and I was reading their blog and commenting.
We were becoming friends and it was awesome.

Then one day my blog blew up
...I don't know what happened or why so many people were here
but it was fun & challenging.
I tried to keep up with all of my new friends
but it was too much
and I had to stop feeling obligated
...to read everyone's blog who commented on mine.
I remember feeling torn
...and slightly guilty.

And then my life became really busy
I didn't have time to feel guilty
or keep up with all of my blog friends.
I read when I could
...but didn't always comment.

I continued to blog
...and keep up the best I could with my established friends
but somewhere along the way I stopped making new friends.
There are still thousands of you who read
and a handful who comment
but I don't know so many of you
and what I'm getting at
...is that I want to know you all better.




I'm still super busy
and I know I can't keep up with all of your blogs
but I'd like to try to keep the connection going
maybe we have tons in common
{and we'll meet up in real life... like someone special I'm meeting this week}
or maybe we'll have nothing in common
{but we can share and learn from each other}
Friendship is a gift of life...
and we can all use more friends!

so what do you think...
can we be friends {grin}


181 comments:

  1. i love your blog ... and making new friends via comments.

    feel free to stop by my recipe blog...

    http://christenskitchen.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  2. i came across you blog a few months ago and love it! you are such a beautiful and amazing mother, and your children and family glow!
    i grew up on a farm in southern illinois, but now live in the city, near st. louis, mo and i admire you for your new found "country" ways. :)
    i am a young (23), new mom and would LOVE to have a huge family like you do.
    best of luck an keep it up!!
    http://ourwalterlife.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hello, I have commented in the past. I am a loyal reader and have been since before your beautiful girls were born. I admire the way you live, your large family, and everything else about your blog. (I have 4 kiddos myself, but thats it.)
    I have 2 blogs, one is by the wayside right now because I have started a new one for my husband who is deployed to Diego Garcia for about 13ish months. We are a military family and .... move... A LOT... looking forward to the day we can put our roots down..... Won't be til after 2014 though.
    http://diary4daddy.blogspot.com (that is the one I update daily for my husband who is 1/2 a world away)
    http://erinsbunch.blogspot.com (my old one that I link to all the other blogs from, including yours! not updated much at all now since the new daily one)
    Thank you for all your great info and sharing your life with all of us....

    ReplyDelete
  4. As always, Love hearing about you and your family
    ~Dana
    www.my3littleducks.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  5. Hey there..I just recently found your blog and I love it!! We share a little bit of some common ground i think:)) We both have alot of kids..you have 6 and I have 5..two of which are twin girls but i guess they are all girls..We really wanted some boys but I guess we were just meant to have all girls..I know my poor husband right:)) I hear it all the time!!! I love looking at your pictures..you are amazing!! I hope that Ill get there one day too!!!
    Im so jealous of your farm life..We used to live in South Dakota where it was all open and now we are in South Carolina where life is completly different..but we are hopeing that one day we will go back to SD and be able to get lots of land to have a farm...I really dont know that much more about you though bc I just started following your blog..So cheers to a new friendship..:))

    ReplyDelete
  6. Hello, from South Africa. I came across you blog a while back now and love it! You are a beautiful & amazing mother with the most adorable family.
    I admire the time that you are still able to keep a blog going and to keep us friends in the computer keep coming back for more updates.
    Keep well and keep smiling :-)
    Karen

    ReplyDelete
  7. Hi,

    I actually don't remember how I came across your blog. But I remember looking around and that I really enjoyed the creative way you write your posts. You have a really beautiful family and the way you take pictures really impresses me. I wish I was as talented with a camera.

    Blessings,
    Kate

    ReplyDelete
  8. Hello again! Yes, I'm here pretty regularly! Keeping up with your family is like finding a little piece of calm and nature in the midst of our busy city life. Refreshing! I am the 33 year mom of 16 month old triplets ( 2 boys and a fiesty little girl) who are the lights of my life! We live in Arizona, where it's no where as green as where you are! But, like you,I love my life! I'm happy to keep following you regardless of how busy you are! :)

    Ami
    www.bunchbabies.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  9. I've been reading for a while, don't ever comment but tremendously enjoy your realness, and your gorgeous kids and photos. I don't remember where I first found your blog but I do remember that I read through comments once and they weren't so nice and it appalled me that random people felt like they had the right to criticize you and your family. As another mom I felt defensive for you! I'm glad you don't let the negativity affect the amount that you share on your blog. I know I could not be that strong. I would run the other way! Thanks for sharing your life with a bunch of strangers :)

    ReplyDelete
  10. I love your blog, I read it often, comment sometimes!! I love those little girlie girls. I wish my twin boys were still so little!! Time flies and keeps us busy. I don't have that many followers yet and it is hard for me to keep up sometimes, I can't even imagine keeping up with yours!!

    Love and Blessings

    ReplyDelete
  11. Hello from Wyoming! I've been reading your blog for quite awhile now, but I don't always have the time to comment {I'm sure you understand lol}. I love reading your blog, it's been a favorite since I stumbled upon it. Not only are your girls super cute and your pictures awesome ... but I've enjoyed, very much, reading about your more natural-living approach to life. It's really helped my family and I as we are making that journey as well. Can we be friends? Sure! Gladly! :-D
    Many blessings!!
    Yama
    http://bamidbar.us/yama

    ReplyDelete
  12. I started reading your blog when you were pregnant with the girls. I had two children at the time and felt overwhelmed, so here was someone who already had 4 and was about to have twins. Actually I really just wanted to know the sex of the babies so I continued to follow. You and I are probably polar opposites in a lot of ways. I live in a big city and feed my kids what you would never. However, I enjoy reading and seeing your pictures and just following you and your family on your fascinating journey.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Love your blog. I started reading it while you were pregnant with the girls and I was soon to be pregnant with my first boy. I love reading about your garden and your fabulous recipes you post every now and then. We can definitely be friends...I'm pretty sure that I've even been lucky enough to have you comment on my blog once or twice.
    Have a great day friend,
    Kalle
    www.growingcs.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  14. Of course we can :) Been reading your blog for a year or so...I designed your RPC button. I would LOVE for you to bring back the {Random Picture Challenge}. Have a great week!

    ReplyDelete
  15. I would love to be friends!:) I've been reading your blog since the girls were babies but I don't think I've ever commented!! Your blog is one of my absolute favorites, it's the first update I look for in my feed:) I'm so curious as to how your blog blew up one day! Your photos are gorgeous, your family is gorgeous, and I love reading about your healthy, natural lifestyle. It's an inspiration and I wish I could eat like that:)

    http://kaylasue3.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  16. I'm not sure how I found your blog but I have been reading it since the girls were babies. I have two boys and one baby girl and they keep me busy-I don't know how you do everything you do and homeschool. I love reading your blog and I really love your pictures-I am hoping to learn more about photography. I'm not sure if I have ever commented before but I'd love to be your friend!

    http://livingonriceandbeans.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  17. I've never commented either!
    My wanting so much to have a girl (we're adopting) was made that much worse (or better!) by your adorable daughters...
    so here I am on your journey through life watching your beautiful kids (and great photography!)

    ReplyDelete
  18. of course we can! i would love to be friends. :) been a follower for a long time and have commented only a few times. i've learned lots from you and love following your family's adventures. :)

    ReplyDelete
  19. oh and my blog is meetthebakers.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  20. Christensheffield8/16/10, 12:38 PM

    I have been reading your blog since right before you had the girls. I have identical twin sisters, and I always love seeing other peoples identical twins :) Your kids are all so beautiful! http://sheffieldfamily-raising2girls.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  21. I would love to friends! I've been reading for over 3 years. You've inspired me to learn more about healthy, natural living/eating/etc. We are different in some ways, but similar in others. I subscribe to quite a few blogs, but yours is hands down one of a favorites. I'm always happy to see an update pop up in my reader.

    ReplyDelete
  22. This is such a wonderful post - so sweet and honest. That is something that I love about your blog. You don't try to be big and "together" you're just simply you - and you are a wonderful person! We all want a friend like that.
    I'm Faith. an obsessive blogger who often tries too hard... I'm a hobby-photographer and mom to four.
    http://faith-simplicity.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  23. I love looking at your blog. Your pictures are awesome, and I always wonder how you get such great shots. It inspires me to try and take better pictures of my daughter. Keep up the awesome work!
    Miranda
    http://randafaith-allaboutella.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  24. I started following your blog when your girls were babies. I found out about you from another friends blog. I have 3 year old twin boys, a 1 1/2 year old girl and a new baby boy. You're in North Dakota right now, right? My mom is from there so I grew up going up there every summer, spending time at my grandparents' cabin.
    I love catching up with your blog when I have the time.
    http://3under2-larsen.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  25. I don't think I've ever commented before, but I've been reading since before the twins were born. I'm a mom of 4 and I love to read about other busy moms who love what they're doing. My blog is http://lindsayssimplelife.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  26. I know the feeling of not being able to keep up with all the visitors. I am NO WHERE near as big as you but it's hard even now. We do have a lot in common because we both have lots of kids *grin* but you got me beat. We have 2 children and gained guardianship of our 2 nieces 6 months ago so we now have 4 kids under 4. We're going through a custody hearing and my sister is signing over rights so life has changed a lot for us the past 6 months.

    I also breastfeed, cosleep and baby wear. :)

    ReplyDelete
  27. I totally have a {huge} crush on you, and totally want to be your friend. So yes, let's be friends. I have felt so shocked when you commented on my blog, because I know how crazy your life is, and how many other readers you have! {Thank you!} I hope to meet you one day too. I have friends that have met you (I think). You've met Steph (adventuresinbabywearing), right? Well, she's my real life friend, even though I moved far away from her a few months ago. So, that makes us basically friends to the 2nd degree already right?

    ReplyDelete
  28. We could be friends even if you didn't read my blog ;D

    ReplyDelete
  29. Oh, and I found your blog right around the time you found out you were pregnant with the girls through my Sister Arianne (tothinkistocreate)

    ReplyDelete
  30. Of course! Hope you are well!

    ReplyDelete
  31. www.thehobanfive.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  32. We actually e-mailed a few times, then I got preggo and very sick and you got famous! But I still read and when my kids see the directions for my mee up sling they always think it's me.=) I take it as a compliment. I guess we must look alike.

    ReplyDelete
  33. I've never commented before but your blog is one of my favorites. . .the thing that draws me the most is your pictures. You are a wonderful artist!!!! I am also intrigued by your simple way of life that you have succumbed to. . .I don't know the whole story of why you moved. But sometimes I feel God calling us to do the same. To live with less and just enjoy our kids. We had 5 kids in 8 years and enjoy the maddness. . .and are constantly in over our heads. :)

    Keep posting and I'll keep reading!!

    Stacy

    ReplyDelete
  34. Of course we can be friends. I have been a reader for a long time . . have been busy myself but try to stay caught up. We even thought about naming our daughter Avin ( 6 months ) Eliza because I just love that name soo much. I live pretty close to you . . well not too close but close enough!! :)

    ReplyDelete
  35. my blog is theschulerfamily.net :)

    ReplyDelete
  36. Of course :) love your blog! Love that you intertwine Jesus, babies, and health all in one!! Www.myjourney-Brittany.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  37. I've been a reader since before you even announced you were pregnant with the twins!! I remember thinking how cool it was that you were a "hippie momma" that was MY AGE with 4 boys already (dont be offending by the word hippie; it's just what i thought when i read you didnt even have a microwave!). Plus you lived in Ohio like me(at the time). It's been great following your journey through pregnancy, birth, the "move" and all the decisions.

    ReplyDelete
  38. Love to be friends. Actually I don't know if I'm a recorded legitmiate follower of your blog or not. I, like you, don't read every day....but once a week or so. I honestly don't know if you have read or will ever read my blog, but that's okay. I started it for my own personal reflection, and if it's read great. If it's not, great! On the other hand, I do have a photography blog; since I am a photographer and an online blog store and LOVE for folks to check those out....more business that way! ;) You can get to all 3 through my personal blog.
    www.thinkingoutloud-byamom.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  39. AdventureInBabywearing8/16/10, 2:01 PM

    Of course. I am so glad to have been a friend all along the way. :)

    Steph

    ReplyDelete
  40. I don't think I've ever commented, but I do read your blog all the time! I actually already have a link to your blog on mine. I don't get mine updated as often as I'd like these days, but when I do I love to get feedback! ;) Your family is gorgeous, and you seem like such an amazing momma! www.biberstine.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  41. Love to be friends, already feel like we are in a way. : ) Actually, I tried to meet up with you on your road trip but you guys ended up changing routes. Feel free to come over and say hello! www.trustunfailinglove.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  42. Heck yeah! I have been reading your blog since you were pregnant with the girls. Your photography, honest thoughts and adorable family kept me coming back. My blog is a mish mash of adoption/photography/running after an adorable 2 year old, etc. :) Head over if you ever have time.
    www.morethandogchildren.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  43. Amomentcherished8/16/10, 3:00 PM

    Aww, Yes! I love reading your blog, but I tooooooootally get where you are coming from. I am a busy wife to a pastor and stay-at-home, home schooling mommy to two (soon to be 3 - we are adopting from Ethiopia!). As much as I love blogging, I cannot always keep up. If you do ever get a free moment, please pop in! The coffee is always on!
    www.amomentcherished.com

    ReplyDelete
  44. Yes...let's be friends. I love this post.

    ReplyDelete
  45. Awww... I want to be friends. :) I love reading your blog.... and your photography is inspiring. :) So is your walk with the Lord.

    ReplyDelete
  46. I love this post! It is so honest and so true, I feel like this at times too. Life is crazy busy for sure, but I agree ... let's be friends! =)

    ReplyDelete
  47. Just keep up writing, whenever your have a little (over-)time. You inspire me and your are just a very strong, amazing woman.
    Much greetings from a friend from germany
    from Chris
    ch.liedtke{at}gmx.de

    ReplyDelete
  48. yep, we're friends.
    Did you know you had a friend in the Texas hill country?
    Now you do.
    From my Front Porch... http://lietzfamily.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  49. tinamichelle8/16/10, 4:19 PM

    That is a really cute and open post. Hi, I am Tina Michelle, identical twin sister to my best friend, happily married to the sexiest man for many years, work at home mama to 3 lovely kids! :)

    ReplyDelete
  50. well, i feel somewhat of a connection to you because we have 4 girls, and now i am pregnant with twin boys due at the end of the year! i've been trying to decide if i should change the name of my blog to something cute like yours just swapped! i rarely comment, in fact, i took a bit of a LONG break from blogging after our 4th daughter was born and am just now starting a comeback that will mostly end when the twins are born, but i am trying! anyway, i enjoy reading your blog to get somewhat of a glimpse at what my life might be gearing up to be!

    ReplyDelete
  51. Well, I added a comment this morning, but I'll add a new one on this new post! =)
    Your blog is just adorable, and I love reading! I never really comment, but I check your site all the time. It's such a fun blog!
    I live near Chicago, have 5 kids, homeschool, and stay at home! That's my life. =)
    Here's my blog ~ http://elizabethmarie-1.xanga.com/

    ReplyDelete
  52. I'm not sure how I found your blog but I enjoy your pictures. I grew up on a farm and love the country life. I now live on 3 acres and though it's not a farm, I still love my space surrounded by soybeans and corn. I'm a single, adoptive Mom of 1, unemployed so trying to start and grow my own business over the last year (which use to be my hobby and extra income), starting to homeschool and still trying to figure things out.

    ReplyDelete
  53. Kimberwidmer8/16/10, 5:09 PM

    i've been a longtime reader… i'd love nothing more than to be friends.
    i've commented, but not uber regularly.
    what we have in common are children… although for me, about a third of your brood.
    sigh. always wanted more. learning to be content whatever the situation.
    we both have houses. mine is in the suburbs of east tennessee. yours is out in the country. in the midwest.
    you have twins. i've always wanted twins.
    i have brown hair (not counting the gray-ish roots) and you have brown hair.
    we both have waists. mine is considerably larger than yours. i'd blame it on kids, but you trump me on kids, and my last was born about 19 years ago.
    oh yeah. your house is full… mine is empty. kids are both off to college.
    we both love jesus.
    i love reading about your family and listening to your heart. i think you have a lovely heart.

    ReplyDelete
  54. I stumbled across your blog, I don't even know how. I enjoy your photography and your healthy living ways. I want to become a better photographer. I have five boys, all whom were born in Ukraine. I love big families and I love adoption. We live in NY...about 20 miles from NYC. I work full time outside the home, but have a very flexible schedule. I love to learn how people with big families get it done...and most importantly, strive to be content in ALL circumstances. Check out our blog at www.krebskids.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  55. hey! i've been reading your blog for over 2 yrs now & love keeping up with you & your family. i have 1 little boy so far & large families are fascinating to me. keep up the blogging! :)

    ReplyDelete
  56. I believe that Google Reader suggested your blog for me, and I love it. It's simply beautiful and inspiring. Thanks for sharing with us!

    ReplyDelete
  57. I am a bit of a slacker when it comes to commenting but I have been reading your blog for almost two years now. I have a 5 year old son who we adopted from foster care and a 11 month old foster daughter. I blog mostly about them and the adventures we go on. We are just starting homeschooling our son so I am sure that will make its way on the blog as well. I love your lunches. We eat a lot of Quinoa too! http://fosteringawareness.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  58. I always read your blog, but never comment. Love it, and check everyday to see what's up at your place. Love seeing a picture of you, feel like I can get to know who the blogger person on the other end is...so...post some more of YOU!!

    ReplyDelete
  59. As with so many of your posts, I LOVE this entry! I started visiting your blog about the time you were considering whether or not to homeschool, so a little later than some. But, I did run into you IRL one time, which was really fun. Hopefully one of these times we can actually plan to get together. And, even though I only have half the kids you do (counting my twins), I still find myself unable to keep up with my blog (and so many other things). Homeschooling and raising kids really sucks the time, doesn't it?! LOL I'm amazed you have the energy to accomplish all that you do. .....and now I'm off to clean up a mess in the "flooded bathroom" (so my daughters are telling me). Have I ever mentioned how much I loathe bathroom messes? 'Cause I really do.

    ReplyDelete
  60. Goodness...love your photography, your openness and honesty, your realness. It helps me feel like I'm not alone when sometimes it feels that way (and I know you understand what it is like to move away, go to a new place, try to be just your own family). I started reading about 1 1/2 years ago and just feel compelled to come back every now and then. Thanks for sharing!

    ReplyDelete
  61. I think I found your blog thru someone who had a "Random Picture Challenge" button on their blog way back when. I've been captivated ever since. Your kiddies are so cute and you capture them so beautifully!

    ReplyDelete
  62. I love your blog and seeing pictures of your sweet kids. I love reading about your healthy ways and especially your farm life. I love how positive you are about life even when it's not going as planned.

    ReplyDelete
  63. I'm not sure how I found your blog, google reader maybe? Anyway, I've been following for a while now and I love you blog.

    ReplyDelete
  64. I used to comment regularly on your blog back when I had (more) time. Now I just quickly read updates and run to the next thing that has to be done! :) I think I found your blog from another blog right around the time of your accident. I'm pretty sure someone had posted a prayer request and link to your blog and I've been reading ever since!

    We have four boys and a little girl who has a severe congenital heart defect. She is the sunshine in our lives, and our boys adore her! You can read more about our Rebekah (and everyone else!) at http://rebekahgraceellis.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  65. Painting4him8/16/10, 8:04 PM

    Brittany, I have been reading your blog since shortly before the girlies were born. I am not quite sure how I found your blog, but I love it. I appreciate how real you are, encouraging, honest, humble--mom. I think you are strong in God's strength, loving with His love, and glorifying the one who does it all for you. I love how you put your family in the forefront of your life, homeschooling is tough, but oh so worth it! I got to be able to school my son from 7yrs up to graduation. He is now in his 5th semester and loving learning and praising God through music.

    Keep up the good work--looking forward to hearing how God keeps moving in your family. Blessings, Vic

    ReplyDelete
  66. and my blog site is ...www.kristiwest.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  67. Melanie Van Wynsberg8/16/10, 8:20 PM

    Friends are awesome! And I love your photography!

    Let's be friends!

    -Melanie

    www.VanWynsberg.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  68. following since before the girls were born... college kid who wants a big, cloth diaper using, baby wearing household someday

    ReplyDelete
  69. Hi, I'm Lara. I've been following your blog for about a year and a half or so. It was shortly after the twins were born because I can remember pics of them from around 4 mos or so. You are on my blog roll because when I found your blog (which I don't remember how that was exactly) I saw that your family resembles mine. We have four girls and I am pregnant with our 5th, though I don't know what gender (or even they, I guess it could be twins) it is. My kids will all be 5 and under when I deliver, and none of them are twins. We also have similar tastes, literally. We don't follow exactly the same diet, but our beliefs on many things are shared. Somewhere along the journey of reading your blog, I discovered that you are right about my age. I just turned 28. I always feel instantly connected to people who are about my age with a big family. Your blog is great and I love to "hear" what you have to say. Feel free to stop by copelandsonthecusp.blogspot.com to "meet" us.

    ReplyDelete
  70. My name is Sarah. I found your blog after someone left a link to my blog in your comments one day. I have identical triplet girls. So we definitely have something in common! I'm also a photographer - hobbyist not professional.

    http://thegreatumbrellaheist.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  71. hehe, you know how to get your readers to post comments. JK;) Hmmm, I feel in love with blogging for myself, reading others, and trying to gain readers. It is hard, and especially since now I don't blog that much any more. Just a random post here and there. I do still love it though, and hope that one day I'll get my act together and blog more. I stay busy though. I have 4 kids, and I am slowly...SLOWLY trying to start a photography business. It is my passion and I hope it continues to grow. You can imagine what all it takes, studying photography, reading blogs, being inspired, working on business site, working on business blog, working on personal blog, marketing, doing photo shoots, and then on top of that being a mom and wife! I LOVE it all though. I think we do have SOME things in common, but you totally rock over me. I have several blogs in my news feed, but for now, your are the ONLY one that I stay on top of:) Not sure what it is. You're beautiful, seem to have it together, even though I know you are human and you don't really, hehe. You have a bunch of kids and your life is...well, just plain interesting. I got married at 19 and was 4 1/2 months prego at my wedding. I now have a son who is 14, and 3 girls that are 11, 9, and 3. My youngest has a really rare condition called Congenital Eye lid Syndrome. I desire to have more children, but made a terrible mistake and had my tubes tied. :( I'm not the all natural kind of girl like you, but have the desire to be. Me and hubby have our disagreements in that area. Although I have been washing my are with Baking Soda and water for like 3 weeks now, and am really liking it:) I homeschooled my kids for 3 years. Last year was their first year back in school, and I didn't think I was going to survive!!!! This year was much easier and they are all loving school. Hmmm, I guess that about sums it up. I know you can't visit everyone, but here is my personal blog www.awdreyh.blogspot.com my business blog is www.momentsbyawdrey.blogspot.com Maybe you can find the time to browse around:) I love your stories and your style, and I'll admit that some of your post's have inspired my posts. Keep us updated.

    Your "new friend", haha
    Awdrey

    ReplyDelete
  72. I love your blog! My friends and I call it blog stalking when we read blogs of people that we don't even know. I check your blog everyday and always love your postings, so yes, I blog stalk you! I don't have a personal blog, but a blog where I post things that I make and sell, if you wanna check it out I'd be more than happy to have you blog stalk me :) www.princesshairbowsbyshannon.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  73. I've followed you for a few years now and you have inspired me in many ways! I loved blogging but have slacked for awhile with life changes. I know you can identify! Love your photos and zest for life.

    ReplyDelete
  74. Kim @ Forever Daisies8/16/10, 9:55 PM

    I read your blog and have for a couple years. It has been touching to follow you and your family, and your experiences. Even though we may not have connected much online, or in person when you were traveling through, I feel like I have learned so much from you. Thank you for sharing your life with us!

    ReplyDelete
  75. I have to admit! I love your view when it comes to pictures and the way you tell your life story! I don't believe I have ever commented before but its nice to know that we can be "friends" even if neither of us have time to comment :) Please don't stop sharing those pictures of your beautiful family, your crazy gard, and your sink! It makes the rest of us feel normal to know there are others out there lol!

    ReplyDelete
  76. I don't really remember how I got here, but I do know why I stayed. Twins. I have little girly twins who are close to your girls in age. I also have a three year old girl. There's alot of estrogen around here. :) Your photography is exceptional and your determination to see the bright side in all things is admirable. God's glory is what matters in the end. No matter where we live, what we drove or how we dressed, so long as the name of Jesus is written across it all, we've done well.

    ReplyDelete
  77. sixcrazychildren8/16/10, 10:24 PM

    I have six children too... twins at the end of my family too... well, the end so far ;) I wish you well. My twins are 19 months now and the first few months are exhausting but I LOVE it SO SO much. You will too, I'm sure. Susan xx

    ReplyDelete
  78. sixcrazychildren8/16/10, 10:25 PM

    Brittany, I've read your blog for years now..... we have a bit in common ;)

    I hope we are blog buddies for a looooong time xx

    ReplyDelete
  79. I stop by and read often :) I'm not good at this whole public-blogging thing; all the blogs I read I feel are too big to make any close connections. I have a small private blog that I've made plenty of great friendships, but I really want to break into the public ring of blogs :)

    -Kristy
    stringstothings.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  80. campisaacmama8/16/10, 10:36 PM

    Hi :o)

    I'm Bonnie, from upstate NY, 25 year old widowed Mama/stepMama to 5 wonderful children.

    My blog is quite boring! It's mostly there for family although I get a random visitor now and then.

    I've been following yours for a year or so and I love your pictures, your words, and getting a glimpse into your busy lives :o)

    Your family is beautiful <3

    ReplyDelete
  81. I love reading your blog and appreciate you sharing your family.

    ReplyDelete
  82. Love reading about you, your kids and life on the farm. I've been reading since before the girls were born. In fact I remember the first time I read your blog....my husband was working late and I couldn't sleep I found your blog (not sure how) and I went WAY back and read from the early posts all the way to the present time. The next day I ended up at the hospital having my second son because I couldn't breathe. It was fun reading about your pregnancy with the twins and I've been hooked ever since! :)

    ReplyDelete
  83. Hey Brittany! Mine will be an easy post as I have no blog for you to read (phew!), and unless you plan on hopping on a plane, I don't think we'll get to meet over a week end (I live in Europe): no pressure then! I am the mama of 4 (ages 13, 10, 7 and 4), about to have my 5th in a couple of months (that will give us 3 boys and 2 girls). I enjoy reading your blog and comment when I can. It's fun to see how different our lives can be and yet sometimes, how similar too! I have enjoyed some of the curry recipes you have shared (and I have made). So, that's me! Oh, I think I cam by way of Susie Sams blog. Can't recall when though...

    ReplyDelete
  84. hi!
    I've been reading for a couple of years. I totally understand being too busy! I love reading your blog, we have a lot in common. You are welcome to check out my blog too. www.blogginbridget.blogspot.com Christian Homeschool mom of 5 (I think we are the same age??? not that age matters) you look way younger ha! married hs sweetheart etc, etc! I don't mean to seem like I stalk your blog, but I often don't have time to comment on blogs either:)

    ReplyDelete
  85. Hi!! I'm a relative newbie to your blog, but I'm in love <3 I'm not a blog writer, and typically not a blog commenter, BUT I'm a loyal blog reader! I'm a 25 year old city dwelling girl with a heart for the country. I married my high school sweetheart, with whom I've spent the past 8 wonderful years of my life (married for just over 2). We started trying for a family not long after we were married, and found out after a year that we're facing fertility issues best overcome with treatments that we just can't afford. So for now it's just the two of us (and our adopted cat, Rosie!) living in our condo in the city, with my dream of a farm- with goats and piggies- and of course some babies, tucked away for now. Ok if I live vicariously through you for a while? :)

    ReplyDelete
  86. I've been reading since before your girls were born. I think I googled 4 boys (since I also have 4 sons), and there you were! I also enjoy your recipes.

    ReplyDelete
  87. Hello there! I stumbled upon your blog when I was expecting my twin girls. I was looking for other voices to allay my fears. My big family mirrors yours when it comes to kids. I have four boys from my first marriage (ages 13, 11, 10, & 6) and twin girls from my second (and forever) marriage. Your pictures inspire me to capture every moment with my kids.

    Check out my blog if you want www.deelifefull.blogspot.com. Be forewarned though. It's for family and tends to run on the silly side. I share stories about the kids and my work as a zookeeper.

    ReplyDelete
  88. I am a blog stalker as well. I stumbed onto your blog just after you had the twins..I was almost due with my 2nd child at that time. I have 2 children, Girl 7 and boy almost 2. I would love to have twins, so any insite into that world makes me happy. They are so adorable. We live in Wisconsin and I love reading your blog. I don't give comments and I don't have my own blog to share with you. That's just not me...to have a blog. Love reading you daily...please continue to share recipes and any helpful hints that you have! I love to see inside your life!

    ReplyDelete
  89. I've read your blog for a couple years now. I don't blog much at all but I sure do enjoy yours.

    ReplyDelete
  90. I adore your blog, don't always comment, but find inspiration in what you share, your honesty ... how you aren't afraid to put your struggles out there as well as your joys. :-)

    So, whether or not you visit my blog, whether or nor you comment, I'm happy to read the words you put here and thank you for the time you take out of your life to do that.

    If we weren't living these real, chaotic, delicious, roller-coaster, lovely lives off of the computer, there wouldn't be too much to write about, would there? :-)

    ReplyDelete
  91. Mary-Lindsey B.8/17/10, 1:53 PM

    i completely understand! I've read your blog for about 2 years now & haven't ever commented. I don't even remember how I found your blog, but I thought it was so cool that you have so many children (at the time I only had one). You were a big inspiration to my husband & I to keep our family growing (You & MckMama). Just about that time, I found out we were pregnant again (before we could really start, ahem, trying). A month later, we found out it was triplet boys! We now have a 2 year old little girl and 1 year old triplet boys. Your blog was a big help in prepping my heart for a big *instant* family :-) And...we want more - which I'm sure you can believe (as for other people, they cannot fathom it at all). Anyway, sorry I haven't ever commented - busyness, i guess. Thanks for being such an inspiration! I'd love to be your friend :-)

    ReplyDelete
  92. my blog is http://blantonbaby.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  93. Hello Brittany,
    My name is Jessica. I have commented on your blog a few times over the years. I started reading just after your girls were born. I am not sure how I came across your blog, through a friends blog I think. I read it every day! It is the first thing I go to when I sit down at my computer every morning. The first thing that drew me to it was your photography. Your images are amazing! You have inspired me to look through my lens differently and become a better photographer.

    I thought it was silly, but I have always felt like we are friends! Even though you do not know anything about me, I know so much about you and your family. I love that you share yourself with us. I am the oldest of 6 kids and I always wondered what life looked like from my mom's perspective growing up. Granted she has a VERY different parenting plan/style than you guys... I look to you for advice and a different perspective on life. I think you and I line up more frequently on things in general. :) My husband and I do not plan on having children of our own, (at least that is not in the cards right now….) but I enjoy your advice and perspective on parenting and raising a family.

    I am inspired every day by your courage, honesty, determination and the endless energy and love you have for your family. Thank you so much for sharing your lives with us and reminding us how beautiful life can be.

    Wishing you the best in your adventures to come,
    ~Jessica
    Seattle, WA

    P.S.
    I started using these: { } in my blog posts and in personal emails in honor of you! I think of you every time I type them.

    ReplyDelete
  94. I love that you are always so thoughtful, always thinking of others…you remind me of my best friend (who lives thousands of miles away from me) and why I think I enjoy reading your blog. I’m not a true “blogger” definitely not as talented as you, but I enjoy sharing my life with others. AND I have found that others actually enjoy reading about my life…weird. I draw so much inspiration from your blog and when you go on blog-hiatus I wait with such anticipation for your return.

    I am a full time working mom of 16 month old boy/girl twins and find myself wanting to spend more time with them when I can than blog now days. I used to be witty and enjoy blogging and lately it seems more like a chore, but I have so many ‘fans’ most of who I know personally that I completely hear it when I go on hiatus. Again, you inspire me to keep going  It would be an honor to be your {friend}.
    Traci
    sethandtracimeyerfamily.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  95. Love your post. i feel the same way sometime.. We are on the wait list for twins or a little girl from Ethiopia and I came across your blog and saw you had twins. How is it. We have 4 kids under 6 already and am wondering if I can do this and still give the others attention. You have a beautiful family! Our blog is www.campfunk.blogspot.com
    Blessings

    ReplyDelete
  96. mcclure family8/17/10, 4:39 PM

    i adore your blog!

    http://www.mcclurefamilyspace.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  97. Still here! : ) I've enjoyed reading since 2006. Hope to stay in touch through the years.

    I know how it is. I attempt to comment and then have to leave mid sentence - then give up when i get back to the computer!

    Take care and have a great rest of the summer!

    ReplyDelete
  98. I think it is my first time commenting but I found you about the time Eliza and Nolia were born. Did you know you have a friend in Canada? What we have in common - following Christ, twins (but mine are 23 year old fraternal b/g) and trying to do what is best for our families. I love your photos, recipes and writing style.

    ReplyDelete
  99. Hey Brittany,
    What a fun and genuine post? I've been following your blog for about a year now and I can't tell you how grateful I am for your love for healthy living.

    Hmmm...some things we have in common: gardening (we have a big one out back and chickens, but I don't think you have chickens), staying away from... plastics and microwaving, harmful soaps/shampoos/dish and laundry detergents (I wish I too could get rid of my dishwasher, but I'm not that brave), breastfeeding, refraining from vaccinations (scary what they put in that stuff!), Mercola.com, organic eating (although we do eat raw dairy products and some grassfed, organic meat), cloth diapering, making good, homemade foods, we don't use sunscreen either unless my children are really burning and then we use Aubrey's Organics (which is awesome and SO pure), CURLY HAIR (Aubrey's Organics makes an awesome curly hair gel that works AMAZING for curly hair and you don't feel guilty about using it because it's made with all natural, organic ingridients)...hmm...oh, WATER! We can't stress enough how important GOOD water is to our family. We have a reverse-osmosis water system on our house now (we moved it from our old house just a few weeks ago) and what a blessing it is. Last, but not least...we love the Lord and the children He gives us.

    May God continue to bless you and your family on your journey of life on your farm. He is using you in so many ways to infect others with Jesus' love.

    Love in Jesus,
    Kelli
    www.we4bates.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  100. Whitneywinston8/17/10, 8:12 PM

    nice to meet you friend, my name is Whitney, I am a 40 something mom, wife, daughter, dog lover, accountant, city dweller, child of God. I live in the Houston area and love your blog!

    ReplyDelete
  101. Sure! My blog is www.thepikelife.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  102. I love your blog...you are so honest! Great pic of you by the way. I'd have to say that out of your adorable kiddos, I think Ozzie definitely looks the most like you!! :) You should post some pics of you and your husband when you were kids!

    ReplyDelete
  103. I would be thrilled to be friends with you! (you seem like someone I'd be friends with *in real life*)

    My blog: http://mamafasha.blogspot.com and my business site (I sell Arbonne skin care, cosmetics and nutritionals) www.prov356.myarbonne.com

    :)

    ReplyDelete
  104. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 10:58 PM

    Thank you! And that is a great idea... I'd have to go unpack the baby pictures though! {grin}

    ReplyDelete
  105. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:01 PM

    Nice to meet you Whitney! I was born in Texas... so i'm a texan at heart. {grin}

    ReplyDelete
  106. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:05 PM

    Oh I love hearing about all we have in common... and the great curly hair gel tip! I'm so glad you said Hi and I can't wait to get your know you and your precious family more!

    ReplyDelete
  107. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:06 PM

    oh how awesome, a friend in Canada with 23 year old twins! {grin} so glad you said Hi!

    ReplyDelete
  108. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:07 PM

    we'll always stay in touch Aleah... after all you were my 1st blogging friend {grin}

    ReplyDelete
  109. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:10 PM

    What a blessing and how amazing! You can do anything with God on your side! {grin}

    ReplyDelete
  110. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:14 PM

    oh you made me smile! So glad said Hi! {grin}

    ReplyDelete
  111. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:16 PM

    thanks so much! and so true so true "If we weren't living these real, chaotic, delicious, roller-coaster, lovely lives off of the computer, there wouldn't be too much to write about, would there? :-)"

    ReplyDelete
  112. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:17 PM

    So glad you shared your words with me this once, and nice to know you're there reading!

    ReplyDelete
  113. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:17 PM

    oh how cool... 4 boys and twin girls is a delight isn't it!

    ReplyDelete
  114. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:18 PM

    another 4 boy mom! {grin}

    ReplyDelete
  115. My friend showed me your blog a few months ago, and I immediately fell in love with your little'uns, your photos and the way you excel in every day life! Thank you so much for your inspiration and beautiful contribution to the blogging world!!!

    ReplyDelete
  116. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:19 PM

    Thanks for sharing Nicole, I am loving "meeting" so many of you. I am so sorry about your fertility issues... it just doesn't make sense sometimes does it. God has a plan and it is for sure an awesome one! {grin}

    ReplyDelete
  117. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:23 PM

    I remember your "bittersweet" comment.... so glad you're here!

    ReplyDelete
  118. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:24 PM

    small or big.... it is what you make it! So glad you are here!

    ReplyDelete
  119. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:25 PM

    oh for sure {grin} Angus and sterling are too cute to not keep up with!

    ReplyDelete
  120. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:27 PM

    your girls are just adorable! So glad you shared!

    ReplyDelete
  121. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:28 PM

    oh yes, we can be friends! So glad you said Hi this time! {grin}

    ReplyDelete
  122. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:29 PM

    You have been here for a while and I'm so glad you have been a friend!

    ReplyDelete
  123. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:30 PM

    it is so touching to hear I've inspired so many of you.... what a blessing!

    ReplyDelete
  124. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:30 PM

    hee-hee! I think we all stalk once in a while! {grin}

    ReplyDelete
  125. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:32 PM

    So glad you shared Awdrey... and a big yeah on the hair washing! {grin} Good luck on your photography business... I'd love to make a go at it one day... when I have time!

    ReplyDelete
  126. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:36 PM

    yes I remember you... your girls are SO adorable! I think ID triplets are so amazing... the whole multiple thing still has me in awe! :)

    ReplyDelete
  127. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:39 PM

    awesome courtney! So glad you're here!

    ReplyDelete
  128. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:42 PM

    Thanks so much Vic! How awesome to hear about your son!

    ReplyDelete
  129. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:45 PM

    I tried to comment on your blog but it wouldn't work... so blogger quirk! Anyway.... your family is SUPER cute! those boys... there is something about a bunch of boys that just make my heart flutter. So special!

    ReplyDelete
  130. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:47 PM

    flooded bathrooms must be a twin thing?! {grin} and oh yes we'll plan and actual get together one of these times!

    ReplyDelete
  131. brittanyclaire8/17/10, 11:48 PM

    ha! I do agree... it's nice to see who's behind the words sometimes!

    ReplyDelete
  132. Darn, I just re read my post and am embarrassed at all of the typos. I hate grammer and am horrible at it. Thanks for replying, it meant sooo much! Obviously you can't do this all the time, but I think it was super that you set aside and dedicated it to your readers. Just wanted to say thanks, but totally would have understood if you didn't reply to anyone ;) You seem sooo fun, and wished that I could get to know you and chit chat.

    I also wanted to include that the way you handle and talk about loosing your house and having to give up things that you loved/cherished, is kind of an eye opener for me. I love material things and I get down sometimes when I can't get the things I want...which is a lot. You are a wonderful role model for mom's all over. I pray that I have a better/closer relationship with God as you do. I struggle in that dept. Not b/c I don't believe in Him or anything like that, but b/c, well, I guess b/c I feel like it's hard. I know it shouldn't be, and probably isn't, but it seems that way. My hubby and I have some different views, and for now he doesn't even seem interested in living a life for Christ. So if and when you remember, could you keep us in your prayers. Thanks so much!

    ReplyDelete
  133. brittanyclaire8/18/10, 12:10 AM

    for sure Awbrey, thanks for sharing and letting us pray for you. Life is hard and this world is not our home, it's so easy to get caught up in our own ways, our own wants, our own judgement... myself included. I like to remind myself that hardship is a gift and blessing that brings you closer to God.

    thanks again for sharing awdrey! love to your family!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  134. brittanyclaire8/18/10, 12:12 AM

    oh this was so fun to read! thanks for sharing and just being here! {grin}

    ReplyDelete
  135. brittanyclaire8/18/10, 12:12 AM

    bless you! so glad you shared... I feel like I keep saying this but I am so glad you have all shared part of you with me... a true blessing!

    ReplyDelete
  136. brittanyclaire8/18/10, 12:19 AM

    I tried to comment on your blog but I was going to have to set up an account so I'm totally being lazy and leaving it here... hope you read. :)

    totally beautiful family! So glad you stopped by to say Hi and share your family with me! I admire your cowboy boot wearing... I so can not pull that off!

    oh and we have the love for enamelware in common!

    ReplyDelete
  137. brittanyclaire8/18/10, 12:21 AM

    oh how delightful! you are going to be in total awe at those little boys!

    ReplyDelete
  138. brittanyclaire8/18/10, 12:24 AM

    oh another Texan, we have that in common! {grin}

    ReplyDelete
  139. brittanyclaire8/18/10, 12:24 AM

    how special!

    ReplyDelete
  140. brittanyclaire8/18/10, 12:32 AM

    aw... thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  141. brittanyclaire8/18/10, 12:32 AM

    always and forever... and we are SO going to get together again one day! {grin}

    ReplyDelete
  142. brittanyclaire8/18/10, 12:33 AM

    i'm totally hippie! {grin} So glad you are here!

    ReplyDelete
  143. brittanyclaire8/18/10, 12:54 AM

    thank you... what a sweet comment! So glad you're here!

    ReplyDelete
  144. Hi Brittany.....to be honest...I don't remember how I came accross your blog. But SO very glad I did! You and your beautiful family inspire me amd your stunning photography (and of course gorgeous lil faces) add much sunshine to my day!

    Oh and I'm Amy. I'm a live-in nanny to a family of 5 kids (4boys!!!) aged 10, 8,7,6 and 4. Never a dull moment around here. Or a quiet one for that matter! And I'm reading your blog all the way from Brisbane, Australia!

    ReplyDelete
  145. I am Melissa, mom to 6 (g-7, g-6, b-4.5, twin b's 2.5, b-2 months.) I love reading your blog bc it makes me feel "normal" on the kid front. We are very abnormal IRL around here, very few of 4 kids....with 6, we are like a walking freak show now! We also homeschool as well, although we will have to take it easy the beginning of this year bc I have had a rough go of it for the pregnancy and birth of our 6th and last child. Your children are gorgeous and I love reading about your daily adventures. My blog is: http://journeyoffaithintotheunknown.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  146. Brittneystevenson8/18/10, 6:54 AM

    My name is Brittney, mother of 1 busy little 2 year old girly girl and favorite aunt of 2 nieces and 2 nephews from Southeast Missouri! I have been a reader for nearly 2 years, although I do not have a blog of my own. I stumbled upon your blog through my sister, who at one time tried out the blogging world, and found that it just wasnt for her. Although the two of us found that "blog stalking" was for us;) We both love reading about and learning from the lives of others around the world...and you Brittany...have been a "favorite" by far! We both love your pictures of your family, your healthy ways of life and how REAL you are. Your honesty is truely appreciated and in a blogging world, honesty and the "real" world is sometimes hard to find. My sister and I find ourselves talking daily about what we have read on your blog and others, like we have known you for years:) Thank you for letting strangers (turned friends) into your life and for not being afraid of being REAL! I have learned so much from you:)

    ReplyDelete
  147. Hi! I'm Maresi, a mother of two in Florida... I may not have ever commented before, but I always read! I do love your photos and I appreciate your love for the Lord, evident in all your posts! Your children are gorgeous, and it's clear that there is a lot of love in your life. I could always use more friends, for sure!

    ReplyDelete
  148. Aimee Leifeld8/18/10, 8:20 AM

    Hi..I am Aimee and live in Hastings, MN. I have been following your blog since your girls were born...I don't remember how I found it but I check in every day to see what your family is up to. I have 2 daughters and 2 step-daughters...ages 14, 13, and two 11 year olds(not twins...one mine, one his). They keep us so busy at these ages with traveling soccer, school, friends, shopping, and other things girls like to do. I LOVE to show pictures of your twins to my 11 year old! She often asks if there are any new pictures she can look at. I do not keep up a blog but I am on Facebook if you are looking for friends there. Continue showing us your beautiful children...I love taking pictures of my girls too and sharing them with anyone that will look!

    ReplyDelete
  149. Courtney 77828/18/10, 8:23 AM

    Hi! I'm Courtney I'm a mommy to four and live in Texas. I love watching your adventure you call your life. What an amazing childhood to give to your children. Seeing your life and knowing it's just that, your life, and seeming to me like it's an adventure makes me step back and look at my life and try to see it as an adventure. Differant for sure we live in a town (smallish) but only an hour north of Dallas so it feels biggesh. My husband has worked for the last five years to build our buisness and we seem to be holding our breath to know if it will really be a success or because of the economy something great that was just in the wrong time. This is where we live in blogland http://courtney-minivanmom.blogspot.com/ I would love to be your bloggy buddy!

    ReplyDelete
  150. I would love to be friends! I'm Anna. I have 4 kids - 3 boys and 1 girl. My girl was born right (8-16) around the time of your twins. I started reading your blog when you were pregnant with them. Hard to believe that my girl and your girls are 2! I homeschool. We use My Father's World. This year, we are going to be studying Rome to the Reformation. We use Math-U-See for math. I blog, though rather sporadically, (though I hope to more often, especially with school starting) at mamajourney.wordpress.com

    ReplyDelete
  151. What a sweet post...I'm not near as big as you but yes...I blog for family and love when new friends arrive. Life is busy and I wish I had more time to "Play" on the internet and stay connected with all the blogs I love to read...But I am a Mom to a 6th, 9th and a 12th graders this year...so not much time to play. HUGS!!

    ReplyDelete
  152. I don't know how you do it - but thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  153. Even though I don't have any children of my own(YET)I'd love to be friends with you! I say YET I have a mastermind plan worked out that involves me having 8 or 10(I can never decide)children who, of course, already have names*. In the mean time, I spend my time watching and loving babies as much as I can. Loving babies doesn't only mean babies I know because I love your Eilza and Nolia from afar! ♥

    * Check back in when I'm married to see how well my plan is going!

    ReplyDelete
  154. I've read your blog since just after the girls were born. I'd love to have you stop by, even if you never return, lol! Although I do have to say a big thank you for recommending the amber necklaces. I ended up buying a hazelwood and amber necklace for my son because no one could tell me what was wrong with him. Within a day of wearing it he was a new child. If it weren't for you I'd still be pulling my hair out!

    http://talesfromafewnuts.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  155. I love popping by to see what you are up to. I feel like I know you (in a totally not creepy kind of way). I'm a little envious of your natural, home schooling, relaxed way of life. It's just not something that is realistic for me to achieve but I just adore reading about it.

    I'm a mum to three girls (6,5 &2) and it's my lovely husband who gets to stay home with them everyday, I just get to do all the fun and games- the adventures and creating and muddy stuff. It's not perfect (perfect would be neither of us needing to work and living in the country, ah, how lovely it'd be!) but it works and we have a great time as a family. Oh, we live in Scotland, not the US.

    I do blog, but it's really just family and friends who read it but you would be welcome anytime. www.kidscraftandchaos.com

    Just don't stop taking those pictures of those adorable girls. I just love their matching sweet faces.

    ReplyDelete
  156. Hi,

    I haven't commented before but I have been visiting your blog for quite some time (about a year, maybe?) - I stumbled upon it via another blog and stayed because I enjoyed looking at the pictures so much (I really appreciate great photography as I am constantly trying to improve my own), and reading about your family's adventures. I don't have a family of my own yet but am eagerly waiting for that day and love to see the adventures of other real-life families in the meantime.

    My own blogs are really just a mishmosh of stuff: My Family (http://www.uponstratford.com), My Personal Musings (http://www.fancygirlsguidetotheuniverse.wordpress.com) and My Sewing (and Other Craft/Artsy) Projects (http://www.afinenotion.wordpress.com).

    I look forward to more posts!
    Kelly

    ReplyDelete
  157. My daughter and I love reading your blog. She recently started her own blog (surprised me with it and yes, I cied when I read the 1st post) called Like Mama~Like Daughter.

    http://likemamalikedaughter.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  158. I'd love to be friends! I don't remember how I found your blog, but I've been following you for a few months, since just before your move to ND. I'm drawn to your photography and your love of your beautiful family and new life on the plains.

    I'm a mom of 5 (2 girls, 3 boys) ages 4-11 and have been married to my college sweetheart for 13 yrs. We live in Wisconsin. After 10 years as a SAHM, I went back to work part time as a secretary a little over a year ago.

    I've been blogging privately for over 5 years as a means to stay in touch with family and friends. Until blogging, I'd never been able to keep a diary for more than a few months, but that's what I use my private blog for, and it's still going strong!

    Recently started my own photography blog (http://single-lens-reflexions.blogspot.com/) to share my pics with the world wide web and get feedback to improve my photography skills. I also have a recipe blog (http://starrecipes-mel.blogspot.com/) and a blog in memory of our daughters who died in utero (http://foreverinourhearts-mel.blogspot.com/) which chronicles their short lives and the thoughts and feelings I had when pregnant with them and afterwards.

    ReplyDelete
  159. Samantha Kay8/18/10, 3:53 PM

    We can definitely be friends.
    I think you and your family are beautiful and fun!
    My favorite part is your kids love veggies as much as I do!

    ReplyDelete
  160. I love this post Brittany! I found your blog when your girls were about 6 months old. My girls (twins also) are about 3 months older than your girls and I felt an affinity to you. Then when you went through the difficult time, I could identify, we have been there - wondering what was going to happen next ion our lives. So, I would love to be friends - in whatever way that may happen to pan out.

    ReplyDelete
  161. Oops, my blog is www.rlejourney.blogspot.com. I am a little sporadic with posting lately, but trying to get better.

    ReplyDelete
  162. Is it too late??? Can we still be friends? :) I'm Angie...I live outside of Athens, GA in the country...married to Chris (a middle school teacher)...and I blog about our life (www.ang4332.blogspot.com) with our 8 year old identical twin girls, 2 year old son, and dog Ike.

    ReplyDelete
  163. Donna Schuster8/18/10, 6:53 PM

    Wow! You made lots of new friends! I think I found you from Drea...and was going to go to the zoo with her awhile back and you were maybe going to go to so I visited you blog to see who you were and have been here ever since! (I think...that was you....maybe??)

    Love your photos, your lovely family and wish I was educated on nutrition when we started our family...we try and are taking small steps to be more nutritious...but when your kids weren't brought up that was it is hard to switch them...but we are working on it!!

    ReplyDelete
  164. I love reading your blog! I started back before the twins were born. I love your love for Christ, your family and nutrition. I wish you lived closer to me in NC!!! You are such an awesome mom.
    carwilesimplelife.blogspot.com (not a good blogger, but I post a lot of pics)

    ReplyDelete
  165. I would love to be your friend too! I have curly headed identical twin girls too and I love the way you find beauty all around you to blog about. I have fallen in LOVE with the recipe you posted for Lentil Tacos too!!!

    ReplyDelete
  166. Hey there, well I'm a christian mother of 5 in Queensland Australia. I can't even remember how I found your blog but you are a permanant bookmark. I've deleted many times but you still remain. I am also crazy about God, food, health and my family. I just can't seem to know enough. Sometimes good sometimes bad:) As a busy Mum I can't always catch up with all my friends, so I love that your here whenever I click on your bookmark:) You can sometimes be that little bit of peace I'm searching for. Thanks for being a friend!

    ReplyDelete
  167. i love your blog! it makes me smile! when i think i cant handle a 2 year old and almost 4 month twins, i remember you and just keep going! i am a believer and live in Alabama with my precious husband who is a bonified computer nerd, but a cute one at that! we have 5 girls and a boy...3 two legged girls and 2 four legged girls and a 4 legged boy. i have crazy curly hair and our 2 year old does too! i'm praying the twins hair will be just as curly! i stay at home w/ all our babies and think it's both the most wonderful and most difficult job i've ever had! in my "former" life i was a teacher but think if i ever go back, it will be to work with animals. thanks for sharing about your family!

    ReplyDelete
  168. I love your blog!! I have 3 boys (ages 7, 9 & 11) and twin girls that are 3 years old!!! I do not blog but love to read yours. Thanks for the entertainment! :)
    ♥Bridee
    bridee@me.com

    ReplyDelete
  169. Hi Brittany...long time lurker...first time commenter. Been following you since after your girls were born. I love your photogrpahy and diary of a "day in your life". I know a thing or two about big families(I'm 1 of 7 and grew up on a farm) so mostly your stories remind me of my adventures as a kid. I have two girls (5 & 3) and will have baby #3 in December. I've worked part-time 9 months of the year since both girls were born but will be taking off about 1 year after 3# comes(hopefully then I can finally start my own blog). I have HUGE garden too, eat tons of fresh veggies, lots of canning/preserving what I grow, shop mostly organic, buy in bulk from the local co-op and stay away from as many chemicals as I can. I live in rural Northwestern MN so I also know a thing or two about living in the sticks. You seem to be adjusting to rural life but I can see that the kids are eating it up. Thanks so much for sharing your life. Blessings!
    Jenny

    ReplyDelete
  170. Nicole Drysdale8/19/10, 3:03 PM

    Hi Brittany! I found you through a comment you left on Mckmama's page ages ago...right before you delivered your BEAUTIFUL twin girls!

    I stayed because, like you, we have a big family- Daphne(9), Mason(6), Jack(5), Will(2), and Theo(1)...and I love reading about your healthy, fun and God loving approach to this world!! I think this post you wrote is beautiful...

    ReplyDelete
  171. Nicole Drysdale8/19/10, 3:04 PM

    Oh! My blog is at http://nicoolmama.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  172. We have changed so many things since finding your blog! I made my daughter's baby food, we started cloth diapering, and we are ditching plastic for glass. Thank you for all the health info you've provided. People are always asking why we do all these abnormal things (homeschooling, no cable, no video games, ect) so I started a blog to share with anyone willing to listen :) Thanks again I love reading about your family and where God leads you guys! http://wejustkeepgettingweirder.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  173. Alex Accornero8/20/10, 1:52 AM

    Let's be friends!!! I just recently started a blog and I'd love for you to take a visit (and leave a comment if you feel so obliged!) hehe.

    www.adventuresofanaccorn.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  174. I do the same thing when it comes to blogs! Sometimes I wish I would've just started blogging on blogspot instead of blogging on xanga. I read so many blogs, but never comment because it's a hassle!

    Enamelware, LOVE IT! Like you, I also don't like to use plastic, and I like the enamelware because it's a healthier way to cook! (At least with the newer stuff!=) )

    The cowboy boots, they were a fluke! My sister was getting married last spring, she wears them and made us all get a pair for her wedding. I wasn't too happy, but I found a pair of Steve Maddens on clearance and they worked. My true cowboy boot wearing sisters make fun of them, "Sorry, but Steve Madden doesn't make authentic cowboy boots!" I hear when I put them on!
    There are 12 of us in my family, I am the oldest and was raised in Chicago and by the time my sisters came along, my parents moved out to the country, so all my younger sisters are pretty much country girls, while I'm living out here missing the city!!!

    Ok. my comment is turning into a post here, just wanted to say ~
    Yes, I read your comment, and thank you for your sweet words!

    P.S. I think you could pull off the boots, they just take some getting used to! =)

    ReplyDelete
  175. I was catching up on my blog reader when I found this new one of yours! I am a very long term lerker..don't usually take the time to comment. I found your blog because I was pregnant with twins and had four other little ones...and had NO CLUE what to do with twins.. :) Fast forward a bit - kids are now ages 7,5,4,2,and twins are 10 months. And I have a D2x that I don't use nearly enough to shoot them..your blog has helped me keep it a little more available. I have no blog yet..still don't feel like there's enough time. If you get a couple minutes go to http://johnmatthewmoore.com/artist-2.php?category_id=31&artist_id=2506&gal_off=1 and view some of my work. Thanks for letting us all in on your life. It is encouraging.

    ReplyDelete
  176. I love your blog, your children are beautiful and amazing...while we could never begin to live the way you do...I still admire it. www.threelittlesaints.blogspot.com

    Warmly
    Kate

    ReplyDelete
  177. Hi. I've been reading your blog for a while and while there are many things you do that I find very interesting :-) the thing that has intrigued me the most has been your and your family's struggle with having to move to the farm and deal with all that other "stuff." I started reading after all that started happening, so honestly I don't know the "details" but I would like to ask you a question... My husband and I are in a situation where we are spending our savings on the "experience of a lifetime" living on a sailboat and sailing around the south pacific. For various reasons, though, we are not totally happy and are starting to feel more and more eager to start a family. We plan to head back to the states this winter/early spring but will not have jobs though we should still have a little bit in savings. We would really love to be newly pregnant when we get there as we are not getting any younger!! :-) We want to be "responsible" but also are really excited about this next chapter of our lives. My husband recently said that he didn't know of anyone he could talk to about what it would be like to have kids in our situation - i.e. all the ducks NOT in a row. Obviously, we can only control so much (like if we get pregnant at all!) but what would be your advice? I know that the twins were unexpected and your life took quite a turn... Anyway, right now we don't have much support from our friends because we are not doing things the "normal" way of both parents having good jobs, a home, etc. and are sort of just being confident that we can make things work out. Since you asked for friends, it would be great to have a cyber girlfriend who has been through the wringer and then some, to offer advice to a couple who is hoping to start a family even though not quite everything is figured out. I love that you're raising your family in the way you think is right and that you are truly letting them be kids and be "natural." Your blogs - words and pictures are an inspiration. :-) K

    ReplyDelete
  178. Hi! I believe one of my friends posted your blog for prayer during the time of your accident/the twins birth... and 2 years later, I'm still following :) While we're about the same age, I'm single, living in Chicago, and a full-time nurse/full time grad student in the Family Nurse Practitioner specialty. But... I grew up in the country on a farm, was homeschooled for 12 years, and have 7 nieces and nephews that I live long distance from. I sooooo miss that way of life, I miss gardening and animals and canning ridiculous amounts of vegetables every summer. Cooking and photography are my loves. Oh, and people, I love people. And your blog gives me a peek back into a world that I hope to return to.
    It's a humble blog, I barely have time to write in it, but: http://www.saraispace.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  179. delicatefade9/17/10, 8:57 PM

    I'm Stacey. I read your blog off and on, and I always enjoy my time here. I'm a small time blogger, lol, and just blog for family, for the fun of it. I live in Manitoba, just 15 minuted from the North Dakota border, so not too far from you :) If you ever venture north, give me a shout! http://keithandstacey.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  180. Hi!!! I LOVE your blog! Wow, you are an inspiration!!! I am a homeschooling mom. We live in Durban, South Africa. I am passionate about my 3 daughters, photography and being a doula. I would love to be friends!

    ReplyDelete

Thank you for blessing me with your words!

Brittany