Praiseworthy Needs

Whenever I have something to do where I'm not quite sure how to do it, or even where to start, I usually think of my mom or one of my girlfriends and ask myself "What would she do?"

Women need other women. It's really just that simple. We need good examples. We need good friends. We need someone who will listen, understand, and care.

That is what Praiseworthy has become to me. At first it was a want--I wanted to do the fun, cool, enviable blog that had thousands of followers and got hundreds of comments on each post. I wanted to join in the popular social network of talented bloggers who seemed to be able to do everything. I wanted to show my creativity and talents, to show that I could be a part of that world too.

Now, thinking about what has developed on Praiseworthy during the past year, I realize that what I wanted and what I really needed were not the same. And thankfully, with the help of my friends, I got what I needed and not what I wanted. Praiseworthy is exactly what I needed.

I needed a commitment to write. I needed people to listen. I needed encouragement to push myself further. I needed people to share my talents with. I needed a place to connect with other women. A place where I had some control, but where responsibility did not rest solely on me. A place where I was uplifted, where I could expand my perspective and appreciate realistic expectations.

Before writing today, I sat and read through some of our old posts. I couldn't believe how recent some of the oldest posts felt. And then there were some I had forgotten about--and was so glad to be reminded. Reading my own words, I began to realize that maybe I should listen to myself more often. And reading what each of my friends has shared made me so grateful to be doing this with them. They are what I need the most.

One thing I have not done yet, in a year of blogging, is a give-away...until now! Last week I posted about an apron I wanted to make myself--that is the one at the beginning of this post. I also promised an apron to share with one of our lucky readers...and it was so fun making it! I love sewing more and more with each new project, and this was no exception. I love picking out the fabrics, I love the process of seeing the pieces come together, I love learning new skills, I love the time thinking about the person I am making it for, I love the satisfaction of a job well done when I'm holding...and in this case wearing!...the finished product. And here it is... :)

Yes, it is just one apron with two fabulous sides. Do you like it? Do you love it? Do you need it? I promise it is a worthy need. :)

Leave a comment and let me know what you like about Praiseworthy and you will be entered into the drawing to win this apron. Leave another comment with something you would like us to write about or an idea for us to improve during our second year, and you'll be entered twice! Leave a third comment...and say something nice...and you can be entered a THIRD time! :) I've never done this before, am I getting carried away? Leave comments until next Thursday...Thanksgiving Day!...and I will announce the winner next Friday.

Love from me to you,