A while back, I asked for help in supporting this site. Many of you responded, in a variety of ways. Some of you sent money. Some of you sent lovely, handmade things for me, and even for my children, to brighten my day. Some of you (many of you) sent words of encouragement, either in emails or comments or letters. Quite a few of you offered awesome ideas for home businesses and other job possibilities. (If you’re interested in perusing these for yourself, see the comments on this post–there are GREAT ideas there!) Some of you who live nearby helped me in other ways, directly. One note that was sent to me with a donation said (and I kept all of them!), “This is just because I believe in you and your talents.” How amazing is that? Another letter read, in part, “I suspect you underestimate your influence and I aspire to your level of courage.” Me? Courage? Influence? I am absolutely humbled.
I have a number of goals for my blog, but underpinning them all is a passion to do something that matters in the world, that touches people, that entertains people, that inspires people. If I can do that even in a small way, nothing would make me happier. For the most part, I find that you all touch me, entertain me, and inspire me. Sometimes it is midnight before I get my post done for the next day because I’m so busy, but just when I think I’m too tired to post, I think of all of you and that if you aren’t too busy to come, I can’t be too busy or too tired to make sure there is something new here when you arrive. I hope, eventually, this site will actually sustain itself financially, but even when it does not (and with the current state of the economy, cannot), I love doing it, and your incredible acts of kindness are deeply appreciated.
And so, with your encouragement holding me back from filling out the application for McDonald’s that my son brought home to me, I want you to know what came of your suggestions and support. First, I developed some immediate, if small, cash flow by starting to sell baked goods, just by word of mouth. Second, I began developing a new concept for a book based on my blog, contacted an editor in New York, and got a request for a full proposal package, which I’m working on. (This process will take some time, and I can’t go into details now, but when/if I have news, you’ll be the first to know!) Third, I was offered a column based on my blog in the Charleston Daily Mail. My column will appear in the newspaper every other Monday, starting January 5th. (The column will also be available online.) I’ll be writing some freelance feature articles for them, too.
I wish I could mention every single person who has helped me, in the past several weeks and over the entire past year, but that would be impossible. I do want to name a few: Bryan Stealey from Racer X Illustrated, who not only encouraged me to try one more time to approach the media but also (quite tirelessly) showed me how to do it right, directly resulting in the July feature story about my blog in the Charleston Daily Mail; Monica Orosz, who wrote a great article that was picked up by the Associated Press all over the state and who then took back up her fairy wand to offer me the column in the Daily Mail; Jerry Waters, former radio broadcaster and Bridge Day founder, who has, generously and behind the scenes, promoted me and my site; and my good friends and fellow local small farmers Kathy Russell and Pete and Missy Prescott, who have helped me in innumerable ways. I also want to thank Fused Network, my domain hosting service, who gives a farmgirl with more traffic than she can afford to support a break, and my creative genius website designer, Emily, who has also given me a break many times and who makes this website work. I want to mention about a hundred more people, but I had better stop. I am blessed by each one of you, and because of your encouragement and support, I am struggling a little bit less than I was a month ago and I am following my dreams.
Thank you.
ChaoticMom says:
Oh, Suzanne! I am so happy for you!! It’s so exciting to hear all these wonderful things happening for you! Kudos to you girl! You continue to be an inspiration to us all. :rockon:
On December 20, 2008 at 1:27 am
Leah says:
Ahhh,Blue skies!I’m so happy for you. I really appreciate all you do here for us.BTW, those Pepperoni rolls look so appetizing, makes me hungry! :clap:
On December 20, 2008 at 1:52 am
Miss Lila says:
Hey Ya’ll
Sounds like everythings comin’ up Roses :clap:
Congratulations!
Miss Lila in Atlanta
On December 20, 2008 at 3:12 am
Gena says:
I’m so happy for you! Your news made my day. It’s so great to see all of your hard work paying off in this horrible economy. My husband has been out of work for almost ten months, so I have really been feeling your pain!
On December 20, 2008 at 4:36 am
Heidi says:
Girl – I feel the same way about you.. blessed! Thank you for making me smile EVERY DAY!! That is talent my dear friend and you have more than a share of it!!!
On December 20, 2008 at 5:13 am
Stephanie says:
You are so inspiring. If we would all keep trying to fulfill our dreams the world would be a much happier place. Congrats! on the new prospects, and Good Luck! Not that I think you need it.
On December 20, 2008 at 5:33 am
Amelia says:
God does answer prayers…we must remember that. I have noticed that your blog does not contain any religous or polical views…I know not stepping on any toes that way.
May 2009 bring you many blessings!
Merry Christmas
On December 20, 2008 at 5:37 am
Diane says:
That is awasome news!!! :bananadance: I knew there would be something better out there other than McDonalds and Walmart for you.
HUGS and Prayers that these new developments will take you far. Or at the very least bless you so that you can live happy on your little far with the chickens, CoCo, Clover,nutmeg and honey.
Give Clover a cookie from me!!!
On December 20, 2008 at 5:45 am
Kathleen in Michigan says:
I am so happy for you. Your blog is the first thing I read every morning. It is great that you will be able to make extra income with your wonderful writing.
On December 20, 2008 at 6:09 am
beekudzu says:
Congratulations! I’ve only been here a little bit, but I know you deserve this good fortune.
You know what surprises me?! That the newspaper hasn’t snatched you up before this. I look forward to this every morning and I’m sure the Charleston Daily Mail readers will, too.
Thank you for all the effort you put in here. If I were a rich woman, I would give you lots of money so you could just blog and cook all day long!
On December 20, 2008 at 6:21 am
mim says:
I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason..We usually can’t understand at the time why but later on we can see why.. We looked & drooled over a piece of property near Jones Ridge (part of my grandfather’s home place)but we didn’t know that at the time…We drooled & drooled but it got sold..we were sadden but if we had been able to buy that property, we wouldn’t have my 2 grown kids living just a hop skip & a jump from us, our 2 grandchildren (when they get older 4 months & 21 months) will be able to walk out their door cross the lawn & be at our house. Sometimes it takes longer than what we think but when it all comes together it is GREAT… Now I must go & feed my crew…alpacas, a llama & 2 rabbits….& I will get 2 pygmy goats this spring…. Merry Christmas to you & yours. :treehugger: :treehugger:
On December 20, 2008 at 6:35 am
Peggy says:
What wonderful adventures you are heading into! I am like others in surprised you hadn’t been picked up by newspapers long ago. I enjoy stopping by each morning to check on Cocoa and the farm. I also enjoy the recipes and frugal tips you pass on to us. I like you know even a little farm sure empties the wallet fast. Looking forward to reading about your new adventures!
On December 20, 2008 at 6:59 am
IowaDeb says:
I really look forward to reading your blog Suzanne. You are such an inspiration to us all. Congratulations and a very Merry Christmas!
On December 20, 2008 at 7:07 am
Gail says:
I am so glad to hear of new doors opening for you! These things sound so perfect for you. I am sure there will be many more new adventures for you as well. We are all cheering you on because you are the best! Hugs to all and lots of cookies for Clover!
On December 20, 2008 at 7:10 am
shirley says:
Suzanne.
I just have to say how very much your blog means to me.I wish I had just a snippet of your talent.The thing you don’t realize is that you have been gifted with the ability to brighten the lives of many thousands of people who read your blog every morning with their morning coffee.
Not all your readers submit comments, but they’re out there.
You have allowed me to follow along with you and your children as you shivered in the old farmhouse, witched for water, built your new farmhouse,raised a garden, canned and preserved your bounty, acquired your precious goats and giant puppy, and hatched chickens.I have participated in egg hunts and sympathized with Clover over her lost love.
I’ve laughed, cried, and rejoiced with you as I watched from a distance.
Thank you for being you.And for sharing yourself with us.
P.S. When do I get to see your Christmas tree? :hissyfit:
On December 20, 2008 at 7:26 am
CATRAY44 says:
I am so very happy and excited for you! You know, my mom had Erma Bombeck to inspire her…. we have you!
On December 20, 2008 at 7:49 am
Becky says:
Congratulations, Suzanne. I am glad things are looking up and coming together for you!!!
I can’t wait to see what your farm book is about.
Be sure to give us a link to your online article!
On December 20, 2008 at 7:57 am
Heidi533 says:
Suzanne,
What you do DOES matter, touch, entertain AND inspire. I can’t wait to read your column. I’m amazed everyday that you can find something to write and I think your talent is vastly under-used.
On December 20, 2008 at 7:58 am
Nancy in Atlanta says:
This is fantastic news! Like the others, I can’t wait to read your article each week just as I sit down at my computer each morning anticipating your blog. Will your customers come to the farmhouse for baked goods, or will you need to deliver them someplace? Reminds me of the movie where the main character made baby food at home and ended up with a huge business! (Anyone remember it?) Your Christmas must be looking brighter now! Mine is mainly because my daughter and new SIL will arrive tonight from Iowa (https://loessismore.blogspot.com/) The best of everything to you and yours! :catmeow:
On December 20, 2008 at 8:14 am
Melissa Marsh says:
What fabulous, awesome news, Suzanne! I am so glad that things are starting to look up. You have created such a wonderful haven for so many of us – I absolutely love your blog. You have definitely made a difference in a lot of people’s lives!
On December 20, 2008 at 8:27 am
Mental P Mama says:
This is all wonderful news! The power of the collective is amazing, isn’t it? Merry Christmas! :snoopy:
On December 20, 2008 at 8:28 am
missyakamelissa says:
Saw this in a catalog and thought it fitting:
God’s 3 answers to your prayers:
1. Yes
2. Not yet.
3. I have something better in mind.
I’m grateful that you’re here too!
On December 20, 2008 at 8:50 am
Kacey says:
Suzanne, I’m so glad things are working out for you. You do such a great job with your blog. It’s funny, uplifting…and quite often it makes me very hungry… 😆
On December 20, 2008 at 8:57 am
Melissa's Cozy Teacup says:
I’m so happy for you! This is great! God bless you and your family. I look forward to more praise reports next year. Merry Christmas.
On December 20, 2008 at 9:16 am
Winifred says:
I am so pleased for you. It’s a wonderful inspiring story at this time of year.
Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas and a very happy year in 2009. My dad always used to toast people at New Year and say “Here’s wishing you everything you would wish for yourself”. So that’s my toast to you for 2009!
On December 20, 2008 at 9:34 am
Minna says:
That’s great news! :flying:
On December 20, 2008 at 11:10 am
Ulli says:
You deserve it all, Suzanne!
On December 20, 2008 at 11:30 am
Brandy says:
Answer to prayer! YAY Suzanne!
On December 20, 2008 at 11:54 am
Doris rose MacBean says:
Great work Suzanne. Your blog has been a part of my morning for a long time; it warms my heart and makes me laugh. Odd how attached we become to a relative stranger hundreds of miles away who has the courage to share herself with strangers. My hope is that your generosity and patience will be richly rewarded. Thank you.
On December 20, 2008 at 12:13 pm
Abiga/karen says:
Wonderful news! Blessings.
On December 20, 2008 at 12:18 pm
Leah says:
Nancy In Atlanta, to answer your question, does anyone remember that movie!YES!!!It’s BABY BOOM, starring Diane Keaton. That’s my favorite movie of all time, I have the video of course! And, she’s my favorite actress. :love:
On December 20, 2008 at 12:28 pm
AndiK says:
Congratulations, Suzanne! Live for your dreams!
Also, I’m salivating over those pepperoni rolls. Mmmmmmmm…
On December 20, 2008 at 1:43 pm
tillie says:
you are like a ray of sunshine on a dark day…you illuminate all that is good. may you continue to receive the much deserved blessings…
On December 20, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Harriet Herrington says:
Suzanne………THANK YOU for giving us a look into a world you are developing for yourself, insight into making choices in life and reveling in them, pride in being able to put down roots where those who came before you put theirs and most of all for giving me a daily dose of what can be if you want it badly enough.
On December 20, 2008 at 1:55 pm
Estella says:
I am so happy for you, Suzanne!
On December 20, 2008 at 2:04 pm
mschrief says:
:bananadance: So happy for your success.
Hope you won’t give up on the cookbook idea!
On December 20, 2008 at 2:15 pm
Tori Lennox says:
I’m so, so happy for you!!!
On December 20, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Sue says:
Thats all great news
so happy for you
On December 20, 2008 at 2:57 pm
Suzette says:
Suzanne – I am so happy you’re having an upturn in events. What you do definitely DOES matter. I start every day with your blog. It’s an important part of my life.
I just ordered my Chickens in the Road calendar. It’s not much, but every little bit helps. Plus, I’ll get to look at my Farm Friends all year long!
On December 20, 2008 at 4:55 pm
Susan says:
Congratulations! We give you our sincere Thank Yous for being here everyday. :heart:
On December 20, 2008 at 5:21 pm
Patricia Herman says:
Susan – all things happen for a reason. I am glad blessings are coming your way. In God’s time. After the first of the year – I will buy a calendar and donate to this awesome site. Money is kinda tight here but I have it in my January budget to donate to Chickens in the Road.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Years to your family from mine!
On December 20, 2008 at 6:11 pm
Sky says:
You go girl!! :bananadance:
Jerry W :rockon:
On December 20, 2008 at 7:38 pm
Liz says:
:snoopy:
Suzanne: When the door closes a window opens!
If you only knew the pleasure we get from enjoying your many adventures and all your humor and interesting stories!
I do believe you have more courage than you realize.
I see many many more important outlets for all your talents! You have only just begun!!!
Hugs: Liz in PA ♥♥♥
On December 20, 2008 at 7:54 pm
LeaAnn says:
Suzanne,
I am happy that things are looking brighter for you. What a great way to begin a new year. May God’s blessing continue to pour out over you and your family.
On December 20, 2008 at 8:08 pm
tom says:
YIPPPEEEE! I’m happy you get to keep on !
On December 20, 2008 at 9:02 pm
Judy says:
Big smiles from North Carolina! Congratulations.
On December 20, 2008 at 9:32 pm
catslady says:
I’m so thrilled for you and that things seem to be working out in such a way that you will still be doing things you love and are so very good doing!! :love:
On December 20, 2008 at 9:54 pm
Debbie says:
I am so glad to read that things are looking up for you , Suzanne. I read this blog every day (well, every other day the past two weeks!) and I absolutely love it. It has definitely been a bright spot in my day.
On December 21, 2008 at 11:48 pm
Kim W says:
“I have a number of goals for my blog, but underpinning them all is a passion to do something that matters in the world, that touches people, that entertains people, that inspires people. If I can do that even in a small way, nothing would make me happier.” … CERTAINLY you must be VERY happy now – you have succeeded! THANK YOU for making so many of our mornings begin w/a giggle or an encouragement that “I can do that, too!” or just the entertaining photos. Thank you for letting those of us who have ALWAYS wanted to do what you are doing live vicariously through you – to live the dream.
Keep it coming! :snoopy:
Blessings from Ohio…
On December 22, 2008 at 11:01 am
Kim W says:
P.S. ~ CONGRATS on the new opportunities!! :thumbsup: :shimmy:
More blessings from Ohio…
On December 22, 2008 at 11:03 am