Blogging milestones

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8Z2ZDkHV8sKlg3AMlENYoZNByNAf7ABgQ807J-LlpnZnIUBtRydh1fUriz5cwgRTMu_hpqvPjDr6LSAxJEgp6mwcrl4edLyI1W3KwLgBEC9u1-G1xC0fI60JNLWbrJFwF4wL4Ujo7og/s1600/01.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730542827342863522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8Z2ZDkHV8sKlg3AMlENYoZNByNAf7ABgQ807J-LlpnZnIUBtRydh1fUriz5cwgRTMu_hpqvPjDr6LSAxJEgp6mwcrl4edLyI1W3KwLgBEC9u1-G1xC0fI60JNLWbrJFwF4wL4Ujo7og/s400/01.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 167px;" /></a>Speaking of <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2012/04/happy-tattoo.html">things that make us happy</a>, I couldn't help but squeal with pure joy last night when I discovered that So About What I Said has reached 3,000 followers. <span style="font-style:italic;">Whaaaat?? Really??</span> I know this is going to sound incredibly cliche and cheesy, but I had no idea that the little blog I started three years ago would become such an important part of my life. So, thank you, thank you, thank you, my wonderful, fantastic, sweet, amazing, you-mean-the-world-to-me friends! I'm so glad I get to share this blogging milestone with you!!<br /><br />Any blogging milestones for you lately, friends? xoxo

Blogging milestones

Speaking of things that make us happy , I couldn't help but squeal with pure joy last night when I discovered that So About What I Said ...

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Love Lounge: What does the blogosphere mean to you?

<span style="font-style:italic;">Last week, I had the opportunity to guest blog on the <a href="http://www.thegirlieblog.com/">Girlie Blog Seattle</a>, where I wrote about the power of blogging. And it got me thinking, friends: The blogosphere is one awesome force. So, I'd love to share my thoughts -- and hear from you, too! </span><br /><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7193/6911924331_0984286cfb_z.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7193/6911924331_0984286cfb_z.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 590px;" /></a>As a writer and journalist, words have always been my passion. In fact, it's hard to remember a time when I wasn't writing, whether it be for my college's newspaper or for a magazine article after I graduated. I was, am and will always be a writer -- plain and simple. So, it only seemed natural when I found myself starting a blog 3 years ago. All writers should have blogs, I thought. At the very least, it will keep me writing and help me stay focused since freelancers don't have typical 9-to-5 jobs and it's easy to get distracted sometimes.<br /><br />When I started blogging, I knew I wanted to write about love and my physical disability. But what I didn't know? How much I'd grow over the next 3 years and how much my blog would grow with me and help shape the person I am today. Because truthfully, I had virtually no idea where it would all take me or the lessons I would learn along the way. Here are my Top 3 (Unexpected) Blogging Lessons of the last 3 years...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Blogging gives you a sense of community<br /></span>Ask any blogger and they'll tell you that the sense of community in the blogging world is unlike anything that you could ever imagine. I've gotten to know people I never would have had the opportunity to meet. It's such a supportive community, and everyone genuinely cares about each other. We've laughed, cried and even shared our dreams with each other. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Blogging gives you insight into yourself</span><br />Not only does it give you the chance to get to know other bloggers, but blogging gives you a glimpse inside yourself. For me, blogging has forced me to write truthfully and honestly -- sometimes about painful things like my <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2009/01/living-in-wake-of-suicide.html">father's suicide</a> and my struggles with <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Tuesday%20Update">depression</a> last year -- in a very candid way that I'm not sure I'd be able to do in real life. Blogging was just the outlet I needed to help me get through a very painful time. And, I was glad that readers could identify with what I was writing about; it's good to know I may have helped someone else going through the same thing.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Blogging helps relieve stress</span><br />For some people, chocolate is their go-to when they're stressed and overwhelmed. For me, it's blogging. Any time I need to relax and unwind, all I have to do is start writing a blog post. My favorites have always been my <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Letters%20to%20my%20future%20husband">Letters To My Future Husband</a> since I'm a hopeless romantic. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSUg0r6bePmv5lKLq32cPxiHX6mPlufMF5Lvslh6KbUxoIMxMxTdGaVRMxGwA8fC_5hQ5KS1WgnUZ2O4ymSFAo84qTq8-gEDcabMidBxQDOEsDA1hpwCuHzg15Sh-TYp9a4Ss_L11c_Y/s1600/01.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711328530070137906" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSUg0r6bePmv5lKLq32cPxiHX6mPlufMF5Lvslh6KbUxoIMxMxTdGaVRMxGwA8fC_5hQ5KS1WgnUZ2O4ymSFAo84qTq8-gEDcabMidBxQDOEsDA1hpwCuHzg15Sh-TYp9a4Ss_L11c_Y/s400/01.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a><span style="font-weight:bold;">What about you, friends? What has surprised you the most about blogging? How has it changed you for the better? I'd love to hear from you! xoxo</span><br /><br />[Bottom photo via <a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/1685530">We Heart It</a>]

Love Lounge: What does the blogosphere mean to you?

Last week, I had the opportunity to guest blog on the Girlie Blog Seattle , where I wrote about the power of blogging. And it got me thinkin...

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Blog redesign: The official unveiling

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicw15wlISu0kNrGlKqxxlLEseC5kYrkqY5PaCy0nc58Z_ZwMDdQmTEHaQTLLA9lkIj8fc_aenXqbtmHDBXZ7-18aesGv2S0PKE3M-BhAeIyFRyvS23wUVlfiEcwKwYIoZ8jz8IJceaBPg/s1600/blog.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698694561966862050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicw15wlISu0kNrGlKqxxlLEseC5kYrkqY5PaCy0nc58Z_ZwMDdQmTEHaQTLLA9lkIj8fc_aenXqbtmHDBXZ7-18aesGv2S0PKE3M-BhAeIyFRyvS23wUVlfiEcwKwYIoZ8jz8IJceaBPg/s400/blog.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 141px;" /></a>This afternoon, I am <em>so</em> excited to officially unveil my new blog design. For the last month, I've been working with Heather of Viva La Violette. She's been helping me transform my vision for So About What I Said, and I'm in love with the way everything turned out. I was going for a fresh, crisp, clean and modern look...what do you think, friends? Some important things to bring to your attention...<br /><br /><em>*You can now follow So About What I Said on <a href="http://facebook.com/soaboutwhatisaid">Facebook</a>.<br />*You can now see my pretty finds on <a href="http://pinterest.com/melissablake/">Pinterest</a>.<br />*You can always follow me on <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/melissablake">Twitter</a>.</em><br /><br />With the new blog design, I thought it would be the perfect time to look back over the past year...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1oWZ4D54yVO40yaO6Nz2Cj6bp2NEsIYcJSv8LAIgBiDPi3g7i0Y8KzrWCQoQBosJNQBIRUN7-jT8QJbiDF7sApSs3I_wPwR6wj0UnFsidy6Q8JrJApo5Q2-tHSBxrcSZ7kHmoG4gvXcE/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698685844058582562" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1oWZ4D54yVO40yaO6Nz2Cj6bp2NEsIYcJSv8LAIgBiDPi3g7i0Y8KzrWCQoQBosJNQBIRUN7-jT8QJbiDF7sApSs3I_wPwR6wj0UnFsidy6Q8JrJApo5Q2-tHSBxrcSZ7kHmoG4gvXcE/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwF-euhSwPn1Wsz3bwwol3wVqEK1S_zVv_imTfSb0BAic2zUkS3FXRXjeebZ83AnDarZAC9ptCMrn0JxMtN5p11XzpBR3tAbERBMHX1QSo-JhSG0GZqe_7Lp6gsVW2dYovVYSU2cWvdU/s1600/aa2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698685844607299282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwF-euhSwPn1Wsz3bwwol3wVqEK1S_zVv_imTfSb0BAic2zUkS3FXRXjeebZ83AnDarZAC9ptCMrn0JxMtN5p11XzpBR3tAbERBMHX1QSo-JhSG0GZqe_7Lp6gsVW2dYovVYSU2cWvdU/s400/aa2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 298px;" /></a>I surpassed 100 <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Letters%20to%20my%20future%20husband">Letters To My Future Husband</a>, and discussed everything from my <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/letters-to-my-future-husband-letter-134.html">high-strung nature</a> to <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/11/letters-to-my-future-husband-letter-142.html">that one moment</a> when I realize I am head-over-heels in love with Mr. Melissa Blake.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVf_yTGZoYX8vc0yRncGyOfibQQ8BTAs2uxHMP5tRJE8zTMLHAn8ezXbCOavspbsPv4MCtua2z07IBvfV2wYUt-f4MhlJ9LIGnjoJWp3Z0En1yDuJ0hBIIp5yFNknMq5EDq87K95bw1k/s1600/aa4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698685840083217458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVf_yTGZoYX8vc0yRncGyOfibQQ8BTAs2uxHMP5tRJE8zTMLHAn8ezXbCOavspbsPv4MCtua2z07IBvfV2wYUt-f4MhlJ9LIGnjoJWp3Z0En1yDuJ0hBIIp5yFNknMq5EDq87K95bw1k/s400/aa4.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a>We chatted and mused over <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Love%20Lounge">Love Lounge</a> topics, like <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/love-lounge-do-you-believe-in-fate.html">believing in fate</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/love-lounge-what-do-you-love-about.html">what we love about being single</a> and the <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/love-lounge-upside-of-unrequited-love.html">upside of unrequited love</a>.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIF3pYtdfRBHjPac2BZcJjb-muvez8rE01SQeGtlUttDj9ovyJtvSSXXxDMhq8WQWHYvl2UYXCcc_vMbsN0mX5YaHukaW5bdkQKa12ii-xrHiK4nQ9Uexk_0C-GFbhPOXym72o7KDMQ00/s1600/aa3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698685839896770050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIF3pYtdfRBHjPac2BZcJjb-muvez8rE01SQeGtlUttDj9ovyJtvSSXXxDMhq8WQWHYvl2UYXCcc_vMbsN0mX5YaHukaW5bdkQKa12ii-xrHiK4nQ9Uexk_0C-GFbhPOXym72o7KDMQ00/s400/aa3.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 270px;" /></a>We schooled those silly boys with each <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Memo%20To%20Men">MEMO TO MEN</a>, covering topics like <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/12/memo-to-men-your-cheating-heart.html">the dangers of a cheating heart</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/11/memo-to-men-assertive-women-rock.html">assertive women</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/11/memo-to-men-curse-of-nice-guys.html">the curse of nice guys</a> and a little thing known as <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/memo-to-men-little-thing-called-r-e-s-p.html">R-E-S-P-E-C-T</a>.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWPr54fpgg0CwbqRlYVuAJTPlphMLUIvCS7yiZC2uLx4mOxq46ZmMrh2v_wpYuPq3W58Nv0KgCxFLVV08my0e-UhVByoNRP-evkREmU_vk82XIdLP7x9XKYbGkSM95K1EM3oZlTorcTio/s1600/aa8.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698685125641382338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWPr54fpgg0CwbqRlYVuAJTPlphMLUIvCS7yiZC2uLx4mOxq46ZmMrh2v_wpYuPq3W58Nv0KgCxFLVV08my0e-UhVByoNRP-evkREmU_vk82XIdLP7x9XKYbGkSM95K1EM3oZlTorcTio/s400/aa8.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 279px;" /></a><a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/childhood%20week">Childhood favorites</a>, like <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/childhood-toys-and-games.html">board games</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/12/adorable-stuffed-animals.html">stuffed animals</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/do-you-have-nicknames-for-your-siblings.html">sibling nicknames</a> and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/what-were-your-favorite-television.html">television shows</a>.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8mBaBHI_EYRiOLLFAAx7_ZSjLAeZl11UtYEUf4e8KqXlUu7mMJ_3p5g1dYbAOVuYQ8qqefRZV8YEnhAT_jOcRHAx-GkafEme2a81cltyHgB4DDJlUN40CB9FISTUwTXQ32s_VIVWtVh0/s1600/aa9.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698685126196879842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8mBaBHI_EYRiOLLFAAx7_ZSjLAeZl11UtYEUf4e8KqXlUu7mMJ_3p5g1dYbAOVuYQ8qqefRZV8YEnhAT_jOcRHAx-GkafEme2a81cltyHgB4DDJlUN40CB9FISTUwTXQ32s_VIVWtVh0/s400/aa9.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a>I used <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/daily%20affirmation">Daily Affirmations</a> -- like my love of the <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/07/daily-affirmation-41.html">Beatles</a> -- to combat my depression.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYTg3W9C50YD3U_Wh_ND9cOJULkIl5YZ1jGiYwGz9ml8LMLfrYS5YpvBNuZUEm8jxEkBx_PgCZsCZsaAKrsBFX-YjdmuUO32CBZUwDQRMUNIyj7zVcZYEKl6Ck3xsyioALmFn4X4QuyIE/s1600/aa10.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698685125220205330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYTg3W9C50YD3U_Wh_ND9cOJULkIl5YZ1jGiYwGz9ml8LMLfrYS5YpvBNuZUEm8jxEkBx_PgCZsCZsaAKrsBFX-YjdmuUO32CBZUwDQRMUNIyj7zVcZYEKl6Ck3xsyioALmFn4X4QuyIE/s400/aa10.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 238px;" /></a><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5314/5915754102_e3594d517f_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5314/5915754102_e3594d517f_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 602px;" /></a>We <em>oohed</em> and <em>ahhed</em> over <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/dream%20home">Dream Homes</a>, like <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/dream-home-nantucket-cottage.html">Nantucket cottages</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/08/glass-tree-globes.html\">glass tree globes</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/dream-home-framed-butterflies.html">framed butterflies</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/07/dream-home-secret-passages.html">secret passages</a> and a house with an <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/06/dream-home-indoor-pool.html">indoor pool</a>! <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwWxSTCFP3Abe9jVOrGnP8qStqw2JKy6JQKipS9136HWpwxlu09ssTzExxwQR_lwdYjHmIEM1CK4v_OuEiDuP0_xnYotdVK7jEwx81Wu67sPUym-x7Aq798e0ktA2Mprg6q1Gp9SjfYKo/s1600/aa11.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698684311229015570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwWxSTCFP3Abe9jVOrGnP8qStqw2JKy6JQKipS9136HWpwxlu09ssTzExxwQR_lwdYjHmIEM1CK4v_OuEiDuP0_xnYotdVK7jEwx81Wu67sPUym-x7Aq798e0ktA2Mprg6q1Gp9SjfYKo/s400/aa11.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6576wB2TyU6FuV0yKcmY-SrebXKZ49dPQJFJyCwXhBcqH5xKSmX3dHx-oYAihRm0TWIVO7L8AJBJInR7nA5BXDIXK0moLQnFnR-ZzcXILIcvY6U8YQbVY07Le3Pcw1V7L7N9BXF05gNE/s1600/aa3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698692324416073858" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6576wB2TyU6FuV0yKcmY-SrebXKZ49dPQJFJyCwXhBcqH5xKSmX3dHx-oYAihRm0TWIVO7L8AJBJInR7nA5BXDIXK0moLQnFnR-ZzcXILIcvY6U8YQbVY07Le3Pcw1V7L7N9BXF05gNE/s400/aa3.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 263px;" /></a><a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/dream%20vacation">Dream Vacations</a>, like <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/dream-vacation-san-francisco-fog.html">San Francisco</a>, the <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/11/dream-vacation-tunnel-of-lights.html">Tunnel of Lights</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/dream-vacation-reading-hotels.html">reading hotels</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/07/dream-vacation-clifftop-towns.html">clifftop towns</a> and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/06/airport-bars.html">airport bars</a>.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZHEhUgCNn-xj7vF0V0OfbcF-jM94aZ1oTVupiAhN841vHE5sHk1TNJELlLl3gFBPctgC-JmuQZbGmqzQwGh3ev8u9DrN1myiKLqdMFQlMmecCOlpU66vUuOh3DShsh28AwREDaPjUHzM/s1600/aa12.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698684312939570242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZHEhUgCNn-xj7vF0V0OfbcF-jM94aZ1oTVupiAhN841vHE5sHk1TNJELlLl3gFBPctgC-JmuQZbGmqzQwGh3ev8u9DrN1myiKLqdMFQlMmecCOlpU66vUuOh3DShsh28AwREDaPjUHzM/s400/aa12.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrs78Cnebi-hpmUz6OnrDbtLgPwEBlD6j3J2_R0wm8e2BoXFI9El3XeUPzRHMu5svTvQ8iS2pNy6dvv7hZYott4E3FHKu4_PpBbpVYn9-_MFHj9-5g2r7kduFCJ6iRUPwUA7Sqkw4hfrg/s1600/a13.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698692333393366306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrs78Cnebi-hpmUz6OnrDbtLgPwEBlD6j3J2_R0wm8e2BoXFI9El3XeUPzRHMu5svTvQ8iS2pNy6dvv7hZYott4E3FHKu4_PpBbpVYn9-_MFHj9-5g2r7kduFCJ6iRUPwUA7Sqkw4hfrg/s400/a13.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 374px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-jGse_k2o2nXppGYSLBCprkcEFDrTSUAlCpaB16sMyB2GVn80fBLiiEeGzoPRm-r6iNrpwHmIeKm_YVPstRa9wL8S_zbsCJqqCYgVeqGcUIgMMdoI4bWfh7RPoRlDqXXjQuiWkrBmUxQ/s1600/aa2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698692325115539746" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-jGse_k2o2nXppGYSLBCprkcEFDrTSUAlCpaB16sMyB2GVn80fBLiiEeGzoPRm-r6iNrpwHmIeKm_YVPstRa9wL8S_zbsCJqqCYgVeqGcUIgMMdoI4bWfh7RPoRlDqXXjQuiWkrBmUxQ/s400/aa2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 364px;" /></a>We got our shopping on with amazing <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/etsy%20love">Etsy finds</a>, like <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/etsy-love-miniature-car.html">miniature cars</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/08/etsy-love-state-prints.html">state prints</a> and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/08/etsy-love-dogs-wearing-bowties.html">dogs wearing bowties</a>.<br /><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6195/6080560691_f06afe1374_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6195/6080560691_f06afe1374_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 517px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPUhKMstrhCOmZvj_1Bxp3JmnSS_5DsTrLejKGGgIcpooo0G6qouymzSMBa369opz0unD5kndQacFiDf2Hnw3owbYsKD2IwH-NAolmIXZ1glbylhgPVNPjOR-IXbIMMS56Q9EwR_Xofs/s1600/aa15.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698684309303822306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPUhKMstrhCOmZvj_1Bxp3JmnSS_5DsTrLejKGGgIcpooo0G6qouymzSMBa369opz0unD5kndQacFiDf2Hnw3owbYsKD2IwH-NAolmIXZ1glbylhgPVNPjOR-IXbIMMS56Q9EwR_Xofs/s400/aa15.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6597493745_faa3ce2937_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6597493745_faa3ce2937_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 480px;" /></a><a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/fashion">Fashion</a>, like <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/08/fashion-friday-flowers-in-your-hair.html">flowers in your hair</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/lets-talk-glasses.html">glasses</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/do-you-have-tattoo.html">tattoos</a> and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/12/fashion-friday-new-years-eve-style.html">sparkly holiday shoes</a>.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXhppO8GlLenhCJf5ecZqAn93pWmyjCTogK1NVQNHhVgZeo4hTa3KTLD_neqcQQb78jAQG15LWg_wHJE3VF06GASHYLwD8IsrhfaLuFLwfp00oSDRzFhyKYDT0qEgLR7YTwwY5HODwk0I/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698698310658878994" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXhppO8GlLenhCJf5ecZqAn93pWmyjCTogK1NVQNHhVgZeo4hTa3KTLD_neqcQQb78jAQG15LWg_wHJE3VF06GASHYLwD8IsrhfaLuFLwfp00oSDRzFhyKYDT0qEgLR7YTwwY5HODwk0I/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzKoyTVAS1CwDC0T2ueBAkhRhVBHGMriX1CtsC5b7c3gqN_DiRE45cqevo1T_Ecl8zqsv-INtYL_DAFFs6YlaSVi8-Qov-e3evoyb2Hzz-AzhDTKmdQ1SLvqTDg1iDr_aHEPHmH1i7pw/s1600/aa2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698698311669836274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzKoyTVAS1CwDC0T2ueBAkhRhVBHGMriX1CtsC5b7c3gqN_DiRE45cqevo1T_Ecl8zqsv-INtYL_DAFFs6YlaSVi8-Qov-e3evoyb2Hzz-AzhDTKmdQ1SLvqTDg1iDr_aHEPHmH1i7pw/s400/aa2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a>Awesome <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/design">design</a>, like <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/minnesota-lakes-logos.html">lake logos</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/wedding-invitations.html">wedding invitations</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/07/typography-love.html">typography</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/06/geography-magnets.html">geography magnets</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/missed-connections-art.html">Missed Connections</a> and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/11/holiday-cards.html">holiday cards</a>.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRS_MVTtNE75q6xF7deHN03vsKXfSTQzTfUo1YB7LAsJQVmBlog1mkH8yz_IDq0Fz-kt2ltLOXiMbT5cAUXFDnkEI6m-8qVvEonX-IhOjkf_enrvJ50_raEMI9swa3u7XIeEW520W6cc8/s1600/aa4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698692321773335266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRS_MVTtNE75q6xF7deHN03vsKXfSTQzTfUo1YB7LAsJQVmBlog1mkH8yz_IDq0Fz-kt2ltLOXiMbT5cAUXFDnkEI6m-8qVvEonX-IhOjkf_enrvJ50_raEMI9swa3u7XIeEW520W6cc8/s400/aa4.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 362px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNGn6lQEXfPZie1R2HIV6Q1YvvH0sTh_i8QFWvwOCwmZufQN-CEq55T_G_B8UXnjwspyJWVTIDc5wpPn1OCSBHP7xJR6dtLe4pObI9mVTxqXfKGCNQsS41wVa5EnOjQIcH2MeIef9Vz2k/s1600/aa5.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698692319468616962" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNGn6lQEXfPZie1R2HIV6Q1YvvH0sTh_i8QFWvwOCwmZufQN-CEq55T_G_B8UXnjwspyJWVTIDc5wpPn1OCSBHP7xJR6dtLe4pObI9mVTxqXfKGCNQsS41wVa5EnOjQIcH2MeIef9Vz2k/s400/aa5.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a>We enjoyed <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/food">food</a> virtually, like <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/pumpkin-pie-bars.html">pumpkin pie bars</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/girl-scout-cookies.html">Girl Scout cookies</a> and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/smores-in-jar.html">s'mores in a jar</a>.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63RlQD7RFmzIKzpxGNPAyvN60GafZsr2EUd8qay-rXOLcQWfFyLSDZZ10QohAiPb1DaL4umo6hBVtAdyRaIxaXHXdMYTWyYkD7xCn5vCp2fLpWg01E3dhpgOKCLRI4TUUy2E6HX2hInk/s1600/aa17.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698684302204534498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63RlQD7RFmzIKzpxGNPAyvN60GafZsr2EUd8qay-rXOLcQWfFyLSDZZ10QohAiPb1DaL4umo6hBVtAdyRaIxaXHXdMYTWyYkD7xCn5vCp2fLpWg01E3dhpgOKCLRI4TUUy2E6HX2hInk/s400/aa17.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 298px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMAEqMDv48mmIfycPoHY6j-hs32MS68VXzVWCNHE1sakNa4dFDKRJO5PEvBnOxl8V8TgYkabxKkn8elBlVG3uHhXEqCTVZD-hZgd0rLogms1v2HqFBZfE4jAIpQK1LEZ5h6IA4CUjOjU/s1600/aa18.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698684303530677778" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMAEqMDv48mmIfycPoHY6j-hs32MS68VXzVWCNHE1sakNa4dFDKRJO5PEvBnOxl8V8TgYkabxKkn8elBlVG3uHhXEqCTVZD-hZgd0rLogms1v2HqFBZfE4jAIpQK1LEZ5h6IA4CUjOjU/s400/aa18.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 368px;" /></a>We fell in love with all things <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Weddings">wedding</a>, like this <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/09/swedish-wedding.html">Swedish wedding</a>, this <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/zipline-bride.html">zipline bride</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/06/retro-bridal-portraits.html">retro bridal portraits</a> and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/07/engagement-rings.html">engagement rings</a>.<br /><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6011/6009270538_7725bb9eb7_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6011/6009270538_7725bb9eb7_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 533px;" /></a>I celebrated my <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/08/my-30th-birthday.html">30th birthday</a> in August with a wonderful <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/08/birthday-photos.html">surprise party</a> (<em>Thanks, Mom...</em>)! And of course, I wrote about my <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Disability">life with a physical disability</a>.<br /><br />We also enjoyed the seasons with <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/fall%20fashion%20trends%202011">Fall Fashion Trends</a> and the <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Holiday%20gift%20guide%202011">Holiday Gift Guide 2011</a>.<br /><br />And toward the end of the year, I launched several new series, including <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/behind%20the%20blog">Behind The Blog</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/fashion%20friday">Fashion Friday</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/would%20you%20rather">Would You Rather</a> and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/peek%20inside">Peek Inside</a>. <br /><br />Whew! Looking back, it's been a busy year, hasn't it, friends? I'm so excited about what's ahead in 2012, aren't you? And I'm especially excited to share it with <em><strong>you</strong></em>...my wonderful, amazing, fantastic, strong readers! I've loved getting to know you! xoxo<br /><br />P.S. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the new blog design, too! :)

Blog redesign: The official unveiling

This afternoon, I am so excited to officially unveil my new blog design. For the last month, I've been working with Heather of Viva La ...

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Blowfish Shoes Giveaway!

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6106/6343972883_f6dfdd9148_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6106/6343972883_f6dfdd9148_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 434px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6232/6344722092_d8a922f3ba_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6232/6344722092_d8a922f3ba_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 434px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6098/6344722144_d526219b08_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6098/6344722144_d526219b08_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 434px;" /></a>In honor of my <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/11/three-years-and-2248-posts-later.html">anniversary</a>, I thought it only appropriate to keep the celebration going all week. I've got five (yes, <span style="font-weight:bold;"><span style="font-style:italic;">five!</span></span>) giveaways planned, so look for a new one every day! First up: The wonderful folks of <a href="http://www.blowfishshoes.com/?utm_source=soaboutwhatisaid&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=novgiveaway">Blowfish Shoes</a>. The California-based shoe line is all about creativity and originality. Their philosophy: "There's something unexpected in every shoe we create, just as there's something unexpected about every girl who wears them."<br /><br />They're giving one lucky reader the opportunity to let her creativity and personality shine with a pair of shoes of her choice. Which pair would you pick, friends? Aren't the <a href="http://www.blowfishshoes.com/ItemServlet?op=LKP&id=2207&op=SEL&cat=66&subcat=75">Nazine flats</a> perfect for cool fall weather? Or the <a href="http://www.blowfishshoes.com/ItemServlet?op=LKP&id=1224&op=SEL&cat=66&subcat=75">Hamura boots</a> for winter? Oh, and these <a href="http://www.blowfishshoes.com/ItemServlet?op=LKP&id=1557&op=SEL&cat=66&subcat=75">Wellingtons</a> are pretty awesome too!<br /><br />For your chance to win, simply visit <a href="http://www.blowfishshoes.com/?utm_source=soaboutwhatisaid&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=novgiveaway">Blowfish Shoes</a>, and leave a comment below telling us what shoe you'd choose, along with your email address. Also, you can <a href="http://www.facebook.com/blowfishshoes">LIKE</a> Blowfish on Facebook and <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/BlowfishShoes">follow</a> them on Twitter for extra entries. A winner will be chosen at random tomorrow afternoon. Happy hunting! xoxo<br /><br /><em>Update: Congrats to winner <a href="http://thesweetashleylife.blogspot.com/">Ashley</a>! Thanks so much! :)</em>

Blowfish Shoes Giveaway!

In honor of my anniversary , I thought it only appropriate to keep the celebration going all week. I've got five (yes, five! ) giveaw...

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Three years and 2,248 posts later...

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6234/6343718521_86de927346_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6234/6343718521_86de927346_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 618px;" /></a>...and here we are, friends (<em>finally!</em>) to that surprise I've been hinting at for a few days now. <a href="http://www.melissabxoxo.blogspot.com">So About What I Said</a> is 3 years old today. I'm over the moon with excitement. Can you believe it's been three years?!?!?!?<br /><br />If I were accepting an Oscar, my acceptance speech would thank everyone from directors to writers to producers to sound engineers to the craftservice caterer. And sure, I could start reading off my laundry list of thank yous (<em><a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2009/05/happy-mothers-day.html">thanks</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2010/05/happy-mothers-day.html">Ms</a>. <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/05/happy-mothers-day.html">Bear</a></em>), but there's really only one person in the entire world that I want to thank right now: <strong>YOU</strong>. Yes, <em>you</em>. I'm talking to you. <em>You</em>, on the other side of the screen. <em>You</em>, who have been there through every single <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Letters%20to%20my%20future%20husband">Letter To My Future Husband</a>. <em>You</em>, who have laughed with me (<em>and sometimes at me; no hard feelings, really</em>) with every <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Memo%20To%20Men">MEMO TO MEN</a>. And <em>you</em>, who have allowed me to indulge in my <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Entertainment%20and%20Media">light-hearted</a>, <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Random%20Fun">fun</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Shopping">side</a><br /><br />You all have taught me so much about love and life with all your awesome, sweet, encouraging, honest, heartfelt, unbelievable, amazing comments. You have let me share a piece of myself with you, both as a woman with a disability and just a woman, and for that, I am eternally grateful. This blog has truly become a labor of love, and I look forward to what the next two years will bring. After all, this journey wouldn't be the same without you, my dear friends! xoxo<br /><br />P.S. One more surprise is coming your way this afternoon! :)<br /><br />[Photos via <a href="http://www.weheartit.com">We Heart It</a>]

Three years and 2,248 posts later...

...and here we are, friends ( finally! ) to that surprise I've been hinting at for a few days now. So About What I Said is 3 years old...

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