Today marks the third anniversary of my blogging venture! On August 23, 2007, I began this blog with three purposes in mind. I embarked on this journey in an extremely intentional and focused manner - even including a "blogging notebook" for entry ideas!
When I began, I had no idea how God would use my little blog in providing the unexpected blessing of dear friendships. Living in a small farming town with very few friends nearby, and now preparing to move far away as I begin my marriage, I would be lonely for the fellowship and encouragement of other young women if it were not for my sweet "blogging friends" from all over the world. Following are a few of the friends I have been able to meet:
Annabeth and I first met through blogging and later attended the same church for over a year. 
Leigha and I met for lunch when she and her husband were traveling through Virginia last summer. 
Emily and Katie were among the very first people to comment on my blog nearly three years ago and visited our farm this past spring.
Marie, her husband, Jon, and precious baby, Zane, stopped by for an afternoon visit last summer.
Although I have not yet met Elizabeth (Marie's twin sister) in person, she is too sweet of a friend to not be included here! Elizabeth and Marie were the greatest encouragements through the season of waiting prior to my courtship and continue to be such inspiring examples of godly young wives and mothers. I greatly enjoy our occasional afternoon teas over Skype. 
Leigha and I met for lunch when she and her husband were traveling through Virginia last summer. Emily and Katie were among the very first people to comment on my blog nearly three years ago and visited our farm this past spring.Marie, her husband, Jon, and precious baby, Zane, stopped by for an afternoon visit last summer. Although I have not yet met Elizabeth (Marie's twin sister) in person, she is too sweet of a friend to not be included here! Elizabeth and Marie were the greatest encouragements through the season of waiting prior to my courtship and continue to be such inspiring examples of godly young wives and mothers. I greatly enjoy our occasional afternoon teas over Skype. Of course, the greatest unexpected blessing of the blog is my wonderful fiancé! Who would have ever thought that I would meet my future husband through my blog?!
Thank you, friends, for making blogging so much fun and worthwhile! The inspiration and encouragement I gain from your comments is priceless. 
11 comments:
There are so many negatives associated with modern technology, but I'm with you on this, Meredith: I have found so many blessings through the internet. We homeschool on an island in Scotland - I honestly don't know how I could have begun this journey without the internet. The thoughts and convictions that God placed on my heart all these years ago have been developed and have grown through listening to speakers off the internet, or through reading their literature. It continues to be a blessing to me through Sermon Audio; and I have to mention blogging too. I know blogging and such like can become a waste of time, but I have found it a lovely 'extra' in my life. I have found blogs such as yours a real blessing because we have two young daughters - the thoughts you express, and the lifestyle you live is unheard of in the UK, and yet, it's what God placed on our hearts for our children. So, you, and others too, are a real encouragement to us.
Ooooh, I've gone on and on! I didn't mean to, but there you go. I guess that's why I blog - so give my rambling an outlet!
I am glad to see you back - and don't doubt it - your blog is a real blessing to us. I don't say that lightly.
Love, Anne x
It would be so nice to meet some of my blogging friends... the only ones I know in real life are people I knew prior to blogging!
You've been blogging for years - and I really enjoy reading your blog, you write such interesting posts! :)
This is such a sweet post, Meredith! Happy Blog-iversary!! :)
I love that through the blogging efforts of people such as yourself, that I have learned so much about different areas of the world and different choices.
In the short time I've been reading this blog, I have spent a lot of time reflecting about the nature of personal service, creativity and living humbly.
Thank you Meredith. I hope that you continue blogging after your marriage and move, if you feel so moved.
Happy Blog Anniversary Meredith!!
You humble and honor me greatly by what you said in your posts Meredith :(
Having your friendship is a treasure inside of my heart that I hold very dear. What gives me great joy is knowing that what has started will continue on for the rest of our lives and into eternity. I am so excited for the rest! :)
Much love sweet sister,
In Christ,
~ Elizabeth
Congrats on your 3 years of blogging, Meredith!!! :D
Blessings,
Moriah
Meredith, you are just too sweet for words. I just love you so much.
I am so amazed at how the Lord has brought you into my life. It is really hard to imagine not knowing you and when I do imagine it, it feels so empty and lonely. Your blogging has touched my life in such a deep way, I am so blessed that the Lord brought us together to grow as women who love their families and strive to know the Him more.
Happy Anniversary Dear Friend
~ Marie
Your blog is a delight Meredith, and you are a treasure. I enjoyed your post and all the highlights of your summer.
Many Blessings to you,
Love, Pam
I've loved reading your blog over the past three years. It has been so amazing to see how God has worked in your life; from moving to the farm, all the way up to your engagement to Stephen. You have been such a great role model to me. Thanks so much for sharing with us!
~Erin
Anne, Clara, Shayna, Katrina, Elizabeth, Moriah, Marie, Mrs. Phelps, and Erin Spencer,
Thank you for your lovely, sweet comments!! I enjoy reading your thoughts at your blogs very much as well. :)
I know that this is late, but I did want to tell you congratulations on your 3 years of blogging! I'm so glad you started "Striving to Serve at Home" and I would have never met you if you didn't. I am so blessed by your posts and your friendship, Meredith! Thank you for being such a wonderful example to me, Katie, and all of the other girls that read your blog. You are such a wonderful writer and I feel very blessed to call you a "blogging friend". I can't wait to see your future posts as you grow into a wife (and mother?). Have a blessed day, sweet Meredith. :-)
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