Sunday, December 31, 2017

Seekerville's Annual Rockin' It New Year's Eve Party!


WHERE DID THE YEAR GO????



Well, we say that every year, but this year is special... this year marked twelve years of being "Seekers" the group we formed to pray each other into publication.... and we all know how well that worked. God hears prayers and he gives us one another as helpmates. And it sure helped each one of us.

Then we started the blog.... Seekerville... and we've had TEN GREAT YEARS of blogging, of teaching, of learning, of sharing... we've made friends and built relationships and won awards... but it's not about the awards. Or the page count. Or the follows. Seekerville was begun to create a friendly community, cost-free, where aspiring and established authors could meet and greet with readers and other writers and move forward. Where we can share our successes and failures and know we're not alone in a business that can get mighty lonely at times.

Now we move forward again. We've got a few gals retiring, nothing unusual about that, but with that change, Audra and I wanted to look back and enjoy what these first ten years have brought to us. Faith, Hope, Love... and Laughter.

From long-time villager and marvelous friend Vince Mooney:

Seekerville was really the first internet Reality Show! 
It was a quest!
It was the great escape from Unpublished Island!
It was lived in real time with real egos at risk! 
Courage was the byword.
Faith provided the sustenance.
Persistence was the life blood.
Prayer providing a salvation.
Love: the reward. 

Yay on the great escapes from the Island, although we get the lure of island relaxation for our retirees... The Zac Brown band made a great song about sittin' in the sand, dippin' toes in the water... and time to read! :)

And of course there's always our favorite "Auld Lang Syne" from "It's a Wonderful Life"... where an angel surely does get its wings!

Should old acquaintance be forgot? And never brought to mind? 

Nope.

Not around here. We started this enterprise with fifteen authors... 
and as life moves on, as folks find new roads and take new curves and bridge new waters, we're not afraid to move forward with it... because we're no strangers to change around here! 

We've changed editors... agents... addresses... dress sizes... and dress sizes again! 

We've lost family, we've lost friends, we've lost money... and gained all three as well, depending on the year.

We began as a team, but like any team, when folks retire the team brings on new players... who'd have imagined anyone but Jeter in pinstripes at shortstop? And yet Sir Didi Gregorious is doing the job wonderfully, three years later...

Times change, people change, but the goal remains... to welcome aspiring writers into Seekerville, to advise and counsel them, to embrace new readers because we love them to the moon and back... and to welcome some marvelous new bloggers into the fold as we bring more inspirational and Christian fiction to the public's attention.

But with those new opportunities come memories, those days of old. And some good days they were! 
                                                           ***

From Cindy Woolard: 
Cindy's Peppi Pooh Bear! 
Memories...there have been so many wonderful things throughout the year(s) that to pick just one would be difficult. I have laughed and I have cried over posts from the Seekers and comments from Seeker Villagers. What really touches my heart is the 'heart' and 'love' poured out by the Seekers. The prayers offered up for me when I had my knee replaced in January 2016, I felt so blessed. Then this year, as a caretaker for my Mom, I received support again through prayer. We lost Mom on 02/01/17, it was devastating for me because she was also my best friend, but the Seekers were there for me again, offering prayer and cards of condolences. I was so touched by a group of wonderful women who have never met me but reached out to me with love. I appreciate you all so very, very much!


                                                             ***

RUTHY FAN-GIRLING OVER MEETING NYT BESTSELLING AUTHOR KAREN WHITE!
Janet Dean, Missy Tippens, Ruth Logan Herne, Debby Giusti at Harlequin Party!


Debby Guisti, Missy Tippens, Darlene Bucholz, Janet Dean, Sandra Lee Smith, Myra Johnson, Ruth Logan Herne, Anita Mae Draper

From writer and editor Barb Scott:
Memories. Too many to list. Getting to know all of you better is a blessing. 
Seekerville feels like home.

From multi-published author Mary Jane Hathaway:
Sometimes, years after you’ve written a book, you realize the ending was THIS CLOSE to being fantastic, but you simply weren’t a good enough writer at the time to get to it. And that’s okay. There’s no shame in looking back on old books and seeing flaws you didn’t see before. That means you’ve grown and changed as a writer. Seekerville reminds me that we’re writers with a calling, souls on a journey. We do the very best we can, where we are, right now. It’s not about awards, royalties, or headlines. It’s about reaching readers with a story and honoring the Giver of this gift called writing. 

Patti Jo Moore, Mary Connealy, Janet Dean and Julie Lessman!

Mindy Obenhaus and Mia Ross! 

Award-winning authors Tina Russo Radcliffe and Missy Tippens!
From MH...


It’ll be my first Seekerville New Year Party! How exciting!
Memories...I remember meeting the Grammar Queen on this blog for the first time and laughing out loud....reading about the process of writing, editing, publishing, and promoting and thinking it’s really really hard for authors and being grateful for those who continue to write....realizing that Julie Lessman can make me laugh until I cry....

From Jeanne Takenaka:

Memories: One of my first times ever commenting on a Seekerville post, I was nervous and shy. It was a post Mary had written. And it may have had to do with first lines. I was so blessed by Mary’s feedback on my first line. It was helpful and fun. 

I loved, LOVED meeting Seekers at my first-ever ACFW. I think that was the year that Tina offered to buy dessert for villagers who won the opportunity to spend some time with her. Other Seekers were there too. I was the shy, quiet one, who mostly listened and soaked in all the good-vibes shimmering around the table. 




I’m so blessed by critique feedback I’ve received from Seekers. I’ve learned from each one. 

It was fun to run into Debby Giusti, Janet Dean, and Missy Tippens in the hallway at ACFW a couple of years ago. Their warm smiles invited me into conversation.

And meeting Ruthy! Loved our chance meeting one morning, during your dash in and out of ACFW 2016. 

I was blessed by your prayers for me after I tore and had surgery on my ACL. Debby messaged me on Facebook. The fact that she took the time to reach out to me spoke deeply to my heart.

Each one of you ladies is an inspiration. I’ve been encouraged, uplifted and blessed by your comments, your words and your kindnesses in the time I’ve been a part of this community.
From Sherida Stewart:

Seekerville memories.....I immediately think of the fun, laughter, tears and smiles shared among everyone in Seekerville. All of you are dear friends. I appreciate the encouragement and felt the prayers offered on my behalf. And I love winning books! There’s no place like our home in Seekerville!

And, one more thing . . . I have met some of the wonderful, encouraging writers in the the Seekerville community. Carol Moncado—the amazing GF cookie-maker and giver,  Jackie Layton and Patti Jo Moore are all such encouragers and uplifters. 

From historical author Keli Gwyn:
Keli Gwyn fell in love with Seekerville nine years ago when Tina went searching for her in cyberspace and invited her to guest post. Keli, a fluorescent-green newbie writer at the time, didn’t even know what a blog was, let alone how to comment on one. She quickly learned that the Seekers are known for being helpful since they coached her through that daunting experience. They’ve taught her a great deal since then, teased her a bit (waving at Ruthy!), encouraged her and celebrated with her. She’ll be forever in their debt.
And a note from Cindy Huff!

Ruth, I've been following Seekerville for years before I was a published author. So much encouragement and helpful posts. Seekerville is like family. I've discovered some wonderful authors to add to my reading list.
Cindy Huff

And one from Marcia Scott:

I think this will be my third or fourth New Year's Eve with Seekerville, and there's not a more fun time or place I'd rather be! Bring on the fun!

Like Cindy said, I've seen so much heart and love, and all of it truly meant. The support from everyone makes the journey a bit easier. Just like family!


From Jackie Layton come these sweet pics:


Jackie and Sherrinda Ketchersid

Bethany McManus and Jackie! 
Jackie Layton, Sharee Stover, Connie Queen and Sherrinda Ketchersid


More from Vince Mooney!


10 Years of Seekerville Memories  
1. Being introduced to Seekerville by Cheryl Wyatt when I won a writing contest on her website.

2. Being asked by Mary Connealy to guest a Seeker posting.

3. Cheering as one Seeker after another got 'the call' sometimes many months apart!  (I believe only one Seeker, Debby Giusti, had published when I first came into sight of Seekerville.)

4. Experiencing the thrills of having 10 guest posts on Seekerville and seeing the words I wrote beautifully laid out better than I could have imagined it.  Thank you Tina!

5. And best of all: spending a day with Ruth, Tina, and Mary when they came to Tulsa!!!!

Like all of you, we cherish our memories... but we're also young enough to want to make new memories, break new paths, help more folks and keep the tradition going, so as we go forward... With a plucky and fun new staff to round us out...

We anticipate more of the same!

Only different.

And gosh.... we think that's okay and hope you do, too.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! And because Connealy cleaned a closet, we have TWO KINDLE FIRES TO GIVE AWAY TONIGHT!!!!

Leave a comment to be entered in any of our drawings today! And... Let's get this party started, my friends!




PLEASE FIND US AT OUR HOME ADDRESS... Seekerville.blogspot.com


AND THANKS FOR STOPPING IN AT THE PARTY! WISHING ALL OF US THE VERY BEST 2018 THE GOOD LORD HAS IN MIND!




659 comments :

  1. I was very confused for a second thinking I'd lost a day since the post comes out 11pm CST. So it's 4 minutes away from New Year's Eve, Happy New Year's EVE, Seekerville.

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    1. Oh, so funny! We EST peeps try our best to rule the world, don't we???

      Happy New Year, Melissa! Eve or no eve!!!

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    2. Happy New Year's Eve, MJ!!! Have a party hat! :)

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    3. Happy New Years to Melissa, the first commenter on the last day of 2017 in Seekerville.

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  2. Happy New Year's Eve, Seekerville! 🎉🎉🎉

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    1. Yvonne, did you bring the champagne glasses??? I'm pretty sure they were on your list, darling!

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    2. Don't worry, RUTHY! I'll share mine! :-)

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  3. I'm doing an early Mass this morning so if I miss the start of the party at nine, talk amongst yourselves!

    The coffee's on, fresh and hot, we've hired a barista for the day and a crew to offer the bubbly later on.

    Doughnuts and bagels for breakfast, we SPARED NO EXPENSE!!! :)

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  4. Happy New Years Eve everyone!!!! I'll be taking off to church soon and a lunch with good friends so I'll be gone until this afternoon. I hope I don't miss too much party fun! :)

    Ruthy! I guess I should have sent you a picture of me, you made me laugh as I scrolled down and saw my precious Pooh Bear staring back at me. He's a hard one to take a picture of as he is always on the move.

    I pray everyone will be blessed today and throughout the coming year!

    Party on Y'all!

    Smiles & Blessings,
    Cindy W.

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    1. I went back to embedded comments because I forgot how much I DO NOT like full page comments!!! I was happy dancing when Tina finally thought it was HER idea and we changed, LOL! #bigfanofembeddedcomments

      You know, you had sent me those cute pics of the dogs last year and I grabbed it on purpose because you love your dogs so well! Brava!!!

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    2. Ruth, I love embedded comments as well. I used to keep two tabs open to keep from having to scroll back and forth from comments, to my replies!

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    4. I agree with the embedded comments Ruthy, I'm so glad Tina went along with it! :-)

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    5. Working within a big group of 13 bossy women we all learned to plant seeds... and wait for fruition, darling. :) And it worked out for ten beautiful years!!! GO US!!!!

      I'm pretty proud of that....

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  5. HAPPY New Year's Eve. Heading into Mass but I will stop by later. I love starting off the year with Seekerville.

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    1. Dana, we just got home!!! Treacherous roads but we made it... and then a quick stop by Tops Friendly Markets for a dozen donuts, a Sunday morning grandkid tradition.... I may or may not have eaten a Gingerbread cream stuffed donut, the "donut of the month"... I may have actually INHALED that donut.

      I'm just sayin'!!!!

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    2. Glad you made it home safe, Ruthy. We aren't as buried here in Meadville. Erie, however, has snow in epic proportions. In my daughter's horse-crazy language, it's literally 16 hands deep in places. Like as in the height of a horse.


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    3. I know, I've been seeing Holly Jacobs' posts!!! So crazy when the lake's generosity just piles on one place. We're slightly off-center because the wind's been due West/slightly NW... so Erie gets hammered!

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  6. Happy New Year, Seekerville! I'm looking forward to the new year and all it can bring. Here's to another great year, seeing old friends, making new ones, and praying and cheering each one forward!

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    1. Sally, my sentiments exactly! I love making new friends and you know we love prodding folks forward! :) Raising my mug to toast yours!

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  7. Happy New Years everyone. My first party I’m attending. I have to make the beds and do morning stuff before I can get back here. It’s Sunday too. So start the last day of the year with a smile on your face, a song in your heart and a prayer. Be sure to write sometime today and on Monday, too. I bring coffee, tea and apple cinnamon muffins to the table with real butter too. Enjoy the day everyone. We can ring in the new year together. Smile.

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    1. Real butter.

      I love butter.

      Suzanne, I bear the criticism and raised brows of my family because I leave my butter out of the fridge while I use it... I love soft butter. Hard butter is frankly unfriendly... who wants unfriendly butter???

      So Suzanne, I'm asking you: Do you use cold butter or leave some out to be room temp for toast and veggies, etc...

      Although today leaving it out in my kitchen DOES NOT make an appreciable difference!!!!

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    2. Ruth, I just can’t leave it out full time, but I take it out an hour or so before we use it. I guess it’s a carry over from my Mom and Grandmother while growing up. We don’t use it a lot, and I also buy I can’t believe it’s Butter.

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    3. Well, that's not quite a kindred spirit, but I love youse anyhow! :)

      When they used to have centenarians on TV on NBC, one 100+ woman said she ascribed her long life to no beer, no cigarettes and SOFT BUTTER.

      She found hard butter downright unfriendly, so I'm following in her footsteps, Suzanne! :)

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  8. Happy New Year everyone! Loved reading this post and learning more about wonderful friends here. Looking forward to another great year at Seekerville!

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    1. Jackie, we are, too! And thank you for all you do to promote authors and books and friends. You are amazing.

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  9. Happy New Years Eve. It's a balmy 18 degrees as I get ready for church. Enjoyed the post. I'll check back later.

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    1. Hey, we've got 3 degrees here, so your 18 does sound balmy, Wilani!!!

      Just home from church, and I've got the barista right here...

      OH WAIT... HE'S GONE!!!!! I'M THE BARISTA!!!

      (scuttles around like a trapped mouse, looking for her barista cap!!! FINDS IT!!!!)

      We'll see you later!

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    2. Hey, it isn't even going to get above zero here today.

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  10. Happy New Year!!!

    I plan to stop in a few times to day to read the memories! How fun!

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    1. Rose, I've been touched by so many of these memories!!!! It's fun to look back... and even more fun to move forward!

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  11. Taking a momentary break from my five-day-old granddaughter to wish everyone a happy New Year’s Eve. This blessed Grammy is looking forward to all that 2018 will hold.

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    1. Mindy!!! Congratulations on that new sweet baby, just days old! We are so excited for you, but hey, listen... WE HAVE A DILEMMA HERE...

      HOW ARE WE GOING TO HANDLE EVERYTHING NOW??? CLEARLY IT'S IMPOSSIBLE!!!! WHAT ARE WE TO DO??????? WHAT WOULD A SMART TEXAN DO???????

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    2. Mindy...congrats on your new grand-baby.

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    3. Oh, MINDY!!! I know you're heart is overflowing with JOY!!!! Congratulations! Nothing is like having a grandbaby. Happy, happy smiles! :)

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    4. Thank you, ladies. This little peanut is truly a joy.

      Ruthy, let me know when you find a smart Texan. Me, I'd just bring food. Lots and lots of food.

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    5. Congratulations Mindy! What a wonderful blessing!

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    6. Food works for me! Oh, Mindy, one of your cookie recipes!!!!!

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  12. Happy New Year to you all! It’s up to 6 below here as we get ready for church.

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    1. You totally beat us! We're at +3!!!! And we're even bundling in the house, but that's kind of funny and cozy, isn't it???

      Julia, come back after church. I'll make you a cuppa!

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    2. Wow! 6 below! I don't know what we were at before church but it is 4 below here. Stay warm Julia!

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    3. Thanks, Ruthy! We are home from church. The sun is shining, the temp is holding steady at 0 and I have a cup of holiday tea brewing. All is well. (That egg casserole sounds delicious, though!0

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    4. Pam and Kelly, it's chilly out but nice and warm in the house! I have exchanged my church sweater for a flannel shirt and turtleneck. I also have 2 kitties that like to snuggle to keep warm!

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    5. Julia!!! YOU ARE THE FIRST WINNER OF A SURPRISE PACK OF BOOKS!!!!! HAPPY DANCING FOR YOU!!!!!!! We'll put details in next week's WE!!!!

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    6. Oh my goodness, thank you! What a fantastic way to start the new year!

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  13. Happy New Year to everyone!!! I will come back periodically throughout the day. Really cold here. Going to play board games and watch movies with my husband and three sons. See you later.

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    1. That is the perfect day, Kelly. Good for you. Family. Faith. Fun. Seekerville New Year's Eve Party!!!!!

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  14. HAPPY NEW YEARS EVE!!! Vince that trip to Tulsa was so fun.
    All these memories leave me a little weepy!!!

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    1. I brought tissues!!! Puffs Plus with LOTION! I SPARED NO EXPENSE!!!!!

      But mostly I brought food.

      I do love food!!!

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  15. Mindy! Five day old granddaughter! Wow, so precious. Tiny babies grow up fast. Is this your first?

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  16. I thank God every time I remember discovering your blog for the first time. Thanks for all the encouragement, the generosity and the wisdom shared in your blog's posts. Happy New Year. Anna Taylor Sweringen

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    1. Anna, welcome to the party!!! We thank God for you, too... And may that wisdom, kindness and generosity continue as we tackle into 2018 with zest and gumption.

      I love the word "gumption"!

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    2. That is so sweet! Thank you, Anna! Happy New's Eve!

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  17. Awww. Such great memories! Dropping in to wish everyone a Happy New Year's Eve and Happy New Year! Snowy and cold today. I'll drop in again later.

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    1. Annie, thank you! I've got tea for the non-coffee folks, sweet thing.... and it is possible that I made a fictional life MISERABLE this morning, no worries, no worries, it had to be done! There was little choice in the matter.... But I'm feeling quite lively now after church, a donut and someone's total demise!!!!

      PARTY TIME!!!!

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    2. Ooo..miserable, eh?! Am I going to cry when I read it?! Anyways, let's talk happy thoughts. Like, food. What do we have here? I'm happy with some chocolate. Who's bringing chocolate?

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    3. Someone’s total demise?? We’re going to need more chocolate!!

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    4. More chocolate? Perfect! I happen to have two pounds of See's Dark Chocolate Bordeaux that MUST be finished by midnight!

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    5. Kelly throws in the 2 lbs. of See's Dark Chocolate and Ruthy dons a silly winter hat and dances in the streets!!!!! YES!!!!!

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    6. Yes, more chocolate!one can never have too much chocolate.

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  18. Happy New Years Eve Everyone!
    I loved seeing all the pictures of Seekers/Villagers!
    A blessed, healthy, prosperous 2018 to all!

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    1. Tracey, happy New Year! The pics are fun, aren't they???? Looking forward to 2018 and all that a new year holds. Good or bad (and most years have their share of both) we can go forward boldly, like to the throne. And we handle whatever happens with faith, hope and love.

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  19. Mary, this is #8, but it never gets old. And it’s our first girl in 11 years. About time we added some more estrogen to the family.

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    1. And she's adorable, I saw her pic the other day, oh mylanta!!!!! Totally kissable baby!

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    2. Aww. First girl?! You know they are just the sweetest!

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    3. Third girl, JC, but it's been a long time.

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    4. I have to say that (in the interest of motherhood and grammy-land) shopping for little girls is crazy fun... but being surrounded by little boys is HYSTERICAL. Oh mylanta they can charm their way around most everything, the brats!!!!

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    5. They have to learn to charm, Ruthy. Otherwise they'd never find wives. And yes, the clothes for girls are way cuter and more fun to shop for.

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  20. Good morning, everyone and Happy New Year's Eve! Looks like I'm a little late with the chili egg casserole and warm tortillas, but hey, the party's going on all day. Reading all the kind memories of villagers reminded me of the great times gone and yet to come.

    Vince, really? A reality show?? LOL, I'll be snickering about that all day :)

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    1. Audra, I think Vince is privy to BEHIND THE SCENES information, LOL! :)

      15 women, then 13, then ten years without blowing something up???

      We were due for change, I reckon!

      A reality show.... GIGGLING!

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    2. Ooo..I like the sound of anything warm now...brrr.

      Reality show, lol! I like that! Definitely got all the personalities to go with it! Giggle away!

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  21. Happy New Year everyone. Oh, I would love a Kindle Fire.

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    1. Thank you, Cathy!!! Thanks for coming to the party, sweet thing!

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    2. I like my Kindle Fire when I use it. I typically just use it for ebooks, but supposedly it can do other things too like movies and search the web...

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    3. I listen to podcasts on mine and of course...lots of ebooks.

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  22. Mindy, congrats on the super new addition to the clan! Five days old, wow. They are so tiny! I keep telling my daughter I need grandbabies. She reminds me they need to made in the proper order - find a man, date, marry, AND THEN, we have bundles of joy.

    So glad SHE remembers that, LOL!!

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    1. Have her call me.

      I have an available son.

      We should talk.

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    2. Thanks, Audra. And your daughter's definitely got her head on straight. You should take Ruthy up on her offer, though.

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    3. Right? Because Ruthy is so good at this matchmaking game! And Luke will NEVER see this so he won't know I'm matchmaking for him.

      It's our secret!!!!

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  23. Happy New Year's Eve to all!!! Looking back on the memories today made me smile, brought a tear oe two and filled me with gratitude. YOU -- each one of you -- are the reason we started and continue Seekerville. I believe God is right here with us everyday as we blog. He's guiding our hands as we write and our hearts as we reach out with love to all those traveling along this writing path with us!

    You are all so very beautiful and I love each one of you and the special gifts you bring to the world. Keep your lights shining. So many dwell in darkness. They need to hear your voices, they need to feel your love, they need to know that God works through His people...even on a blogspot and especially in Seekerville!

    Looking forward to more of God's abundant blessings for all of us in 2018!

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    1. This is so true, in every way. It's up to us to keep the darkness at bay.

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  24. Mindy, enjoy that precious new grandchild. Give the little one an extra hug from me!

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  25. Suzanne, awesome muffins. And butter. Yumbola! I've snagged a couple to enjoy while family wakes up. Today, we eat, laugh and indulge...tomorrow, I open the bag of kale and cottage cheese :)

    Be back in a bit.

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    1. Oh, yes... the piper must be paid this week. Ay yi yi, I don't want to think of how good all this fun food has been... Salads??? HERE WE COME!!!!

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    2. Hahha. You are more fun than me. I say indulge up until dinner time, and we're back to healthy salads. Yea, I'm a cruel one. 😉

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    3. Audra...I can totally relate. We are all about munching out today for tomorrow there will be no bread! :(

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    4. Oh my stars, Annie! BACK TO SALADS TODAY???

      You head north, darling, and I've got a pot of Ruthy chili going... with Sister Schubert rolls (recommended by Missy) monster baked potatoes and we'll make Cowboy Stuffed Potatoes!!!!!

      With sharp cheddar cheese and sour cream.

      Then...

      Tuesday...

      Salad.

      ;)

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    5. O I LOVE sister schubert' s rolls! They are a must during the holidays!

      Tuesday? I don't know if I can indulge that long....Chocolate and ice cream is taking up my quota for sweets

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  26. Must get ready for church. I'll be praying for all of you! Hope you feel the prayers...and the love!

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    1. Already do. Thank you, sweet Gabby!

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    2. Oops. Debby! My pup, Gabby just decided to distract me and I typed her name instead. 😜

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    3. Oh, I like the name Gabby! I know a little Gabby.... And a little dog Gabby in your house.

      Is Gabby Gabriella??? Because now I'm all High School Musical!!!

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  27. Happy New Year's Eve, Seekerville! I'm about to enjoy one last cup of coffee before I have to bundle up and head out the door to go to church. I plan to stop back by a few times throughout the day. I love spending New Year's Eve in Seekerville!!

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    1. And we love having you! Dave and I went early (I'd pretend to be pious about it, but when you get up in the middle of the night, 7:45 Mass doesn't seem all early, right? Remember writing together in the hotel??? LOVED IT!!!)

      See you after church!

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    2. Ruthy, writing with you and Mary in the hotel lobby (in my jammies no less) is one of my favorite memories! We must do it again, soon!! ACFW 1018???

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  28. Getting ready for church. Sunday school was cancelled because of -10 windchill temps. I will be checking back in this afternoon!

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  29. Mary, I'm so glad to hear you're feeling a little weepy too. I thought it was just me. Change is hard. I'll miss our precious friends and colleagues who have boarded their mega-yachts (??? can't spell this a.m.) and are sailing around the writing world.

    Yet I feel excited about what's to come in 2018. New seekers, new friends, new writers dipping their toes in the water.

    Happy New Year, Seekerville! Let the fun begin!!!!

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    1. Barb, us, too. We know we had a good run but with folks getting older and lives changing, it was bound to happen. So a little revamping is in order but WHO WILL COME TO HELP US????

      (Well, of course I know who's coming to help but I'm PRETENDING TO NOT KNOW to build anticipation!!!!!

      And I'm picturing the retirees on their yachts!

      May the sun shine warm... and their sails be full!!!

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    2. You are delightfully killing me here, Ruthy! I am so excited about all you are unveiling!

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    3. So exciting indeed. I know I'll miss the Seeker alums but I know they'll be back to chat chat. Who can stay away from Seekerville?!

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    4. I can't wait for Mary to reveal the new Seekerville! How long have you guys been planning this?

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    5. Kelly, don't die. You'll miss the fun. But...

      WAIT FOR IT....

      Where do we all get together??? FUNERALS AND WEDDINGS!!!!

      Okay, sweet thing, if you must die, go for it and we'll have the biggest wake you've ever seen.

      BUT.... if you don't die... I think you'll be so happy to meet some new friends who are mostly smarter and cuter than me... And I'm not afraid to say so.

      BUT.... I bake great cookies.

      I'm just sayin'...

      Delete
    6. Ruthy, no one is cuter than you ;)

      Delete
  30. Being new to the Seekerville community in 2017, I loved today's post and learning more about the beginning of the Seekers and Seekerville. My heart cannot thank Tina enough for introducing me to Seekerville and inviting me to guest post this year. Reading posts like today's (and all the other days!) makes me wish I had known about Seekerville sooner, but trying to become an author on my own--without the generous expertise and support available here--made me appreciate this amazing community even more once I found it. I am so exicted about starting 2018 with Seekerville! Happy New Year's Eve!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Karen, I'm so glad you found us, too! It's fun to chase the loneliness of a singular business away with a group. The group thing makes us feel not only less alone, but less segregated... The people here "get it"... the ups and the downs.

      But you know the rules.... 24 hour whining rule strictly enforced....

      LAUGHING!!!!

      Delete
    2. Karen, I'm still waiting for that sequel! Congrats on a fabulous debut year, friend!

      Delete
  31. Can't believe that it's the end of the year already! Where did 2017 go?? If any of you find it, be sure to let me know :P

    I've only been coming to Seekerville for two years, but I've learned so much in that time! Thanks so much, everyone, for all the invaluable information I've gathered here.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Nicki, that's exactly why we're here... when we started there weren't a lot of folks willing to talk the ins and outs of craft and opportunity, so we stepped in (and we were still pretty raw but we probably thought we were smart... we knew we had God on our side, so.... ;)

      I'm so glad you're here!

      Delete
  32. Good morning, Seekerville!

    I'm just stopping in for a quick hello before heading off to church this morning to wish everyone a happy New Year's Eve!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jan, tuck some of these hot cinnamon rolls in your pocket before you leave! Take a little joy with you to church!

      Delete
    2. Don't touch the rolls, Jan.... LEAVE THE ROLLS HERE.

      You know I don't kid about my sweets.

      And you live in the land of Deadwoods and Duels.

      ;)

      Delete
  33. Good morning, Seekerville! I'm off to church but had to drop by the party first! I love Seekerville and the NYE party! Save me some yummy internet treats!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Fresh doughnuts.... Oh, wait, I think I see a very Midwestern EGG BAKE!!!!! :)

      And what's that???

      Tex Mex??? Eggs and hot sauce and something with beef???? Who on earth brought that??????

      Delete
    2. I brought the green chili and egg casserole. Mmmm, probably enough for Pam to take leftovers to her very manly family!

      Delete
    3. Hhehe. You better hurry, Bethy. I'm. Trying to keep warm, so might be a tad bit gluttonous. Wait.,that doesn't sound right. All right, I'll save you some. 😘

      Delete
    4. Green chili and egg casserole! How can that be passed up? Love brunch!

      Delete
    5. Audra! What a great idea, hey, can you tuck it over on the big oak sideboard for me???

      And can you put those cinnamon rolls over there, too???

      Delete
    6. Hey, if Bethy wants some, she better drive fast. 'Sall I'm sayin'.... but if we eat all this, I expect someone will mosey on through with more food... I did hear that Connealy is bringing a SHRIMP TRAY because she was feeling generous today. They canceled her church service because the high was slated for -5.... but she did mention SHRIMP!!!!

      Right now I want fried shrimp... hot. Southern. Or coconut shrimp...

      Now I'm hungry!

      Delete
  34. Okay, I switched back to embedded comments because the whole page thing wasn't friendly enough.... if it gets too busy once people wake up (remember how many times we crashed it last year with embedded comments??? but then we had 16 hostesses rolling in hour by hour... we went for a slower pace this year, to give folks time to laugh and chat and be heard!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for the attention to details here! I am hoping to mingle before pulling the fritta out of the oven. I am so happy to be here. Last year was the best time!

      Delete
  35. Happy New Year's Eve, Seekerville!!!!

    It's cold and rainy here, but not as horrendously cold as it is in some parts of the country. 32 degrees here (just above freezing!) but the temps are falling and it will be 14 tonight. Brrr!!

    I'm heading out for church, then brunch at my MIL's for the family. Then tonight, we'll have a special watch night service.

    But, I'm here for the party for a few minutes, then will be back later to join the fun! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Pammers, bring us food! Brunch leftovers... whatever it takes. Put some in your pocketbook, darling. :)

      (Hey, where on earth did the term "pocketbook" come from?????)

      Delete
    2. Have you seen the MEN in my family, Ruthy? But I'll do my best to wrestle something out of their massive paws!

      Anything for Seekerville! :)

      Delete
    3. Pammers, they like their feedbag, that's for certain, but you wrassle them! Sneak it out when they're talking beef and farm stuff.

      Delete
  36. Ruthy...I'm so curious with all the hinting about help and changes. It's enough to make a suspense writer's mind whirl with the possibilities.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dana, changes are good! Such a beautiful suspense writer's mind can surely hint at the possibilities! And red herrings. I love herring. We're having it tonight to help welcome the new year :)

      Delete
    2. Well, we've killed no one.

      That WE'RE ADMITTING TO.

      However no one has seen the Radcliffe since she exited, so it is possible that the unseen are soon to starring on The Walking Dead????

      Dana... sleuth around... You're good at this stuff and land-o'mercy you know what a trial this is, me caught in the middle of a S-C-A-N-D-A-L!!!!!

      :)

      But there might be some shenanigans going on (although we really didn't kill anyone... And you can't say we did without a BODY....)

      I read the law.

      I know my rights.

      Delete
    3. Calm down, Ruthy. Have a herring...mmm, pickled with onions.

      Delete
  37. Happy New Year's Eve Seekerville! 2018 is the year of LIFE. Live LIFE to the FULLEST in Christ!

    Blessings and ((((HUGS)))))

    ReplyDelete
  38. Yes, where did 2017 go? Looking forward to to 2018 and what changes the year will bring.

    I’m so grateful Tina and Missy brought me to Seekerville through the FHL chapter of RWA.

    I’ve brought huckleberry scones and Cle Elum Bakery maple bars plus assorted teas to enjoy as we read through the memories and comments. Happy New Year, Seekerville!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sherida, so glad Missy and Tina wrapped you in their special hugs and brought you here. did you know RWA is in Denver in 2018? Welcome to my state!!! Can't wait for all the fun!

      Delete
    2. CLE ELUM MAPLE BARS FROM THE DOUBLE S SERIES AND THE CLE ELUM BAKERY IN CLE ELUM, WA!!! YES! YES!! YES!!!

      Delete
  39. Happy New Year's Eve everyone!

    I am so grateful for all of you at Seekerville, those that I have met in person and those I only know through this blog and email. All of you are such inspirations in what you do and say, and I hope you know how much your words and actions give to all of us. There have been many days and posts that I have missed, but I also know that every day I have read a post it has been what I needed to read and be reminded of in that moment of my day.

    I wish all of you a wonderful 2018, and my word of the year will be THRIVE. :)

    Thrive in joy, happiness, light, and the moment...whatever that moment may bring me. :)

    Sending hugs, joy, New Year's confetti, and sparkling grape juice to all of you!

    Jeanine

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Love your word Jeanine! THRIVE is beautiful! I am still waiting on the Lord for my word. He always comes through and it is perfect. Have a wonderful 2018!

      Delete
    2. O Jeanine! I love your word! I'll be announcing my word on my blog tomorrow, but I love how uplifting your word is!

      Delete
    3. Oh, sweet thing, THRIVE is a great word.

      Mine is ACCEPT.

      I like yours better. More zing. More kapow! More shazaam!!!!

      Well done, Jeanine!!!!

      And I'm so glad you're here....

      Kelly, I can help with your word:

      Stranded...

      As in we're STRANDED on this blog and how are we EVER GOING TO MAKE THIS WORK?????

      WHAAAAA!!!

      WHAAAAAAAA!!!!

      WHAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!

      Delete
    4. Jeanine, we're sharing a theme, my word is BLOOM. At first I thought it was an odd choice, and kinda gave God the raised brow. But really, the possibilities are endless. Gotta BLOOM before we can THRIVE. Watch out 2019, LOL!

      Delete
  40. Good morning Seekerville -- and happy New Year's Eve! Like so many of you, I can't believe how fast 2017 flew by. I'm still trying to catch my breath before--in only a matter of hours--I'm flung into 2018! :)

    I'm so enjoying reading the memories everyone has of the past year--or past ten! God has so richly blessed us with this amazing community of readers and writers. And soon we'll be off and running to create even MORE memories as our journey continues!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The memories have totally blessed my heart and surely gave me tears. You have all been amazing!

      Delete
  41. I'm looking through this post again, and getting a little teary eyed. I remember a friend introducing me to Seekerville when I first started submitting to Love Inspired. I ended up signing up for a class with Ruthy on Double arcs in Series. What a blast! And such great information. You ladies have certainly led by example, and I count myself blessed to have known you. May joy and blessings follow you all in 2018.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, now don't get all weepy and sappy on me, DRL.

      Here's the skinny:

      NOBODY CRIES ALONE IN MY PRESENCE!!!!

      Dry those eyes and let's have a dance party!!! Sandra used to do the BEST CONGA LINES on the island.

      BOOOOOOHOOOOOOO!!!!!

      Who's brave enough to lead a conga line? I'll do it, but I'm the worst coordinated person in the history of people.

      By far.

      Delete
  42. Happy New Year's Eve to everyone at Seekerville! Thank you for so many great posts in 2017. Although changes are happening here, I know Seekerville will remain at the top of the list as the best blog for writers. You all rock!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Jill!!!! We're going to do our best with every one o' youse.

      And a little mayhem. ;)

      Delete
  43. I'm getting teary reading all these kind comments. We (and I) love you all so much. Seekerville is a blessing to all of us.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Here's the tissues, darling....

      Now back to work with you!

      Delete
  44. Good morning Seekervilligers!! Yes, it's only just past 8am on the very wet Oregon coast. :-)

    I'm starting my day enjoying my two cups of coffee and reading the Word, then will be going to church. But I wanted to pop in and send my greetings early and wish everyone a Happy New year's eve!! I'll be back later to check up on comments and interact with youse (love this Ruthy-ism).

    Blessed SONday, may you soak in God's love & grace today.

    ReplyDelete
  45. Happy New Year's Eve to everyone! Love love love Seekerville. This is my favorite space! I pray you will all have an amazing new year.

    This post definitely touches my heart. Thank you all for so kindly inviting us all in to this wonderful writing world!

    Just finished church and have a fritta in the oven. xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  46. Did Blogger eat my comment??? So not nice! Here goes again, sorry if this posts twice:


    Good morning Seekervilligers!! Yes, it's only just past 8am on the very wet Oregon coast. :-)

    I'm starting my day enjoying my two cups of coffee and reading the Word, then will be going to church. But I wanted to pop in and send my greetings early and wish everyone a Happy New year's eve!! I'll be back later to check up on comments and interact with youse (love this Ruthy-ism).

    Blessed SONday, may you soak in God's love & grace today.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Good morning Trixi! I am still grasping being in a different time zone. Last year I was in AZ...now MI. God bless you! Happy New Year!

      Delete
  47. Happy New Year Seekerville! And by the sounds of it, it will be a very new year here!

    Coming from 2017, which for me was a year of dramatic change, I am girded and strengthened for 2018 and all the new changes yet to come.

    But GOOD NEWS fellow Believers! The wonderful gift we share is Jesus Christ, who REMAINS THE SAME! GOD BE PRAISED!

    Thank you Seekerville!

    ReplyDelete
  48. Gosh, I just love y’all! Thankful for all the Seekers & the grace you have poured out on aspiring writers & discouraged writers & even piddly little bloggers like me. Happy New Year!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Carrie, we love readers and bloggers around here!

      Delete
  49. Happy New Year's Eve Seekerville! This has become my Go To for all things writing, encouraging, and wonderful. Thank you for everything you all have poured into the lives around you.

    I can't even remember when I first came to Seekerville, only that once I was here, I was in the tribe I'd been searching for.

    So excited for RWA in Denver and not just because it's a chance for me to go back home :) Looking forward to seeing many of you there.

    So pass the green chili and egg casserole Audra! And let's Par-tay!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sweetstuff, you got it! Eggs and gr chili coming your way! AND here's to partying wo-mano e wo-mano here in Denver in July!

      Delete
  50. Happy New Year Seekers!!!
    A new year brings Hope...

    ReplyDelete
  51. What a lovely day to celebrate all that is Seekerville! I adore reading the posts even though I'm quite shy to comment. Thank you ladies for always having wonderful posts and conversation. Now I'll check out the food spread. ;)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Susan, here's a special plate of chocolate chip cookies (great any time of year!) and a cup of coffee. You're talking to one of the more introverted of the Seekers, so furiously nodding head at the shyness thing.

      Enjoy the party :)

      Delete
    2. Susan P. we hope you'll feel comfortable jumping in more in 2018. We're glad you're here!

      Delete
  52. I haven't been around much on the "face" of Seekerville over the past couple of years. Lots of stuff - some of it really great God stuff - swirled through my life. It's so good to see and reconnect with Villagers of old AND greet the new kids who have moved on the block that Ruthy just makes such a fuss over :) 2017 is one for the books with a new cover opening on more adventures in just a few hours.

    2018 will be quite the year of journey and discovery for us all. I hope y'all tune in on FRIDAY where I jump back into the world of Seekerville blogging. I can't wait to see old friends and meet new ones :) It's taking a village to raise us all, LOL.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I look forward to seeing more of you as you shine Audra! Thank you for being a part of this community and taking on sharing your wisdom. Seekerville is hands down my favorite place online. You really are a community who lives out the practice of sharing love and unselfishness in sharing hard won wisdom.

      Looking forward to your Friday post. :)

      Delete
    2. Aw, Audra-kins, I'm all ver klempt having you back on board... we're all thrilled!!!

      And you've got Kelly fooled.

      WELL DONE!!! ;)

      Delete
    3. Audra, we're glad to have you back to blogging again!

      Delete
  53. I really can't believe it's New Year's Eve! I have loved this blog! I'm off to church right now but I'll check back in when I get home! I know you guys will continue celebrating! You all are good at doing that!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Valri, celebrate good times, come on!!!!

      Let's get down with it!!! :) Celebrate by Kool and the Gang!

      We gonna celebrate and have a good time!!! What's your pleasure????

      Delete
  54. Church and chores are done. Just checking back in. Wow, the comments have tripled since 8:00 a.m. and the day is going fast. We are going to my sisters for appetizers, dinner and two movies to bring in the new year. What’s everyone else doing?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. TWO movies? Which ones are helping you bring in the new year? My daughter is home for right now and talked me into watching Beauty and the Beast - the Emma Watson version. After all these years, I could still sing along to most of the songs...much to her groans!!! We wore a VHS tape of the animated version back when my kids were little...

      Delete
    2. LOL, "for right now" is a contraction of "for the holidays" and "right now."

      Delete
    3. My sister is picking them. The husbands like action, so we shall see? We usually don’t finish the second one, but turn on the countdown. Enjoy.

      Delete
    4. I'm staying home where it's warm. Movies and games for me.

      Delete
  55. HAPPY NEW YEAR, SEEKERVILLE!!!!

    Wow! Another stellar year! I'm so going to miss the FANTASTIC FIVE who are moving on to new and wonderful seasons, but I trust we are in capable, loving hands with those still here and those who are coming on board. Here's to BRIGHT FUTURES and NEW BEGINNINGS!

    *clink*


    P.S. I'll stop by later to join in the fun!!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Cynthia, thank you! We look forward to seeing you later.

      Delete
  56. I have had the worst computer problems today. My iPad is fine, but my computer not so much. I can’t connect and I turned it off and on a couple of times and tapped the router button and then dragged the hard drive out and checked all the plugs. Finally it connects and I get into Seekerville and write a wordy comment only to lose it again when I hit publish as the connection dissolved right before my eyes. We are wireless and my hubby is online on his computer and fine??? So now I am back on the iPad. Grrr... Then Google sends me an email checking to see if I signed in or someone else did? Thanks for listening. Sorry to complain. Happy New Year to all.

    ReplyDelete
  57. Back from church on this very cold morning. Temperature was -12 when we left. Got our traditional New Year's Eve chili going in the crockpot so now ready to join the Seekerville New Year's Eve party. Looking forward to the day.

    ReplyDelete
  58. Ah, sweet Seekerville memories! If I had a dollar for every time Ruthy said "pull your big girl panties up" in the past ten years I'd be rich enough to buy a lovely writer's/reader's retreat somewhere in Ireland and invite y'all to stay whenever you want. But since that's a pipe dream, I'll just have to wish everyone a Happy New Year! (And pass the donuts, please...and the chocolate.)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Kav, I always hear her words in my head when I'm whining about something. :)

      Delete
  59. I love to bake cookies so I brought some to share! Snowballs (because we hardly ever get snow in southern Illinois, just freezing temperatures), oatmeal raisin (so we can pretend they're healthy), and my personal favorite and specialty, chocolate chip cookies (with pecans because everything is more fun when you go a little nutty)!

    ReplyDelete
  60. Happy New Year's Eve everyone!!! What a sweet post and wonderful tribute. I really enjoyed the photos!! Thank you Ruthy and Audra and everyone who contributed.

    ReplyDelete
  61. YVONNE WEERS!!!! You join Julia Buzard as a winner of a surpise pack of books!!!! Congratulations, sweet thing!!!!!

    ReplyDelete