Mockingbird Hill Cottage

Life in our little cottage in the country

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Five Years of Blogging

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heartsinmccoy

On February 17, 2008, at 5:45 pm, I published the first post on this blog – a blog that had the bare minimum in design. There weren’t a lot of options available in those days on Blogger. And I didn’t know what the heck I was doing.

Here’s the text of that first post:

Welcome to my blog, Mockingbird Hill Cottage! I have been reading and commenting on various blogs for a long time and now I have finally started my own. Believe me, I will be learning as I go. I’m looking forward to meeting new friends and sharing my thoughts, projects and experiences with you. Mockingbird Hill Cottage is so named because my favorite book of all time is To Kill a Mockingbird and my maiden name is Hill. It is also a salute to a mockingbird that serenaded us every night with the most beautiful music when we lived in California. I hope your day is a happy one.

That’s it. I didn’t know how to insert a photo within the post. I posted a photo of the cottage separately, about a half hour later. I had one comment, from dear Rachel of A Romantic Porch. As you all know, starting and building a blog takes time. There were many, many times that I had no comments on a post. I just kept going. No one in my private life knew about the blog except my husband. (There are still many people in my professional life that have no idea I write a blog!) Eventually, I told my sister. Then a few friends. I didn’t tell my parents for at least a year. I was shy about it, I guess.

The other day, I was thinking about blogging and what drew me to it. Of course, there are the obvious things: writing, photography, being able to journal in a new medium, sharing my story.

But what really smacked me upside the head was this realization:

solitary

True. I have always been that way. I work in a very verbal profession that is full of all sorts of personalities. I taught for many years. And at the end of the day, or the play, or the semester, I would retreat to my apartment or house and be perfectly happy being with myself. And now, Don, of course. I can spend great amounts of time alone.

But I like to talk. Always have. I used to get in trouble for talking too much in elementary school.

So what does a person like that do? Talk on the phone? Well, sometimes, but I worked in Customer Service for many years before I went to grad school and the phone long ago lost its appeal for me.

A person like that writes. And in this digital age, she writes a blog. And through that blog, she can be chatty and share her thoughts and creations and ups and downs with friends from all over the world.

And her world can change.

Indeed, my world has changed since I started blogging five years ago. It’s hard to quantify just how much blogging means to me. Suffice it to say, I have loved every minute of this blogging adventure. I have learned a great deal, more than I thought this non-technical head of mine could ever take in. I have met the most wonderful people, some of whom have been with me from the beginning. Others have come and gone, just as in life.

This journal of mine has enabled me to hone my writing skills and my photography skills. It has given me a platform of sorts in which to share whatever silly, serious, whimsical, joyful, everyday, heartbreaking or heartfelt thoughts I have on any given day.

But what makes it powerful beyond words is you. So I say, quite simply, thank you.

And because it’s my fifth anniversary of blogging, I have a little giveaway planned to commemorate the occasion.

scarfgiveaway

Each of you who leaves a comment will be entered in a little Obsession Scarf Giveaway. The winner will win an Obsession Scarf crocheted in one of these colors (in my favorite silk and bamboo yarn.) Your choice. There’s the pastel blue you’ve seen before, the apple green and a more royal blue that I’ve not used before.  It will be crocheted just for you.

So leave a comment. If you’ve already purchased a scarf in the past, enter anyway. You can give it as a gift. (You notice I don’t say ‘gift it.’ That turn of phrase, unfortunately, seems to be increasingly popular. However, the last time I looked, gift was a noun.)

There I go again.

I haven’t been able to visit many blogs this week. The fact is, I’ve been feeling under the weather with terrible sinus problems. I kept going through all the painting and things that needed to be done around here, but I feel just plain yucky. And I’ve sort of crashed. I’ve been visiting, just not commenting. Hopefully, I will be feeling much better soon.

In closing, I send my love and thanks to all of you. You have enriched my life beyond measure.

Happy Sunday,

signature2

 

Comments

  1. Happy birthday, Mockingbird Hill Cottage! Thank you for all the “gifts” you’ve given US over these five years.
    I hope you feel better soon, Claudia. Isn’t Don coming home tomorrow? Yay!

  4. Good Morning Claudia,
    I read your blog first thing each morning. It is a good way to start my day and I love everything you blog about. Thank you for the variety and interesting topics.
    Enjoy your day and feel better.
    Sharron

  5. Congratulations on your blogging anniversary, Claudia! Your description of your shyness in sharing your blog with those closest to you is endearing. I do not blog, but whenever I contemplate it, I get bit by the shyness bug. For now, I will enjoy the words and images of others…and yours are among my favorites. Feel better soon!

  6. Claudia, you’ve enriched my life as well. Congratulations on five years. I hope you and Scout have a wonderful day.

  8. happy 5 years i havent been with you from the beginnung but i love ur place and ur sewing nook is to die for. wished i lived closer so you could teach me to crochet .i used to be crafty but its been awhile

  9. Happy blog birthday! Five years is a long ime in the blogging world! I’d be really interested to hear your perspective on how things have evolved over time and where you see blogging going in the future!

  10. Congratulations on five years of blogging !!!!
    I’ve been following you for a little over a year and I’m slowly catching up on the older posts.
    Thank you for making me laugh, cry, agree, disagree, ponder and leave me wanting to read more of your precious blog.
    Vanessa

  11. Dear sweet friend,
    Congratulations on five years! I enjoy reading your daily adventures. Have a super Sunday from middle TN.
    Carol

  12. Congratulations on your 5 year anniversary. I had a blog a few years ago and loved the friends I made but not loving writing I eventually let it go. I still read the ones I connected with in the early days of my blog. Thank you for sharing your life with us.

  13. Congratulations on your 5th anniversary. I enjoy reading your blog and the connections we have (Kansas/Oklahoma and the same first name)! I read several bogs and comment on some. Maybe one of these days I will be brave and start one myself. I hope your sinus problem clears up soon. I know you must be excited about Don arriving home tomorrow. Happy Sunday!

  14. Claudia, I look forward every morning to you and my cup of coffee. It’s a lovely way to start a day with Travels with Claudia.

  15. Happy anniversary, Claudia. I completely understand your not telling anyone you were blogging. I am contemplating a blog of my own and don’t plan on telling anyone I know in real life. You have done a fabulous job and have come far in five years. Contratulations!

  17. 5 years of blogging is quite the milestone. Congrats! You know, you just described me to a tee as well – a solitary person who is chatty. I never thought of it that way, but it is so true. Happy anniversary.

  18. Claudia, I am not a blogger so I so appreciate all the bloggers out there. I spend way too much time every morning traveling around the internet reading.
    I can tell how much you enjoy blogging because you post every day. I love all your pictures, stories and especially Scout. I also have a Scout.
    Thank you for the opportunity to win one of your beautiful scarves. pam

  19. Hi Claudia! Five years–way to go! I’m celebrating two years of blogging this month myself. I’ve learned so much from your blog and like to keep up on the latest at Mockingbird Hill Cottage. Here’s to many more years of blogging–it’s a great way to share your creative endeavors with others, meet wonderful people, and grow your skills in so many areas. It keeps me feeling happy. I’d love the chance to win won of your obsession scarves. I love the one I bought from your shop, and I’d love another one! :-) Thanks for the opportunity, and happy blog anniversary! xo Jennifer

  20. Happy five years of blogging! I really enjoy you and your blog. It’s a little bit of peace and relaxation within my busy day-so thank you for that :) Hope you have a swift recovery.
    ~Kelley

  22. Congratulations Claudia! You were one of the first blogs I read. I hope you feel better soon. I’ve had a deadly cold for the last week and spent 80% of my time in bed coughing so I’m wishing both of us good health next week. I’m sure you’ll feel better on Monday no matter what :) J

  23. Congrats on your anniversary and feel better quickly! Take the day to rest and coddle yourself, after all your painting work, you deserve it! Don’s back tomorrow, right?

  24. Congratulations on your 5 years. i have purchased a scarf but would enjoy another one,. No gift it here

  25. Happy 5th Blogaversary, Claudia. I am a fairly new follower of your blog, and I have enjoyed my visits and your weekly linky party. I like your description about being a solitary person who is chatty – describes me to a T. I think five years ago, blogging was much less competitive and much more lighthearted. I do believe everyone followed anyone who followed them, and no one worried about building a career from it. These days, it is becoming like a job, not a hobby or outlet. I’d love to know what your thoughts are. Thanks for the wonderful giveaway, too. xo

  26. Good Morning, Claudia

    For whatever reasons, I haven’t shared that I blog with anyone in my outside-of-blogging life. I’ll have to think more about why that is the case. Mind you, living alone, it’s not exactly like I’m keeping it as a closet activity.

    Happy 5th Anniversary and I hope you feel better soon. I enjoy reading your blog, your thoughts. As for “gifted”, I just checked this link and it allows for the more formal usage of the word: http://oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/gift

    Now, if we could eradicate “alot” for “a lot”, and “wolla” or “viola” for “voilà”, I’d be pleased.

    Not always grammatically correct,
    Karen

    • I think it depends on the dictionary, Karen! Mine just has it as a noun. You know me, I refuse to make it a verb!! Oh, I’m so glad you touched on wolla for voila – that makes me crazy! And I also hear it mispronounced all the time! I’m not always grammatically correct, either! xoxo

  28. Congrats on your five year anniversary!! I look forward to reading your blog daily! I also enjoy all of your pics that you post. I hope you feel better soon~ april

  30. Happy Blogging Anniversary!! If I was fortunate enough to be the winner, I’d choose the royal blue yarn. Hope you are feeling better soon.

  32. Congratulatins dear Claudia on 5 years of blogging. I remember when I use to hear of “blogging” and had not a clue what people were talking about. When I started mine and discovered other blogs, it was people like you that drew me into a virtual world and that I proud to be a part of.

    I do hope you are feeling better, the sinus thing must be going around both my son and daughter-in-law had bad sinus problems last week. Cuddle up on the sofa with a cup of cocoa and some TCM.

    hugs,
    Sue

  33. 5 years! I have been following for less than a year, but look forward to your post each and every day. Hope you are soon feeling better. Sinus pain truly is awful. Don will be there soon, and I know that will help. Can’t imagine the welcome he will get from Scout!! Take care, Claudia, and thank you for sharing Mocking Bird Hill Cottage with us.

  34. wow, five years, fantastic! I love your decorating style. You are clearly a creative person :) Here’s to five more bloggy years!

  35. I have enjoyed your blog so much. I, too, am celebrating an anniversary today. I am three years blogging. It’s been a lot of fun.
    Hope you are feeling better soon. Hugs, Deb

  36. Happy Anniversary Claudia! I find it very interesting to hear how people get into blogging and what keeps them there. :) It’s fun to read your very first post ever and to hear your story. I think I have a similar reason for blogging. I love to write, I love people and visiting, but I treasure my time alone so much…and there are times when I would like to hole up in my home for weeks without going anywhere. :)

    Happy Blogging :)

  37. Hello Claudia! Your blog is one of only a few that I read daily. I enjoy your candid postings as your philosophy on life is very similar to my own. Congratulations on your 5 years of blogging! So glad I found your site a few years ago. Know you are looking forward to having Don home.

  39. Happy Anniversary, Claudia! And big hugs! I hope you fee better.

    You are one of my favorite read. I always try to read what’s happening with you, even when I can’t blog myself. I enjoy the diversity of what you write about. Here’s to many, many more years of blogging!

  40. Sincere congrats on five years! You are an inspiration to me, Claudia. Cheers to many more years of blogging!

  42. Love reading your blog Claudia, learning, agreeing, saying wow, You start my day with your posts. Congratulations on 5 Years of blogging. Hope you are starting to feel better.
    Joy

  43. Claudia – My mother tipped me off on your blog and I am enjoying it so much. Wish I would have discovered it five years ago! Your pup Scout is so adorable. Love the sweet pictures of her and hearing about her adventures. The Obsession Scarves you and your sister crochet are simply gorgeous, too. All the best to you.

  44. Five years! So much happens in that amount of time…I’m happy to have shared some of it! Congratulations on your blogging anniversary! I hope you will be feeling better soon…get some rest! I’d love to win one of your beautiful scarves! XO

  45. Happy Anniversary Claudia! Your blog is the most comfortable blog for me as I too am a solitary person who Sometimes is chatty ;-) I’m so glad I found Mockingbird Hill Cottage ~ there’s always something of interest to me here ~ your precious baby girl or your decorating sense or your book reviews ~ I look forward to seeing your post in my inbox. Thank you for writing and sharing your life and thoughts. And I hope your sinus trouble clears up soon ….I can’t believe you did all that painting with sinus pain…geesh.

  46. Happy blog birthday to you! I have been following your blog for at least a year or more and have enjoyed your writing and photos. Hope you feel better soon. Trish

  47. Hi Claudia..I have been lurking here in the background..not sure if I ever commented..but I love your blog and your beautiful cottage..the way that you decorate and also pretty little Scout..When I saw that you were giving away a gorgeous Obsession Scarf I just had to say something!! I am wishing you many more blogging years and thank you for sharing your life with us, Nancy

  48. So sorry that you don’t feel well. Maybe you just need some TLC. Hoping that seeing Don tomorrow will make you feel better.
    Your blogging history sounds like me. As far as who knows I blog, and other things that you said.
    Congratulations on 5 years. Where does the time go.I
    I love your scarves and would be proud to have another one.
    Enjoy your week.
    (((((HUGS))))

  49. Congratulations Claudia, I don’t have my own blog but I am glad I found yours! I enjoy your pictures and writing. Take care, Doris

  50. Happy 5 years. I love your blog. Thanks for the chance at this great giveaway. Hope you feeling better soon. I am so thankful for my blogs..

  51. Congratulations Claudia!! 5 years! I have been with you for most of those 5 years and loved every post!!!
    So sorry that you are not feeling well- do you have a nettie pot? My hubby uses one all the time for his sinus problems and he also has a little steamer that he puts tea tree oil in and inhales- don’t know if you might try those 2 things- get well soon so you can enjoy your 5 year celebration!

    bee blessed
    mary

  52. With five years under your belt, you are a true, veteran blogger! Congratulations on on your anniversary and here’s to many more. I’m another solitary, chatty person and blogging is a perfect fit for me.

  53. I began in August the same year I believe. Cannot remember when we met but I have enjoyed our visits back and forth and always admire your way with words. Who really knows why any of us began, and non bloggers rarely get it, but those that blog and linger on year after year know why..It is the people, the connection, the freedom, the laughter….. Keeps me coming back and checking in to visit my dear friends I’ve never really met. <3
    I would love to have a scarf either in blue or green, so my fingers are crossed.

  54. Congratulations, Claudia on your 5th anniversary of blogging! I don’t comment all the time, but I do read your blog daily. My favorite posts include anything about your McCoy collection and other collectibles, the doll house and when the time (finally!) comes around again, gardening and porch life. I share many of the same opinions with you on various subjects. Enjoy your reunion with Don on Monday, and give Scout a big hug.
    I would love to win a beautiful scarf. Take care, and feel better.

  56. Happy Anniversary! I think I speak for many of your followers when I say your blog is like a breath of fresh air. I so identify with the solitary/chatty description. I often think of myself as “The Merry Recluse”, after one of my favorite books.

    What a fantastic giveaway. I was thinking that all three colors together would make a beautiful scarf!

    Feel better soon, my friend.

    XO,
    Jane

  57. You probably got chalk paint up your nose :)

    Seriously congratulations ;;; five years is a long time. I just started at the end of May …well, come to think of it, it’s almost nine months for me , sheesh!

    Anyway because you post everyday I usually check in every day or two here! :)

  58. Thank you Claudia for an amazing giveaway. I would be honored and proud to wear your scarf. They are very beautiful. I love your blog. When you cry I cry, but when you are laughing I am too. I start my day with you and a cup of coffee. It is the perfect start to the day.

  59. Felicitaciones Claudia por tus primero 5 años del blog.
    Puedo participar en tu sorteo?
    Tus bufandos son espectaculaes.
    Un abrazo.
    Lo anuncio en la “sidebar” de mi blog.

  60. Happy Anniversary, Claudia! Reading your statement ‘I am a solitary person who is chatty’ is like reading my own mind… We are a lot alike… I put it down to being an only child–but I’m glad there are others out there like me! Hugs from Miami!

  61. I have enjoyed your blog for over a year now (at least I think it is that long) . It is always entertaining and informative. Hopefully you will feel better by the time you and Don are together again. Isn’t that tomorrow? You are offering an amazing give-away! The colors of yarn are fantastic! Here’s to another 5 years+. Happy birthday to your blog.

  62. Thank you Claudia for the daily glimpse into your world. Your blog is my favorite! From a fellow art pottery collector and iover of Fiestaware, Happy Anniversary! Tea, honey and tissues are prescribed for you. Feel better quickly!

  63. Five years is a very long time in the blogging world. Congrats! Only have been a reader for the last two when I found you from Elaine over at the Sunny Simple Life. Keep up the great work! I am really enjoying your recent furniture makeovers by the way. Cheers!

  64. Congrats on 5 years of blogging Claudia! I’ve been one of your followers for about a year now. So many times when you write about something in your personal life I feel such a kinship. As women, I guess we tend to do that. Anyway you’re the one blog I check out each & every day. From a really chilly Florida I send best wishes for continued success. You are doing a wonderful job.

  65. Hi, Claudia,

    I love your comment about being ‘solitary but chatty’.
    We were fortunate to be brought to be content with our own company – even though we were a family of nine.
    We enjoy being on our own and doing the things we’ve learned to enjoy over the years, craft, reading, crosswords, etc., but when with others we enjoy being chatty and sharing – one thing feeds the other, I think.
    Congratulations on your five years. I am glad you are still enjoying the experience as much as when you first began.

    Peggy

  66. Congratulations on you fifth anniversary! I took the book that you sent to me to Hawaii and read it. I totally picture it made into a movie! With Bruce Willis. Very exciting and action packed! Lots of twists and turns. I have now given it to my husband to read. He reads one book a year and I know this will be it for 2013! :) Am I supposed to write a review or anything? I forgot. (Plays the age card)
    How is your doll house coming along?

  67. What is it about not mentioning our blogs to those around us? I’ve announced my blog on my page but I think it got passed by as only 8 of my friends like my facebook page ;) Part of me wants to be a succesful blogger by way of other bloggers and not to use my friends as a boost if that makes sense. And what is a succesful blogger anyhow? ;)

    Btw, yours is one of my fave blogs to read! Congrats on your 5 years of blogging.

  68. Congratulations on your 5 years. Love your writing and musings. I so enjoyed how you named the blog. Feel better, sinus infections are a killer and I feel for you. You’ll get better once Don comes home!

    PS, have you ever tried getting a wash cloth wet, putting it in the microwave for a few mins, or less, then placing it on your face when you can stand the heat. It feels so good. Doesn’t last long, but sure helps for a bit.

  69. Happy blogging anniversary, Claudia! Your post really resonated with me….first of all, I have not shared my blog with many family or friends, simply because I’m rather shy about it. Secondly, I am a quiet person too – and have to have tons of alone time. Yes, I’m introverted! But get me one-on-one with a friend, and I am very chatty. I used to get in trouble at school for talking, too.

    I hope you feel better with your sinus problem. I am just now feeling better since I was sick at the beginning of the month. I’ve been very congested and the sinus dripping causes a terrible cough. What really helps: steaming your face over a pot of hot water; neti pot; taking a small spoonful of honey before bed to coat your dry throat; humidifier in your bedroom. xoxo

  70. I’m a fairly new blogger and I wanted to congratulate you on 5 years of blogging! What an accomplishment. I have visited your blog many times and really enjoy your posts. I can see why your blog is so popular and it takes a lot of dedication to keep it going as long as you have. I love your obsession scarves and you can count me in on your giveaway. Looking forward to more of your lovely posts!

  71. Happy 5 Year Anniversary! I so enjoy reading your blog even though I do not comment often. I wish you the best in whatever you do.

  72. Hi Claudia,
    Happy 5 Year Anniversary! Your blog was the first one I found and I thought it was just perfect. You were and are an inspiration!
    -Lynn

  73. Congratulations Claudia ~ it’s been enriching connecting with you, as well as watching your blog evolve just in the short time I’ve been following. I love your house, your pottery, and your opinions (** and I especially love that you’re happily married. It’s an anomaly these days. Here’s to many more years of blogger bliss ~ you’re an essential in my book.

    P.S. I’ll take the green color, and I won’t ge gifting OR giving it away (**

  74. Wow five years of blogging! That is truly amazing. I wish I had found your blog sooner but I am so glad to be of your friends here at Mockingbird Hill Cottage! I loved hearing how you started and about being ‘chatty’. I started blogging when I lost my job and was home alone! It is a way to communicate and chat with friends while still sitting in bed with your PJ’s on! So here’s to many more years! Sending you a big hug and hoping you feel better soon! I know you are excited that Don is coming home!
    xo
    Linda

  75. *C*O*N*G*R*A*T*U*L*A*T*I*O*N*S*!* to 5 years of blogging! I’ve been at it for 3 and I am enjoying it immensely. We went to a crab feed last night, it was so much fun! I blogged about it, of course. I think I like blogging as it’s my way of keeping a journal, in the new millenium style. ((hugs)), Teresa :-)

  76. Congratulations, Claudia, on your 5 year anniversary!! I am so happy to have found you and I look forward to visiting your blog every blog every day!! Thanks for sharing your world with us!! I know you will be happy to see your husband again soon and I am happy for you!!! Francine

  77. Wow! Claudia, I remember that well! I thought you were darling and instantly fell in love with your cottage with “a romantic porch”. So much has changed in five years. It has been so fun to see your blog grow and bloom.
    I still read your blog almost every day.

    I know you are excited that Don will be home soon.
    Take care sweetie,
    xo rachel

  79. Congratulations, Claudia on your FIFTH blogging anniversary. That is quite and accomplishment and shows so much dedication. I don’t blog, but love to read yours and appreciate the time you put into it. So happy that this is your last night alone before Don returns. Have a wonderful reunion!

  80. Congratulations on entering your sixth year of blogging! I have been reading your blog for a year now, and I look forward to many more “good reads.” I hope you start to feel better soon, and I am sure having Don home will be good medicine.

  81. Claudia, Congratulations! What an accomplishment. I have been very inspired by your blog-your decorating and your wonderful dollhouse. Thank you!

  82. Congratulations, Claudia! I own one of your Obsession scarves and would love to have a second since I wear it every day!

  83. Congratulations on 5 years. I think blogging is the bravest thing you can do. You put a great deal of yourself out there for comment and consideration. I am also a soliatary person who loves to talk. I can’t blog, so I will just follow along and admire from this distance. You inspire me and I love your moxie.

  84. Hi Claudia….we have been blogging together through these last five years. I started CollectInTexas Gal in August of 2007, and remember when I discovered your blog. I always remember your header with the turquoise McCoy Pottery and of course your Blue Bird. You have a unique way of making everyone feel comfortable and special as visitors to Mockingbird Hill Cottage. Congratulations on your anniversary. I look forward to our blogging challenges and communicating in the next year. Thanks for the opportunity for one of your beautiful scarves….Sue

  85. Hi Claudia, Congrats on 5 years of blogging! I’m drawn to your blog because your share yourself with your readers, and for that I thank you. I’ve been reading your blog for about a year, I think. And yes, I’m one of those lurkers who rarely comments. But how could I not leave a comment when there is an obsession scarf giveaway! They are beautiful scarves, even without being able to feel their softness. Wishing you the very best; so glad you and Don will be reunited tomorrow!

  87. Happy Anniversary on your amazing blogging journey~ I discovered you about 6 months ago and I have truly enjoyed your posts~ Thank you, Caudia!

  88. Dear Claudia,
    I intended to comment before I saw you are having a give away with one of your beautiful scarves. I love reading your blog. It is one of my favorites and I usually save it for last because I love to savor your words. I know, I’m a word nerd too. I also appreciate your thrifty decorating style. It required much more creativity when you have to create on a tight budget. From my heart, thank you so much for sharing your life with us. Happy Blog Anniversary!

    Clara

  89. Happy Anniversary Claudia! I enjoy the things you share here on your blog, as well as all of the pictures of your cottage. Thanks for sharing with us. Here’s to many more blog posts! ~Sally

  91. Woo-Hoo! 5 years..congratulations! I try to read your blog daily but only occasionally comment. I was always wondering how you picked the title of your blog and now I know. Do you ever get mockingbirds where you live? Take care, Jen

  92. Hello Claudia,
    Congratulations on five years of blogging. I enjoyed reading about your beginnings…(reminds me of mine a little less than a year ago). I have been drawn to your blog and have found it such a comfortable place. When I read that you are a solitary person who is chatty….I thought “Bingo”! I, too, am a conversationalist, but on the flip side I need lots and lots of alone time. I love being home…I love my quiet time…I love squirreling myself away in my sewing room for hours…sometimes days. Many of your posts have described a familiar setting to me….Ahhh….Home is best! I was once asked it I was rejuvenated in a crowd or alone….That was a no brainer! Definitely alone…away from the madding crowd.
    Thank you for sharing your adventures, thoughts and lovely cottage home, my friend.
    Blessings,
    Carolynn xoxo

  93. Oh Claudia, you have such a way with putting your thoughts into words. You are brilliant! Your post hit home on so many fronts and has motivated me once again to get moving on taking that big step of writing that first post on my “real” blog. And you have made me feel completely normal that I don’t want to tell anyone in my private life about my soon-to-be blog either! Thank you!

    Congratulations on your 5 Year Blog Anniversary! You are special! And hope you’re feeling better soon!

    A fellow “solitaire but chatty” devoted reader,
    Deb

  94. OOOOps….I forgot to thank you for your giveaway and to share which color hits the spot for me….I love the royal blue!
    Have a Happy day, my friend,
    Carolynn xo

  95. Happy Five Years of blogging Claudia! I only just found you your very first week of A Favorite Thing but I’ve so enjoyed myself and feel that I have found a kindred spirit in you. (I found myself again nodding in recognition, reading that you are a solitary person … I’m sure I’m much more of an introvert than you are though. I would come home from work so depleted, so needing to be quiet and with my own thoughts. I was so miserable. Such a joy to not do that anymore, to have the luxury to choose when I want interaction.)

    You’re such a sweet and generous soul. I love that you answer all your comments and visit everyone’s blogs. Such a kindness and so gracious. Wishing you that all the joy you give is returned to you!

    Happy blogging anniversary!

  96. I read somewhere that gifts of wood are given for a fifth wedding anniversary, so…I say treat yourself to a little wooden treasure of some sort to celebrate this milestone :)
    I really, truly enjoy reading your blog and am so grateful for your faithful consistency in writing each day.

    Icing on the cake–a giveaway, and a homemade one, at that!! Thank you for offering such a pretty and useful gift!!

  98. Happy Anniversary Claudia! i think I have been blogging 5 years too , next month, I think. Of course, I am not a steady blogger and just have been out of it for months now. I have been sick most of this past week with sinus problems too. Feeling pretty rocky as a matter of fact. Hope we both feel better soon. I would love to have another scarf! Love that Apple Green! Enjoy your reunion with Don! ~Hugs, Patti

  99. I have appreciated your blog. It is becoming unique among blogs as so many are now selling ads and products, have block ups and even commercials. It is restful for those of us who are also solitary but love learning from others and checking out the sewing rooms and projects for inspiration. Thanks

  100. CONGRATULATIONS! ON YOUR 5TH ANNIVERSARY!
    I AM VERY NEW TO BLOGGING I HAD MY 1ST ANNIVERARY FEBRUARY 7TH. MY POSTING HAS BEEN SPORADIC AS I HAD BEEN CARING FOR MY 88YR.OLD MOTHER WHO HAD SUFFERED A MASSIVE STROKE AND WAS UNABLE TO WALK OR TALK BUT STILL HAD HER MIND….SHE PASSED AWAY APRIL 5TH ALMOST EXACTLY 4 YEARS TO THE DAY OF HER STROKE.I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO POSTING ON A MORE REGULAR BASIS AS I RECLAIM MY LIFE WHICH I GLADLY PUT ON HOLD FOR 4 YEARS TO SPEND THAT PRECIOUS TIME WITH THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON IN MY LIFE.
    I HAVE BEEN FOLLOWING YOUR BLOG SINCE I FIRST DISCOVERED IT…I LOOK FORWARD TO VISITING IT EACH DAY TO SEE WHAT IS GOING ON WITH YOU. I CAN REALLY RELATE WITH WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH WITH YOUR DAD.
    THANKS FOR INVITING US INTO YOUR CHARMING LITTLE COTTAGE!

  101. Congratulations on 5 years of blogging!! I enjoy reading your posts and seeing your creativity!! Very inspiring!
    Corinne

  102. This is my first time ever to see your blog, was just going through some pinterest and your site caught my eye! So glad I found you. I guess I have alot of catching up to do, but I”m sure it will be pleasurable. Congrats on your 5 year anniversary.

  103. Congratulations on 5 years of blogging … and thank you for all the time, effort, energy that you have put into this beautiful blog. I love forward, EVERYDAY, to reading whatever you’re sharing for the day. Mockingbird Hill Cottage is my absolue favorite blog. Here’s to your next 5 years!!

  104. You are once again my first blog of the evening. I love the Obsession scarves and would love, love, love one! The apple green is delicious and would match or blend with all my duds. So generous of you to make this gift.

  105. Congratulations on five fabulous years of blogging, sweet friend! You’re blog still remains one of my top faves. Thank you for sharing your life with all of us. Your writing is so honest and heartwarming… your post about the tea chest the other day gave me goosebumps and teary eyes. I wanted to comment that day, but didn’t even have the words.

    I hope that you are feeling better soon. Please take care~

    oxo,
    Jill

  106. Congrats on 5 years!! Could you ever have imagined it would go on this long or what it would grow into? Amazing. I think I have been reading / lurking / commenting as long so thank you for creating MHC! Hoping there will be many more years of posts to come. XO
    PS LOL about being solitary and chatty! …and hope you’re feeling better soon.

  107. Happy Blog Birthday! Yours is one of my favorite blogs. I check in everyday. But with Don coming home tomorrow I will understand if you are absent for awhile.

  108. Happy Blogiversary, Claudia!

    Of course you had to commemorate this wonderful milestone with riveting writing, references to personal experience and heartfelt chit-chat; something that you do in each and every post! I sincerely enjoy reading about your life, your work and your opinions, here in this cozy corner of the great big blogosphere!

    Poppy xx

  109. What a great accomplishment ~~~5 steady years of blogging..I love that you blog most everyday. I admire the scarves from afar~beautiful~~Here’s to many more years of blogging~~

  110. Congratulations! There are still many people who think the www is bad. I’m sure they have never experienced its social aspect. It’s amazing how close you can feel to some people by writing, sharing thoughts, ideas and pictures.
    I’m still amazed myself. :-) Have a great week. Regula

  111. Congratulations on five years! You have a wonderful blog that I always enjoy visiting. I hope you’re feeling better very soon. There seems to be so much sickness out there right now.
    Blessings,
    Betsy

  112. Congratulations on your blogging anniversary! May the future bring good things your way. Your blog is lovely.

    Wishing you a speedy recovery.

  115. Yes, we’ve ‘been together’ in the blogosphere for quite a while now dear Claudia. I’m reaching 6 years of blogging next week (my first blog was Across The Pond) and can’t believe I’ve been doing this for so long. Have enjoyed my time with you, all your posts are special……………….hope you continue to keep us enthralled with life at the cottage. I believe I found you when looking for wood floors all those years back, and of course still always am hoping we’ll get to meet in person one of these days!

    Safe travels to Don today – looking forward to hearing about his return.
    I LOVE the pastel blue yarn – I must try some of that type – I bet it’s lovely to handle.
    Big hugs, thanks for always being here to cheer us and inspire us – Mary X

  116. Hi Claudia! Congratulations on your five year blogging anniversary :0). I have thoroughly enjoyed reading your posts everyday~~~I found you a few months ago but hope to find you still blogging another five years! Have a wonderful reunion with Don this evening. Take care of yourself & hug Scout for me! By the way~~~ I love my Obsession scarf. XOXO, Linda

  117. I read your blog every day. I always enjoy what you have to say. This is my first time leaving a comment on a blog. The scarf is just too beautiful for me not to get my name in the pot.

    Whenever I do any painting I have sinus problems for a week or two after.

    Congratulations on your blog anniversary.

    Linda

  118. Hi I would very much like to win one of your gorgeous scarves. As I live in the UK, a few posts ago I asked where I could find the pattern you use, as I was running out of ideas for presents for my friends and family. I am disabled and spend much of my time on craft work (mainly CQ and embroidery) but I feel my family must be getting fed up with these offerings, so I wanted to try something different. I love to crochet and knit and thought that would make a nice change, so if I’m not lucky enough to win the scarf perhaps you could let me know where I can obtain a similar pattern. Blessings

  119. Dear Claudia, congratulations! Your blog is one of the very few that I read every day. I find it a comfort. We have similar taste (and the same birthday!). Your posts are always interesting and well written.
    I wish Don a safe trip home.

  120. Hi Claudia:)
    I love your sweet blog! Congrats on five big ones!! I hope for many more bloggy years ahead….
    Steph:)))

  121. Congratulations, Claudia!! I’ve been receiving your posts via email for a few months now, and thoroughly, thoroughly enjoy them (even if I rarely leave a comment! Bad me!) . Give a big hug to Scout, for, of course, she has been blogging right along with you!!

  122. Congratulations Claudia,
    You say we’ve enriched your life, but it goes both ways. You’ve enriched ours. I havent’ read all the comments, so I don’t know if others have said the same sentiment — but suspect they have;)
    I’m so glad I can click on Mockingbird Hill Cottage each day and connect with not only a like minded person, but one who shares my birth day and year!
    Here’s to many more years.
    Cheers,

  124. I love reading here. I’m so glad you started blogging five years ago!
    I’ve already chatted with you once today…but am just getting around to reading many blog I missed over the weekend.
    Like you…my first experience blogging was nothing spectacular… I’ve been blogging “somewhere” for many years; until I finally settled down and am blogging @ CORN… I love the friends I’ve made blogging and don’t mind keeping to myself these days and like you, I’m CHATTY! I can hardly ever just leave a ‘one-liner’ in the comments.
    I have tons to say!

    Your scarves are beautiful…I’d love to have one.
    Pat

  125. HI Claudia!

    Congratulations to you! Five years is a long time to BLOG!! I shared the story of how I found you about 2 years ago shortly after Jeff died. I spent many hours going backwards and reading through all of your post. I felt very comforted by your writing and pictures. It was something to look forward to doing when I got home from work at midnight and couldnt sleep. Thank you for being there. Your blog is one of my favorites.

    I am so happy that Don is returning home to you today. I bet you are both giddy with happiness. Enjoy every minute you have together. Your time together is precious.

    Have a fun Moday and I really hope poor Scouts tootsie heals quickly! Poor girl!!
    Give her a kiss and hug from MJ in Indiana!

  126. Hello Claudia,
    Congratulations on your five year anniversary, but more importantly, THANK YOU for sharing your life and talents with us! I love your way with words, your skill with decorating, and your talent with crocheting! I enjoy your opinions and find myself agreeing with many of them! Blessings to you, Don and Scoutie. You’ve made my life richer.
    Roneta

  127. Congratulations on the 5 year mark in blogging! You have inspired me many times and I am thankful for what seems like a virtual friend. May Don’s homecoming be the most special event ever. Blessings.
    Kelly

  130. Congratulations on 5 years of blogging! I can understand chatty. I found some of my old elementary school reports cards with excellent grades but quite a few comments about talking. I admire your ability to stay the course and continue writing and sharing your life with all of your readers. I love my visits here. I learn, I grow, I cry and laugh. Love the photo of the yarn! It looks professional! Don’t you just love your new camera?

  131. I just love you sweet Claudia. You know why? Because you are real. And real good too! I love your wonderful posts, sharing your life with us…your beautiful collections…your precious animal angels…just everything. I wish you many more years of blogging ahead dear friend and would be so honored to where one of your beautiful creations around my neck to keep it cozy! Keep the posts coming angel…you have a true gift!!! hugs and love, Dawn

  135. Congratulations on your 5th aniversary of blogging. I read your blog daily (first tme I’ve left a comment) and LOVE it because you are so honest and I feel like we’ve been friends forever.

  136. Happy 5 year anniversary Claudia! It’s been fun following your blog. I think my favorite post is still the video of you and Don dancing in the kitchen. Loved it! I look forward to another five years. Hugs, Debi

  137. Congrats on celebrating 5 years…I am new to your blog and LOVE your entires and transparency! Wishing you another fantastic 5 years!!

  138. Love, love, love your blog, my green scarf, and my daughter’s felted heart earrings. Keep up the blogging and creating. Love, Dori

  139. Oh my goodness, that’s me exactly — a solitary person who is chatty! I have such a hard time explaining that to people — I’m so chatty, they assume I’m super outgoing and extroverted, but it’s not so! Thank you for the great phrase. And congrats on your blogoversary, too. Hugs!

    ~Angela~

  140. Happy 5 year anniversary Claudia! You’ve come a long way baby! May you have many more years of blogging!

  141. I love your blog. Today I found your blog. Congrats on five years.
    Keep up the good work blogging . Would love to win one of your darling scarfs.

  142. Great post! I feel the exact same way. I love being alone in my home and I’m not the kind of person that socializes a lot but I do love to talk. I really enjoy connecting with people. You also give me hope that I will get better at my own blog. Thanks so much….I love your blog!

  143. Happy Anniversary, Claudia. And there’s no need to thank me, since the pleasure is mine when I visit you here. I’m glad I found your blog and have enjoyed reading your words and gazing at all the various images you post. And participating (when I can) in your Favorite Things get-togethers, although not as often as I hoped. By the way, that little dish at the top with all the patch-worked hand-sewn pieces is so lovely. Did you make all of those? Wishing you the best on this milestone.

  144. I just want you to know know much I enjoy reading your blog. I do believe it is my favorite. I share your love for antiques, family treasures, home, and dogs :) Thank you for taking the time to blog and sharing a part of your life with others. Congratulations on 5 successful years. Blessings to you and your family.

  145. congratulations on 5 years of blogging! and many more to come~!
    I enjoy reading your blog immensely. I am chuckling because I am the same way. Alot of people in my professional life have no idea that I have a blog. I believe that my blog is mine, away from my professional life and my way of expressing myself in my personal life.
    Thank you for sharing your life with us. I enjoy it immensely.

  146. Claudia,
    I loved reading this post because so many of your thoughts reflect who I am as well. My Blog was one year old in November. Even though I am an extremely chatty person, I am not on my Blog. I’ve been told that I talk too much, when in reality, I am actually painfully shy. On my Blog, I am still tentative. I try to keep my thoughts and words to a minimum. I still hesitate to reveal much of my self except through pictures and I have told only a handful of people about my Blog. In fact, I make my husband promise never to mention that I have a Blog to our friends. I am finally commenting (instead of lurking which I did for a year) on Blogs which speak to me and have found friends who share similar passions. I have so enjoyed reading your posts. It encourages me that it’s OK to just be yourself. Thank you.

  147. Enjoy your blog so much, Claudia. I found it about two years ago and am looking forward to your next five years. Your ups and downs mirror mine in so many ways. Thanks for being yourself in a world where those trying to be someone else are so ever present.

  148. To my favorite blog writer: Thank you.
    I so enjoy our time together. I, too, enjoy a solitary life. Well, along with the new 15 year old in my house and my mother (88). But the intentional pleasure of choosing when I leave these walls and my garden and my library, the knowledge that public interactions are my choice and that I can turn on or off Chatty Cathy at will has been a hard-won struggle.
    I love your literate nature, and your thoughtful observations. And Scout. My Scout is Whisper, 10 years old and more precious every day.

  150. Congratulations Claudia,

    On your 5th Anniversary of Blogging.

    Always enjoy your thoughts and sharing, in the Baby Boomer Group we are in.

    Christy

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