diamonds are a girl's best friend

For those of you not familiar with the 'blogging world' and the various awards that are floating around the blogosphere, this email probably isn't for you. But, you see, I received my first "award" this week and I'm thrilled to pieces. Sweet Erin over at Blue-Eyed Bride was given this award by two different bloggers and she paid it forward by giving it to five of her faves. I feel so honored to be on that list! We've definitely bonded over random similarities and although I've not actually met her, I feel like she's a friend. I realize this is a hard concept to grasp for you non-bloggers out there (Lee thinks I'm nuts), but nonetheless, its a great feeling to know you have people you've never met interested in what you have to say and pulling for you.

That being said, I'm going to "pay it forward" by giving a quick shout out to a few of my favorites...

coveiter - These gals sure know how to spot fantastic products. I've taken their recommendations on yummy cupcakes in a jar, book swim, and even purchased Lee's anniversary gift based on something I saw on their blog (I can't mention what it is now because my sweet hubby sometimes reads this blog) and I've never been disappointed. They have a fantastic eye and that makes them one of my daily reads.

daisy chain - She has great taste in everything (I'd love to go shopping with her), lives in Sonoma and works as a graphic designer...all things I'm rather jealous of. Perusing her blog makes me feel "cool by association." Her "happy friday" posts always make me smile.

Joy the Baker - My adoration of Joy is well documented, and for good reason...her recipes rock! Every single thing I've made from her blog has turned out incredibly yummy. If I didn't enjoy her writing + recipes so much I'd have to hate her for making my clothes fit just a bit too tight. She's even been sweet enough to send me an email or two when I've commented on her blog. Very sweet indeed.

m.writes - One of the first blogs I became addicted to. Her writing style is amazing! When you read her posts you feel like she's sitting across from you giving you a pep talk. She inspired me to give my idea folders a quick sprucing up (I love the look of hers) and her post titled, "giving you a little push" is the much needed kick in the booty we all need at some point. She just gave birth to her first child and her posts while she was pregnant were truly magical.

Southern Weddings - This is my newest favorite. While I clearly don't have a wedding in my future, the real weddings they feature are to die for. I've found many gorgeous photos via this blog and love reading about how each couple met and planned their dream wedding. True eye candy.

Jose Villa - His photos are stunning and I just can't seem to get enough. While it isn't feasible for busy photographers to post new pictures on their blog daily, I'd give anything for him to have that ability. Truly, truly amazing.

I have a gazillion other favorites but these, along with Blue-Eyed Bride, make up my daily "must visit" list. Check them out...you may find you enjoy them just as much as I do. Happy reading...