I’ve been blogging in some sense of the word for years. I started on Live Journal, moved to Xanga, then Blogspot, then shifted over to WordPress. (I debated linking you to those old blogs, but then I found them, read them, and decided to spare you.)
Some of you remember the time I blogged under a pen name of sorts. I never really meant to be anonymous. My AIM screen name back in the day included the name Lily because I’m a May baby, and May’s flower is Lily of the Valley. I started using that name for fun, it stuck, and that’s kind of when things started growing.
About a year and a half ago, I realized that blogging was becoming a much bigger part of my life than it ever had. I started looking into jobs that wanted proof of my internet savvy, so I needed a place I could point them that was exactly what I wanted the public to know about me, Doniree.
So, I bought {doniree.com}, and slowly started building this place here.
That was a year ago today (well, today as I’m writing this, which is Friday, October 30). I’ve since come completely out in the open, and this space here has become a place I’m extremely proud of and head-over-heels in love with.
I love the connections, the community, the feedback I get through this medium, and I can’t wait to see where the next year takes us all.
Shall we see how far we’ve come in the last year? Enjoy the little summary or click through if any of those links sound juicy and enticing to you.
A walk down memory lane, if you will:
In October, 2008, I introduced myself.
I moved across the river from St. Paul to Minneapolis in November, hosted an Election Party, and before I decided to be a vegetarian pescatarian, I started a Jucy Lucy tour.
In December, I wrote entirely too many posts for a single month, but I touched on things like new recipes and how Punch Pizza’s pizza rocks as does their social and local marketing efforts.
In January, I introduced my roommates and thanked my dad for lessons learned (link includes photo of 12-year old Doni after getting carried away with a bottle of Sun-In. You’re welcome.).
In February, I went Pescatarian (vegetarian, but cool with seafood) for Lent. (Update: still am!) I also consulted with Twitter for some insight on a presentation I gave at The College of St. Catherine’s on an Introduction to Social Media in Marketing.
I didn’t do a whole lot in March, probably because once the snow melts here in Minnesota we act like we’ve never seen the grass before and start spending more time outside. What I did manage to accomplish was to get drunk at local brew fests with my friends, furthering my love affair with Stillwater’s Lift Bridge Brewery.
In April, I got excited about my Beer League Softball Team (HERKIJERKS!), blogged about guilty pleasure TV for probably the only time ever on this blog, and recapped what The Pescatarian Experiment was like for me.
My whirlwindy Summer of Travel kicked off in May with a trip to Colorado to visit my oldest and dearest. I climbed a mountain, fell in love with Boulder where they have bars with AIR HOCKEY AND SKEE BALL, and we road-tripped up to Wyoming just for the hell of it.
In June, I met 26 other bloggers in Vegas for what would be the highlight of my life summer, asked you what my signature cocktail should be (I have since decided on Macallan 12, neat (thank you, BG), or a Grey Goose Martini, extra dirty (thank you, Beth), though will always prefer wine first and foremost), and tried Cafe Maude for the first time.
July was a whirlwind. I missed Vegas, molested Wrigley Field, hosted a Nintendo Girlfriends’ Guide to Gaming Party that happened the last part of June, was my little sister’s Maid of Honor, and went to Chicago for Brand About Town’s Nintendo Enthusiast Thank-You Dinner during BlogHer (where I met and quickly fell in love with this girl).
August was crazy, too. I flew to Los Angeles to have dinner with Nicole, spent an evening in Minneapolis with Kyla, and drove up to Sauk Rapids for Steph’s bridal shower. I went back to LA a couple of weeks later to attend a wedding with Nico, and balanced out my bi-coastal travels with my first ever trip to New York City.
In September, we celebrated Jason DeRusha Day, I started getting amazing keyword searches leading here thanks to the use of the word “naked” in this post’s title (no actual nudity, sorry), I started Core Power Yoga’s Teacher Training Program, and we all took a step back to consider what it is we actually do. Also, in September, I went back in Chicago for Labor Day weekend falling further in love with the neighborhoods there. The last weekend of the month, my best friend got married, bringing the college boys back into town for what was an epic party weekend (pictures and more on this to follow).
That brings us to this month where I’m living, eating, and breathing yoga, so that’s pretty much all I’ve written about.
Dear Universe,
I recognize that this past year wasn’t exactly in my cards to be a year filled of romance and dating and all that fun stuff. I think it’s safe to suggest that I might be cool with that now, you know – all self-aware and stuff? Great, just in case you needed my input there, it might be an ok time to start throwing some options my way.
Love,
Doniree
I like to think I’ve come a long way in the time since I started blogging, however defined. Over the years, I’ve experimented with different formats and approaches, and have settled into a voice that I believe is genuinely reflective of who I am, and that’s extremely fun for me. Matt told me after meeting in Vegas that I “talk just like I type” and am exactly the same person – some shade of adorably weird – offline as I am online (I added the “adorable” part, though I’m sure he meant to say that). That’s good, because that’s kind of what I’m going for here.
I’m eternally grateful for the outlet this has provided and especially for the connections I’ve made across the country and the world through this medium. To those of you who have been following along since the days of Xanga, LiveJournal, Blogspot, and LilySpeak – WOW. Thank you for making the hop over here, and for sticking with me through all that self-discovery. And to those of you who’ve been following along this past year – welcome! I truly hope you like what you’ve found here and hope you’ll stay for more.
If you’ve been lurking around here for awhile and haven’t ever said hello – consider that my blog birthday wish and do so! Tell me who you are and where you hail from? Awesome, thanks!
If you’re a regular, my blog birthday wish from you is that you share your favorite memory of me/us in the comments below. Or let me know what’s kept you coming back here.
You’re all gorgeous.
Hearts and stars and all that jazz,
{doniree}
I'm Doniree. I live in Portland, Oregon where I practice yoga, obsess about the local farmers' markets and vineyards, and work from home or one of my many favorite coffee shops. I also 
{ 202 comments… read them below or add one }
hello lady! i can't believe it's been a year! i remember one of the first comments you left me when you were still lily speak and i had just started blogging again! as i'm sure you know (you should!) i adore you, even if i'm a horrible commenter. i'm trying to be better! have a wonderful blog-a-versary!
I'm so obsessed and in love with you and I CANNOT WAIT to see you on November 20. I hate to admit this, but I suppose I'm indebted a little bit to Peter for insisting on how awesome you are, and also to Rebekah for being our matchmaker and putting us strangers in a hotel together
Loooove you beautiful.
Congratulations on your blog birthday! I've lingered for a few weeks. I found your blog as a bounce over from Nicole's blog and I've loved reading your life list and all about Yoga (which I couldn't/wouldn't do, but I am somehow fascinsated by anyway). I hail from the Big D, Dallas TX and I've just recently entered the blog world by way of amazing friends. I'm Gofahne (or April in real life) and I'm so impressed by the talented writing, thinking and living this medium brings. I can only hope documenting my life will turn out to be as fun!Happy Blogday!
Awww! Congratulations honey!
You know I love your blog and it always makes me smile with amazing posts about happiness and life and seeing the bright side of things 
And as for my favorite memory? That's an easy one! I remember reading all the posts of one of your blogs, then going for the other blog, reading 2 or 3 posts, me thinking it was another blogger from Minnesota, then realizing you were both the same and feeling stupid as hell. And then emailing you about it.Gotta love me and my lack of embarrassment.
Srsly, a lifetime of memories to go through, and my favorites are still, and always will be, New Years Eve's at Grandmas kitchen table, with liters of Coke and microwave egg rolls and journals. I still feel as if I'm lost on New Years without you.
HAPPY BLOGBIRTHDAY
Yes I may be a new follower but I've heard too many wonderful things and seen such fun photos from Kyla I feel like I've been following for a lot longer than I actually have. Loving the blog, the recap, and looking forward to the next year's worth of stories 
Happy Birthday to your blog! I loved when we went on the Boat Tour in Chicago with Renee and Joe. And I just love you in general!
Let's see. I mowed the lawn and worked in my veggie garden this summer. Played some golf and flew to HSV & MOB.
Not near the world-wind-tour that you've been on.Love yaPops
i love your blog!
hello lady! i can't believe it's been a year! i remember one of the first comments you left me when you were still lily speak and i had just started blogging again! as i'm sure you know (you should!) i adore you, even if i'm a horrible commenter. i'm trying to be better! have a wonderful blog-a-versary!
Happy bloggy birthday! It's been awesome keeping tabs on you (on all of your blogs!) over the past few years, so keep it up. You were the first non-IRL blogger to link to me in a post, and I've always been in awe that such an amazing writer cares enough to read about ME. So thank you!
I'm so obsessed and in love with you and I CANNOT WAIT to see you on November 20. I hate to admit this, but I suppose I'm indebted a little bit to Peter for insisting on how awesome you are, and also to Rebekah for being our matchmaker and putting us strangers in a hotel together
Loooove you beautiful.
Happy blogaversary! I'm so glad we finally met in NYC – you're an amazing person and I wish only the absolute best for you! *HUGS*
I hate that I was so late to experience your greatness but I'm glad to be on board now. Totally digging what you're doing here.
Awww! Congratulations honey!
You know I love your blog and it always makes me smile with amazing posts about happiness and life and seeing the bright side of things 
And as for my favorite memory? That's an easy one! I remember reading all the posts of one of your blogs, then going for the other blog, reading 2 or 3 posts, me thinking it was another blogger from Minnesota, then realizing you were both the same and feeling stupid as hell. And then emailing you about it.Gotta love me and my lack of embarrassment.
Srsly, a lifetime of memories to go through, and my favorites are still, and always will be, New Years Eve's at Grandmas kitchen table, with liters of Coke and microwave egg rolls and journals. I still feel as if I'm lost on New Years without you.
HAPPY BLOGBIRTHDAY
Yes I may be a new follower but I've heard too many wonderful things and seen such fun photos from Kyla I feel like I've been following for a lot longer than I actually have. Loving the blog, the recap, and looking forward to the next year's worth of stories 
I'm somewhere between a lurker and a regular (though I like to think I'm much closer to being a regular than a lurker
even if I don't have any *ahem* memories of you/us) …But what's kept me coming back? You. Your honesty. You're genuine. You're so. upbeat. And I love reading what you write.
Yes! And you were all like "You should check out my friend, Courtney, she's in Minnesota," and I did. Turns out she's pretty awesome. Thank you for that introduction!
Hi there! Just stalked YOUR blog, and I love your about section and your sense of sass. Nice to meet you, can't wait for more
Let's see. I mowed the lawn and worked in my veggie garden this summer. Played some golf and flew to HSV & MOB.
Not near the world-wind-tour that you've been on.Love yaPops
Yes! I can't wait to catch up with you either. I adore our coffee chats in the mornings, random texts and phone calls whenever there are stories to tell, etc., LOVE it. I know, I hate to give Peter a whole lot of credit either, but yes well we might as well thank him for vouching for each other. Also major thanks to Rebekah for trusting that we'd be complete strangers and instant friends. Love you back, see you in a few weeks!
You are my favorite stalker ever. No, seriously – I'm so so grateful you took the time to initially email me and say hi and all of that and I absolutely love getting to know you better. Study hard! And be prepared for a spontaneous visit from this girl at some point in your life!
I ALWAYS think of you and Miranda at New Year's. Writing resolutions, watching the countdown, eating junk food, and sitting at Grama's kitchen table. Great memories, and is always a part of my New Year's, at least in thought. I adore you. Love.
Thank you! I'm so happy to have met you recently. You're an extremely talented artsy person, and I'm so excited to get to know you better! Thanks so much for coming by and for such awesome feedback
YES! That was such a great memory. I adore your sense of humor and quirkiness through everything. Can't wait to see you again next.
HUGS! You, my dear. You, are amazing on so many levels and I am so glad that we FINALLY got to meet this summer. I feel as though I couldn't hug you long enough! Until next time,
Congrats from Huntsville! Keep up the great work!
I love that we talk maybe once or twice a month around the 15th or so (yes I keep track) and we catch up on what we've missed. I also love that we share secrets often.I keep coming back for your hearts and stars and smiles. …AND NOW marketing advice
Hi Doniree! I suppose the main reason I keep coming back is because I'm a local. It's fun to see what other Minnesota folks are up to and what events/opportunities are happening all around me!
Happy bloggy birthday! It's been awesome keeping tabs on you (on all of your blogs!) over the past few years, so keep it up. You were the first non-IRL blogger to link to me in a post, and I've always been in awe that such an amazing writer cares enough to read about ME. So thank you!
Happy blog birthday here! I'm really looking forward to reading another year of your stuff here
Happy blog birthday here! I'm really looking forward to reading another year of your stuff here
Happy Birthday to your blog! I loved when we went on the Boat Tour in Chicago with Renee and Joe. And I just love you in general!
I don't think I've commented here more than once or twice – I always just assume I'm a lurker because I'm pretty terrible with commenting in general.Anyway, I'm Cait! I'm 22, a recent college graduate with no job, and I live in New Jersey (and have my whole life).It's crazy how time flies in the blog world, isn't it? Happy first blogoversary!
Happy blogaversary! I'm so glad we finally met in NYC – you're an amazing person and I wish only the absolute best for you! *HUGS*
Yay! Happy One Year here!You were my very first bloggy friend AND who I can thoroughly blame for the fact that I read Twilight and have been obsessed with vampire books ever since… and by blame I mean thank, because I've learned to embrace the fact that I like fantasy books and don't always have to read the intellectual looking books and you had a hand in that by suggesting we read Twilight.
Happy Blog Birthday, Doniree! Why do I like you? You're real. You're upbeat. You're interesting. I mean, just look how much you've done in the last year. I'm simultaneous exhausted and amazed just reading this post. The fact you're a Minneapolitan (sharing my love of Punch Pizza, Common Roots, Cafe Maude, etc.) doesn't hurt either.
Thank you, and I'm so glad you found yourself here. Nice to meet you, and I can't wait to check out your little corners
You introduced me to 20sb! Girlfriend, that's HUGE. Thank YOU. And I adore your writing and your sense of humor and all of it. I can not wait until our paths cross someday. I just know they will.
AHHH, that means so much coming from you as I've been stalking and adoring you for EVER. And whatever, you're early enough. This is only the beginning.
Thank you SO much! And the memories are surely yet to come
Woo hoo! I was born there
I love everything about us. EVERYTHING. Especially the secret-sharing.
happy blogoversary! I only have a few memories of you to pick from but let me tell you, they are all wonderful! you are such a sweet wonderful person. I'm glad Jamie led me to you, and can't wait to see you again in November
Thank you! I love that you appreciate my favorite local places also
I'm somewhere between a lurker and a regular (though I like to think I'm much closer to being a regular than a lurker
even if I don't have any *ahem* memories of you/us) …But what's kept me coming back? You. Your honesty. You're genuine. You're so. upbeat. And I love reading what you write.
Ohmygod , I love blogging. I've never done a blogger meet up though, but it's so crazy how apparently two of the local bloggers here came to my show two nights ago just to see my performance. Too bad they didn't say hey because they were hesitant and all that if they did, that'd so be a fantastic meet up. You;ve come a long way indeed
Yes! And you were all like "You should check out my friend, Courtney, she's in Minnesota," and I did. Turns out she's pretty awesome. Thank you for that introduction!
Hi there! Just stalked YOUR blog, and I love your about section and your sense of sass. Nice to meet you, can't wait for more
Yes! I can't wait to catch up with you either. I adore our coffee chats in the mornings, random texts and phone calls whenever there are stories to tell, etc., LOVE it. I know, I hate to give Peter a whole lot of credit either, but yes well we might as well thank him for vouching for each other. Also major thanks to Rebekah for trusting that we'd be complete strangers and instant friends. Love you back, see you in a few weeks!
You are my favorite stalker ever. No, seriously – I'm so so grateful you took the time to initially email me and say hi and all of that and I absolutely love getting to know you better. Study hard! And be prepared for a spontaneous visit from this girl at some point in your life!
I ALWAYS think of you and Miranda at New Year's. Writing resolutions, watching the countdown, eating junk food, and sitting at Grama's kitchen table. Great memories, and is always a part of my New Year's, at least in thought. I adore you. Love.
Thank you! I'm so happy to have met you recently. You're an extremely talented artsy person, and I'm so excited to get to know you better! Thanks so much for coming by and for such awesome feedback
YES! That was such a great memory. I adore your sense of humor and quirkiness through everything. Can't wait to see you again next.
HUGS! You, my dear. You, are amazing on so many levels and I am so glad that we FINALLY got to meet this summer. I feel as though I couldn't hug you long enough! Until next time,
Yeah, but I'm envious of all the awesome wines you try on a weekly basis! Thanks for sharing that knowledge and love of grapes with me!
i love your blog!
I love that we talk maybe once or twice a month around the 15th or so (yes I keep track) and we catch up on what we've missed. I also love that we share secrets often.I keep coming back for your hearts and stars and smiles. …AND NOW marketing advice
Hi Doniree! I suppose the main reason I keep coming back is because I'm a local. It's fun to see what other Minnesota folks are up to and what events/opportunities are happening all around me!
happy blog birthday!!!!
Happy blog birthday here! I'm really looking forward to reading another year of your stuff here
Happy blog birthday here! I'm really looking forward to reading another year of your stuff here
I don't think I've commented here more than once or twice – I always just assume I'm a lurker because I'm pretty terrible with commenting in general.Anyway, I'm Cait! I'm 22, a recent college graduate with no job, and I live in New Jersey (and have my whole life).It's crazy how time flies in the blog world, isn't it? Happy first blogoversary!
Yeah, but I'm envious of all the awesome wines you try on a weekly basis! Thanks for sharing that knowledge and love of grapes with me!
Congrats from Huntsville! Keep up the great work!
Yay! Happy One Year here!You were my very first bloggy friend AND who I can thoroughly blame for the fact that I read Twilight and have been obsessed with vampire books ever since… and by blame I mean thank, because I've learned to embrace the fact that I like fantasy books and don't always have to read the intellectual looking books and you had a hand in that by suggesting we read Twilight.
Thank you, and I'm so glad you found yourself here. Nice to meet you, and I can't wait to check out your little corners
You introduced me to 20sb! Girlfriend, that's HUGE. Thank YOU. And I adore your writing and your sense of humor and all of it. I can not wait until our paths cross someday. I just know they will.
AHHH, that means so much coming from you as I've been stalking and adoring you for EVER. And whatever, you're early enough. This is only the beginning.
Ohmygod , I love blogging. I've never done a blogger meet up though, but it's so crazy how apparently two of the local bloggers here came to my show two nights ago just to see my performance. Too bad they didn't say hey because they were hesitant and all that if they did, that'd so be a fantastic meet up. You;ve come a long way indeed
Aw, exciting about the year mark
I'm still excited about meeting you in a few weeks, & I'm still grateful for how nice and willing you were to help me out when I needed some advice even though you didn't know me in the least. It completely reflects on what a genuinely nice person you are!
i love your blog!
Thank you SO much! And the memories are surely yet to come
Woo hoo! I was born there
I love everything about us. EVERYTHING. Especially the secret-sharing.
happy blogoversary! I only have a few memories of you to pick from but let me tell you, they are all wonderful! you are such a sweet wonderful person. I'm glad Jamie led me to you, and can't wait to see you again in November
Thank you! I love that you appreciate my favorite local places also
happy blog birthday!!!!
Aw, exciting about the year mark
I'm still excited about meeting you in a few weeks, & I'm still grateful for how nice and willing you were to help me out when I needed some advice even though you didn't know me in the least. It completely reflects on what a genuinely nice person you are!
I'm not really sure if I'm considered a lurker or a regular, since I've been reading for about a month, so I'm gonna respond to both requests
I'm Lindsey and I'm from Pittsburgh! though you may already know that. who knows.I don't have any real memories with you, but I keep coming back because I have so much respect for your drive. I'm just starting on my "get fit" road to feeling great, and reading your blog and twitter makes me smile. Smiling makes me feel good, so it's a wonderful addition to my daily routine!Oh, and I am attending my very first yoga class tonight, and will be thinking of you!
I would LOVE to hear how your first class goes!Thanks so much for introducing yourself – nice to meet you
I may not comment all that often, but I do read every one of your posts. I especially love reading your most recent journey into becoming a yoga instructor. A time to reflect and learn more about yourself (and we benefit as a result!).
Thank you! It's been a fun journey to document, that's for sure.And stay tuned for tomorrow's post – one of yours was the inspiration
I don't have a ton of memories, but I'm not a lurker, so I think I'll come up with one.My favorite memory would be how serendipitous it was when I had some Cubs tickets that I couldn't use (much to my chagrin) and it coincided with when you were desperately looking to get some bleacher seats for the weekend you were going to be in town. Of course, it turned out to be a GREAT game to attend, both baseball and weather-wise, and I instead spent the afternoon at the birthday party for a 1 year old son of a Sox fan. OK, so that is kind of a sucky memory.
Since my first memory was a cruddy one, I decided to make up a totally fake memory instead.Remember that time we both randomly ran into each other in Boca Raton, Florida? And then we got so wasted on tequila shots that we came up with the idea of a website where people could meet up who shared a fascination with historical train schedules? And then we made a crapload of money? Yeah, that ruled.
But it's kind of awesome because you're now one of my fave people. Lookingforward to catching up in Chicago this month!
He most definitely meant to say adorable b/c you are! Totally! Happy blog b-day sweet cheeks!
What about the time we had great sushi at some place called Zen in WickerPark/Bucktown? That's a real memory that was actually pretty cool.
Wow! It's been an eventful year — full of friends, adventure, learning and guacamole. Just like it should be.
Guacamole, yes. Most definitely. And the lingering burn of habanero on myfingers and nose and ears
I'm SO glad I found your blog in this last year too 
Agreed! I love keeping tabs on the community here.
Thank you! Hope to see you in Chi this month
Thank you! What part of Jersey are you in? I'm trying to make a trip out there in Jan/Feb
Ha, that book club didn't get very far off the ground, but I'm glad it did inspire us to at least pick up those books
My favorite includes our awesome table at the BlogHer/Nintendo dinner
Looking forward to seeing you in a few weeks 
You should absolutely put that meetup together!
Thanks! I love having found you this year
Thank you, I'm glad I'm helpful! It's fun for me to geek out about the industry and things I love, so I'm just glad you find my information useful! Can't wait to meet you at #hosb next month
We should probably do margaritas again sometime. Yes, we should certainly do that.
Ha, never mind that when I was initially writing this, I lost my first draftof like, Jan-April and all those links and had to redo that. But it was funto go back through and see where this has gone. This past year has gone bySO fast, but I'm so glad you've been such a part of it
That WAS a cool memory. But not nearly as funny as making up a fake one about train schedule websites coming out of tequila shooters.
I think you're onto something there.
Well, I *am* a super genius.
Can I also just point out that you have as many comments on this post ALONE as my Disqus account has posted comments EVERYWHERE?I am totally jealous of your comment love.
Well Disqus counts MINE too, so… I cheat.
Well, still, you should be pleased as a pig in a punchbowl about all the comment love…even if half of it is self-love. Heh.
now that just sounds dirty.but yes, I'm extremely grateful for the awesome feedback I get here
Yours included!
I'm not really sure if I'm considered a lurker or a regular, since I've been reading for about a month, so I'm gonna respond to both requests
I'm Lindsey and I'm from Pittsburgh! though you may already know that. who knows.I don't have any real memories with you, but I keep coming back because I have so much respect for your drive. I'm just starting on my "get fit" road to feeling great, and reading your blog and twitter makes me smile. Smiling makes me feel good, so it's a wonderful addition to my daily routine!Oh, and I am attending my very first yoga class tonight, and will be thinking of you!
I would LOVE to hear how your first class goes!Thanks so much for introducing yourself – nice to meet you
Thank you! It's been a fun journey to document, that's for sure.And stay tuned for tomorrow's post – one of yours was the inspiration
I don't have a ton of memories, but I'm not a lurker, so I think I'll come up with one.My favorite memory would be how serendipitous it was when I had some Cubs tickets that I couldn't use (much to my chagrin) and it coincided with when you were desperately looking to get some bleacher seats for the weekend you were going to be in town. Of course, it turned out to be a GREAT game to attend, both baseball and weather-wise, and I instead spent the afternoon at the birthday party for a 1 year old son of a Sox fan. OK, so that is kind of a sucky memory.
Since my first memory was a cruddy one, I decided to make up a totally fake memory instead.Remember that time we both randomly ran into each other in Boca Raton, Florida? And then we got so wasted on tequila shots that we came up with the idea of a website where people could meet up who shared a fascination with historical train schedules? And then we made a crapload of money? Yeah, that ruled.
But it's kind of awesome because you're now one of my fave people. Lookingforward to catching up in Chicago this month!
What about the time we had great sushi at some place called Zen in WickerPark/Bucktown? That's a real memory that was actually pretty cool.
Wow! It's been an eventful year — full of friends, adventure, learning and guacamole. Just like it should be.
Guacamole, yes. Most definitely. And the lingering burn of habanero on myfingers and nose and ears
I'm SO glad I found your blog in this last year too 
The best memory was just meeting you.
Aww, phammers.
We've got a few to choose from, huh? Glad the firstimpression was at least a decent one, see you in a few weeks!
Thank you! What part of Jersey are you in? I'm trying to make a trip out there in Jan/Feb
Ha, that book club didn't get very far off the ground, but I'm glad it did inspire us to at least pick up those books
Thank you, I'm glad I'm helpful! It's fun for me to geek out about the industry and things I love, so I'm just glad you find my information useful! Can't wait to meet you at #hosb next month
What keeps me coming back? You are sincere, insightful, honest, open, amazing and an inspiration to me on a regular basis. Not to mention a great writer, funny and well, just the best. I also LOVE that you said "all that jazz," which is now making my head play the "All That Jazz," song from Chicago even though I've seen the movie once. (Like you care to know that, right!? =) )
Happy blog birthday, kid!
Oh, and by the way – I've been through just about every stretch of road there IS in Wyoming. Bah.
Thanks, and yeah the first hour and a half of it was plenty to get a feelfor it. It was really pretty though! And I loved that you could see themountains all the way up.
Ha, never mind that when I was initially writing this, I lost my first draftof like, Jan-April and all those links and had to redo that. But it was funto go back through and see where this has gone. This past year has gone bySO fast, but I'm so glad you've been such a part of it
I think you're onto something there.
Can I also just point out that you have as many comments on this post ALONE as my Disqus account has posted comments EVERYWHERE?I am totally jealous of your comment love.
I may not comment all that often, but I do read every one of your posts. I especially love reading your most recent journey into becoming a yoga instructor. A time to reflect and learn more about yourself (and we benefit as a result!).
now that just sounds dirty.but yes, I'm extremely grateful for the awesome feedback I get here
Yours included!
Happy belated blogoversary! It's hard to believe that I have known you for more than a year. And my favorite memory of you is Vegas. The entire trip. And hopefully Huntsville/Nashville this December!
He most definitely meant to say adorable b/c you are! Totally! Happy blog b-day sweet cheeks!
Agreed! I love keeping tabs on the community here.
Thank you! Hope to see you in Chi this month
My favorite includes our awesome table at the BlogHer/Nintendo dinner
Looking forward to seeing you in a few weeks 
You should absolutely put that meetup together!
Thanks! I love having found you this year
We should probably do margaritas again sometime. Yes, we should certainly do that.
That WAS a cool memory. But not nearly as funny as making up a fake one about train schedule websites coming out of tequila shooters.
Well, I *am* a super genius.
Aww, phammers.
We've got a few to choose from, huh? Glad the firstimpression was at least a decent one, see you in a few weeks!
Well Disqus counts MINE too, so… I cheat.
Well, still, you should be pleased as a pig in a punchbowl about all the comment love…even if half of it is self-love. Heh.
It's hard to believe that I have known you for more than a year. And that you've had d.com for that long, too. I love it and you SO much.My favorite memory? Definitely Vegas. The entire trip. And hopefully Huntsville/Nashville in the near future!
What keeps me coming back? You are sincere, insightful, honest, open, amazing and an inspiration to me on a regular basis. Not to mention a great writer, funny and well, just the best. I also LOVE that you said "all that jazz," which is now making my head play the "All That Jazz," song from Chicago even though I've seen the movie once. (Like you care to know that, right!? =) )
Oh, and by the way – I've been through just about every stretch of road there IS in Wyoming. Bah.
Thanks, and yeah the first hour and a half of it was plenty to get a feelfor it. It was really pretty though! And I loved that you could see themountains all the way up.
Happy belated blogoversary! It's hard to believe that I have known you for more than a year. And my favorite memory of you is Vegas. The entire trip. And hopefully Huntsville/Nashville this December!
Happy blogoversary!!! I remember the first time you paid a visit to my little neck of the internets and I may or may not have let out a little squeal. I followed up by sending you a massively long email (but I'm not sure if you ever got it) expressing how happy I was that you stopped by and that you said such kind things.and that's why I love visiting your blog (I started reading back in June). you have such a kind and fascinating spirit. your positivity is what I believe actually powers your blog. your "can-do, will-do" attitude is so infectious!
The best memory was just meeting you.
oh man i can't believe it's been a year already but i'm so glad you've been here a year and that i got to meet you and hang out with you (more than once!). seriously heart you woman and your email this weekend made my day! can't wait to see you again, i vote another LA trip in your works, haha. ps. i'm hosting a pretty label wine party the first weekend of december in case you need more incentive to come
Happy blog birthday, kid!
Dude, all those links? Serious time commitment, haha. Nicely done.Favorite memory? Gah. Too many. Let's go with the text you just sent me, that's high up there.
It's hard to believe that I have known you for more than a year. And that you've had d.com for that long, too. I love it and you SO much.My favorite memory? Definitely Vegas. The entire trip. And hopefully Huntsville/Nashville in the near future!
Honestly, one of my favorite memories so far is spending time on the boat tour with you. I'm so looking forward to our small biz workshop in a couple weeks, though!
YAY! Happy blogging birthday my love! It's crazy how alike we are, and to think we both started blogging {using wordpress anyway} in October of last year! You are fantastic and I love reading your posts. xoxo
Ah, thank you! I'm totally in adoration of YOU as well! I'm so glad Ifound you
Happy blogoversary!!! I remember the first time you paid a visit to my little neck of the internets and I may or may not have let out a little squeal. I followed up by sending you a massively long email (but I'm not sure if you ever got it) expressing how happy I was that you stopped by and that you said such kind things.and that's why I love visiting your blog (I started reading back in June). you have such a kind and fascinating spirit. your positivity is what I believe actually powers your blog. your "can-do, will-do" attitude is so infectious!
It's only been a year!?I feel like you're a pro!
My favorite memory was when you emailed me about vegetarian stuff. Too fun!
oh man i can't believe it's been a year already but i'm so glad you've been here a year and that i got to meet you and hang out with you (more than once!). seriously heart you woman and your email this weekend made my day! can't wait to see you again, i vote another LA trip in your works, haha. ps. i'm hosting a pretty label wine party the first weekend of december in case you need more incentive to come
Honestly, one of my favorite memories so far is spending time on the boat tour with you. I'm so looking forward to our small biz workshop in a couple weeks, though!
YAY! Happy blogging birthday my love! It's crazy how alike we are, and to think we both started blogging {using wordpress anyway} in October of last year! You are fantastic and I love reading your posts. xoxo
Ah, thank you! I'm totally in adoration of YOU as well! I'm so glad I
found you
Dude, all those links? Serious time commitment, haha. Nicely done.Favorite memory? Gah. Too many. Let's go with the text you just sent me, that's high up there.
I knew if anyone would appreciate that it'd be you. Clearly indicative of one of the many levels of our friendship and I'm eternally grateful I can share such epiphanies with you.Xoxo for serious.–Doniree Walkerhttp://doniree.com | @donireevia iPhone
I'm in north central Jersey, which is actually pretty sweet because NYC, Philadelphia, and the beaches are each an hour away at most.
Thank you so much, honey! And I DO care to know what songs are in your head.
Agreed! On both counts – it was so, so great to meet you this summer. You're one of the first 20sb connections I ever made, thanks to a post you wrote about SEC football! ROLL TIDE, haha. I'll see you around the holidays, lady!
Agreed! Can't wait to see you in Chi!
I DEFINITELY don't remember getting an email (and I try to always respond, so this makes me sad!). I remember the first time I found your blog because it's GORGEOUS and I was like, "oooooh, pretty!" Email me again! Resend it or shoot me another note, I'd love to connect and be pen pals and all of that, ha. Thanks so much for YOUR kind words; it means so much
First weekend of December, huh? Keep me posted
Well, a year HERE. But yes, just a year! And that email exchange really helped me move into that kind of a lifestyle which I still love and still embrace
Thank you for EVERYTHING you've done to help me out this year.
It's only been a year!?I feel like you're a pro!
My favorite memory was when you emailed me about vegetarian stuff. Too fun!
I knew if anyone would appreciate that it'd be you. Clearly indicative
of one of the many levels of our friendship and I'm eternally grateful
I can share such epiphanies with you.
Xoxo for serious.
I'm in north central Jersey, which is actually pretty sweet because NYC, Philadelphia, and the beaches are each an hour away at most.
Agreed! On both counts – it was so, so great to meet you this summer. You're one of the first 20sb connections I ever made, thanks to a post you wrote about SEC football! ROLL TIDE, haha. I'll see you around the holidays, lady!
Agreed! Can't wait to see you in Chi!
I DEFINITELY don't remember getting an email (and I try to always respond, so this makes me sad!). I remember the first time I found your blog because it's GORGEOUS and I was like, "oooooh, pretty!" Email me again! Resend it or shoot me another note, I'd love to connect and be pen pals and all of that, ha. Thanks so much for YOUR kind words; it means so much
Well, a year HERE. But yes, just a year! And that email exchange really helped me move into that kind of a lifestyle which I still love and still embrace
Thank you for EVERYTHING you've done to help me out this year.
Thank you so much, honey! And I DO care to know what songs are in your head.
First weekend of December, huh? Keep me posted
haha… I love the one about March. It's true- once the snow melts no one stays inside anymore! Gotta love MN
haha… I love the one about March. It's true- once the snow melts no one stays inside anymore! Gotta love MN
I have not followed you for the entire year. I was a late comer to Twitter. And while I follow my friends' blogs (aka Michelle my bestie), I just recently started following yours.You live a very inspiring life. I do not know exactly how you do it, but you do and it's awesome!When I read your tweets every day (especially about your travels and your progress with yoga), I think how great it is to know someone so young and wise who is doing such great things. Reading your blog makes me want to blog sooooo badly. (But I just do not have the time right now to do it up right. Damn grad school, working, thesis, and applying to PhD programs puts a damper on living an exciting life or blogging about it. Hah.)I have also met some neat people in the Twitterverse because of you, which rooooocks! Hoping soon we can start actually interacting in "the real world." It would be so cool to come visit so I can take a yoga class you are teaching! I am definitely still in the early stages with my practice because I cannot dedicate the time I wish I could right now. I love "seeing" you progress especially because you have had similar experiences, limitations, etc. as me, so it gives me hope I can one day be more dedicated to the practice.Ok… done rambling…the point is… I don't really have a "memory" with you, but I hope to create memories in the next few years!!!!
Alex, your constant support and encouragement keep me so, so motivated tokeep sharing things. So often I wonder if I'm rambling or if anyone reallywants to know what I'm thinking in Half Pigeon pose, and then I follow youand hear from you and email with you and love knowing that something I'mdoing is making an impact somewhere.I totally admire your dedication to your PhD programs and graduate schooland all of that. That takes some serious hard work that takes a veryspecial kind of person to do! I'd LOVE to read of your trials and triumphsthrough grad school and judging by many of the bloggers I know IN gradschool, you'd have a lot of folks that could relate to you.But I understand the time thing, for sure. Either way, I'm 99% sure I'mgoing to spend some time in Huntsville over the holidays, so let's make it apoint to get together then and we can totally geek out with the Brightwellsand get you set up on a blog if you're interested
Oh, and best memory: You doing a BEAUTIFUL job of makeup and hair help atMichelle and Chris's wedding. 
I ALWAYS forget my own blogoversary! Happy one year to you! I am sending you a virtual cupcake with a sparkler on top
I have not followed you for the entire year. I was a late comer to Twitter. And while I follow my friends' blogs (aka Michelle my bestie), I just recently started following yours.You live a very inspiring life. I do not know exactly how you do it, but you do and it's awesome!When I read your tweets every day (especially about your travels and your progress with yoga), I think how great it is to know someone so young and wise who is doing such great things. Reading your blog makes me want to blog sooooo badly. (But I just do not have the time right now to do it up right. Damn grad school, working, thesis, and applying to PhD programs puts a damper on living an exciting life or blogging about it. Hah.)I have also met some neat people in the Twitterverse because of you, which rooooocks! Hoping soon we can start actually interacting in "the real world." It would be so cool to come visit so I can take a yoga class you are teaching! I am definitely still in the early stages with my practice because I cannot dedicate the time I wish I could right now. I love "seeing" you progress especially because you have had similar experiences, limitations, etc. as me, so it gives me hope I can one day be more dedicated to the practice.Ok… done rambling…the point is… I don't really have a "memory" with you, but I hope to create memories in the next few years!!!!
Alex, your constant support and encouragement keep me so, so motivated tokeep sharing things. So often I wonder if I'm rambling or if anyone reallywants to know what I'm thinking in Half Pigeon pose, and then I follow youand hear from you and email with you and love knowing that something I'mdoing is making an impact somewhere.I totally admire your dedication to your PhD programs and graduate schooland all of that. That takes some serious hard work that takes a veryspecial kind of person to do! I'd LOVE to read of your trials and triumphsthrough grad school and judging by many of the bloggers I know IN gradschool, you'd have a lot of folks that could relate to you.But I understand the time thing, for sure. Either way, I'm 99% sure I'mgoing to spend some time in Huntsville over the holidays, so let's make it apoint to get together then and we can totally geek out with the Brightwellsand get you set up on a blog if you're interested
Oh, and best memory: You doing a BEAUTIFUL job of makeup and hair help atMichelle and Chris's wedding. 
I love sparklers! Thank you!
I was just thinking that a fav memory of you was at Michelle's wedding! It was so fun getting ready with the girls!
I ALWAYS forget my own blogoversary! Happy one year to you! I am sending you a virtual cupcake with a sparkler on top
I love sparklers! Thank you!
I was just thinking that a fav memory of you was at Michelle's wedding! It was so fun getting ready with the girls!
Congrats! That's a lovely blogging story. I think many of us have similar blogging upbringings, if you will. Xanga, livejournal. When I mention these, I often worry that people won't know what I'm talking about because I've been blogging for so long. Keep up the good writing!
Congrats! That's a lovely blogging story. I think many of us have similar blogging upbringings, if you will. Xanga, livejournal. When I mention these, I often worry that people won't know what I'm talking about because I've been blogging for so long. Keep up the good writing!
You know what? I think it's going to happen for you… You're a good person, and good things happen to good people. At least I like to believe that they do.
You know what? I think it's going to happen for you… You're a good person, and good things happen to good people. At least I like to believe that they do.
Congrats on your one year anniversary! I can't believe I've been reading your blog for such a long time. Where is the time going? It's going by wayyyy too quick. I'm so glad you signed up for the Scarf Swap last fall — and that we were randomly assigned as partners! I remember how I showed my boy your picture and he thought we looked alike … and then the pictures of both of our cats loving the packages we sent off. You picked out the perfect scarf for me. The pattern is SO me! I adore it. I remember when I got your contact info I didn't know how I should address the package … to Lily? or Doniree? Or Doni? I figured it out.
Oh, and the swap you hosted! The mix tape swap! Dang, I've been such a bad blogger. I never blogged about that. But the swap was really cool and such a great idea! I really liked the mix CD I got! It's been so neat to read about what's been going on in your life … you seem so happy and in such a good place now. I'm happy for you! Well, congrats again! Hope to meet you one day in "real life." 
Congrats on your one year anniversary! I can't believe I've been reading your blog for such a long time. Where is the time going? It's going by wayyyy too quick. I'm so glad you signed up for the Scarf Swap last fall — and that we were randomly assigned as partners! I remember how I showed my boy your picture and he thought we looked alike … and then the pictures of both of our cats loving the packages we sent off. You picked out the perfect scarf for me. The pattern is SO me! I adore it. I remember when I got your contact info I didn't know how I should address the package … to Lily? or Doniree? Or Doni? I figured it out.
Oh, and the swap you hosted! The mix tape swap! Dang, I've been such a bad blogger. I never blogged about that. But the swap was really cool and such a great idea! I really liked the mix CD I got! It's been so neat to read about what's been going on in your life … you seem so happy and in such a good place now. I'm happy for you! Well, congrats again! Hope to meet you one day in "real life." 
Congrats on your one year anniversary! I can't believe I've been reading your blog for such a long time. Where is the time going? It's going by wayyyy too quick. I'm so glad you signed up for the Scarf Swap last fall — and that we were randomly assigned as partners! I remember how I showed my boy your picture and he thought we looked alike … and then the pictures of both of our cats loving the packages we sent off. You picked out the perfect scarf for me. The pattern is SO me! I adore it. I remember when I got your contact info I didn't know how I should address the package … to Lily? or Doniree? Or Doni? I figured it out.
Oh, and the swap you hosted! The mix tape swap! Dang, I've been such a bad blogger. I never blogged about that. But the swap was really cool and such a great idea! I really liked the mix CD I got! It's been so neat to read about what's been going on in your life … you seem so happy and in such a good place now. I'm happy for you! Well, congrats again! Hope to meet you one day in "real life." 
Congrats on your one year anniversary! I can't believe I've been reading your blog for such a long time. Where is the time going? It's going by wayyyy too quick. I'm so glad you signed up for the Scarf Swap last fall — and that we were randomly assigned as partners! I remember how I showed my boy your picture and he thought we looked alike … and then the pictures of both of our cats loving the packages we sent off. You picked out the perfect scarf for me. The pattern is SO me! I adore it. I remember when I got your contact info I didn't know how I should address the package … to Lily? or Doniree? Or Doni? I figured it out.
Oh, and the swap you hosted! The mix tape swap! Dang, I've been such a bad blogger. I never blogged about that. But the swap was really cool and such a great idea! I really liked the mix CD I got! It's been so neat to read about what's been going on in your life … you seem so happy and in such a good place now. I'm happy for you! Well, congrats again! Hope to meet you one day in "real life." 
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