I’ve always loved to give. One spring, when I was probably around age 11, I received a gift of money in a card from relatives. I had a friend whose older sister found out the news that most every teenage girl wants to hear… she made it on the cheerleading squad. I just HAD to use my new found cash to buy her a gift as my way of congratulating her.

I coerced my sweet grandmother to drive me to the store where I purchased some cute purple shorts and a rosebush. (Yes, I said a rosebush.) What in the world would a 14-year-old cheerleader do with a rosebush? I have no idea! Furthermore, why would my grandmother allow me to buy a 14-year-old cheerleader a rosebush? Well, when I make up my mind to do something… I’m pretty persistent.

Anyway, I tell you that story to demonstrate how I have always LOVED to give. As an adult, one of my ways of giving is through throwing dinner parties and entertaining guests. As a result of the chaotic, maddening world we live in, hospitality seems to be dying. No one has time to plan parties and cook. We work, raise children, and are very, very tired. I’m doing my part to keep fun, food, family, and friends together. (I sometimes make them dress up from different time periods, and then I put their pictures on social media for the world to see. You can imagine how much they love me for it.)

Because I love to give, this has been a fantastic week. I was able to have a giveaway on the blog and after the response I’ve received, I hope it will be the first of many.  I’m so excited to have the opportunity to connect with many of you whom I wouldn’t have had occasion to learn about without the giveaway. (You are probably all thinking, “Blah, blah, blah, get to it! Who won?” Hey, it’s my blog, and I will milk this if I want to.)

Just one more thing… I promise.

The beautiful sparkly green earrings were handmade and donated by a local jewelry designer here in Pittsburgh. I’m giving you the link to her Facebook page. You should check out her page, and if you didn’t win, maybe order yourself a pair of sparkly green earrings. (Easter is coming. C’mon you know you want some new sparkly green earrings for Easter.)  Her name is Christine, and her business is appropriately entitled Beads to Art.

I’m also certain that author Melanie Shankle would love for you to purchase a copy of her book, Sparkly Green Earrings. It is SO worth it! I love seeing a young Christian woman gain success. Let’s support her!

Now, without further ado…

THE WINNER IS (drum roll please)… ANGIE!!!!

Angie,

Please email me at Jen@agirlonthedoorstep.com with your address, and I will ship your book and bling on Monday. Congratulations!!!!

Thanks to all who participated. May God richly bless you!

Talk to you tomorrow!