Oh my goodness gracious welcome, come on in and get comfy! These are the new digs and I’m delighted you’re here. I’ve got presents! Kick off your shoes, I can’t wait to show you around. If you’re reading in an email you may want to click over. Worth it, oh yes!
It’s been the most fun moving around the furniture, painting the walls, adding new decor and getting the comfiest furniture we could find and coffee tables perfect for putting feet up on. Make your lovely selves at home.
It’d been three years since this place had any deep cleaning and whew, it felt like it was about time.
I’ll always be the same ol’ gypsy mama, but I figured it might be nice to be on a first name basis by now. And well, Lisa-Jo’s my name and I like it when people use it.
I finally branched out with a navigation bar for the things I love – books, Five Minute Friday, speaking {yea, I’m sorta doing some of that now and again} and how to get in touch {please do!} And one of my favorite features are the thumbnails at the tippy top of my sidebar – they’re the posts you all have enjoyed and shared the most each month. So basically, you all get to choose which posts are featured over there. Fun, eh?
And oh my lands you guys, the fella who helped me with it all should be sainted for his patience! Sainted, knighted, dubbed King of designers – either way Ted from Contemplate Design listened to every, single one of my naggy insightful suggestions and simply replied “sure” or “done” every, single time. And I had many, many obsessive helpful tweaks that he just kept checking off the long, long thorough list.
Let’s just say that working with Ted taught this social media manager a thing or two about the psychology of design and how best to spend your reader’s attention span. Seriously, it was like blog therapy talking to him. Inspiring, fascinating, and motivating.
And don’t even get me started on his wife, Annie, who painted the I-could-die-it’s-so-adorable header picture of my tribe of kids and their Beagle. She’s part of the Contemplate Design team and {don’t tell Ted} but maybe my favorite part! We would totally be in the same book club if we were neighbors. Or sneak off to chick flick nights at the movies. Or just sit outside and talk changing the world one blog post at a time for hours.
So feel free to poke around, go upstairs, peek in closets. But then come on back downstairs because I’ve brought you house-warming gifts!
Yup, one lovely gal will get this quartet of my favorite favorites {and everyone else can use my special discount codes!}:
- The hot off the sewing machine Gussy Sews wallet. I had my prior one years and years and now she has a new line and le’sigh, so much pretty! {GYPSYLOVE for 15% off, valid through June 30th}.
- The Lisa Leonard tiny twig necklace that has been my most worn piece of jewelry since I got it last September. Unique, original, feminine it makes my neck feel pretty. {summer20 for 20% off through June 30th.}
- A Krafty Kash vintage dictionary “mother” necklace that {swoon} I got right after mother’s day this year after stalking her store for months because I couldn’t choose from all the amazing stuff! {MOTHER for 15% off, valid through June 30th}.
- A Krafty Kash vintage dictionary ring with the word of your choice on it. Mine says “Pilgrim” with a hat tip to my gypsy roots. {MOTHER for 15% off, valid through June 30th}.
Oh you guys, this stuff is soo lovely! That’s me wearing them in all the pics above. And while my friends are too generous and gave me these pretties, I would {and happily have} spent my own cash in their amazing stores!
And because I love to give presents I’ve also got TEN welcome mats for TEN of you from the incomparable DaySpring! As well as a discount code you can use to get one for yourself more than half off! Just use LJBMAT at check out to snag ’em for $9.99 {regular price $24.99!}
That’s a lot of awesome right there. Because really, you all are! And if I can’t bake buy and serve you something scrumptious in person, the least I could do is wrap up some of my favorite things and send them to you with my deepest appreciation for being my people these last three years.
You are my people. And I don’t take it for granted.
“Is any pleasure on earth as great as a circle of Christian friends by a good fire?”
~C.S. Lewis
So I think what that means is s’mores for everyone! And while you’re munching – use the form below to enter to win some of this blog-warming goodness.
Then please come back tomorrow. And the day after. And, you get the idea.
Much love,
Lisa-Jo
I was a little worried when I saw your Tweet about a whole new blog, but this is beautiful and well done. It’s not really a new blog, more like a more sophisticated, professional version of the old one. Congratulations on your new place! :)
Yay and yes- that’s exactly what I was going for.
Looking good, my friend. The design is perfect. Your heart; just as lovely as ever.
Janelle
Hi! I’m Lydia. Wife of 4 years. Mother of 4 month old. And I Love. Your. Blog.
The new design looks great! :)
Howdy Lydia :) C’mon in and pull up a chair!
Love, LOVE your new site! It is beautiful and oh so comfy. Favorite part is definitely the illustration of your kiddos and puppy :)
Mine too :)
This looks amazing! Can I hang out here all day please? :) Thank you so much for everything. Have a fabulous day!!
I love the new blog! The design is refreshing!
I love you — blowing kisses all our way! :)
And this?
Is just — pretty amazing!
{like you!}
Thank you for giving me the big sisterly nudge toward the makeover. I’m ever so glad I did :)
Sister — I am so grateful to *you* and the kind introduction to Mr. and Mrs Ted and Annie… So grateful for the body of Christ and us all family together! Thank you for inviting us all into this loveliest, realest of places!
LOVE this place :) It seems more ‘homey’ now :)
Lisa-Jo, in love with your new site!! Everything clean and crisp, and the best part is you wanting us all to be part of your blog world ~ Spreading love and cheering us on. Loving your pics here too. The orange colour just pops! love and blessings
Thank you Patricia. I love that you love it :)
Hey Lisa-Jo! I don’t believe I have ever commented but thought I would do so now. I love your Five Minute Fridays, and your encouraging heart. Thanks for being so positive. Love your new look here! Very fun and inviting. Thanks for the great give away, as well.
Howdy Kit, thanks for saying hi – you’re super welcome and I hope you stay a long while. I have cookies in the oven…
Thank you so much Lisa-Jo! Great gifts. I love your page…Kudos to Ted from Contemplate Design.Praying God will use you from your to share from your heart to others.
I love the new blog! The colors are so reader friendly, and the painting at the top is adorable! I hope you don’t mind if I stay and visit for awhile! :) BTW, to introduce myself, I am a mom of 3 trying to stay cool and keep kids busy in HOT Arizona… :)
Hey there Laura – stay as long as you like – your kids could hang out with mine. Let’s let ’em all run wild in the back yard with the dog :)
Lisa-Jo!!! I love it! It looks amazing here – a perfect match for you, cause I think you are amazing too :) And the painting of your gang in the header? So stinkin’ cute!!!
Oh Lisa-Jo! It’s LOVELY here!! Congratulations on the new digs! I’m got a little case of envy now (that godly kind) but am so excited for you in this place! May He anoint it, that many will be blessed and see Him at work here!! <3
Amen to that, Marina. And you know something? It took me three years to finally get around to a redesign, so timing is really everything after all, isn’t it?
love the new site, lisa-jo! :)
I really liked the old blog, but I LOVE the new digs! I’m a mom, writer, and homeschooler…
Nice digs! And I LOVE the artwork by Annie!
I’ve linked up with Five Minute Fridays, but not sure I’ve ever commented before. I’m a 20-something married-without-kids who loves your style and sense of humor! And I blog pretty regularly over at http://www.DogFurandDandelions.com.
Guess I should go update my link to your site! :)
Annie is a rock star!! And thanks for saying hi and joining us for Five Minute Fridays. Love meeting the writers behind the link ups!
Oh, Lisa-Jo! It’s so very light, airy, fun, whimsical, and welcoming! But of course it is, because you are all those good things, too.
I know women are gonna want rest a good while here with you. I know I do!
Oooo that may be one of my favorite descriptions – thanks Kristen!
Love the new blog!!
Love the makeover!!! Isnt is an awesome feeling when you have completed something so lovely! Cant wait to check in each day!
My mother in law directed me to a family friend after I had my first child…. we started talking on Facebook and found that we were kindred spirits…. She pointed me to your blog and though I only silently stalk you usually… I feel like another kindred spirit has been unearthed!!!! blog looks great and thanks for all your posts!!!!
Oh that makes me happy knowing there are new mamas out there who can just pop in for some encouragement and not feel pressured to comment. You’re so welcome. Wish I could wash your dishes or fold some of your laundry today as a thank you.
I LOVE the new look of your blog–so cheery and welcoming! =) What a generous giveaway too…would love to win any of the items you mentioned!
Thanks for making me feel welcomed and loved at your new place. =)
Love your new digs! The artwork in your header is absolutely adorable! And what great giveaways!
Beautiful, and the header IS lovely!! Congrats on your new home.
You have a lovely place here Lisa-Jo. Thanks for inviting us to share it with you.
Congratulations on your new “home” :)
I like the labels at the bottom and the top …several books in your “you should read” that I want to read now!
Absolutely am in love with your new blog! Totally going to keep there name in mind when I refresh mine :)
Lisa-Jo…the place looks great! Clean and simple lines…just gorgeous to look at.
site-Beautiful! Blessings and congratulations. I just noticed that your old site bounces here, so all the times I’ve linked on FMF won’t get lost, but of course you’d thought of that.
Thanks for all the continued inspiration.
Peace and good.
Hey Chelle – nope, all those Five Minute Friday links will stay happily, merrily in tact thanks to Ted and his genius. :)
Oh, it’s just beautiful. Like walking into a new house and smelling all the new wood and paint. Love the painting of your kids, it’s gorgeous.
Ooohh, how I love the smell of new paint!
Ditto!
Lisa-Jo,
I just love the new site! It’s as beautiful as you are! And what treasured things you are giving away! My question though…can you enter in the comments? I do not have FB or Pintrest.
Hey Lisa,
yes that’s fine. Just leave a comment letting me know how you’ve shared and you’ll be entered.
Lisa-Jo! Oh my word this is pure loveliness. I can’t imagine anything that you could have done differently. And that header? I die. It’s too sweet for words! Congratulations on your new space, sweet lady. I truly enjoyed your old ‘home,’ where I found more strength than I can even tell you; but this is beautiful. I pray that the Lord continues to bless you and use you to bless the hearts of women.
I’ve been following you on Twitter & Facebook for a few months now and have to say, I’m over the moon to join your blog. It really is comfy here. Congrats on your new virtual digs.
Oh thank you and welcome and make yourself at home – cherry pie in the oven :)
LOVE IT! Been following your blog silently for over a year now. I am always encouraged…this motherhood thing blows be out of the water some days and it is nice to have someone so real to read and relate! I am mommy to two beautiful children under the age of six, one of which is high functioning autistic…the repeation in our home is off the charts! :) I need a place to relax, take the flip flops off, hang up the warrior mom apparrel, and just be me for a bit…thank you for providing this place…it is beautiful.
This is so lovely!!! Thank you for sharing it with us.
Looks fantastic! LOVE the drawing of your kids! Too cute!
LOVE the new site! Just beautiful!
I love your new space. It’s so warm and inviting. Great job!
Love your new design! I just recently changed my website and am loving mine also.
I think you got it just right.
Loving the new site! I’m contemplating some major changes around my place as well…. Anyway, I’m a wife and mama to three boys under 4. I love inspiring moms to do their best and I LOVE sharing salvation stories!
Love the new layout and design, Lisa-Jo! The painting of your kids is super sweet. Is that by any chance a tree from your homeland?
Simply put, this place is lovely :) Looking forward to spending more time here again.
YES!!!! Yay for Bekka! It’s an acacia tree – part of the silhouette of the South African landscape. Great catch! I’m so happy someone noticed!
wow, what a lovely new place you have here! i am so excited with how amazing it looks! congratulations, lovely lady, and i cannot wait to see what God does through you in your new space.
So pretty! I love it and I love that you get so much joy from sharing.
So perfectly you. Love. Love. Love.
“Lord, I pray for this sacred space. I ask you to dwell here. And as women gather from near and far, that they will see you, find grace for the moment and become sweet friends. Always.”
You are a gift to all us women, you know that, right?
It’s Beautiful, Lisa-Jo! So fresh and the header at the top, from your sweet blog designer’s wife: WOW- so sweet! I am grateful for you here…and of course hope to win something! However I just made a pinterest account and don’t know how to pin, yet! lol. But entered what I could! In His Grace, Dawn
Well…you know me! But I am happy to be HERE with you in your new digs. They are fabulous. I can’t wait to go poking around. I just a little nosey like that… ;-)
I love following your blog. I am mom to my four and wife to my hubby for 11 years this Friday. Until recently I have been a full time out of the house working mom, but I am enjoying the adventures of being a full time in the home (well, home as much as running 4 younguns around allows!) working mom -cause let’s face it all moms are working full time! :)
I love the sweet painting of your crew- what a great way to remember this chapter of your life!
Love the new look of your blog! Congratulations and thanks for the opportunity to win some cool prized!! Mahalo!
Loving your new site! I’m a fellow mom of 3, semi-blogger, and South Africa lover. Your blog is super encouraging on those days when I just want a good book and a glass of wine. : )
It looks great, Lisa-Jo! What a lovely, warm, fun, and welcoming place.
Love the new place! The picture that Annie drew is PERFECT!
Isn’t it though? Annie is amazing!
Love the new look: it’s refreshing, and fun!
And you should know I really did like the old design:)
What a great way to start the week – adding a little bit of sunshine to my rainy Seattle morning.
I love your writing! I am one of your people and excited to see your new changes :)
I look forward to the Five Minute Friday every week!
Always loved your writing, your comfy couch, and your photo album. Now, I love it even more. Thanks for the invitation to join you in your life journey. It is a privilege!
P.S. I covet your prayers…I am moving my blog, too, and I.am.excited.and.scared!
You can do it – blog moving is much, much more fun than house moving. #Promise
Love the new diggs!!
the blog looks great! thanks or doing such a lovely giveaway! :)
Lisa-Jo, love your new place . . . and so glad you’ve only changed the look, not the content! I so enjoy your writing and especially Five Minute Friday, where I’m meeting some wonderful women. See you around! And blessings on your new home.
Love the new site! Thanks for all the encouragement and inspiration. Looking forward to lots more good stuff! :)
Love the new set up, Lisa-Jo. It’s fun. It’s welcoming. And stinkin’ classy.
Oh and I have to credit Kelli a couple comments above for “introducing” me to you almost a year ago… I L-O-V-E Five Minute Friday (and so do my followers.) Plus I enjoy reading about all of your other adventures! Thanks for your creative and faithful heart for Jesus :-)
This is FANTASTIC!! I love it :) And you kept “the good stuff” nice and handy!
yes, yes, yes! this is YOU! :-) smiles all the way. delightful. warm and friendly. lovely place.
you done good, girl!
steph
I would be here regardless of how the blog looks because I love your writing and it brings me closer to Jesus and encourages me on some long days of being a stay-at-home mom… but I do have to say that this new look is beautiful… great job! I hope your day is filled with blessings!!
Hi, I’m Pamela. Wife to one, mama of four.
Lovely redesign, and what a wonderful giveaway!
Thank you!
LOVE YOU!!! LOVE THIS!!! *mpwah* This space is CRAZY beautiful. BEAUTIFUL!! (just like you and your increadible heart!!
The new blog design is beyond lovely! Looking so forward to meandering around. Blessings to you on this exciting day.
Beautiful blog home Lisa-Jo! Love what you’ve done with the place. :) I’ve kind of been on a blog hiatus lately.
Very light and bright and airy! But I do miss the mysterious, tribal feel the other bannr pic had going for it. I’ve been loving your blog since I discovered you a couple of months ago and I appreciate the nod you sent my way in one of your posts (grandma taking a year off to raise my granddaughter after my daughters death). I always find something to smile about when I read your posts!
I adore your blog! I just recently started reading your blog and I just love it. You have the ability to make me feel like you are speaking directly to me. I LOVE your ebook for The Cheerleader for Tired Moms. Thank you so much!!!
Hi Crystal – I love hearing from women who’ve read the eBook. It makes me so happy to know it’s out there encouraging women – it’s the next best thing to being able to send over actual brownies :)
so so cozy. love it! congrats!
I admit I was a little worried when you mentioned doing a remodel, but I should have known I would love it!! A fabulous job well done!
Oh yay, so glad you like it.
Love your new look! I enjoy dropping in and lurking about, maybe I’ll comment more often now.
Howdy Bernadine, comment as little or as much as you like. Just make yourself at home.
I love the new look!
Love the new look!
Very nice (new) look.
You are an inspiration Lisa-Jo.
Lisa-Jo! This. Is. Amazing! The perfect depiction of your personality (well, at least what I know from the Internet
Love x a million!
I love your little home here. It really feels like I’m walking into your living room and sitting down with ya! Well done.
And my favo(U)rite color is orange so I especially love all the splashes of that around here.
Congrats on a beautiful new space!
Thanks Tam! If *only* you were actually here having tea in my living room. Now wouldn’t that be swell? Baby toys and legos aside….
that would be glorious! one day, girl…one day!
Love the new look. Love the blog. I’m a newlywed wife. Our 1-year anniversary is in…let’s see…two weeks and 2 days. Wowza! Can’t wait to celebrate the best day of my life again!
Lisa-Jo – this is wonderful! I love the new look, thank you so much for introducing me to so many great new people & all in one post. Impressive. I am always thankful for your authenticity and your heart to be a Christ like mom & wife. Have a blessed first week on the new site!
lovely and restful. like a big shady oak on a hot summer day. :)
Love your new home!! It’s bright and cheery just like you!
I stop by each day to see what you’re up to. I don’t have children, but I learn a lot from you and how you view your little ones. I have a few new mommas in my life that I’ve turned on to your site. I think if I was a mom you would be great at helping me not take myself too seriously. You are able to pick out what’s important and let the rest fall to the side … I like that. Thanks for inviting me in.
It’s a lesson I’m constantly relearning – what to just let go. But the more kids that join the party, the more fluff drops by the wayside it seems. Thank you for joining me here and bringing your friends along. Pie for everyone!
LOVE the whimsical drawing of your kiddos! I especially admire it because art was not one of the gifts HE gave me….but I can make a mean pan of brownies! :-) I look forward to continuing to enjoy this comfy place!
I got zero art skills too. It was all Annie all the way. {Thank goodness}
This is a beautiful site! Truly well done! Love it!
love your blog Lisa Jo. thank you for being so honest about motherhood. i’m a mom of 2 in Canada. :)
Hi! Love the new blog. My name is Sarah. I am a mother of 5 (9, 7, 5, 4, & 2 yrs) with another baby on the way due in Dec. I homeschool my older 2. I love to read, scrapbook, blog and hang with my Bible Study gals in my “spare time”.
“spare time” ….{insert hysterical laughter here} #MomsAreHeroes!
Your new home is breathtaking and I’m so thankful to be invited here. You are an inspiration to me :) Amazing job Ted & Annie, just amazing!!
Aren’t they the best????
Yes! I’m so thankful I met Annie, in the unlikliest way…us both on Twitter trying to find a last-minute roomate for Relevant, both of us acquiring tickets just two weeks before…and what a lovely time we had there rooming together, experiencing the wonder of Relevant (now Allume)… a providential connection I’m so very thankful for!
Thanks, you sweet sisters! Can’t wait to see you again this year, Jacque!
I love the new look, adore you and I’m always thankful that you share your words with all of us. I feel a little “kindred spirit-ed” with you all too often. You’re a great encouragement!
Kindred-spirit-ed for sure! If only we were all hanging out in person today, eh?
Thank you for the 5-minute Fridays. With a 2-year old and 8 mo old, it’s the only 5 min. I get to myself. Thank you.
Hey Lisa-Jo! The site looks great! Thanks for the giveaway! I always enjoy your positive outlook and encouraging words.
It. Is. ADORABLE!!! What a fantastic new site!!!
Your new home looks wonderful! Thanks for sharing. :)
Ooooh! I absolutely love it!
Nice! Looking good, sister!
Thanks girl.
I love it! The header was the first thing I “awwwed” over! Great job Lisa-Jo!!
Lisa Jo I love the new look!!! I want to hang out for such a long time on your site!!! So excited for you! WEll, you know me . . . the gal with the big grin at Relevant . . . so excited you sat at our table. Thanks for always being real!
Hi Lisa-Jo! I just LOVE your blog – it is always a breath of fresh air to read your posts. I find myself saying “yes, she totally gets me” with every single post. I’m a mom of two toddlers, one 3 year old (soon to be FOUR!) pretty-in-pink-all-about-princesses daughter and one 2 year old all-things-dirt-and-adventure-and-wild son with another little monkey of a boy on the way. I love this life I’m blessed with, but I’d be lying if I said it was all sunshine and roses every day. Because some days, being a mom is just plain hard, no matter how much I remind myself it’s worth it and no matter how much I love these little ones. Thank you for your honesty and for sharing the real life ups and downs of being a mom.
Yes ma’am – hard is often an understatement, isn’t it? Being a mom is the hardest gig I’ve had by far and still I wouldn’t trade it but I sure love when other mamas are able to relate and cheer me on. We’re on in this crazy together – all the way!
Lisa-Jo, I love your new space! I love that you encourage this momma to write and that you love chocolate! Thanks for sharing your words with us!
I love it! Especially the whimsical drawing of your kids. What an encouraging place this is!
You new website is looking good! I love the artwork of your kiddos.
Thank you for being the encouragement you are. My husband enjoys reading your posts :)
LOVE ~ LOVE ~ LOVE your new website! Thank you for the giveaway and also for all the wonderful encouragement you have already given me. God bless you!
oh.my.gosh! what fun!!!! i love your little tribe around the acacia tree!! perfection :) and the rest of it all feels like home :)
ok. now i’m going to peek in the closets :)
I LOVE that folks can still tell it’s an acacia! And these closets are much neater than my real ones, whew. :)
Lisa-Jo!! I love it :) Very happy and light with a dash of whimsy, just the way I like life to feel, ha! Happy Housewarming Day!
I don’t care for change but I LOVE the new look! Way to go, Lisa-Jo!
Lisa-Jo, you have been an inspiration to a lot of moms. Well, I’m a grandmom & you’ve certainly been a light for me. I’ve forwarded (your) emails to friends with “you’ve GOT to read GypsyMama”. Your new place (tell Ted) is so YOU. “This world is not my home”, but good, Christ-like ladies like you, Lisa-Jo, make it special while I’m here. God bless you, & bless you some more. = )
Wow! Your new page is super cute! I love the art at the top with your kids…you should totally get that framed. I heard about your website from your podcast on the Simple Mom!
Guest posted for (in)courage, then started twitter stalking you, then did my first 5 Minute Friday last week…and now I am following your blog. :) What a great new site, fabulous giveaway and I love how you connect with your readers!! Happy Day to you!
I love stalkers :)
It’s fabulous Lisa Jo! Like coming home. <3 <3 <3
Ahhh Lisa-Jo, I’m LOVING it!!!! I loved it before, and everything I’ve seen so far is looking AWESOME!!!! Thank you for the ways you share your heart, and encourage other mamas! xoxo
I’m Sarah-Anne, married 8 years, with two little rascals: Sebastien (4) and Simon (2). You encourage me to lean into Jesus. Thank you. <3
love, Love, LOVE the new look! The painting is GREAT!
Love this! You’re new “home” is so inviting. I’d like to take my shoes off and stay a spell. :)
Hi there! Fairly new reader, loving your blog! 36 y.o. single mom of a 5 yr old boy living in Illinois. I look forward to reading much more!
Love the website! Glad to be a new follower!
love the new re-design! so fresh and clean looking :)
Oh My Gosh!!! Lisa Jo I love the makeover! Esp. the drawing of your tribe and puppy, it’s lovely.
It’s lovely here :)
Thanks for the chance to win these wonderful gifts. I must get my hands on the mother necklace!
Great new design!! And what a fabulous giveaway! Thanks for the chance to win it! :)
Home is where the heart is and yours is always here…but freshened up. Sweet, friend!
Love the new look! I so enjoy reading your blog. You are real and refreshing. I feel like we could be friends sharing a cup of tea when I read. Thank you for your ministry!
Love the new digs! :)
Yay! This is gorgeous!!
Love the new layout & as always, I love, love your blogs!! You’re such an amazing woman!! :)
LJ- it’s as close to perfect as you can get on this side of heaven…
Even wonderbar on an iPhone!
So excited to be an observer of where This will lead… Other than deeper into His path of steadfast love!
Love the new site, Also loved the old site!! Thanks for welcoming me into your life, I love dropping by and feel like I’m visiting an old friend. I love how honest you are, especially when I feel like I have a dirty house and realize your’s looks the same!!!
LOVE the new look!!! too cute!!! can’t wait to check out even more!!!
-malory
espressoyour-self.com
Love, love, love, love, LOVE!! The orange is beautiful and that painting of your kiddos is wonderous. It just feels good.
Love love love the new place!! It’s gorgeous. I think my favorite part is also the picture at the top of your kiddos – so fun! Just so you know, your footer falls off my screen a bit — just the “peasy” part. :) Also, thanks for the coupon codes! I think I’ll have to get a welcome mat for my friend who just moved – perfect housewarming gift! :)
Thanks for the tip, Amanda.
Hi Amanda. What browser and screen resolution do you have? Thanks
LOVE the new site!!! So inviting! So excited for you! Those are some amazing gifts, too! You so rock!!!
It’s beautiful, Lisa Jo! Good work!
Not to put a damper on things . . . really it’s not my intention . . . just saying what I miss . . . there’s not a visual trace of Africa on here. I miss it. Just sayin’ . . . and I don’t have much room to talk cuz there’s no visual trace of Africa on mine, but since it was on the old site I kinda miss it. Sigh.
I LOVE the water color! I’m grateful for the book section–and can’t wait to start recommending it.
I hear you Sheryl – but girl, that tree up there that my kids are hanging onto – that’s our South African acacia tree. They’re all Africa all the way. :)
So I am loving the new look to your blog…:) I love joining your five minute friday’s and reading about your adventures as a mom! You are a wonderful encouragement to me! Thanks for sharing your faith
I love the new look. The picture of the kids & tree & dog is great.
SO lovely, L-J. Love it all…but I gotta say, I’ll miss the bright orange and the elephants. :>) You know we lived in Zambia for 2 years, traveled to South Africa, what was then Rhodesia and Kenya and NEVER saw an elephant? Sigh. However, I will very happily take the adorable drawing of your kids in their stead. And holey, moley woman! LOOK at this lineup of comments! Couldn’t happen to a nicer, more generous person.
I hear you – it was hard wishing that old design good-bye. But I saved the acacia tree :) Couldn’t be home without one.
I want you to know that your writing touches my heart so very often and I LOVE to share you whenever I can. The new blog page is beautiful and I am now daydreaming about a painting of my three little people:) 7 (boy), 5 (boy) and 2 1/2 (girl).
I know, right!
Your blog is very encouraging. Thank you!!
Nice new look! :)
I’m Paula, long time “lurker” of your blog. I’m 22, a wife (of 3 years) and a mama (of a year and a half) I have one rowdy little boy and a baby girl due next month.
Hi there Paula – beware, that little girl is going to twirl your heart up into the most delicious knots :)
I’m Debbie :) from Africa’s blog – fellow SA expat here, living in MN!!
LOVE your new blog!!
Congratulations on your beautiful new home! I usually read through e-mail, but I popped in today to check everything out. I started reading your blog right after I had my second son in January when I was confined to the recliner for hours on end. I heard of you through Babycenter and your post on ways to encourage new moms, and once I read that list, I pinned it, subscribed to your blog, and instantly became hooked! What an encouragement you have been! The e-mails always seem to come at just the right moments- right when I need a hug. Thanks, Lisa-Jo!!
Hi there Megan – congrats on the baby and I’m so glad I can hug you via email. Could you send me some brownies the same way ;)
Hi! The new blog looks great . . . and I just wanted to say thanks to you personally for everything you did to make {in} RL happen this year. I loved meeting gals from the area, and we have met once since, and are planning to make it a semi-regular thing. Blessings!
Shelly, it means more than you can know that (in)RL connected with you. It’s so dear to my heart and we’re already planning for (in)RL 2013!
Love your new look! I adore your blog and get so excited when my inbox holds a new post!
my far off NoVA buddy. seems like (in)RL was so long ago … and then just days ago. thanks for letting me pull up a chair in the new digs. I like em. and thanks for letting our email subscriptions still work, so you tuck into my in box every day. Love seeing you there.
Have a great day, my friend!
– Jen
Oh, Lisa-Jo, it’s scrumptious. My favorite part is the incorporation of watercolor art to soften all the necessary computery stuff. Really like the Africanish tree the kids are under. :) Also that you’ve inserted the mommy cheerleader image in for those who don’t have an avatar. You’re such a thoughtful host! :)
it is lovely Lisa-Jo – a perfect fit. I’m looking forward to lots and lots of good conversation!
Amazing, Lisa-Jo! Thanks for being so wonderful!!!
Yippee! Congrats on your new home. :)
Love your new site! And what great giveaways and great products! Thanks so much for always sharing your heart and being such an encouragement to me.
Oh, it’s so very, very beautiful! Love it. Inspiring as I’m in the midst of rethinking my own site design. ;)
Oh how I love moving furniture! Love the new decor!
Aaw, thanks for the personal invitation in my e-mail; now this is e-mail worth clicking onto today. How fun to have a whole new look–congratulations!
The blog looks great Lisa Jo. I know it’s so refreshing to get a new look – I have a friend redoing mine a tad too! :) And the giveaways? Fab. :)
I’m working on a new design for my blog and your new beautiful space has inspired me even more! You’ve captured your heart in graphics- thanks for making an already wonderful space a space that the weary mama can slip her shoes off in and sip a cup of tea.
Hey Lisa Jo…I love…love the new look…even though I really don’t know you…I feel like I get a glimpse into your heart as I read here…this new look seems to fit what i imagine you…your “style”…you home to be…always a blessing to be here…especially 5 minute…love it.
I love, love, love the new look! The drawing of your children is fabulous!
Adore the new look!
I love your new ‘do’ for your blog! It’s beautiful and so are you! Thank you so much for doing this! God Bless!
This is fabulous. Nicely done. And I appreciate how you write, with warmth, vulnerability and soothing words. I always love to visit your blog.
Hi there! I’m a relatively new blog follower, about a couple months now. Found you from another blog and have been hooked! Love reading and being inspired by your blog!
I subscribed to your blog a while back. It’s the only one that goes to my “real” e-mail address. (Ya know, the one that isn’t just all spam.) I really enjoy how your put your heart and real self out in each post you do. I’ve been blessed by so many of the posts you’ve written. Thank you!
I’m Andrea…I was a new follower of the Gypsy Mama, and I like your new site. I appreciate your encouragement for mothering, and I stumbled upon your blog at just the right time. “Providence!” I love the Five Minute Fridays too!
So delightful, on this dreary Springfield day, to see your beautifulness in my InBox! Brighten my day; you always do! I love the goodies you shared. It’s like the InRL meetup all over again. (Well, sort of.) Thanks for encouraging us moms. You rock!
I forgot to say:
I met you at the (in)courage meetup at your church.
I homeschool my 12yo daughter with hidden disabilities.
I blog at hislightbearer.blogspot.com and ChosenFamilies.org/author/Cassandra
I love your new blog diggs!!!
I LOVEEE your blog!!
LOVE your new blog design- SO darling! Can’t wait to get comfy! xoxo
Love the new design!
And that ring and necklace are gorgeous. Thanks for the giveaway!
Lisa-Jo,
I re-tweeted the tweet that named all the sponsors in your give away! Hope that counts!
Lovely my friend! I feel so at home here! So happy and excited for you – this is beautiful! Sharing in this very happy day in this new home – made of your beautiful life!
Love to you!
I love it. *Contented sigh.* That is all. :)
Lovely new design! Beautiful giveaways!
Reducing the number of blogs read during the summer, but yours is one I never skip!
lisa-jo i love the clean up,its so warm.i love the drawing of your kids & dog.this is very cozy.i love it.i feel like i’m in your home sitting with you.
Your new blog design is wonderful. I adore the drawing it is just precious. LOVE it.
Keep writing and encouraging and God will be with you in all that you say and do.
I LOVE the new design, and especially the mural of your kiddos and puppy. It feels fresh and open and very comfy! I want to slip off my flip flops, grab a glass of sweet tea, plop down on your comfy couch [if it were my house we’d have to shift some clean laundry or toys to make room :) ], and sit and chat for a while.
Thank you for providing a space that allows this. Your words are beautifully encouraging and refreshing.
love the new look! looking forward to reading more!
Love your new design, Lisa-Jo. Just perfectly *you*.
What a party! It’s been such joy to walk through this journey with you, Lisa-Jo! Wahoo!
Love the freshness of the new blog, Lisa-Jo!
And it’s so fun to hear more and more people mention “Oh, there’s a blog I read, called the gypsy mama…” :)
Love the new look of your blog! I am a fairly new follower but have really enjoyed your posts and look forward to more! You are an inspiration and that is what I hope to be to others… God bless!
The new look is very nice.
Love the new blog design! It looks great :) I work as a birth and PostPartum doula and since I’ve found your blog I’ve started recommending it to all my clients – its always a big hit! Thanks for all your honest insight – it is refreshing, entertaining, and oh so true!! Keep it up :)
Congrats on the new design! It looks awesome. :)
Lisa-Jo, I love your fabulous new place!
It’s so nice! The same but with a difference. :) I’m going to have to come here more often instead of just reading through email. {{hugs & cheers!}}
Oh, I really like the new design! SO whimsical and cute. I’ll have to come over more often instead of just reading in Google Reader. You’re a sweetheart for giving us the chance to win these fabulous prizes! Sending you much love from Nashville, TN <3
Lisa-Jo, I love your new look! I hope you have as much fun posting goodies for us as we are going to have reading & catching up with you!
I love the new design! I usually get your posts via email, but I had to pop over here to check it out, bravo, it looks fabulous!
I don’t have a lot of time to read tons of blogs, and your is one of my favorite from the few that I do read! It almost always leaves me feeling encouraged, hopeful, and ready to keep going with the rest of my day! I can’t tell you how grateful I am that you write, and that you’re so open and honest, it is soooooo refreshing! :)
As a tiny word of introduction, I have two littles at home, one almost 2, and another 8 months. :)
Love your blog, looks great :) look forward to your posts every day!
Iove the new design- and reading your blog.
Love the new site! Thanks for the chance to win these great things :)
What a beautiful new blog design and layout! I enjoyed your old one too, but it’s always nice to try something new on isn’t it? :)
With love,
Rebecca
love the redesign…and love the giveaways, lisa-jo! blessings to you. enjoy the summer!
What else can I say that hasn’t already been said…? Be-You-T-Ful(l)!!! Love, Love, LOVE it!! And love seeing your smiling face – thank you for your obedience and for sharing your heart. You are serving many, MANY needs with this ministry. =)
Love it!
Congratulations, Lisa Jo! I followed from There to Here! Am glad to have found You several months ago while learning about Blogging better –
I’m a tired mom, so thankful for your free ebook:) The new look is great, I especially love the artwork of (your?) kids by the tree.
oh, wow! love what you did…especially love the painting of your kids and your beagle :)
oh my goodness, how fun! i LOVE your new digs, lisa-jo! and that painting? incredible. btw, i am also swooning over the wallet. but give it to someone who needs it. well, if you WANT to give it to me i won’t argue. :) just know i love it, and you, and this place of yours. blessings.
So fresh, clean, concise! LOVE it all! Go Lisa-Jo!
I’m liking the new digs! Your designer did a great job! And just like I’ve seen other commenters say, I love the picture of your kids and pup!
Hello! I am Carrie. Stay-at-home mama to a 4 month daughter and 13 year old son. :)
I love the cartoon of the kiddies in the corner! Well done.
The new blog looks great!
I have just ordered spirt-led parenting because of your reccomendation and past blog about it. I would love for you to bring me over a tea cake and kindly tell me to let go of my old life. I have a 12 week old, and I’m coming to terms that life will never be the same again!
Thank you so much. Can’t wait until it arrives! (I live in Australia, they don’t sell it here!)
When you’re in Australia let me know and I’ll make the tea cake!
Love the new design- it is beautiful! Thanks for all the encouraging words you share with us through your writing!
adorable blog design! and such sweet gifts… love the welcome mat… its wonderful! Would love to give this to my daughter who is starting over with her children and going thru rough times.. would be a real blessing to them.
Cathy B*****y pbprojecthope at yahoodotcom
palmbreezeliving.blogspot.com
Lisa-Jo…I discovered your blog a few months ago and have been hooked on your delicious writing ever since. I am an ex-pat as well, living in Germany with my husband and baby girl, also named Zoe-y (with a “y”). I love, love, love the new look and organization. Congratulations on your new digs!!!
Found your blog through the (in)courage blog and read each and every post you write. I love your hunour, wise counsel and learning more about your life. All those gifts are lovely – hope I win!
I am from South Africa too, but of your parents’ generation. I love reading your blog for inspiration and pass it on to my daughter who is a new mother.
Love the new look : ) The buttons are great and the painting, stupendous!
I am not a blog reader in general, nor do I usually enjoy them when I happen to come across one. I have to say not only do I wait for you to post but I also share your posts. I started reading your blog via a friend on facebook who said to me you have to read this she will make you feel like you are normal! Ha!!! I said I do not even think that is possible being a mother of three, with a husband who works 80+ hours a week and my youngest who has done nothing but scream for the past 11 months sice she has enered this world. You have not only made me feel like I am normal but also that I am not alone in my daily struggles. So I want to THANK YOU for blogging!
Oh Sandi, it’s comments like this that help me believe I’m not a total nut job on days when I’m knee deep in kids and work commitments and it feels like Pinterest is keeping score of all the special, educational things I don’t do with my kids :) Today I let them round up all the blankets in the house and build a fort in the living room. And after reading your comment I feel like that’s good enough. So thank YOU for the timely encouragement :)
I love the idea of being on a first name basis!! :) I love the looks of your new digs and I’m so glad that all the old stuff is still here… looking forward to jumping back into Five Minute Friday when my bloggy break is over!
PS. minor detail… but I dislike having to “like” things on facebook for giveaway… I don’t know if I like them yet, I have to win the package first! :)
Point taken, thanks Julie Anne – making a note of that for the future :)
Love your blog Lisa-Jo! As a fellow gypsy from South Africa who has put down roots in a new country, I appreciate how you feel about some aspects of life. You move me with your words. Thank you!
Welkom! :)
Oh, Lisa-Jo, it’s so lovely and so you. Just perfect. :)
Love the new design, so lovely and easy to navigate. What a wonderful give away!
Love the new digs! And the community you’ve built here. And what’s not to love about s’mores? :)
Fun to see the new place!! =)
I have been a reader for awhile now and your words do so much for me that I would be here regardless what your page looks like. But I do know what it’s like to want to pretty things up a bit and it looks great on here! Thank you for always sharing your heart with us.
Beautiful new site Lisa!
I loved your old look and find the new one equally charming. I wish you joy in blogging.
I’m Shari, mother of none, but aunt to two adorable babies. Okay, so the oldest baby is five and will start kindergarten this Fall, but he will always be my Sweet Baby. ;)
Love the new look!
Hi! I’m Alyson, from Eisley Rae. Although that’s soon to change. LOVE your new look. It’s gorgeous. And I think I need to order one of those welcome mats if I don’t win one. Fabulous. Thanks for such a generous giveaway!
It looks beautiful! The painting of your children is my favorite part too!
Just beautiful! Love it!
Dear Lisa-Jo,
I LOVE THE NEW WEBSITE DESIGN!!!! :)
Congratulations on a job VERY well done!
God bless you, your family and your ministry!
Love,
Alexis
Love love love love love. So fresh and pretty and you. Congrats on this new, fantastic space!
lovin’ your new look!!! that painting of your babes and pup….adorable!!!!
thanks for the giveaways!
Congratulations!! It looks lovely!!! Of course, I would follow your blog if it was ugly too. :) You are a beautiful writer and continue to inspire me- thank you!!!! All the best!
I love it! The picture of your kids is adorable!
Very nice “remodeling”. Thank you
Beatuiful new design.
I finally got over here…I like the new design! The painting of your kids is precious! And I love how the tree is the same one from the old design.
Hi Lisa-Jo! Love the new look and the fact that it is SO easy to browse through some of the classics easily and quickly.. Kinda like being in a fave bookstore thumbing through some much-loved books.. Look forward to being here a LOT more!
Hugs and cheers, A mama all the way from India:-)
Thank you, for inviting me in. It’s, so, kind of you to invite strangers into your home & heart. Though, I don’t feel like you are a stranger, anymore. I tell my friends about you; “I never forward stuff, but you have to read this…it came right when I was exhausted, frustrated, and feeling like a failure as a mom…maybe, you need to hear it, too.” (I’m crying, now, sad/happy/releasing tears, remembering the day I got ‘that’ post. It was like you had known, somehow, where you are, that I needed it, where I was. And, now, I feel kinda dorky for being so sappy.) Anyway…I’m the mom of a beautiful, 4yo, girl. My husband travels for work. So, often, it’s just me being the parent 25/7. ;) I feel like I’d love to have a lovely, cold, frappe, pull a chair close to where you’re sitting & listen. Perhaps, in a quiet moment, when no one is needing you, I’ll talk to you about all the things your blog has meant to me-good & frightening. On a lighter note, how glad i am, you introduced me to ‘Gussy Sews’! It’s extra special bc I love her goodies(ok, “love” isn’t strung enough), and I’m curious to hear her birth; as I’d like to grow my own little ‘beautiful boutique’. (‘e-tique’?) Again, and i cant say this enough, ‘Thank you, for inviting me in’.
The new design looks great! Thanks for the giveaway!
The new site is very welcoming…. I LOVE the watercolor!
I absolutely love and look forward to your blog emails everyday!
Looks lovely!
You know me not from Adam, but I feel like a welcome friend. I’ve been reading since the beginning and have been encouraged, humbled, convicted, loved, laughed, cried, praised God and so much more. Thank you for letting the Lord shine through, for sharing your heart and for being real. Lisa-Jo your new place is lovely just as you are.
Love all the new Lisa-Jo! And thank you for all that you share here!
New here! I’m Sarah. I am a work from home mama to 2 beautiful 19 month old girls and wife to my best friend. A friend of mine posted a link to your encouragement for tired mamas list just yesterday and already I am hooked! It was exactly the pick me up I needed- like a nice chat with a friend over coffee after a rough day. Your words are inspiring and your blog is beautiful. Thank you for what you do!
I love the blog redesign! Gorgeous and fun. :)
I’m a mom of a sweet DD whose 2 on the 24th of this month! (oh time flies) and a little man who is 3 1/2 months old. I’m a SAHM and just returned to blogging a few months ago!
I love your blog and i think i’ve read cheerleader for tired moms ten timeS!
Welcome to your new diggs! It looks great!
What a beautiful place you have!!
Love the new design.
I am sooooo happy to have stumbled in here! It’s like I was lost in a dark, scary forest and suddenly through the trees I can see light. What can it be? Oh, my – a lovely coffee shop/tea party/book club/sewing circle/ pull up a chair (here’s a paper towel to wipe off “something” left by small fingers)/sitting room with a roaring fire (or open window depending on weather) and lots and lots of other people who have also traversed the jungle of parenthood and survived! I want to stand up (figuratively) and say “Hi! My name is Michelle and I’m a Mom!” and I fully expect to (figuratively) hear a whole chorus of voices saying “Hi, Michelle! That’s ok! We’re all Mom’s here!” Bless you for creating such a lovely haven. I am sure I will be back quite frequently! :)
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