Inspired by Annie

I sure am glad that my sister-in-law, Annie, convinced me to start a blog. So far, I'm not an everyday blogger, but I certainly have enjoyed keeping in more direct contact with my Nevada relatives. With blogging, I can tell more about my daily life without it seeming like I am talking non-stop about myself. Sometimes, when I send out a family email, I feel like all I am saying is "blah, blah, blah, me, me, me, me." But blogging doesn't make me feel conceited because people can choose to read it or not.
I visit several blogs - some are scrapbooking, some are animal related, some are just moms writing about their families, some are creative and odd, some have wonderful writing, and I always read Annie's 2 blogs (and she is the only other family member to have one so far).
While reading Annie's blog, I have been inspired to read some of the books she has mentioned. I am currently listening to Animal, Vegetable, Miracle - only the audio book was available from the library. I am really enjoying this book, and it has further inspired me in several topics that I was already interested in.
When Annie posted a picture of the strawberry jam that she made, I realized how much I miss the strawberry jam that my grandmother used to make. So yesterday, I went to my mom's house and we made two batches. It was so easy! Why haven't I tried this years ago? I bought extra jars and Sure Jell and sugar yesterday so that I can make more. I've already given away two jars to my brother. Tomorrow, Abbie and I will go to the Farmer's Market to buy more strawberries.
I plan to make regular visits to the Farmer's Market this year - which was inspired by Animal, Vegetable, Miracle - and Annie gets some credit too since she suggested the book.
Annie has also gotten me interested in composting. I still haven't bought the composter yet, but I will!
Annie, thanks for the pictures you post and the ideas you share because all of this really does make a difference to me! And I enjoy the up-to-date family info and photos.