I received this award from Alice Audrey, who I discovered when I began participating in the PhotoHunt meme, about a year or so ago. While the rest of us go through our photo archives or walk around, camera in hand, searching for just the right photo to illustrate that week’s theme, Alice created the world of Jack & Jill and their pets, Gin (the cat) & Tonic (the dog), to photograph entire scenarios and an ongoing storyline. I fell in love with her creativity and warped sense of humor. So, thanks Alice! This means a lot, coming from you.

But, of course, all of these awards come with Rules:

Neno’s Award—-Rules and Regulations

1. As a dedication for those who love blogging and love to encourage friendships through blogging.

2. To seek the reasons why we all love blogging.

3. Put the award in one post as soon as you receive it.

4. Don’t forget to mention the person who gives you the award.

5. Answer the award’s question by writing the reason why you love blogging.

6. Tag and distribute the award to as many people as you like.

7. Don’t forget to notify the award receivers and put their links in your post.

Hmm… I never really thought about blogging until my friend, MizShoes, got me into reading hers. The initial attraction for me was that, with a certain degree of anonymity, I could say many of the things on my mind that I couldn’t necessarily in real life. At least without most people in my circle thinking that I was becoming unhinged. That’s morphed into expressing other passions like cooking, photography, politics, and nature. When this all began, I never thought anyone would actually read any of it, but because of blogging, I’ve made friends all over the world who share at least one – if not more – of these passions. There’s nothing more gratifying to me than getting a comment on a post that says: “Really? Me, too!”

With that in mind, I’m passing this award on to:

Michele of Funky Chunks: I admire Michele’s spirit and talent. She not only blogs and cooks, but she makes the finest natural handmade soaps you can get. In fact, some of her seasonal offerings that I purchased recently, are going into certain birthday gifts. I love the quality and especially the scents of the ones I’ve tried: Pumpkin Spice (omg – can you smell pie?); Jersey Love (smells like tomatoes growing on the vine); Mellow Yellow (bananas – my favorite!). She’s got a zillion of ‘em, and is always coming out with more – no limits to her imagination! They’re all vegan-friendly and great to your skin. Michele also has a positive spirit and love of Dunkin’ Donuts coffee, and will be participating in the #GreatHallowTweet BlogHop with us, next week – so what’s not to love?

I’m also passing this on to Michelle (Rambling Woods), Elle (Elle’s New England Kitchen), Michelle (Big Black Dog), Heather (BodaciousGirl), Katie (Gonzo Gastronomy), Paula (Dragon’s Kitchen), Courtney (Coco’s Kitchen), Judy (No Fear Entertaining), Deeba (Passionate About Baking), Jamie (Life’s A Feast), and Casey (Kitchen Witch & TasteStopping) – all some of my favorite bloggers and each one worth getting to know. Once you visit them, you’ll know why I’m sending this on to them. Thank you, ladies, one and all!