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A giveaway because I am overwhelmed. And speechless.

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I’m not really speechless.

Nothing is ever that serious.

But I have to tell y’all that my day started off rough yesterday. It wasn’t anything bad, but I didn’t feel great. It was gloomy outside, I had cramps, my head hurt. I was chockfull of some first world complaints.

I met my sister and nephew for lunch and that perked me up a little bit, but then I ran into The Container Store to pick up some small boxes and pretty gift wrap. And I’m here to tell you that nothing will make a perpetually unorganized person feel a sense of deep shame and regret like The Container Store.

It made me want to buy every storage bin and basket they had and maybe some colored file folders in an attempt to get some semblance of order in my life. But I made myself face the harsh reality that all those bins would do at my house is end up sitting on top of my washer and dryer until I eventually donated them to Goodwill.

And so I ran a few more errands, popped some Advil for the aforementioned cramps and headache, and then decided I should start to pack my suitcase for DotMOM since I’m leaving at 1:00 on Thursday and clothes are probably an essential part of the weekend.

About that time, I heard my phone beep to let me know I had a text. It was from my editor at Tyndale and she asked if I was sitting down. I texted back, “No. Should I be?”

She replied, “Yes! Sparkly Green Earrings debuts at #27 on this week’s New York Times Bestseller list.”

Umm. Yes. Sitting down wasn’t really enough. What just happened?

Y’all. You did this. You bought my book and told your friends and supported me and cheered me on and prayed for me. And this? Well, when God says he does more than you can ask or imagine he isn’t kidding around.

I ran outside and screamed for P and he was so relieved I wasn’t announcing I was pregnant. We jumped up and down, our sweet neighbors brought by a bottle of champagne and Mimi and Bops came by so we could have a celebratory toast. It will go down as one of my favorite moments.

I spent the rest of the evening in tears. And even now I’m getting all teary again. There just aren’t words to say how grateful I am to you. There are times in life that bring you to your knees in gratitude and humility and this is one of those times for me.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

And so to celebrate I’m throwing a huge party at my house next weekend.

Not really. But I wish I could and you all could come. How fun would that be? I mean other than that it would be really crowded and the fact that the floor in my guest bathroom is possibly rotting and about to fall through?

So that’s out.

But I am giving away three signed copies of Sparkly Green Earrings (I’ll sign them anyway you want me to!) along with three pairs of Towne & Reese Reynolds Green earrings from Carol & Company.

photo E67346Green-2T_zps839494a1.jpg

All you have to do for a chance to win is leave a comment on this post. I’ll keep comments open until Sunday and then use Random.org to draw three winners.

(I’m not doing Fashion Friday tomorrow because I’ll be at DotMOM and won’t have time. I’m sorry.)

And now I’m going to have another good cry. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and can’t wait to see some of you at DotMOM.

Ephesians 3:20-21 “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”

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  4. That is, in every way, amazingly awesome!!!!
    I’m so darn proud of you and for you!
    (I say, as if we’ve been friends for years!)

    🙂

  7. haven’t read it yet, but plan on it. Haven’t found it at sam’s, will have to try another bookstore this weekend. i can feel your excitement, what a rush for you! congrats!

  8. I can’t even imagine…you must be over the moon! I found you by way of Pioneer Woman, and bought your book via Kindle..only 3rd tablet book I’ve ever read, so woo!

  15. I just love reading your blog! I can’t wait to read your book! I would so love to win your book and earrings cause I never win anything! May God bless you!

  19. After getting your text I just needed more details so I could keep my own private party and celebration going. 27. Wow. And not 27 bridesmaid dresses but freakin 27 on NYT best seller list! Who says someone who graduated on scho-pro can’t make it big time?!?! And who knew the Internet and email was really gonna take off?! With love and pride…

  28. I’ve never left a comment on a blog before. But since discovering your blog via Holly Mathis, I sit up late at night when all kiddos are in bed and laugh til I cry reading your posts. Thanks for letting God use you to encourage others!

  34. This fellow Aggie says , WHOOP! And Good for you! God always has a plan.

    Love your blog and your book. Recommended it to my book club! Thanks for gaving he Nook option. But still love the real, too.

  37. Eeeeek! So excited for my fellow Aggie! I live in South Africa and maybe being #27 means they will start carrying your books here because I so badly would love a copy! Very happy for you, Melanie!

  43. Congratulations! That is wonderful! I can’t wait to read your book! I have not been able to buy it yet. (I live in a small town). God is so good.

  44. congratulations!!

    recently found you through paige knudson and am so glad i did!

    i can feel the joy in your words!! so exciting!!

  47. Congratulations!!! All the girls in the family got a book and we all love it! I actually commute between Houston and San Antonio, and I had to go back to Houston on the morning on your book signing in SA, and when you were in Houston I was in Waco! Just barely missed you both times! And I am pretty sure we go to the same HEB… the cheese is in the front! But I am not going to lie… I have been buying a lot more fancy cheeses since they moved them 🙂

  49. Congrats on making the Best Seller’s List! If I win, save it for me as I’ll be on vacation next week:-)

  52. Woohoo!!! How exciting – how good is our God?!! I’m in the middle of reading (i.e. laughing/crying my way through) your book and have a list of girlfriends I want to buy it for and send to, since we all live in different states now. I’d love to send these to them!

  60. Congratulations!!! I’m sad there won’t be a fashion Friday. I’m curious to see where you fall on low back tops.

  62. I loved your book! And I even got my non-book-reading-sister to read your book in about 2 days! (She loved it, by the way!) I actually pre-ordered it on amazon but couldn’t wait for mail service so I downloaded it to my kindle the first day possible too — I feel partly responsible for your New York Times ranking! 🙂 Congrats!

  65. I preordered and then read it in two sittings over the weekend. I’m saving my copy for my mom, but I have several friends that I’d love to gift a signed copy to. The earrings, though, those are mine 🙂

  68. I NEVER comment, but I ordered your book and I laughed until I cried when I read the part about your friend throwing an apple core at her husband. I couldn’t stop laughing! I read the whole book in one sitting and loved every bit of it. I was a little sad when it was over. So happy you made the best seller’s list, but I’m not even surprised.

  71. First time visitor, look forward to reading your book. Thanking God for your obedience and sharing your life with us, blessings sister!

  72. I have heard about you (especially since your book was released), but this is the first time I’ve visited your blog.
    CONGRATULATIONS!
    I look forward to reading your book.

  78. Congratulations! Can’t wait to read the book… and can’t say how much you’ve helped me look at things with a good dose of humor since I started reading your blog years ago.

  86. Congrats!! It’s so amazing to see what God does when we pour our hearts into him and allow him to use us in any way he sees fit! So excited for you. I’ve been telling all my friends to get a copy!

  87. I love your book. Enjoy this wonderful time of blessing, and don’t worry about having to write another one right away … enjoy the NOW of this great time.

    God bless !

  88. I’ve been reading your blog for a while, and love it! You are so relatable and encouraging, not to mention hilarious! I am a senior in high school who also struggles with grace and trusting in God, so it has been so inspiring to watch you through this process of writing a book. Keep at it girl, God is doing great things through you & for you! 🙂

  95. Melanie, I pray this season continues to be sweet and full of champagne-popping joy. It is absolutely so fun to share in your joy and see the journey culminate in this way. Many, many blessings and may DotMom be a fabulous weekend!

  100. Not at all surprised! There is just something about your humor and your writing that grabs me and makes me keep reading. I have been a fan for years and your Caroline is following right along with your humor! So proud that you are experiencing this joy and giving the praise to HIM.

  104. well, i never even though that your book won’t be on the New York Times bestseller list. congratulations! 🙂

  105. Not at all surprised. I emailed you and told you I gave your book to a friend who is in the trenches of motherhood and she read your book in 1 day and I have now seen that very book being passed around at our small church from mother to mother to read with words from my friend that “this is a must read for all mothers!” I’m not a mother myself, but I can certainly appreciate the incredibly humbling, frightening, and absolutely joy-filled role mothers play.

    You do know this means you will need to write another book, right!?!? No pressure.

    Congratulations!

    PS
    I think it would be amazing – if it could be done tastefully – to send the earrings to Kate Merrick who lost her amazing daughter Daisy Love Merrick this past weekend after a valiant 5 year battle with cancer. http://www.prayfordaisy.com

  106. Congratulations! I would love to win and give it to my daughter-in-law with an 18 month old and another due soon.

  111. Awesome but I’m not surprised with all the good news I’ve read about “Sparkly”! I haven’t been able to find it yet but hopefully the popularity will catch on and they will be popping up on all the shelves.

  120. How exciting! So happy for you! Can’t wait to read it (and a signed copy would be so cool!). I haven’t been able to find it locally – must be sold out! Going to order online. 🙂

  123. I would love to give your book to a friend! I would keep the earrings for myself ;o). I am reading your book now and it is hilarious!!!! I have read it while walking on the treadmill and there have been a few times where I almost fell off because I was laughing so hard! Everytime I read another page or chapter I think how much my friends need to read it! You are a wonderful writer and Caroline is blessed to have you for her mama! Congratulations!’

  124. Congratulations! I can just hear the happiness in your post–you’ve worked hard, poured out your soul and deserve this! Can’t wait to get my hands on a copy and read your book! 🙂

  125. I keep entering your contests and I never win. It’s kind of like being on my perpetual diet and I never lose weight. But I keep trying!!!

  131. Congrats on the #27! I still haven’t made it to B&N to buy the book and I WANT it! I looked at Sams last weekend but nope…..not there. I don’t want to purchase it on my nook….I want THE BOOK in my hands.

  132. Congratulations!!! I got your book and love it! I have been laughing, crying,and giggling which caused my dogs to stare at me wondering what the heck is going on.

  134. Congratulations on the debut. I preordered mine and was so excited when it showed up Friday afternoon. Its an amazing book – I was just in tears over the ear piercing story about Caroline. Thanks for lifting me up, making me laugh, and making me cry! 🙂

  135. So excited for you! #27 is amazing! I have already read Sparkling Green Earrings but would love a signed copy! Personally, I can’t wait for your next book!

  136. I would LOVE to win since I went to Barnes and Noble, and they were sold out of your book! Congratulations!!

  147. I laughed, I cried, and chortled through the whole book! You have a gift, and clearly #27 points to that! I have great hope that it will climb even higher on the charts!!!!

  167. Congratulations on the NY Times bestseller list! That is quite an honor!! Love the name of the book – I love Sparkly Green Earrings :)!!

  168. The book is wonderful Melanie, you so deserve this for the happiness your words bring your readers. I bought it for my iPad, but would love a real life book and a pair of sparkly green earrings. Big congrats to you!

  169. Love this! So excited for you! After all the years of encouragement you have given your readers, so glad it is being returned to you abundantly!
    (And I would love to win- because I shared my book with another Momma , and love those fabulous green earrings!)

  180. Congratulations! I enjoyed EVERY. SINGLE. PAGE. I am not shocked about this news. Thank you for sharing your talent with us.

  184. This gives me hope for our planet! So happy for you!!!! And for all the people who are reading you!! Congratulations!

  187. So happy for you! Your book is wonderful and deserves to be a huge success. I stayed up until 2:30 a.m. finishing it, I enjoyed it so much. I already pre-ordered Sophie’s book and can’t wait to read that.

  195. That is fabulous! I’m not surprised, since I’ve been to the bookstore twice and they’ve been sold out?

  196. Congratulations!! I had my glucose screening on Tuesday for my first baby girl. While I was there, I had your book. Each nurse/midwife I saw asked about it and wrote down the name!! I hope they will all buy it! I know they will love it as much as I do!!

  202. congratulations- sometimes, there are dreams so big we don’t quite acknowledge them in our minds even if our hearts are yearning… and reaching the NYTimes best selling list must rank up there as a heart’s desire… and it’s yours. relish this moment. i am so excited to read your book!

  208. Congrats!!! I am reading it now and just like your
    Blog, it doesn’t disappoint! I am laughing and
    Crying and I’m sure the people at my daughters’
    Gymnastics classes think I’m cray cray! Thanks for the
    Entertainment and the feeling that I am not alone
    In my ridiculous, manic thoughts!

  213. So happy for you!! I have followed your blog for about a year now and look
    forward to what you have to say each morning. Celebrate and continue to
    give praise to God.

  215. I bought several copies and gave them away because when a friend steps out in faith, ya do what ya can to encourage her! Congratulations, (internet) friend! God is so big, so strong and so mighty! There’s nothing our God cannot do! (sorry for all the exclamation points – I’m so excited for you!)

  217. Congratulations! Can’t wait to see how far the book climbs. Thanks for sharing your sweet story with us!

  219. Congratulations!! I love that Erma Bombeck’s book was your inspiration. I fell in love with “Life is a Bowl of Cherries” when I was about the same age. That’s the reason I’m skipping the nook version… so I can get a “real” copy everyone in the house can enjoy!

  220. Melanie,

    I’m actually a little teary-eyed myself reading this…and it isn’t even my book! (I saw BooMama’s tweet about it yesterday, but seeing your reaction just sent me over the top.) I was trying to tell my husband what made your book so special, and aside from the fact it is HILARIOUS, it just made me feel encouraged as a mom. So thank you for that.

    And also…I want a pair of sparkly green earrings now so, so badly, and these are beautiful!

  223. Congratulations! I am sure it doesn’t come as a surprise to any of your readers 🙂 I actually bought 2 of your books. I am reading one now and plan to send the other to my cousin who just had her first baby. This is just the beginning for you!

  227. The book is awesome! Congrats!!! So proud of you!! Passing out copies, and it feels so good each time I get the text that another friend is in tears laughing so hard.
    Bless you!!!!

  230. Awww.. This makes me teary eyed just reading about your happiness! Congratulations for a job well done and hitting number 27.. Here’s to seeing how much further up that chart it will rise (is it is rising, in book terms, as it goes to #1, right?)

  232. I am an aspiring author. I’ve written one book and I am half way through the second. The rejections I am getting from agents are so discouraging that sometimes it makes it hard to write. Reading your post today really encouraged me. Some days I question myself and wonder if writing is really my calling (since no agents seem to think so!). I write every day, but after an inbox full of rejections yesterday, I wasn’t particularly inspired this morning. THEN I read your words and they were just t he little push I needed for today. So….whether I win the book or not….THANK YOU, Big Mama!

  234. Melanie,

    I have been reading your blog for a while now–when we were in England I found you thru Kelly’s Korner–I’m from Arkansas ;). I ordered your book from Amazon and was so excited to get it in the mail… I am almost finished and I love it!!! I have laughed and cried all from one page to the next! Thank you! Now my 11 year old wants to read it. I also have a 4th grader- both girls. Just wanted to let you know, love your blog and your book! Thanks for sharing your life with us! ~Angie

  238. Not surprised at all. You are an excellent writer. Love to read your blog and can’t wait to read the book. Congrats and thanks for the the giveaway!

  245. I want to read your book so bad! But, would love to give it to a friend who is going through a really hard time right now.

  247. I so loved your book!! I have a girl friend that is needing lots of laughs right now and some happy sweet tears….so here’s to posting trying to win something for her!! Friendships really are one of God’s sweet blessings!! ?

  250. I have loved reading the book and tell everyone I know about it. I read the potty training chapter to my husband and we laughed until we cried!

    I’d love to win to give the books to my mom friends!

  253. What a blessing! You have been one to so many of us with your uplifting blog. Glad it has returned to you.

  258. I enjoyed very much getting to meet you last week at the signing in Katy. Thanks for working so hard and writing such a great book! The earrings are gorgeous!!

  259. Feeling so very happy for you Big Mama. What a wonderful way to start out this day, having exciting and totally unexpected news like this to sit in awe of God over.
    In Zephaniah 3:17 it talks about the Lord rejoicing over His children Israel with shouts of joy (singing). If He does this for His chosen Israel, then in my mind’s eye I believe that He must also do this for His Gentile children whom He has chosen for His own. That would be you and me. I love the word picture of God shouting for joy and singing over me. What a loving God we serve.

    • How exciting. He’s told me He does that with me, too. And we talk about it every morning. It’s hard to grasp at time, but it’s TRUE, TRUE, TRUE. HALLELUJAH. Sorry. I get carried away even thinking of it. Blessings to you whoever you are and wherever you are.

  260. So happy for you! I’ve given away several copies already and everyone has loved it. Thanks for being a blessing!

  274. BigMama – so happy for the success of your new book! Congratulations and all the best!! Yes, please sign me up for your giveaway. Would love it, esp the EARRINGS!!!

  277. Fantastic news and I will cry right with you if I win this. Seriously, I’m a crier and to win something….the water works will be on auto start.

  280. Great verses – Great God! Congratulations and thanks for sharing in the giveaway! 🙂 I am new to your blog and am looking forward to reading your book as well.

  286. Congratulations!!!! I hope I win the book and earrings so I can start reading on our family vacation next month.

  287. Congrats! I had my Books a Million special order me a copy in Columbia, SC. I am a transplanted Texan cheering for you from across the miles! If I win, I’ll give my (unsigned) copy to a friend! 🙂

  288. I am so proud of you! I know I don’t know you in real life and that is probably all kinds of weird, but I am just so stinking proud of you! I feel like I know you at least!

  291. Congratulations! Hope you have a great weekend, I will be celebrating 22 yrs of wedded bliss with my sweet hubby!

  293. Oh, you got me all teary, too! Congratulations! I can’t wait until my life slows down just a bit, so I can get my copy and read it.

  296. Congratulations! I’m still headed to the store to by mine and a copy for my buddy’s birthday gift. We will keep those numbers going!

  297. That was the exact verse that came to my mind as well! So happy for you! And yes, I’d love to win a book to give to a young Mommy (but those earrings would stay with me).

  302. First of all (from one author to another) Congratulations! This is the first time I had read/looked at your blog….I saw a reference to it on the Pioneer Woman’s blog yesterday, amd thought I should check it out…I am glad I did…..have fun today!

  304. Well gal buddy you are getting what you deserve…your hard work and talents has served you well….I enjoy our talks daily and laughter starts my day…(email of course)…I am happy in this land of millions that Dee pointed me to you….Thanks for just being you….

  315. Congratulations on such a wonderful accomplishment! I can’t wait to finally get my hands on a copy.

  325. So I’m pretty sure that the random number picker hates me, but I’m trying again because I’m dying to read your book! Congratulations on an amazing first week!

  333. I gave my book to my daughter and would love to have a copy to read again!! Love you Melanie… and I’m so happy for you 🙂

  334. Pick me, Pick me…random.org! I’m one of the few that doesn’t have a copy yet of this amazing book! 😉

  336. I just found your blog through reading Ann Voskamp’s 25 Manifesto for Sanity. I can really relate to you as a child of the 80’s and some of your struggles. Congratulations and blessings to you on your journey. I look forward to reading your book and blog.

  338. I’m glad you weren’t really speechless because that would have made for a short blog post. Can’t wait to read the book! Thanks for the chance to win one!!

  339. LOVE.LOVE.LOVE this!!!
    Have a great weekend and can’t wait for you and Boomama to gives us your recaps!

  341. Congratulations for your book’s success, but also for being brave and doing something different and new. Thanks for the contest.

  342. Melanie, Awesome! So happy for you and you are so deserving! “In all your ways acknowledge God and he will guide your paths.” ~ Proverbs 3:6

  343. Congratulations! I bought your book for my mom for her birthday, but I would love to have a signed copy and the beautiful earrings! Thanks!

  362. Congratulations – so excited for you! And I would LOVE to have a signed copy of your book! 🙂

  364. CONGRATULATIONS! I haven’t had time to get your book but I will! I love your blog and can’t wait to read your book.

  367. Whoop! Way to go God! Love it when he shows off like that! Plus I like that now everyone will know who you are and not look at me like I’m crazy when I start talking about what I read on “BigMama’s” blog! 🙂

  368. Huge congratulations on the book! Also, thanks for always giving us a blog worth stopping the day and reading!

  369. I am not one bit surprised at this news. Your book is just the dose of “laugh” medicine that us moms need!! Congrats!!!

  371. Congratulations! That’s such wonderful news. I wish I could say I helped get you on that list, but I haven’t been able to get to a bookseller yet. I know I could have ordered it online, but some of us resist technology.

  373. I bought your book and then let MY precious daughter take it on a trip to read while I stayed with the grandkids. She loved it. So I brought it home with me and read it and I loved it! Hilarious and inspiring! Congratulations! Sparkly Green Earrings, real or in book form, ROCK!

  381. This 65 year old Mimi finished reading Sparkly Green Earrings on Monday morning. I loved it, but that’s no surprise because I have been reading the blog for some time now. My daughter clued me in . I have already given her a copy of your book, but I would love to give her the earrings and pass the book on to another young mother. It’s great that your book made the New York Times Bestseller List, but the true blessing, I think , was in the living and the writing. Celebrate and enjoy this blessing!

  385. Congratulations! I pre-ordered the book on my nook and finished reading it in a day! I couldn’t put it down. Thank you for sharing your life with us!

  387. Congratulations and the book really is great! Finished it tooo fast…..and would love an autographed copy! I have a friend that I would give my copy to….pick me!

  388. Congratulations! That’s way exciting. I think you should throw a party anyway. Just tell guest there will be no toilet privileges 🙂 or put a port a John in your front yard to keep the whole thing klassy.

  389. woohoo- congratulations!!! With 382 comments already on the first day, I know my chances are slim, but I’m still hopeful!

  391. At the risk of tmi, I left my copy in the bathroom and my husband has really been enjoying it 🙂 love you to pieces!

  392. You’ve made it! You’re somebody! But then again, you’ve been somebody to me for a long time ever since a friend introduced me to your blog. Congratulations!!

  395. I am not sure you want to ship to Canada – but I had to give it a shot! You have many fans, waaayyy up north!

  398. I am so happy for you! I loved your book, gave it to my daughter to read, and talked about it on my blog a teensy tiny bit. We’re all trying to do our part. 🙂 May the number 27 soon become smaller and smaller….25, 21, 17, 11, 8,……??? xxoo

  400. Girl! I saw that on Twitter yesterday and was sooooo excited for you! I’m thinking of buying copies as gifts for a couple of my friends. It is a wonderful book on motherhood. Have a totally awesome time at DotMOM.

  401. Congratulations! I’m new here, and have been lurking for a while, but so happy for you. A true Ephesians 3:20 moment for sure!

  403. Congratulations! I am new to your blog and would love an opportunity to get to know you better by reading your book. :o)

  407. Congratulations! My friend texted me nearly an entire chapter she was reading because it so perfectly described our “friend family”. Love it.

  409. I am very happy for you that is great, But your book is wonderful, I am not surprised it has done so well. It has a little bit of everything in a woman loves. Thank you for sharing. I am sad about fashion Friday,.but I hope you have a wonderful time at the convention.

  415. That’s awesome! I’m going to give it at as part of a baby shower gift this weekend. I hope you are working on your next one!

  417. YAY! Loved the book, would LOVE a copy of it that isn’t electronic (I regretted that choice almost right away- I want to share it with EVERYONE I know!)

  423. Your book is awesome. I bought it on my iPad and have enjoyed every chapter. Made me laugh, smile, and even cry….so many memories of young marriage and raising my children. I plan to purchase a hard copy–but would love to have a signed one!!!

  429. Congratulations! I can’t wait to read it! I’ve had to give myself a Kindle allowance so when 3/1 hits your book will be in my Kindle!

  433. Congratulations! I read your book yesterday after it finally arrived even though I pre-ordered and Amazon did not ship it until this week and the FedEx guy broke my storm dorm yanking it open to place my book in between the doors although I was home and he could have knocked or used the doorbell (clearly I do not have the good writing skills you do). It was totally worth a broken door and long wait, I LOVED your book, I wept and laughed and was encouraged. Thank you so much.

  434. Oh, Melanie, I’m so HAPPY for you. You’ve given us all so much with your words over the years. Now it’s our turn to return the favor! I gave my friend, Wendy, the book you signed for her. Yesterday she called me and was trying to tell me something. But I flat could not understand her because she was laughing so hard. Well, she was trying to read the part in your book about the bikini and the fence. We both started lauding so hard we couldn’t speak. And since laughter is the best medicine, I think you shall be henceforth called DR MELANIE.

    Have fun at dot mom! Wish I could be there.

  438. What exciting news! I have to say I am not surprised! You deserve all the accolades and success coming your way. And the earrings are beeee-autiful!!

  445. Just cried tears of overwhelming gratitude for you!!! SO very excited for you. I’m seriously sucking in all of the crying because my grandson is about to be dropped off any minute now. Rejoicing with you!

  446. CoNgRaTuLaTiOnS!!! So very excited for you and your success! I am STILL waiting very patiently to get your book from amazon (darn free super saver shipping!!), but I know I won’t be able to put it down once it arrives!
    Gig ’em ’95!!!
    Kimi

  447. I am so happy for you! I do have to admit though, that I am not one that has helped you reach #27. It is not that I didn’t try yeasterday, but it just didn’t work out. I remembered you saying I could get the book at Sam’s so I ran over on my lunch hour thinking I could pick up the book and a hot dog from the snack bar and have time to get back to work. I carried your book up to the check-outs and it was pure mayhem. I could barely even see the conveyor belts there were so many people in line to check out. I don’t care that a major winterstorm is hitting today-you don’t need milk and bread-I NEED this book. Alas I had to leave the book because there was no way I could get back to work on time if I stood in the mamoth lines. I left with my lowly hot dog and 44 oz soda that I never finish. Of course there wasn’t a line at the snack bar. I will try again after the major winter storm passes by.

  450. Congratulations! That’s wonderful news!!! I finished your book over the weekend & I’m already thinking of sweet mom friends in my life who would love your book & feel encouraged by it too 🙂

  454. Get it, girl!
    You’re a sparkling part in so many people’s day. Now SO many more people get to experience it, YAY!

  459. Bought it, read it, and loved it!! A signed copy would make a great gift especially with those adorable earrings!!

  460. Congrats. I just ‘found” your blog last week and have been enjoying it very much. Hope to pick up your book soon to catch up!

  461. Congratulations! Such exciting news! I know when you are rich and famous, we will all be telling folks how we used to read your blog back in the day. 🙂

  462. De-lurking to just say I am so happy for you! This post brought tears to my eyes. (Well, a lot of your posts bring tears to my eyes, and joy–just like the book!) God is good, all the time!

  467. Girl! I just choked up right along with you! It’s going to be rainy here, and my big plan is to pick up your book and read it until I’m done! So happy for you! Isn’t it funny how excited you can be for someone you’re only “friends” with via the Internet? Although — technically — we’ve met. I introduced myself to you at Beth Moore’s siesta Scripture memory event – not last year, the time before! (If I win, I’m giving that copy to my daughter — currently in the throes of new motherhood!) All the best to you, sweetie!

  473. And All God’s People said “amen”!

    Wow! What awesome news, girlie! I am sooo happy for you! I also really want to win one of your books, because I bought one and there is about 75 people I want to give it too! lol 🙂

  475. Congrats! And, it’s only fair that you had a good cry. After all, you made me tear up a couple of times as I read through “Sparkly Green Earrings”! And I am a notorious non-cryer!

    “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

  477. Melanie-
    You seriously crack me up and inspire me all at the same time. Not a bad combination and evidence to why your book is a complete hit! So happy for you. I’ve made it through about 3/4 of your book and look forward to those few moments after the kids are in bed each night to sit down and read. I will hate when it ends, which means I hope there’s another one in the works! Maybe marriage this time??? Congrats again to an amazing woman and writer!

  483. I downloaded your book to my Nook and immediately read it in one sitting – taking time out to roll in the floor with laughter and to hold my aching sides from laughing soooo hard. I would love to win a copy of your book for my daughter who is the mother of 13 year old twin girls. So much of your book resonated with me as the mother of 2 girls and the very involved grandmother of twin girls.

    The book actually led me to your blog, which I now read daily. Congratulations!

  488. Congrats! I got the book for Valentine’s Day and read it in one day! I have now passed it to my daughter to read.

    Kim J

  489. I have your book but haven’t found time to read it yet; however, my sister does not have a copy and I would love to give her a signed copy for her birthday coming up in April. Please pick me! (I’ll keep the earrings for myself!)

  492. Congratulations!!! I am a long time reader and couldn’t be more happy for you. You always start my day with a smile or a laugh!

  496. How exciting for you! I have read the book and thoroughly enjoy it…so I am not surprised by your accomplishment! Congratulations!

  500. Bought your book this week and am saving it for this weekend as a treat to myself. I would love to give a signed copy to my friend in FL who is recently widowed and raising 3 boys. She needs a good laugh and some inspiration!!

  501. Isn’t it amazing what God does when we step out in faith? I am excited to read your book because I have grown to love you through your blog.

  502. I found your blog through a friend at church several years ago. I ordered your book online and have enjoyed it so much! I was so excited to learn that P’s name is acually Perry! How sad does that make my life sound?!?! I would look at pictures of him on your blog and wonder if his name was Patrick, Paul, Peter, Phillip… HA! I can’t wait until your book is in the top 10! I’m also anxiously awaiting Glennon’s (Momastery.com) book coming out in April!

  505. Praise Godf!! Praise God!! Praise our glorious God!!! Way to go girl. That is just amazing, awesome, wonderful, great, unbelievable news!!!!!

  506. First off, CONGRATULATIONS!!! How incredibly exciting and I am so very happy for you!!

    Hope you have a wonderful weekend at your conference. Too bad I live WAY too far away to attend.

  507. Congratulations! I am happy for your success. It has been so cold here and this warmed me. Have a great time at the conference! Thank you for the giveaway too!

  513. Congratulations!

    I got all chocked up a couple of weeks ago when you said that looking at your book on the shelf was proof that God sees us. That statement has been rolling around my head ever since. Congrats again!

  514. Have read your blog for the last couple of years knowing that if I lived in Texas we would be best of friends! Read your book in one sitting and it was delightful.

  517. YAY Melanie! That is so wonderful. I hope I am a winner this week….I would love a signed copy of the book.

  520. Congratulations! I am due with our first baby tomorrow! and I am about halfway done with your book. It definitely helps me forget about how uncomfortable I am and look forward to the future with our little girl!

  524. Congratulations on a dream come true. Your writing style is wonderful…looking forward to seeing what you conquer next!

  526. I was second on the wait list at my county library to get your book! When it was my turn I started it right away and loved it!! Congratulations!!

  533. Wohoo! I’m doing the Snoopy Dance for you! I couldn’t be happier for you and I am currently reading and loving the book!!!
    Congratulations!

  536. I’m not a bit surprised that your book is doing so well…it’s wonderful! Congrats to you for such a great accomplishment! I’d love to have a signed copy of the book too!

  538. MELANIE!!!!!
    I couldn’t be happier for you, I’m just sitting here crying!! You go, girl! Have a great time at dot.mom, I’d like to try to attend next time.
    Love ya,
    Sherra

  540. Congratulations Melanie! I loved the book.
    I read it the first weekend it came out.
    Enjoy your weekend and have fun!

  542. Congratulations! I just started reading your blog and I’m looking forward to reading your book. I really enjoy your posts, and I’m sure the book is wonderful!!

  546. SOOO very happy for you! You deserve it with such talent, not to mention the ability to make me giggle and especially when I need it most! Enjoy your success and have fun and safe travels to DotMOM…. God bless you and yours!

  549. Congratulations!!! You deserve all that and more~! I would love to have my book (already purchased) signed…: )

  551. Can’t wait to read your book because reading your blog is one of the first things that I do in the morning! I would love to win it!

  556. Tears through laughter….my favorite emotion! Every time I think I am finished getting those joyous tears…..they pop right back up again!! I am beyond thrilled and happy for you. I have to go on record as saying..I am not surprised! So proud!!!!

  558. Saw the news last night on twitter and rejoiced for you then. So exciting to see God do things we never asked for cause we could never have imagined them. Congrats!

  570. I’ve dropped hints at our library that they should pick up some copies for themselves. Have a great day!

  572. Awesome – congrats! Very well deserved for sure!
    Just curious to know how your mind took that #27 since it’s not a round or even number. 😉
    I would love a signed copy of your book. {cheers}

  573. Halfway through your book and really enjoying it! I am actually moving to Bryan soon, and your blog has given me great comfort in knowing that it’s a place you love so I hope I will too!

  575. Hey that is awesome! We come to this blog and we read your book because You are a gifted writer, talented story teller and funny all wrapped in one with a fashion bow for the top. Congrats, Melanie! Praising God with you!

  578. Finished reading last night and have my copy all ready to pass on to a girlfriend. Amazing. God is good!!

  579. So happy for you, but not a bit surprised!! Part of God’s blessings!
    And isn’t the internet an amazing tool…? Discovered you and Boomama after
    the Beth Moore event in San Antonio, and you have been my ” friends” ever
    since!

  580. Congratulations! I still have not made it to B&N to buy a hard copy of your book since I’m working a LOT of overtime right now. That errand will stay on my to-do list, though.

  582. Congratulations!! And the even better news is that there may be ANOTHER book since this one is doing so well. Sparkly blue earrings? Purple? I love series…

  586. Congratulations!!! I am so happy for you and look forward to reading your book. You blog is a joy to read.

  593. Congrats!!! I read your book on my Kindle and loved it. I would treasure a signed copy and the Sparkly Green Earrings, Oh my!

  597. Congratulations, Melanie! So happy for you!

    And about your Container Store comment: “And I’m here to tell you that nothing will make a perpetually unorganized person feel a sense of deep shame and regret like The Container Store.” Word.

  598. New reader here … very impressed with your accomplishments! And your blog! Fun way to start my morning ….

  599. Your book was funny, inspirational and so darn truthful! I loved it and would love for my daughter to have her own copy. Congratulations, well deserved!

  601. Congrats! Long time reader, first time commenter. I am so happy that things are working out so well for you! enjoy dot mom!

  602. What wonderful news! Read it on my Nook last week and would love to have a hard copy for my personal library! Congratulations again!

  604. Thank you! For being who you are and sharing yourself wtih us! Loved your book! Congratulations – you deserve it 🙂

  606. Congratulations on being #27! I would love the green earrings. They could replace the green beaded necklace I was wearing today that decided to un-string itself all over my office floor. For a second, it felt like my water had broken when I looked down and saw stuff dropping from my body. Thankfully it wasn’t, cause that would mean I was pregnant and didn’t know it. And don’t you have to be in a Wal-Mart bathroom for that to happen?

  608. CONGRATULATIONS Melanie!!!
    Love your blog so can’t wait to read your book!
    God is so good! ~ Have fun this weekend!

  610. God is so good!!!! So wonderful to be able to share his blessing with others. Thanks for sharing his awesomeness with all of us. Congrats!!!

  611. so excited for you. I preorder 6 copies off Amazon for gifts! and everyone that has read your book LOVES it. I’m waiting until vaction to read, uninterrupted.

  612. So excited for you! I LOVED the book. In fact, I found myself being reminded about a few things you said in the book when I felt like I was going to kill my kids this morning when they were getting ready for school. Can’t wait to read your next book! 🙂

  618. Yay! That is so exciting. Today is my birthday, so if you could tell that to random.org….I think your book would be a great birthday present 🙂

  619. Congratulations!! What wonderful news. You crack me up each morning as I sip my coffee and enjoy your words on screen. It is no surprise your book did so well. 🙂 Enjoy the celebration!

  622. No, thank YOU for making me laugh often and giving me something to look forward to every day. Congratulations and may God continue to bless your faithfulness! And I’m with you on The Container Store. I’m so organized deficient.

  631. Apparently Melissa already told you congratulations. (Duplicate comment detected), but I promise this is my first comment. Congratulations!

  639. Wonderful news! HE is so awesome! Sooooo happy for you and I think we could be best friends if we ever get to meet! Praying for you at the conference.

  648. Wow! I think you need to go on a book tour, so all of us can have the chance to meet you! Congrats on all the success with your book.

  649. I started it last night. I’m in Chapter 6 or somewhere. So far I have laughed out loud and found myself actually nodding my head. As if you could see me. Really, it’s cemented my feelings that we would be great friends in real life. I miscarried at 6 weeks (nothing so difficult as what you experienced) around the same time that you did. And my Ella is just a month or so older than Caroline. The success you’re having is so well deserved.

  650. I am new to your blog. Actually discovered it by stumbling upon your book. A bit backwards!
    I would love to win a copy of your book. Oh, and the earrings, of course! 🙂
    Congrats on the success of your book.

  654. I’m sure you aren’t going to read all these comments because ain’t nobody got time for that. But I wanted to say you’re welcome because I am sure that it was my purchase that put you there. 🙂 Seriously, congrats. I’m so happy for you. This post made me tear up. You deserve it. Thank you for writing. Even when life gets busy and hard. Thanks for being honest and a refreshing positive voice on the Internet. You are a special woman.

  655. Could not be more excited for you than I would be a dear friend. This post brought tears to my eyes and can I say I feel really proud of you without being patronizing? Read the book from cover to cover on my last day off and LOVED it. I’m giving my copy away and buying several to have on hand to give as little gifts to encourage the young moms in my life. WAY TO GO!

  660. Congratulations – this is well deserved!! I have been reading your blog for a while now and I am reading the book as we speak and I can’t tell you how much I have enjoyed both! I can honestly say that my cheeks hurt after reading your book at night because I can’t help but smile and laugh through the whole thing 🙂 I have only allowed myself to read a couple of chapters a night because I know the book is going to be over way before I want it to! Thanks for being so genuine!!

  662. I love reading your blog – you have made me laugh almost daily! I haven’t bought your book yet – something about paying the light bill and kids lunches and all that, but I WANT it! Thanks for the opportunity to win. Congratulations to you!

  663. I would love to win!! I love your blog and want your book so bad, waiting on the money to order. Congrats!!

  664. Any couple who has as beautiful, smart and hilarious children as y’all do, well if it was stork news I’d be jumping up and down. Congrat’s on the book. It’s well deserved. Does this mean they will finally send you on a proper book tour across state lines? And tell them there are more towns in California other than L.A. and San Francisco.

  667. Congratulations! How great.
    Hope to see you at the signing tomorrow. Planning to be (one of) the unregistered dotMOM person in line!!!

  672. I could not be happier for you. I read the book as if I was soaking up beans with cornbread. Loved it. Still so jealous that my real-life friend Kelly is your real-life friend now. 🙂 CONGRATULATIONS!

  677. Congrats! I just found your blog a couple of days ago and enjoying it…would love to read your book!

  683. Congratulations. You must feel so accomplished! Can’t wait to buy your book! Your good news makes up for the crummy ending to Downton Abbey! Right?f

  685. So excited for you, Ev!! I wish you could see my huge smile all the way in Big D. God is using you to reach so many others and I’m proud of you for being so faithful. I love you!!!

  688. My daughter turned me to your blog because of talking about it every day. I love reading just everyday situations and I know the book is wonderful. I would love to have a book for my daughter and myself. Thank you for faithfully serving the Lord through your writing!

  692. WOW! I was just thinking the other day that I wondered when (not if) you’d make the Bestseller’s list and here you go. I was actually excited when you said you were throwing a party because I’d SO be there! I’m so stinkin’ proud of you. You deserve it girl! If you ever do throw a party please invite this girl-I’m just a hop, skip, & jump away in New Braunfels! I’d LOVE a pair of green sparkly earrings!

  693. I just finished your book the other day and absolutely LOVED it! I’m recently engaged and not a parent yet but your book has really made me look forward to motherhood. It’s refreshing to find an honest book on motherhood and all its trials and tribulations 🙂 Nice to have everything sugercoated! Thank you for taking the time to write and publish this! Love it!

  703. So so happy for you, Melanie!!

    A friend was given your book for her birthday last week. She and I talked about how embarrassed we would be if we ever ran into you in person. First it would probably be a BIG ‘Hey!!!!!’ Then we’d remember we don’t really know you and try to act cool. Cool for 40-year old moms. Yeah. ; )

    Congratulations again!!

  704. My daughter-in-law introduced me to your blog. We both love your writing. My son gave her a copy of your book as her Valentine’s day present. She was thrilled! She will be at the dotmom conference. I hope she gets to meet you!

  705. Congrats on the success of the book! I have read on several BLOGS how funny it is and I can’t wait to read it! It is on my MUST READ list for Spring Break!!!

  708. Way to go girl!! Love your blog and can’t wait to read your book, so please pick me today for your giveaway. I could wear the beautiful earrings while I read 🙂

  721. Congratulations! That’s amazing! I’ve read Sparkly Green through once. Put it down and immediately picked it back up to read again. So happy for you!!!

  725. That’s amazing! You are one of two people I “know” who have had books published since the first of the year. I read yours first! 😉

  728. Fabulous news! So happy for you! I finished the book in two days and loved every page. I’m still giving out copies to my friends. 🙂

  729. WELL DONE you good and faithful servant…and I must say nany-nany-booboo to the twit that commented on amazon that your book crammed GOD down her throat… I say ” DUH – her book is full of GOD because her LIFE is full of GOD and you could have quit after the first page” but like in all things GOD has a way of keeping your attention…
    YOU deserve all this and more…and I feel like we are friends though we’ve yet to meet…but if not here, then THERE where time will not restrain us. 🙂 Lub ya lil’ sis…keep rocking

  738. Melanie,
    Now you’re going to make me cry! I’ve been reading since Caroline was a wee little thing, and of all the blogs I read, yours is the only one I read every day. I can count on you to make me laugh, make me feel like we’re muddling through this parenting thing together, and give me much needed fashion tips!

    I’m so happy for you, and I can’t wait to read the book!

  739. Hi! Whoop for you! (Class of 99er here!) Can I please win? My copy (that I have alredy read) was victim to an applesauce squeezie (in the bottom of my work bag! eek!). Thanks!!

    Congrats!
    Congrats!
    Congrats!

  747. So happy for you! And loved the pictures of Caroline “autographing” the books with you at Katy Mills Mall~