Sponsor Spotlight + Giveaway: Take the Cannoli

Get to know Natalie from Take the Cannoli!

1. When did you start your blog?

2007

2. What are two websites do you visit when you hop online? (Excluding social media.)

Proverbs 31 devotions & Etsy

3. Name your top three blog mentors. Why do they inspire you?

My sis-in-law Jenn. She got me started on blogging. She started one as a way for all of the family to stay connected with her babies. I started this blog to document my life with Micah and all of our adventures together for all of our family and friends out of state and who we didn't see often enough.Once the babies came along it became more of mommy blog. It is slowly transforming into something more. Molly from the story of us has really been my biggest mentor. Through her design and creativity she has helped transform my blog ascetically to what it is and will become.Her love of Jesus, fam and great style has been inspiring to say the least. Then of course Kimmie. Dear sweet Kimmie. You have opened new doors and created opportunities for me and will forever be grateful for your heart and generosity. I seriously love this girl!

4. Where do you see your blog in five years?

If blogs are still in existence and not some old cyber fad, I envision it being a place of encouragement, A foundation of something bigger to come. I would love it to help promote my love affair with handmade crafts, but also seeing it warp into a ministry of some sort.

5. If you could only have five items in your purse for the rest of your life, what would they be?

I will be honest. I was stumped with this question. I was kind of agonizing over it.HAHA! Then my husband reminded me that it asked what 5 items in your PURSE not what 5 items you can have if stranded on an island with nothing else. So with this new insight, it was easy. 1.) iPhone 2.)lipgloss 3.)Hand Sani 4.)wild berry skittles or Red Vines 5.) Notepad for journaling or making my "lists".

6. What does your blog name mean?

How did you come up with it? "Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli" is my all time favorite quote from the classic film The Godfather. I interpret that as take what's important and move on. Such as in life. It also shows me that even in a tough mafia filled world that Pastries are King! I know what I'm about to say next may seem like an oxymoron when comparing God to a movie such as this. But it really is a daily reminder to see my blog title and know that we have a God ho is so incredibly good. He showers us with blessings beyond measure. Though there will be heartaches and trials I believe God wants us to enjoy the sweet side of life.

7. What is your day-to-day life like?

Right now in this season of baby mania it is pretty much the same schedule everyday. Waking up to take care of the littles while crafting or blogging during naps and bedtime really sums it up. I love it. Though hectic most days it is still pretty simple.

8. Do you have a favorite post that you have written? What's the link? Why is it your favorite?

THIS POST. This is my fave to date because I am so honest with not only my readers but myself. It is hopeful and reminds me of how much I have overcome this past year by the Grace of God.

9. Where is your favorite place to shop for clothing?

Vintage or consignment stores ANNNND Nordstrom Rack

10. Do you know of an online shop that you would recommend to everyone?

For clothes? I'm not a big shopper of clothes online but I'm constantly drooling over the selection at ModCloth. As far as just everyday items. AMAZON baby! I literally buy everything on here. From Record Vinyls to Diapers. Craft Supplies to books. I'm a Prime member which means free shipping on practically everything including the new mattress I just purchased. Booyah!

Awww thank you, Natalie!

I love getting to know you better!

And guess what, Sugar and Dots readers?

Natalie is offering one of you her one-of-a-kind hoop art entitled, "Celebrate"!

Spend the year celebrating with this beauty displayed in your home.

To enter:

You MUST be a follower of Sugar and Dots AND Take the Cannoli via Google Friend Connect.

Leave a comment below telling me that you follow both blogs.

For additional entries:

1. Visit Natalie's shop and leave a comment below telling me your favorite item.

2. Visit her on Facebook and leave a comment below telling me that you've liked her page.

3. Follow her on Twitter and leave a comment below telling me that you follow her.

Winner will be announced Friday February 3rd.

Good luck!

xo