Good March morning friends!
Today, I'm coming to you on the eve my 3,650th day of blogging.
In short, that's 10 years.
While I have all the posts to prove it, my brain is having a hard time processing it. Somehow it just doesn't feel that long. Two, maybe three years, but a decade of Exquisitely Unremarkable?
How could that be?
I think I'm going to with the old adage about how time flies when you're having fun...because, honestly, that's what it's been. Ten years of fun.
120 months of crafts, DIYs, decorating tales, renovation, holiday decor, thrifting and more.
The more, of course has been the most wonderful part. It includes the comments, the emails, the messages and the friendships.
Relationships forged over the internet, fostered by a love of creative endeavors.
Connections that have fed me through times of trouble, my mother's illness and passing, renovation nightmares and a decade of aging.
Crafting...and blogging...through the chaos definitely helped.
As I enter this next year, I find myself still focused on the fun.
I'd like to stretch myself a bit, try new things. And I've already started.
You can catch it:
- On Ahna Fulmer's site. I'm episode 110
- On YouTube
I joined the Thrifty Style Team, to challenge myself to think outside the bargain decorating box a little more.
And I was featured on a postcard mailer for Calico Corners, describing my experience during my family room makeover. Opening the mailbox and finding that inside was kinda neat.
In addition, I'm thinking of starting a weekend wrap up kind of post. Like this one. Testing...testing!
I tried the whole Friday Finds things, but turns out, that schedule was too rigid for me. I'd rather share a little less formally. Sure, I may post about some fabulous finds, fashion, food, content from other bloggers.
However, it might be every Saturday, every other, or just once a month.
I may recap my week or tell you what I have coming up in the future.
Like my plans to get back to my crafting basics. More tongue in cheek tales about the very serious business of home decor.
This past year was all about major renovations, because, well, that's what I write about. My real life.
And I do still have some leftover DIYs in my drafts. Some are construction or flood (ugh!) related and some are cleaning...there was a lot to clean up this year.
But with most of that behind us now, I'm excited to dig into more quick and easy decorating tricks and crafty home decor projects.
What's on the agenda?
- I'm adding more pom pom fringe in the kitchen
- I made new curtains for the family room
- I had a pillow cover made...was it worth the price? I'll let you know when I know!
- I'm working on an update for my skirted kitchen chair...it's seen its day
- I have bags full of thrifted items and craft supplies for spring to make up and makeover
Lastly, I will try to share more of my sources. I'm not great about it, I know.
Then I end up with messages and emails, DM's and comments and I try to answer them all, but sometimes it's not in the most timely manner.
Recently, I shared some on social media, like:
- My family room lace curtains
- These new pillow covers - I just ordered them in white too
- Some pretty remote pillar candles
- My sweetest Christmas present
- My new favorite home decor gadget
And write that book.
We'll see.
In the meantime, like I said, I'm just going to focus on the fun and the beauty I can find in the everyday.
Every day.
The way I started, when I hit publish on that first post, all those years ago.
♡
With love and gratitude, because without you I would've spent the last decade talking to myself, I wish you all a lovely, lovely weekend!
Cheers!
Happy 10 years! I went back and read your first post and loved it! I don't know when I found you but I've been enjoying your words, talents, finds.. for quite a few years and am blessed to know you here in blog world. I agree, our blog friends are a blessing.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed the finds you shared today. That butter dish is sooo my style, and I need that lint shaver!
Thanks Mari! Friends are the biggest blessing, for sure! I can't believe it's been that long...the kids have gone from middle school to college graduates. That's the biggest shock to me. Glad you like the finds, that teeny butter dish is my favorite and the lint shaver is keeping my upholstery looking brand new. Who knew??!! Happy Weekend!!
DeleteReally enjoyed watching you on YouTube. I haven't been with you for 10 years but your one of the few blogs I follow because your ideas are realistic and look nice when finished. Love reading about the new ideas to come and I just ordered your pillow covers with the pom poms so thank you for the link.
ReplyDeleteYour words just made my day!! ❤️ Thank you so much. I'm so glad you enjoy my ideas and I hope you enjoy your new pillow covers! My husband is currently squishing mine on the couch!! Haha!!
DeleteCongratulations on ten years of keeping it exquisitely real and lovely. I love your perspective. 🥂
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Jeri! That means the world to me. 🥰
DeleteCongratulations my friend! I watched your recorded interview a week ago. We are still taking Peanut for fluids. Her numbers went down but now it's every other day for 2 weeks and that will hopefully be it. She's eating and acting like her adorable self again so that's huge.
ReplyDeleteI haven't visited because I have been a writing machine and making projects. My craft room/office is a mess.
I'm planning on trying new things as soon as I can rip off the Band-Aid one more time.\
You know I love what you do, and the storytelling is the best!
Thanks so much, Cindy! It’s been a wild ride, from not even knowing what a blog is to where I am today. Like I said, tons of fun and friendships along the way, including yours!
DeleteGlad to hear that Peanut is on the mend and I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us this year, too!!
Kim! Ten years?? A trip to London, as I recall, was in there somewhere. I'm so proud of you for that! I'd be terrified! Believe it or not, planned travel gives me the willy nilly's. And a speech?? Just shoot me! But you did it all!
ReplyDeleteI came across a leftover piece of periwinkle pompoms last year, and just had to have them. Now if I can only get back to a house of my own where I can paint my walls periwinkle again, with the white matelassé bedspread I just scored for $5 (!). Oh, and actually make the pillow.
You have been my inspiration through 5 different addresses, and will continue to be. I'm so glad I found you on AllFreeCrafts!
Nancy
Nancy, you are the sweetest!! I've enjoyed all our conversations and chats about decor and more over the years. You were the one who sent me the DIY idea for my beloved skirted kitchen chair. When I brought it up to the upholsterer, they laughed and told me to recreate it would be too labor intensive, so not an option. Oh yeah...we'll see about that! And London, yes, well, I didn't actually go, although yes, I was invited. That plane ride for a one evening event was a little beyond my comfort zone...but it was nice to be asked!! xxoo
DeleteHappy blogging anniversary! I'll have to go check out the youtube link.
ReplyDeleteHave a good weekend!
Thanks so much, Melanie! It was a little nerve wracking, but I’m glad I pushed myself.
DeleteHappy Anniversary! I love your blog and have enjoyed reading every one of your posts! - Briana from Texas
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Briana! You always leave the sweetest comments and they mean more than you know. ❤️
DeleteThank you Briana!! You always leave the sweetest comments and they truly do make my day whenever I see one in my inbox!!
DeleteCongratulations on your 10 year anniversary! That is a remarkable accomplishment! I enjoy your posts and follow you because of your originality and creativity. Your blog is unique: relatable, inspiring and you share your step-by-step with us. It gives me the confidence to try something I have never thought of before! I'm looking forward to many more years of reading your posts!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Kristine! What a lovely thing to say. My goal has always been to share so that others will be inspired to try my DIYs. I possess no special talents, I just enjoy making things for my home that don't cost a lot and don't look like I made them myself! ❤️
DeleteCongratulations on ten years! What a milestone! I’ve so enjoyed reading your posts and seeing all of your fabulous decorating ideas. Here’s to ten more! 🎉
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Mandy!! When I started, there was no plan. I just thought I'd keep doing it until it stopped being fun...and here I am!
DeleteHappy Blogging Anniversary Kim. I have enjoyed following you for the past 10 years and all your crafty and fun DIY's. I am so happy we have become friends and connected with each other through the years. It has been pure fun and a great blessing to me. Happy Blog Anniversary.
ReplyDeleteHugs. Kris
Thank you, Kris! I don’t know exactly how I stumbled into the lovely world of home decor bloggers, but I feel so blessed to have made so many friends, including you. As you said, our friendship has been a great blessing to me. I wish you a lovely week ahead!!
DeleteMany congratulations on your 10th Blogging Anniversary ... here's to many more :)
ReplyDeleteAll the best Jan
Thank you very much, Jan!!
DeleteCongratulations, Sweet Friend. The happy part is that we have gotten to spend all of this time with you. The sad part is that while time seems to be marching on for most of the rest of us, you have not aged a bit. How do you do that?? Here's to ten more. xo LAura
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Laura! Your warm words have made me smile and blush all at once...and while I'll take your sweet compliment my friend, I will just quote the great Nora Ephron and say, I don't like my neck!! 🤣
DeleteHappy 10 years!!! I vote yes to a weekend chat!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much and yay!! I'm really excited to try those weekend chats out.
DeleteKim! Happiest of anniversaries. I was so glad to find you and as you know I was moved beyond words when reading about ‘no crying at the nursing home’. I felt I had found a soul sister. I have enjoyed all of your posts , but particularly those about your gorgeous family room! I love how you share your family with us. Thank you for sharing your talent and your life with us!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Susan. ❤️ I'm so glad that you found me, I think it was fate. Unfortunately, we were brought together by our similarly heartbreaking situations, but it was so comforting to find someone else who understood, who was going through the same thing and truly knew what I meant when I wrote those words. Of course, the family room was a much more fun and frivolous journey...but I guess we need a lot of those to ease the rest...thank you for all of your visits and kind words!! xo
DeleteHappy Blogoversary Kim! I can't believe it has been 10 years. It feels like yesterday that I started following you and being so intimidated, as a new blogger, when you would kindly respond to my comments. You turned out to be the most down to earth person in the blogging community and such a great source of inspiration. I may not blog anymore but I still love to pop in and see your great ideas. After all we never stop decorating. I watched the You Tube interview and was struck with your idea that at the end of the day what we want is relax by tweaking our homes. That is exactly what I do. I may be exhausted but all I want to do at the end of the day is rearrange the decor! You are truly a kindred spirit. I am waiting for the day when we meet up! Looking forward to the next 10 years!
ReplyDeleteMary, I'm truly overwhelmed by your comment. Your words have left me a little misty on this side of the computer. I don't know how to thank you, my words seem a little insufficient right now. I really do love blogging, it's not something I ever thought I'd be doing - sharing my life and projects so publicly and making friends over the internet...but this community of lovely people just pulled me in. I'm so glad we met, and to think at the time you were across an ocean! Now you're close enough to meet for a meal and we should do that!! Thanks again my friend! xo
DeleteHappy Anniversary, Kim, and congratulations on all the success you have had and are experiencing. You've worked hard, and it's paid off. Sounds like your next decade is going to be even more successful. It'll be great when I can say, "I knew you when." (Big Grin). Love you friend. Mega hugs, Nancy
ReplyDeleteThanks Nancy!! Mega hugs to you too, my sweet friend. I can't believe I've been hanging out in this tiny corner of the internet for so long. It truly is my happy place and mostly because I get to chat with so many lovely people. Like you...🥰
DeleteHappy 10th Anniversary, Kim. Here's to 10 more years of fun and friends!
ReplyDeleteThanks Ann!! 🥰
DeleteWhooooo, hooooo, congrats, Kim. You are without a doubt one of my favourite bloggers. I love reading about "you" and enjoy catching up with things that are happening on your side of the world. Here's wishing you many, many more.
ReplyDeleteOh and write that book, write that book!!!
Michelle, the feeling is mutual. 100%. Your creativity and humor are an inspiration to me! I also love reading your summer posts when I'm freezing my tail off in January. That is definitely a perk of our cross continental friendship!!
DeleteHappy 10th Blogging Anniversary Kim. I've enjoyed reading your blog for the past ten years. I can't believe how fast the time has flown by. I love all of your tutorials and DIY's and I'm glad we connected through our blogs.
ReplyDeleteI can't believe it's been that long, Julie...where did the time go? I've really enjoyed our chats as well and all the sharing that has gone on both ways, from crafts and decorating to recipes and travels. It's been wonderful. I'm glad we connected, too!
DeleteKim!!
ReplyDeleteHappy Blogaversary!!! Now I seriously doubt that is a word but never the less...I have enjoyed reading your posts and loved that you share your life with all of us too and not just crafting and home decor...sadly, many blogs have lost that personal touch that existed when we first started...I started mine in 2010...YIKES!!!! It was a gentler and kinder time than...More like we had pen pals like we did in grade school who shared similar interests...But there is still a few of us still out there who blog for fun.....Glad that you are one of them and not only that, you have inspired me so much with all your wonderful projects!!! Thanks so much for sharing your time and talents with us along with everyday happenings...It truly has been a pleasure , my friend!!!
Hugs,
Deb
Deb, the pleasure has been all mine and yes, pen pals, I love that analogy and goes right back to what I said...friends are the best part of blogging!! Thank you for your lovely wishes!!
DeleteHello Friend,
ReplyDeleteHappy 10th Anniversary!!! What a journey. I have enjoyed reading your posts. Your honesty about life, how things are not always easy. Your honesty about projects, how they do not always go as planned. Your honesty with heartache, fear and family. I have appreciated all this and tied in with your honesty is your POSITIVE attitude. To keep going, even if the paint color is not right the first time around. ;-) Making light with your husband and how you work together on the projects. So many fun comments you have shared as you do a project together, making me smile.
Thank you for the friendship, the amazing tutorials and recipes.
Love, Carla from the River
Thank you so much, Carla. Your heartfelt comment is so lovely. I read it and reread it several times. It really touched me and made my day. I've so enjoyed getting to know you through your own blog, as I said, that's been the true magic for me during the past decade. Your support, love and friendship have meant the world to me. ❤️
DeleteHappy 10 year blogging anniversary, Kim! I’ve really loved getting to know you and seeing your transformations of many of your home projects. You always give the best tutorials and it’s great to know how well you and your hubby make such a wonderful team together. Here’s to 10 more years!!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Kitty! It’s been lovely getting to know you, as well. We share of love of beautiful dishes, that’s for share. I’m also a rather boring cook and your recipes have helped make my dinner table a little more interesting. I thank you for that…and more importantly, my family thanks you!! 😉
DeleteCongrats on 10 years, Kim! Kudos for keeping it going all this time! I'm going to check out your podcast when I get a minute. Looking forward to all of your upcoming posts. I'm so glad we connected in this wonderful blogging world!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed watching the podcast!
DeleteAmy, thank you so much for those super sweet words. I'm so glad we connected through blogging, as well. Like I said, that has truly been the best part of the last decade for me!! xo
Delete