2011 Accomplishments

I've been reading through several other bloggers' top 10 lists this morning, and am inspired to take a look back at what we have accomplished around here in 2011.  Sort of a public, pat-myself-on-the-back, if you will allow it.  It's easy to get lost in the to-dos and forget to enjoy the dones.

We had our major projects...

The Green Bedroom Makeover involved some fresh paint, tearing up stained carpet, and having hardwood floors installed.

This Mini Bathroom Makeover was more of a chore than it should have been, but it was a learning experience, and all's well that ends well.

Digging the Expanded Vegetable Garden was a lot of work for someone else in this house, but I put in a lot of time planning and planting (and learning how to do better next year?).

The Yellow Bedroom Makeover was the most dramatic change of 2011, knocking down a wall, ripping up carpet, getting a new floor, and painting.

Staining the Porch was the project that spanned the summer, since staining and rain don't mix, and it rained all summer (and when it didn't, we wanted to enjoy being outside).  But it's done.

These were more purchases than projects, but they are home improvements that still make me happy every time I look at them...

The Sideboard we snagged for $75 on Craigslist.

And the new range and microwave I'm still learning how to use. 

And, I have a few favorites in the small project category...

My first peonies, because patience is eventually rewarded.

The Beacon Hill Table, because it was such a pleasant surprise, and I admire it every day.

And The Ottoman Tray, because it demonstrates so well that apparent trash really can be treasured, and that sometimes what you're looking for is right under your nose.

Of course, starting this blog was one of my greatest personal accomplishments of 2011, allowing me to stop writing make believe blog posts in my head, and actually send real information out into the blogosphere that a few people might actually read.  So, thank you for making that possible!

I'll be back in the early days of 2012 with some forward looking plans, and, I hope, a new project or two.  Happy New Year to you all!

Karen