2011 Recap

Tons of projects.

Both personally and… remodel-y, this year has been FULL of changes. Let’s take a look at the highlights, the pitfalls, and a look back at a few posts you guys (or at least, Google) couldn’t seem to get enough of.

In 2011, I…

… painted some uncommon surfaces, like my kitchen counters and my bathroom linoleum floor. I guess you guys were just as curious as I was if I could do it – to the tune of over 30,000 page views for those two posts alone!

… picked out new house colors and nearly completed painting the exterior. Along with tons of little projects like a new mailbox, house numbers, and the front door.

… gave painting cabinets a try with a special kit from Rustoleum, and considered paint colors for the kitchen.

… took a special trip to D.C. for the 2011 Solar Decathlon. Amazing design ideas were had by all. I also took trips to New Orleans and La Jolla (which had less to do with home design and more to do with relaxation).

… became obsessed with Pinterest, and so did you!

… spent ages in the primary bathroom (hey now, mind out of the gutter) removing god-awful wallpaper and patching up the mess I made.

… announced a new chapter in the Ugly Duckling House story and said a few goodbyes.

… then said hello and welcomed a new family member to the house. We took our first family photos together.

… realized that sometimes personifying my house has its downsides. Like days where it’s cranky and decides to revolt.

… regained the courage to use power tools again, and learned that I hate mowing my lawn almost as much as doing laundry.

… was accepted into grad school. Gulp!

And last but not least, grew the blog to the point where I’m pinching myself for some of the things I’m allowed to do now because of it. This year’s growth is leading to bigger and better things in 2012, and I’m really looking forward to sharing them with everyone soon. But NONE of it would be possible without each and every one of my readers. I know some of you subscribe by email, and some through Facebook, and some just stop by on a regular basis without subscribing at all. However you get your UDH fix, I’m just very, very grateful that not only are you stopping by, but you’re sticking around. So THANK YOU ALL!

Phew. If I had to describe each year so far, I’d say that 2010 was about cleaning house (literally) and laying the foundation for what was to come; 2011 was all about new beginnings and making big plans (like the exterior!). So if I have to predict, with all of the goals I’ve set for 2012 (which you’ll see soon), next year will be the year where in progress starts turning into complete. In short:  Gimme MORE!

(linking to several recap parties:  DIY Showoff, Thrifty Decor Chick, etc)

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