What a year it was. I kicked off 2018 by sharing the news that I was pregnant. Ellie arrived at the end of February and we haven’t looked back. Our new family was absolutely the highlight of last year. We had some low times too–my Dad’s death and some other moments too hard for me to talk about yet. But Ellie is always light and joy and love.
Ellie–or rather her nursery–was also the source of some of the top posts on the blog last year.
I shared the reveal of her colourful, farmy, happy space and then dove into the details of various DIYs and other projects we completed in this special room.
Some of the most popular posts were her DIY Moroccan pouf (and a round-up of other poufs you can make yourself), the blackout window treatments (and how to pleat Ikea curtains), and an easy, low-budget Eames Hang-It-All.
A feature of the nursery is my favourite Strandmon wing chair from Ikea. I finally wrote a proper review of this chair, and it quickly became one of the most popular posts of last year.
Just before Ellie arrived, I finished a project that’s been in my plans for awhile–a new coffee table for the living room. You all liked it as much as I do, and it ended up also being a top post of 2018. I used the Benchwright plan from Ana White, modifying it to have drawers on both sides. This table turned out so well, and the extra drawers are very helpful now that the baby is turning into a complete busybody.
Obviously, our lives now revolve around that busybody. We didn’t do quite as many projects in 2018, but I can’t complain about how we spent our time. Sharing the farm with our little family is all I want for 2019.
Home on 129 Acres 
You really accomplished a lot, all things considered!! Growing and raising a human being would be enough for most people! I hope you have a blessed new year. You are all on my mind daily.
Thanks for the encouragement, Sarah. We appreciate your kindness very much.
The baby is a complete busybody, that’s funny! They sure are, aren’t they. 2018 was an incredible mix of a year for you guys. Some fantastic things and some really hard things. Here’s hoping 2019 brings more of the former, or even how about some middle of the road things? That would be fine too!
For us, it was somewhat of a rollercoaster too, but with not quite as pronounced highs and lows. I mean, nothing beats having a baby! The good news is we’re starting 2019 in a new home and my depression is really improving.
Lots of love to all of you! Here’s hoping 2019 is kind to us.
Kindness is definitely a great wish for 2019. Your focus on the positive is a great outlook. How’s your new addition?
Do you mean our new granddaughter? She is just adorable! She has the squishiest, kissable cheeks and bright black button eyes. ❤
You certainly accomplished plenty in 2018. Baby Ellie is a lucky one.