I can’t believe I’m writing this — has it really been two years? Two years ago today I published my first blog post, and looking back I can see how much has changed. My photography and styling have both improved, and what began as a small hobby has grown into a true passion. Last year I shared the story of how I became a blogger; this year I want to review the last twelve months, highlight a selection of my favorite posts (not always the most popular), and reflect on what matters most in blogging. So pour yourself a cup of coffee or tea and join me as I look back.
The Projects
For me, blogging is more than a list of tasks — it’s a way to explore creative projects I genuinely enjoy. This year I tackled a wide variety of DIYs, and here are the ones that still make me smile.
Early in the year I surprised myself with a spring wreath that combined natural elements and found objects from around the house. I gathered branches from my almond tree and layered them with other small details to build a textured, seasonal wreath that felt both fresh and personal.
April was especially busy. Along with some friends I launched a link party called the Sweet Inspiration Link Party, which has introduced me to so many talented bloggers who have become good friends and collaborators. That month I also tackled a long-neglected fireplace. Inspired by other bloggers and encouraged by a friend, I painted and transformed it in two stages. The finished fireplace is one of those home updates that welcomes me every time I walk through the door.
May brought my favorite wreath of the year: a May Day wreath made entirely from flowers and branches picked at the farm. It was free, natural, and as it dried it developed a nostalgic beauty that lasted for months. That same month the International Bloggers Club — a group we formed earlier in the year — tried its first furniture makeover. Working with bloggers from different countries has been one of the most rewarding parts of this year; these collaborations deepen both creativity and friendship.
Summer projects included a clever photo displayer built from repurposed barbecue grill parts — a Father’s Day gift that also serves as a versatile display piece — and a vintage suitcase makeover that turned an old piece into a practical storage box for sewing notions. The suitcase was more work than I expected: I painted the exterior and decoupaged the interior with maps. Now it holds my ribbons and sewing supplies and has freed up space in the basement.
I also made a framed jewelry organizer as part of a yearlong gift series. It was an easy, useful project I ended up keeping for myself — and that felt just fine. Later in the year a quirky project took on a life of its own: a whimsical character I called Mr. Paranoid Man Pumpkin. He became unexpectedly popular, appearing in multiple posts and even inspiring artwork from fellow bloggers.
In November the International Bloggers Club organized a gift-swap challenge. The other members chose an antique cauldron for me to refresh, and I repurposed it into a festive container for the season. It was a meaningful reminder that friendships formed through blogging can bring forgotten treasures back into everyday life.
The Photography
Photography has become an essential part of this blog. I maintain a small gallery of photos and continually work to improve my composition and editing, even with a modest camera. What matters most is practice and an eye for detail.
This year I began sharing a series of popular Facebook photos for readers who don’t use that platform. Among my favorite photography posts was a sunset road-trip essay called “Top of the World,” a magical drive up into the mountains where rain cleared and revealed an unforgettable sunset. Another favorite was a calm boat ride into the sunset — a quiet, reflective photo story that stood in contrast to other sunrise adventures from past years.
I also enjoyed sharing personal collections, such as a post showcasing a variety of doors I love. Photography helps preserve not only projects but moments and memories that tell a story over time.
The Blog
This past year brought opportunities to participate in themed blog series and to write guest posts about navigating social media. I joined a series that explored what it means to be a blogger “of a certain age,” and I also wrote about learning to manage Facebook as part of my outreach. Those experiences reminded me that bloggers come from many backgrounds and that sharing advice helps everyone improve.
As responsibilities grew, I made the difficult choice to pause my Greek translation work so I could focus on projects and photography. I did publish a tutorial on translation methods for readers who needed guidance, but overall the change allowed me to concentrate on the things I enjoy most while maintaining quality content.
Musings
Blogging is rewarding but it is also a lot of work. Beyond the projects and photos there are technical skills to learn: HTML and CSS basics, social media dynamics, algorithms, image optimization, and SEO. One of my major goals this year was to revisit early posts and optimize them so search engines could actually find the blog. That effort made a big difference.
I also took steps to monetize the blog in small ways. Earning a bit of income for the hours I invest — often 60+ hours a week — is encouraging and helps cover expenses. Yet the most valuable resource has been my blogging community. Friends like Pili, Katrin, Keri, Michelle, Nikki, and Lisa have offered advice, support, and inspiration. Their encouragement and camaraderie have been essential to growth and learning.
Community matters. When I started blogging I hadn’t realized how many generous, creative people I would meet. Social platforms have become a place to connect, collaborate, and celebrate each other’s successes. Those connections are what keep me going.
Looking Ahead
Looking forward, I plan to continue exploring paint-based repurposing projects and to deepen my experience with traditional paints I’ve been working with as a brand collaborator. I want to keep improving my photography and make the blog easier and more pleasant to navigate. If you notice anything that could be improved, I always welcome constructive feedback through the contact form.
Most of all, I will continue to make practical upcycling and repurposing projects that anyone can try. I don’t have special training or fancy machinery — only curiosity, imagination, and willingness to roll up my sleeves. The ongoing economic difficulties in Greece have limited budgets, but they haven’t limited creativity. Small, thoughtful projects are often the most satisfying and environmentally friendly, and I hope they inspire you to try something new.
Thank you for reading this long two-year review. I only get a few chances each year to pour my heart out like this, and I appreciate your time and support. Tell me which projects were your favorites, or reach out if you have questions or suggestions — I always love to hear from readers.
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