2013

I'm not one for extensive recounting of the past year; I'm usually ready to get started with the new year already. But I did a wrap-up post last year with a few random highlights from the blog, so I thought I should continue the tradition this year as well. Here are a few snapshots from 2013:

We went to see this magically beautiful church that was like something out of a dream.

There were several days where I felt like I was living in a snow globe.

I spent many hours wandering around art museums, like this one.

I'm always making stuff for the shop, of course, but I was happy to find some free time in 2013 to make things for the people I love also, like these valentines for my nephews.

We made progress on the house: painting, making repairs, buying new furniture, and hanging art work by some of my favorite Etsy sellers like this piece.

We took many walks in gardens...next to art museums, probably my favorite places to be. I went to this rose garden for the first time this year (and have been back many times since).

I started doing "photo every hour" posts, which were a lot of fun. I should do more of those in 2014.

We woke up early on Saturday mornings to scour estate sales, vintage shops, and flea markets looking for things for the house. We weren't very successful in finding the items we needed, but I did come home with a few treasures anyway.

We did a lot of exploring around town and found some new favorite places. I can't wait to do more exploring in 2014 and maybe take a few road/train trips (with my camera in tow, of course).

I marveled at the beautiful color in our own backyard this autumn.

And last, but not least, we did a little decorating for Christmas.

Peter and I just got back from driving 12 hours south to see my parents for a few days. We are pretty wiped out, so we'll most likely be spending a quiet New Year's Eve at home and maybe making a few simple goals for 2014. I'm excited if a bit bleary-eyed though. I think this year is going to hold amazing opportunities for all of us. xo, Mary