A Few Thoughts to End With Before We Begin
It feels like I haven’t blogged in weeks, but that’s because I actually haven’t! It’s been an extra busy holiday season for us, and it’s still going strong, so I’m on a holiday schedule until things get back to normal– or at least our version of it! Almost all the Christmas decor came down on the day after Christmas, which is my usual custom, but as soon as that was coming down, I was putting a little New Year’s decor up, because that’s also my usual custom… some of my closest people call this a condition but I’m not looking for a cure anytime soon because I enjoy it too much!
As I was chalking out a 2019 for this new year, I couldn’t help but think back to all the other new years that this house has seen. I blinked, and suddenly, I’m beginning my 10th year of blogging. In nearly 1,100 posts, I’ve shared everything from furniture makeovers to fun parties to the most fragile of memories of my personal life. I’ve never regretted letting you in to my life via this blog because I’ve been able to make significant connections with some of you as a result, and it has opened doors I never imagined it would when this started!
Over the years, the look and content have changed a little here (and thankfully I’ve improved some of my photography skills!), but one thing I’ve never changed is the impossibly long name, which defies all the rules of what a good blog name should be, but fits me more perfectly than any shorter and smarter name could. It’s so true that I live a life of bliss, but also true that there are many imperfections. That condition that I mentioned often results in my sharing the prettiest parts of my life and the most fun and joyous occasions, but I don’t want that to ever come between us. There have been people who take that first glance here and move on because they thought they stumbled upon the path of a perfectionist, but I hope you’ll never feel that you can’t relate to me because I live a life without problems. We’ve all got our share, friend! Sometimes I talk about mine here, and sometimes I don’t have the freedom to do that.
But what you will find is what I feel God wants me to share with you all, because the lesser-known fact about this blog is that the DIY and decor are not the main parts. The main part is connecting with you so that you can connect with Christ. It’s not the most popular thing in blogging, and it definitely is not the best strategy for growing followers and increasing revenue. But I’m totally fine with that! I’d much rather connect with individuals who need encouragement from a friend than masses who are in search of things that don’t really matter.
Y’all– I don’t have all the answers. And I’ve realized that more the older that I’ve gotten! Some of you have watched me try to mom my kids from elementary to teens into adulthood and we’ve shared experiences along the way. Now my oldest two are in serious relationships and so we’re in yet another stage of uncharted territory with unknown adventures ahead! I used to say I’d love to have a handbook with a little index where I could look up what to do in every situation, but that’s not what God chooses to do with us.
When I was growing up, I would go straight to my dad with any kind of question about anything because he was the wisest person I knew. Even up to when my kids started high school, I’d call him for advice on how to handle different situations. After 3 years of no longer being able to call him or see him face to face, this past year, it finally sunk in that God was telling me He wanted me to go to Him like I did my dad for all the unanswered questions of life. My husband is a gem and now the wisest man I know, but even he doesn’t have all the answers. And I have a feeling most of you are searching for answers for something even at this very moment. You do have someone to go to. He is waiting to help and will. If you have questions about knowing Christ personally, I’m here to help! Just contact me.
What surprises will 2019 bring us? I’m scared to ask sometimes after what other years have brought. But, I just wanted to start the year here by saying I’m here for you. I’ll keep sharing my life, and I hope you’ll share yours with me. Things are less-than-perfect here. But there’s still plenty of room for bliss. I hope you’ll be here to share it! Happy 2019!
Your #1 Fan
December 28, 2018 @ 2:58 pm
Looking forward to everything you share in 2019! You’re doing such a great job … feel free to take this is every way it could possibly be applied. 🙂
Julie
December 29, 2018 @ 10:32 am
I love you like crazy:)
Christa
December 28, 2018 @ 5:57 pm
Love to visit here. Inspiration in every way.
Happy 2019 to you and your family.
Julie
December 29, 2018 @ 10:32 am
That means so much to me!! Thank you!!
Shannon Fure
December 28, 2018 @ 7:25 pm
I love this! What a help and encouragement you are. Looking forward to the blog this year!
Julie
December 29, 2018 @ 10:31 am
So very kind, friend! Thank you!!
STEPHANIE HARRIS
December 28, 2018 @ 9:22 pm
I love your blog and always look forward to reading! Happy New Year to you and your family!
Julie
December 29, 2018 @ 10:31 am
Thank you so much! And happy new year to you and yours! 🙂
Shellee Comer
December 29, 2018 @ 8:22 am
Thank you for your willingness to share Christ with your followers. As you mentioned, it is not the most popular subject or way to win followers. However, Thank you for staying true to your heart and His call. I do believe He brings people to your blog and prospers you, too. Also, enjoy seeing your projects and ideas. Blessings to you in the New Year.
Julie
December 29, 2018 @ 10:30 am
Thank you! So sweet of you to take the time to encourage me! 🙂
Lisa
December 29, 2018 @ 11:20 am
Beautiful post Julie. I love your blog and your deeper messages about God’s love. Looking forward to more in 2019! May the year ahead bring so much happiness and good health to you and those you love!
Julie
December 31, 2018 @ 8:03 am
Thanks so much, Lisa! And thanks for being a long time blogger friend:) Keep doing a great job shining that light!
Belinda
December 30, 2018 @ 9:21 am
Thank you for your comments and Happy New Year. May we find hope and strength in Christ and joy in sharing with one another.
Julie
December 31, 2018 @ 8:03 am
Yes! Thanks so much to you as well 🙂
Leslie
January 3, 2019 @ 8:41 am
I’ve been reading you for years, but rarely comment. I love your blog not just for the pretty, but for the gentle way you share the love of Christ. Happy new year!!
Julie
January 10, 2019 @ 9:02 am
Thank you, Leslie! So kind 🙂
Kristie LaLonde
January 4, 2019 @ 8:16 am
Beautifully said Julie!! Love your realness! Looking forward to many more posts this year!!
Julie
January 10, 2019 @ 9:02 am
Thanks so much! So glad to have you along!
Jennibell
January 7, 2019 @ 8:41 pm
Beautiful post. Thank you. If you ever have a coffee get-together with locals, count me in!
Julie
January 10, 2019 @ 9:03 am
I would totally love that! We should plan that sometime soon!
Michele Staal
January 8, 2019 @ 8:08 am
Your blog was the very first blog I stumbled across on the internet before I really knew what blogs were. I was searching for a DIY magnetic chalkboard and that’s how I found your site. From there I found a zillion other DIY and home decor blogs but I really mean it when I say yours is my favorite! I love your message and your style. Thanks for the inspiration!
Julie
January 10, 2019 @ 9:04 am
Wow— that’s so very kind of you. A big encouragement to me today:)