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Friday, December 31, 2010

My Year of Discovery


All around blogland, I'm seeing a lot of people
counting down their top projects of the past year,
and to those who have completed
enough projects to warrant a Top Ten list,
I tip my cowboy hat to you.


As for me and my house,
we didn't get a whole heck of a lot done this past year,
certainly not enough to warrant crowing about it at years end.

Yep, this is a year-end review for all the underachievers out there....my peeps!


Had a booth at the local antique mall,
but the busy-ness of my work and all the moving drama
forced me to give it up....for now.


Had a successful Etsy shop too, but once again, my full-time job and
other responsibilities led me to place it in vacation mode indefinitely.
{How do  some of you gals do it all???}


Bought a gorgeous 1910 Victorian farmhouse in September,
still trying to get moved in as of January 1, 2011.


Discovered the wonderful world of DSLR cameras back in May,
took me until about November to get off my butt
and learn enough about the derned thing
to take it off of Auto mode.


 {eyes closed....how fitting and ironic, seeing as how lost I was behind the lens!}


Fully intended to get Christmas cards and thank you cards mailed out
to all my wonderful, amazing blog friends...but once again { fifth verse, same as the first },
Little Miss Disorganized dropped the ball.


Yet in spite of all these perceived failures,
somehow, some way,
Romantic Homes
deemed me worthy of a feature this month.
Go figure!


Truth be told, the past year (17 months, actually) has been one of
self-discovery, and you've all been along for the ride.

When I started this blog in August of 2009,
I wasn't quite sure where I fit in,
or what my niche might be.

 {image from my very first post}


I tried a lot of new things, stepped out into deep, unfamiliar waters,
and along the way discovered that trying something new and scary
is only scary for about five minutes.
Then you're fine.


Discovered that I'll likely be a much better photographer than shop owner.

Discovered that try as I may, I simply cannot do it all.

Discovered that the best thing about blogging are the relationships.

Discovered strengths and passions I never dreamed I would call my own...

{one of my first attempts at altered art, Paper Cowgirl June 2010}



Happy New Year, my friends.
You have made the past year one of the best of my life....
this underachiever here.

You've made me smile.
And think.
And grow.
And dream.

And the greatest discovery of all?

That the only thing worse than failing
is never even trying...



Happy 2011.


"....do one thing every day that scares you...."
Eleanor Roosevelt


82 comments:

**Anne** said...

HAPPY NEW YEAR Anne. I have only recently come across your blog and I'm loving it. I have that exact same Eleanor Roosevelt quote on one of my fridge magnets in the hope that one day I'll actually act on it. Here's to 2011.
Regards,
Anne xx
(Yes another Anne, but this one is from downunder!) :)

Tammy@T's Daily Treasures said...

Happy almost New Year Anne! I love this post and had to chuckle a time or two. You really have a way with words. And your photography has certainly blossomed over this past year. 2011 is the year of the house. Yep! You'll get there and it will be all your dreamed it would be. Best wishes to you and yours. Wishing you much peace, joy and love in the new year. Blessings, Tammy

Itchin' Stitchin' said...

Happy NEW YEAR :) The picture of the little girl made me laugh literally out load! You have accomplished a lot this year ~ I just think you don't want to toot your own horn.

Kate said...

Anne
You have been a huge blessing to me this year on my own journey and I am truly honored to know you in this world we call blogland. Hopefully one day I hope to meet yah sweet girl in person!!! Happy New Year my friend

xoxo
God Bless
Kate

Tina said...

Happy New Year Anne.
I hope your 2011 will be a wonderful year filled with love and joy.
xo Tina

The Charm of Home said...

Oh wonderful! Well put. Happy New Year!
Sherry

Between Me and You said...

All the Best to you for 2011 - it`s been a joy visiting your Blog and being allowed a little peek into life in Texas I might otherwise never have encountered.
Love,Peace and Joy to you and yours.
x

Rachel Noelle Pallas said...

You are such a sweetheart Anne~*~Im so glad I found your wonderful blog and wonderful YOU.~*~ Blessings for the new year my friend~*~Hugs,Rachel

*French Farmhouse 425*

DustyLu said...

Congrats on all you have achieved in 2010. Love your images and how much you love photography. I been MIA and have tons to share soon. Love visiting your blog it has been such an inspiration to me. Glad we met in blogland this year. Hugs lulu

Joanna said...

Well if you're an underachiever what does that make me.......?!

I too am so glad to have found your blog - it always makes me smile, think and marvel (and most times drool too).

Happy New Year Anne, to you and Mr Twig!

xxx

FRENCH LAUNDRY said...

UNDERACHIEVERS UNITE!!!! Thanks for this post. I often feel so incredibly inadequate, so I appreciate your honesty and not-so-serious view of yourself. You rock honey!

Happy New Year (maybe THIS year is the year that the organization fairy will make her appearance!),
Judy

Daphne Nicole & Lynda Cade said...

Hi Anne, I think you have achieved much this year... and your such a inspiration to others, that's a great acheivment in itself! Your photo's are absolutely gorgeous!!! Anne, I hope you and yours have a wonderful and blessed Happy New Year!!!
hugs~~ Daphne

Blondie's Journal said...

I think it is all about where we arrive inside that really counts and you have definitely arrived...you have found the true meaning in your life...for now. It's good to keep evolving.

Wishing you all the best in the New Year!

XO,
Jane

Andi's English Attic said...

Absolutely brilliant post for the last day of the year. Here's to a wonderful 2011. May it be even better than 2010.
And to Mrs. R - I DO do something (more or less) every day that scares me - I have to empty my son's pockets before I put his clothes in the wash. Terrifying!

Hill Country House Girl said...

You are so NOT an underachiever, but a talented, gracious and humble dear! Looking forward to having you in Frederickburg and perhaps an escapade or two together!! Wishing you a wonderful, healthy and prosperous new year. xo

It's me said...

It was a great year Fiona !! glad i found your beautiful blog!!...hope we have a wonderful blogyear in 2011 !! love love love......

EEN HEEL GOED EN GEZOND 2011 !!!...

LIEVE GROETJES VAN MIJ....

★ ┊    ★ ┊┊   ★ ┊  ★ ┊    
┊   ┊ ☆   ☆┊ ┊     ★┊  
  ★ ┊    ★ ┊ ★ ┊ ★ ┊
┊   ┊ ☆   ☆┊    ★┊ ☆ ☆ 
☆┊   ☆   ★ ┊    ★ ┊┊ ☆   
┊   ┊ ☆   ☆┊    ★┊★┊ ★
☆┊ ☆   ★ ┊    ★ ┊ ☆

A REALLY GOOD AND HEALTHY 2011 !!!

WARM HUGS FROM ME ........

summersundays-jw said...

Looks to me like you've had quite a year & accomplished a heck of alot. Congrats on being in Romantic Homes & your accomplishments in your photography (love your mum pic). Wishing you a happy & very productive 2011. Jan

the old white house said...

Wow, you are far from an underachiever... I think self-discovery is a valuable achievement! You have been published, you tackled a new skill and wowed us with it, and you knew when to let go of something (even if for just a little while) so that you can remain in the moment for yourself and your family... that is a great accomplishment also us women are always trying to do it all, and well sometimes that reflects on our relationships. I consider your year a great success Anne, I can't wait to see what 2011 has in store for you (and us)! I know it will be fabulous! Theresa xoxo

time worn interiors said...

Sounds like a busy year to me! But, I think 2011 is gonna be even busier! I'm look forward to it! Happy New Year!
Theresa
aka:tot

Anji Johnston said...

And a Happy New Year from me too!
Time to get scared....very scared!

Unknown said...

Underachiever my foot! Girl, what are we gonna do with you? Gotta get that glass half full in 2011 Anne - and remember, we can only do what we have time and energy to do and that's enough. Don't ever compare yourself to anyone else - you're unique, very creative, and a very special person - and THAT's enough! Turn that looking glass around and look through the other side. Big hugs!

Alice said...

I figure life is like shopping for clothes. Most of the outfits you choose will be returned to the rack, but you just keep trying them on until you find just the right one.

Your year as an underachiever was still amazing to me, and I can't wait to see what 2011 brings.

Happy New Year!

Melanie said...

Oh, Anne. You are a ray of bright sunshine on this rainy, gloomy morning. Bless your heart for always making me smile.

I was running down my list of procrastinations and failed attempts this morning and a few of them sound a bit familiar...the Etsy shop rings a bell. And the camera. It would help if I read my manual wouldn't it? :) I am adopting your motto... it is better to have tried and failed than to never have tried in the first place!

Anyway... I am so happy that you have found your home in blogland. You inspire me daily. Whether it be with your candid words, your gorgeous photos or your open, beautiful heart. You are a treasure.

Happy New Year to you, my sweet friend!

Love,
Melanie

Lori @ Katies Rose Cottage Designs said...

Anne~
You are so cute! You make me
smile!!

xoxo
Lori

Wendy said...

Anne,
I want to thank you, it was wonderful to have some to "talk to" (email) when we were going through the same **** of trying to buy our dream home! If we didn't dream and didn't try life would be pretty darn boring! Cheers to a New Year, New Adventures, and chasing our Dreams! Wishing you all the best.
Hugs~
Wendy

traci said...

thanks for the giggle this morning. i couldn't do one of those top ten lists either. happy new year my friend. i hope 2011 brings nothing but happiness and good fortune.

Garden Antqs Vintage said...

Anne, I see that you accomplished quite a bit. Hope you and your honey have a great New Years eve and day! Here's to 2011!!

Brynwood Needleworks said...

Dear Anne:
LOOK at all the comments you have already to this post! You have friends all over the world, my dear. That makes 2010 a HUGE success for you. Congratulations on your monumental accomplishment!
Love and Best in 2012 from our home to yours.
xoxo
Donna

HRH Sarah said...

WOW, Anne~ I can't believe you could see all those accomplishments as failures. Your blog is gorgeous, your etsy shop is on hold, waiting for you to come back if you choose, and you have actually cracked the cover on that camera manual. Not to mention, you managed to have a feature in a gorgeous magazine WHILE still "trying" to move in to your new home. The fact that you have done all that you have, while working full time (and then some) amazes me. As another commenter said, "glass half FULL"... A Happy and Prosperous New Year to you and the family!

Linda @ Itsy Bits And Pieces said...

You're so sweet...I think sometimes our best achievements happen quietly, while we don't even notice. It's just looking back that we see life as a whole, and how we have evolved and accomplished. I love the quotes and am inspired by your willingness to try~ look at all you've seen and done this year! My new years resolution is to step outside my comfort zone and to learn new things...I signed up for a local photography class to get me started...XO Hope you have the most wondrous new year!

Tins and Treasures said...

Good Morning, Anne,
Yes, I could certainly relate today. With my career job and caring for my elderly mom, I know I didn't accomplish 10 projects that were blog worthy! I like you attitude tho'...

Have a Fabulous Friday and a Happy New Year. Take care ~Natalie

p.s. I added you to my sidebar so I can comeback more often. I hope that was OK with you.

Linda @ A La Carte said...

Happy New Year Anne! I am so glad we have met in blogland. You are such an inspiration to me! Looking forward to 2011~ hugs, Linda

Theresa said...

I am so happy to call you my friend and can't wait to see what the New Year holds for all of us! Happy New Year my friend! HUGS!

Sherry said...

Beautiful photos as always. I too have learned a lot since I started bloggin this year and have had to decide what I should or should not be doing, I can't do it all. Your blog has been a great blessing and inspiration to me. Blessings in the New Year.

Stitchfork said...

Ohhhh - Fiona and Twig Photography has a great ring to it!!
Happy New Year Anne!
xo Cathy

Crystal Rose Cottage said...

Happy New Year Anne! I have enjoyed all that you had to share this past year! ~ Hugs, Patti

Kristin @ My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia said...

I would say you have achieved so much this year!!
You have been such a inspiration to so many of us, for that, THANK YOU!!!!
Happy New year!!!
Love
Kristin

Farmgirl Paints said...

Well said girlie. Here's to a brand new year! I'm so excited to see where it will take us:)

Rose Garden Romantic said...

I only wish I underachieved as much as you this year! Haha! Maybe when my little boys are older I'll have more time to try more things. Sounds like you had an interesting and fun year. Congrats on being featured in Romantic Homes!!! I enjoy your blog so much. Thanks for sharing all your adventures and lovely photos with us all! Best wishes for an exiting, fun and prosperous new year!
Hugs,
Michelle

saltbox
treasures
said...

Hi Anne, you do wear the hat! :) You are amazing!
You have accomplished much! Love your photography.
Happy New Year to you. I hope I learn as much in my first year of blogging. It is an amazing world of self discovery.
~ Julie

Kelley said...

Hey Anne, thanks for the inspiration and wonderful and thoughtful words!

Happy New Year!

xo Kelley

Rebecca said...

Hey Ann
Wishing you a Blessed New Year, I think you are incredible and great things to come.
Rebecca

E. Charlotte said...

What a wonderful post! I loved this most:
"trying something new and scary is only scary for about five minutes. Then you're fine."
Here's to a wonderful 2011 full of achievements, and almost-achievements. :) You sure discovered a lot in 2010, just think what could happen in the year to come. :)

Little Red Hen said...

I too tend to duck and weave to avoid the "scary" stuff. Thank you for your blog and sending a very inspriational message! Bring on 2011 - I am looking forward to it! God Bless! Tami

Jane @ Jane's Junk and Treasures said...

Thanks.......you have such a way with words!

My friends talked me into starting a site and to start decorating - decorating other homes - and getting paid for it!
I've been very scared.......So far so good!

Happy New Year to you - I love, love your house and can't wait to see what the New Year brings!

Jane

Anonymous said...

Oh, Dear Little Annie! I'm so glad I've met you in the Land of Blog! You tickle me with all of your humanness and I don't know if you really realize what a gift you have - with your writing and your photography and I love your sense of humor! You're just a little doll! I hope you're getting settled in your lovely home and wish you the best for the new year!
Here's to another year of blogging!
Be a sweetie,
Shelia :)

Linda said...

Lovely inspirational post. Have a happy new year. xxx

Chrissy said...

My year kind of ended up the same way, as far as things changing around here? But I have come to the conclusion that it is not always what we accomplish on our "to-do" list, as it is more about what we learn along the way :)
It definitely sounds like you know that you are a different, well rounded and better person on the other side of trying something new. I think this is a great and satisfying accomplishment for 2010.
Have a Happy New Year!

Vicki said...

I just love this post. Thank you for leading us down your road of self discovery. I am so glad that you were willing to put your own needs and wants aside and instead helped others...at work, in blogland, in the family...and look what happened...those selfless acts and patience led to amazing things. A lesson to be learned. God has a plan. It may not be the same as ours or on the same time frame but it is always the best plan. Here's to 2011! May it be your best year yet! I can't wait to see.

Lili said...

You certainly have been a great source of inspiration for me ever since I first tuned in to read your words and marvel over your amazing photography. And gosh I really love the way your personality comes through on here. You are just the cutest thing! Happy 2011 Anne! xoxo ~Lili

SHERRY HART said...

I love getting you post in my mail every day! Happy New Year and thanks for all of your inspiration.

Laurie said...

It has been a wonderful year with you, Anne, and I look forward to seeing what 2011 has in store for you and Mr. Twig! I know you will be sharing some beautiful photos and prose that we all have come to love. God certainly is leading you on a wonderful journey!

Happy New Year, dear friend!
Laurie

sweetpea said...

beautiful post anne. the inbox of life is never empty and all things in due time. you had quiet alot on your plate and it's okay to let a few things drop. we all do it, some of us are just better at admitting it lol. all the best for you in 2011 and happy new year!

hugs,

shelley

Debra@CommonGround said...

One of the best accomplishments of this year for me, is getting to call you sister and friend! And for knowing that the coming year I will get to meet you face to face.
Love for a wonderful and prosperous New Year!
D

Tammy said...

That was a great post. I like the line about failure being not trying. I had to close my booth this week and I know it was the right thing to do as the location was dismal..but to me it still felt like failure- even though all my friends state it was brave to try..not a failure at all. So, I'll go with you- it wasn't a failure but a learning journey.
Have a great 2011 - I plan on it.
tammy

Valerie@chateaualamode.typepad.com said...

Oh you are too funny! From one underachiever to another....I wish you a very merry, I mean happy new year! My latest post is all about being an underachiever for the Chirstmas season. We must be on the same page. Take Care,

Valerie

Heaven's Walk said...

Anne - dear sweet "underachieving" girl.....you must have NO idea how much you DID achieve in MY world. You have blessed me with your sweet comments, support and encouragement; you have blessed me with your words of wisdom and common sense; you have blessed me with evenings spent oohing and ahhing and swooning over your photos and my dreams of becoming just a glimmer of the great photographer that you have become; and you have blessed me with your friendship from afar. You continue to help me to step out in faith and dream and take chances. Thank you for being YOU. ♥ Happy New Year, Anne! xoxo laurie

Lisa said...

Hey Anne,
Well even if your a loser, you've kept me quite amused this past year. (how in the heck did Just Me make those stars?) You know you rule if your a huge rock star in blog land & don't have a slide show of your many accomplishments. Your famous for being you! Speaking of you, hooking up & making you my Lurd was a high point for me. Looking forward to getting into some more mischief in 11. Lisa

Dear Lillie said...

Okay - this is the best New Year's post I have read! Haha! I laughed out loud through the whole thing! I was having a rather lousy day too so thank you!!!! =) You have such a wonderful blog and I enjoy reading it as much as I do looking at the pictures! Have a beautiful New Year!

Miss Gracie's House said...

It is all about the journey...thanks for taking us along with you!
Happy New Year, dear Anne!
Rene'

Gracefully Vintage said...

Anne, Love it,Love the journey, and Yes Self disovery and thanks for taking us on your journey-Cant wait to see more of home, read about you in the Romantic Homes Issue (SO Exciting)..
Karryann

Sue said...

Anne,
Your blog has been such an inspiration to me this past year - reading about your adventures, your new house, and your journey of self discovery just touches my heart. This evening I watched the Disney movie "Meet the Robinsons" at a friends house. The message of the movie "Keep Moving Forward" and the way the characters celebrated failures as steps towards eventual success was just what I needed to hear on this New Year's Eve - So, sweet Anne - KEEP MOVING FORWARD!!

Hugs,
Sue

Diane Mars said...

Happy New Year Dear girlfriend~ Cheers to a Very Happy 2011 Hugs, Diane

Anonymous said...

Well anne, you may not realise but your blog is one of my absolute favs and although I can be a bit slack in leaving a comment these days I have enjoyed immensley my visits during 2010! Have a great 2011 as I am sure you will :0)
alicia

Unknown said...

Oh Anne...another great post from a truly talented gal. Love that you were featured in Romantic Homes! You've got to be so TICKLED with that. You are AMAZING. It's not about what we don't get done, but what we DO.

Love your closing quote and I will do something really scary tomorrow. Go into my garage and face all those pieces of furniture that need re-purposing in 2011.

love to you and all the best in your new home in 2011.

Cori
Starview Sonnet

pamq said...

I have ever so recently found your blog and I think we will get along just fine!

I, too, wonder how all these people get all this stuff done.

Amazing.

Fear is also an amazing thing.

I hope---no---I AM going to start conquering it very, very soon.

Like tomorrow.

Thanks for the wonderful blog.

Oh, yes---I love your disco ball earrings!

Unknown said...

Anne, honey you're are one of my very favorite blogging girls! You say you didn't get much done, you're ions ahead of me. We both started blogging about the same time and I'm so happy to go into the new year knowing you.

I think 2011 looks very hopeful for both of us.
Tons of hugs and lots of love...Tracy :)

Sandi~A Cottage Muse said...

Anne you are the best example of someone who is real and down to earth who shines her beauty and inspiration to everyone just by being who you are!

Loving the Eleanor quote...I remember that one being on our fridge for a while the year my daughter did a project on her and had to present it to the class! Thanks for the memory!

Unknown said...

Oh Anne! This was a great post! It IS about the trying! Obviously you have some great style and a flair for writing as well. If a picture is worth a thousand words than a well expressed thought in writing is priceless! Remember that!

Happy New Year!
~Liz

Honey at 2805 said...

Hi Anne,

Thought I would stop by and introduce myself to you and become a friend and follower of your lovely blog. I am a newbe blogger (only two months old) and a fellow Texan. I, too, wonder how everyone manages so many things so beautifully. Your year-end round-up certainly looks like you had many accomplishments.

My wish for you is a wonderful and rewarding 2011!

Honey

Jem said...

Happy New Year, Anne!! I hope 2011 brings you blue sky and more experiences aplenty :-) Your posts are a joy to someone like me who loves all things old, pretty and repurposed.

Jem xXx

Michele said...

Happy New Year! I really like this post. So glad I found your blog in 2010. I look forward to seeing what you have in store for us this year.

paperbird said...

that is a great quote- i love it.
well you have created a wonderful place here dear anne and that is a wonderful accomplishment. i love your heartfelt posts and the inspiration i find here. i hope you have the sweetest of blessings in this new year.

take care and stay real... it's what i love about you.

Tricia said...

Loved this post Anne! Great photos too. I didn't do a top ten list either...not much to mention. Rather than focusing on my failures, I'm just trying to tell myself that life is a journey. That sounds better don't you think?

Guess what? In an effort to throw myself into my love of photography I ordered a new camera. It is however...okay prepare yourself...a Canon :)

I can't wait to see what you'll be up to this year. Best wishes ♥ Tricia

Nita Jo said...

I am loving your blog and your photos. Your new home looks wonderful! A most Happy New Year to you!

The Rustic Victorian said...

Oh Ann, your very real and honest and we can all relate. I do believe following your bliss is the right thing to do always. You are so talented, contratulations on the article. You have the tools you need and your right where you are supposed to be.
Expect miracles!
Love
Marcie

sandy said...

Happy New Year Anne,
I love reading your humor and wit! Your accomplishments have been great this year when you do your rewind. This will be the year we get to see your lovely home that you'll soon be living in, can't wait! Your blog is one I read faithfully, maybe this will be the year I make the leap into blogland from all your inspiring words and pics!
Love,
SandyL.

WhiteWhispers2u said...

Congrats on a year well done!Happy New Year & may the best yet to come.~Cheers Kim

My Grama's Soul said...

Hello dear Anne....I loved his entire post.......but the thing I LOVED THE MOST....was the LAST QUOTE......!!!!!

That is how we ALL GROW sweet lady.

Xo

Jo

Dorthe said...

Dear Ann, I love the photo of you,-so sweet!
As for the ever staying problem ,for me ,too--to accomplisch all we starts, and wants--I have given up, and even don`t feel bad about that--well maybe only for the letters not written-or the phonecalls not done....
But else, I have learned to live with half done, half learned-and lots of other halfs.....
I think, that if only love and friendship, is not halv--everything else will be ok!!!
Love to you, dear.
Dorthe

Michelle May-The Raspberry Rabbits said...

Oh you fun girl. You have done a ton this year! Nobody can do it all and if they do it's because they have a STAFF! Hello!!! It's more important to find yourself and do what you love best. People love you for who you are, not how much you get done. Here's to following your bliss in 2011. Be it one thing or ten. As long as you love it and can give it your "all" that is what is important. The rest...whatever.
xx, shell

Lara said...

I love how you share your heart.


+ you're so much fun, too! :)))))


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