Caution: This post may take longer to read than you have time for!
I am still relatively new to regular, weekly (code for consistent) blogging, so I often search sites that blog about similar topics (gardens/gardening; home décor/improvement; cooking/entertaining) to my own for ideas on how to improve my site. Sometimes I walk away feeling inadequate and overwhelmed, but more often than not I’m inspired to “Stay Calm and Continue Blogging”.
I created a file for favorite posts that either a) inspired me to create changes/improvements to my home, garden or even blog site, or b) were so lovely to view and ponder and dream (like a feature in a magazine) that I visited the post repeatedly.
That said, I’ve noticed many blog sites have featured their TOP ____(fill in the blank with your favorite number). Here are my top 10 for 2010 (these were posts that went into my file, in truth there are probably more posts that I simply couldn’t find or have forgotten about):
1. Things That Inspire, April 25, 2010, “Glass front cabinets – form over function?”
Holly lives in Atlanta, Georgia and is currently building her own home. She always has interesting and in-depth information about interior design, architecture and art. The images she shares with her readers are amazing.
2. The Lettered Cottage, April 26, 2010, “Easy, Affordable Ways to Add Character to a Newly-Built Home”
Layla and Kevin Palmer, a husband and wife team that will astound you with their creativity. They truly have a knack for turning the most ordinary into an extraordinary place to live. They are very talented with DIY, something I can only wish I could do, but you get some helpful tips on sprucing up discarded treasures. This is a fun site to visit.
3. Peggy & Fritz, August 19, 2010, “Finally a little sunshine”
Ann is a SoCal blogger and her site always makes me smile. She shares images of her travels and I get some great ideas for everything from table settings to furniture and fashion design.
4. Cote De Texas, May 5, 2010, “The Stone Turret House”
Due to computer issues I was not able to successfully download an image of the house, but you can click on the link I’ve provided and see it.
Joni is the rock star of blogging and for good reason. Her site always educates and provides solid information on her topic (interior design and prominent designers). Her images are the stuff dreams are made of.
5. Limestone & Boxwoods, May 23, 2010, “Ride-by: A Peachtree Battle Beauty”
I had the same problem with images from Limestone & Boxwoods
This site doesn’t post frequently, but when he does post it is wonderful! I believe he lives in Atlanta—I really must visit Atlanta some day. They seem to have some amazing homes.
6. Velvet & Linen, May 30, 2010, “A garden dining room…
Brooke was recently mentioned by the New York Tiimes which featured her recently remodeled pink bathroom.
Brooke is a talented interior designer located in California. Her shop is always filled with treasures I’d love to incorporate in my own home. Her husband is an architect and between them there is always something beautiful being developed.
7. French Kissed, December 30, 2010, “Cashmere Epiphany”
Jermaine is an amazingly talented photo stylist and her vision is evident in every room of her lovely French inspired home. She finds second hand treasures and manages to create such an old world ambiance that you would swear her home was actually an historic country house outside of Paris.
8. The Inspired Room, June 3, 2010, “Charming Potting Shelves”
Melissa is located in Seattle and I always look forward to reading her post. She keeps me grounded and reminds me what is important when hearth and home are concerned.
9. Trouvais, December 31, 2010, “Happy New Year’s Eve”
Trish takes me on a journey into some of the most beautiful historic and present day castles, homes, estates—she always surprises and delights with her images.
10. Brabourne Farm, December 24, 2010, “Love…flowers @ Brabourne Farm
This site is strictly images driven. How she manages to find so many beautiful pictures of my favorite things in the world is impressive.
If you find yourself with spare time in 2011 (I know, I know, WHO HAS SPARE TIME?!) visit these sites. I believe you will have fun!
Garden, Home & Party 
French Kissed said:
What an honor to be included in your top ten favorite posts. I love being part of this wonderful community where we inspire and encourage one another. Thanks for the mention and for your contribution to this exchange of ideas.
~jermaine
Karen said:
Jermaine,
Its such a pleasure finding “friends” with shared interests and a constant stream of inspiration.
Karen
Valerie @ Chateau A La Mode said:
Hi Karen, what lovely inspiration you shared. It gets me thinking of where to start with my home. I’m getting ready to get into bed and now my wheels are turning thinking which to tackle first, second….you get the idea. Hope your new year is going well.
Blessings,
Valerie
Karen said:
Valerie,
Thank you for always being so supportive by dropping by for a visit now and then. The planning and dreaming is the fun part! Pleasant dreams!
Karen
Linda Coble said:
Karen, You introduced me to several of these posts and I always enjoy checking them out. However, my friend, GH&P is still my favorite by far. Thanks for always giving me a bright spot in my day with your inspiring and lovely images, recipes and words.
Linda
Karen said:
Linda,
Thanks for your unending support. Since you’re like a sister to me I suspect you’re a little biased! 🙂
xo,
Karen
Ann said:
Karen thanks so much for the recap and including me with these fabulous bloggers. I like you am finding my way and wish I had more time to write and/or educate like I really want to. It’s quite challenging working a full time job and blogging. You are doing a fabulous job and I enjoy reading your blog. I actually read a lot of the same ones as you for the same reasons and there are a few more that I can’t wait to check out. It’s also a pleasant reminder that I need to do the same. Thanks for your support and always commenting and I look forward to watching you evolve as me …we can be good moral support 🙂 Thanks so much for including me with these fabulous women – yourself included! xo
Karen said:
Hi Ann,
It will be fun to share this journey! It is more fun than I first expected and like you I wish I had more time to do more research. The process has helped me identify my own personal style along the way and thanks to women like you, I’ve learned, which is always enriching.
Karen
Gretchen said:
Karen, I’m saving this blog so I can savor it over time with a cup of tea. I never cease to be amazed the way your blog has evolved in such a short time. It’s a wonderful source of inpiration and information!
Karen said:
Hi Gretchen,
I think you would enjoy at least a couple of these other sites. Things that Inspire is building a new home from the ground up and it’s in Atlanta…you will see some amazing homes and get some great ideas from her.
Thank you so much for your kind words and faithful readership. 🙂
Karen
James said:
Hi Karen,
Thank you for including me in your post. I’m just finding your blog and am enjoying reading through your posts.
James
Karen said:
Hi James,
I absolutely love your blog. The name is inspired, the images are amazing and your focus is always spot on! Thank you!
And thanks for stopping by for a visit.
Karen
Trish said:
Hi Karen. Thank you for including me! Love the neighborhood tour as well! (I agree about the width of that stone front entry). Finally getting some gardening done, but then I get behind on blogging! Thanks again, and have a wonderful weekend! XO Trish
Karen said:
Hi Trish,
I have the same issue…work in the garden or wile away the morning blogging. There must be balance somewhere! 🙂 Have fun in your lovely garden.
Karen