This is a crazy day. All words, no photos.
I tell the truth, friends.
As I’m getting ready to begin a new year at home, with my family, I’m, of course, getting ready to begin a new year with my blog, my business…with you guys.
This blog began as a hobby. Me talking about what I wanted to talk about. It will always be that.
But now, there are folks who come to hang out, to learn something, or to gain inspiration from projects and each other.
There are some things in the works for the new year, for this blog and for myself, and those will come. I also can’t help but take the time to tell you some things I’m learning about myself and this blog, and to ask for your input.
I’m writing for you, after all.
Let me begin with some things I’ve learned.
My family still comes first. And while I’m love with what I’m doing, with writing, with the projects we do (blog or not), the fam will always come first. And that’s okay. This blog probably won’t blow up tomorrow…but that’s okay. I have a feeling your families are more important to you, too.
🙂
It occurs to me that quality is much more important than quantity. I’ve learned that I want to spend a little more time working on projects and being a little less concerned with getting a post out every single day. I want posts here to be worth your time…for them to inform, entertain, or inspire. I’m not saying I won’t post everyday, but I’m not saying I will, either. I’m taking the pressure off of myself to try to do too much…so I can do more.
Confused yet?
🙂
Balance is a choice much of the time. It’s what we fight to grasp everyday, when most of the time it’s right there in front of our face. Choices. What to hold on to and what to let slide. This has been a year of finding balance for me, for my family, for our blog. Because it’s ours (Matt and those kids don’t know it yet, but it’s theirs too). I’ve learned what things I can take on and what things I have to let go of. Dreams I want to pursue now, and dreams that wait just a little bit longer. Balance is why I sought out contributors. And don’t worry: I haven’t forgotten. I’m still sorting through it….I know this blog will be nothing but better with help from brilliant creatives. Hopefully that will kick off in January or February.
Email is my arch-nemisis. Before the release of my eBook, I was totally able to answer every email. All the time. Now, brother, you just have to catch me on a good day. Don’t get me wrong: it’s not that I don’t want to answer…I read every single one. After I released the ebook, my email average shot up to around 75-100 per day. That’s slowed back down to every few days to that many even in a week. But those are just the questions on how to paint a specific piece, how to wax, what color to paint a chair, what fabric should I cover my chairs with, etc. And I’m dying to answer them all. I also have sponsor/more business emails, personal stuff, and those that are more personal I receive from y’all. I’ve learned I just can’t answer them all…as badly as it pains me to say that.
However, Facebook & first comments are my cheerleaders. As it became harder for me to answer all emails, I noticed it was fairly easy for me to try to answer every question I receive on my Facebook page. It’s why I took down our community section…Facebook became that on its own. I also noticed that it’s super easy for me to reply to the first 10-12 comments on each post. That’s right after I’ve published, and I’m still there…it’s easy for me to thank you guys, or to answer any specific questions. As a matter of fact, specific questions I try to answer no matter what–and I can do it much faster than I can answer all my emails. After a while, though, I’m up and away from the computer, taking care of Ava and working on a project of some kind. Long story short: I want to answer ANY question you have for me…your best bet is to leave a comment or post something on our Facebook page. I’m hoping I can get to more of your questions all the time this way! And if I don’t…just keep asking.
Here’s where I want your input. This blog will continue to be what it is…just plain old me. BUT, I want to also hear from you–What are your favorite posts, your favorite things I write about? Do you love a good before & after, a room makeover, furniture makeovers…furniture how-to’s? Do you want to see some more videos? Do you love the reflections section? Just tell me anything you’ve loved and anything you’d love to see. Be gentle with me, now. I told you I’m kind of emotional during the holidays. What would you love to be able to come here and find? I truly hope you flood the comments–because there are some things in the works, and I want each and every bit of advice I can get from you.
You guys are still my favorites, after all.
Here’s to an amazing new year–for growth, balance, purpose.
For dream chasing.
I love following you and you are one of the most inspirational bloggers.
Things I love here are before and after’s. And we need more videos because we all just love your voice! I find myself with my sweet southern accent in my head every time I read your blog. Bless you and 2012!
Thanks, Whitney!! good input–and my voice is crazy Southern…but what am I gonna do?!?
🙂
shaunna
great post shaunna!!! my oldest turned 10 last week…sigh…kiss those babies now…they grow waaaaaaaayyyyyyy too fast!!!
Thanks, Rachel!! I know it!
🙂
shaunna
I found you thru Layla’s Blog..I’ve been reading blogs (blogs before they were blogs, LOL) for many years! I love the fact that you are yourself and that your family/life comes first. That is one of the first reasons “I” come back to a blog. I love to see all of your work, whether it is furniture or a room.
That’s just me :o)
Cathy
Thank you, Cathy! That’s very kind of you to say–I appreciate you very much!
🙂
shaunna
I have to say you have one of the best blogs yet and I find myself here every day. I’m just getting into refurbishing furniture and just purchased your ebook. I can’t wait to read it and learn from you. I would love to see more before and afters as they are a great source of inspiration and ideas!
Keep on doing exactly what you do though cause you got something great going for you!
Happy New Year and Cheers!
Amanda @ Bullfrogs and Bulldogs
I like the furniture how-to and makeovers, as detailed as possible, better than anything else. Videos are always good as step-by-step instructions but never underestimate how necessary each step is. I learn best by observing first, then trying it myself.
Pam
There is nothing I would change. you have your priorities in the right place. I love your how to videos and the projects you share – they inspire and encourage me to jump in and do some new and different things in my house. I love that you think about those of us on a tight budget. You have been an inspiration and a blessing in my life. Have a blessed New Year and thank you!
I agree, less posting and more doing. Wait until you have something to post. I would like to see more video’s of before and after projects. I love your style. God bless you.
Hi shaunna,
Thank you for all your inspiring creations! My husband also thanks you
For showing me that great design doesn’t have to cost a lot. I started following you after
Seeing you on Nate. 🙂
What I’d love to see: more before/after projects, bathroom ideas (yes…THAT room!!), build it yourself projects, and any neat finds you come across.
Have a blessed new year! Thanks for your inspiration 🙂
I love the before and after room makeovers! Even if it is just a reorganized space like the pantry-it shows that you dont have to completely redo an entire room to make a differnce in your daily life. Those posts inspire me to make my home the best it can be for my family! Keep on with the wonderful inspiration and take time for your family – the blogosphere will be here waiting when you come back.
Shaunna, first let me say thank you. You have inspired me so much. Because of your videos and posts about chalk paint, I tried it and love it. It really is so easy to work with and much less time consuming. I LOVE your blog and love when you do before & afters, furniture reveals and just when you write about every day things. Sorry if this wasn’t the kind of answer you were looking for. Totally understand that your family comes first and that you need more time. Write posts when you can, we’ll keep reading. Happy New Year!
Hi,
I just found you about 3 months ago but everything you do is wonderful. I enjoyed you on the NATE show yesterday. I was on vacation and was able to watch his show. I am living in my family home and it still has pine cabinets and walls in the kitchen,dining room and one bedroom. It is not my favorite but right now I will have to live with it. I am trying to find some flooring that will go with it and also it has builtins in the dining room that are also the knotty pine. Any suggestions or where I might go to help me with decorations.
Thanks again for sharing with us.
Beth
Most of all, I love your sweet spirit- it truy does come across in your writing. I would love to see how you tackle problems with your projects (please tell me you have problems with some of your projects…). I’m pulling my hair out with a table I’m trying to refinish and I swear it just laughs at me- I’ve redone the top several times and something weird always happens just when I think it’s almost finished. Anyway, whatever and however you decide to tackle the coming year, I know it will be with much grace. 🙂
Shaunna: There isn’t one thing I’d change about your blog! You bare your soul to us in your words and in your work/creativity. That’s more than enough. You have to have something left over for yourself and your lovely Family. You’ve taught me at every turn and I’m grateful for it. You just do what you can and the rest will fall into place!
Thank you, and here’s to a Happy, Healthy and productive New Year!!!
Regards,
Carole
Thanks for reminding all of us that FAMILY is our FIRST and ULTIMATE responsibility 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
Your priorities are in the right place – I understand wanting to be able to do it all! Don’t all of us! 🙂 It’s when you settle down and look at the whole picture that you realize that it is not possible – so you move on to do the things that are most important to you…that you are most passionate about! I love all your posts so there is nothing I can add to what I would like to see most – I just like to come and hang out here cause you make me smile! 🙂 Pick what you want to share – I dare say a large number of us will be here everyday checking!
Happy New Year Shaunna to you and your family!!! Thank you for all you do…
What I love most about your blog is that you seem real. Your personality comes through your writing which makes your blog enjoyable to read. Family should always come first, and it definitely comes through in your blog. I would love to see more post of readers sending in pictures/questions on furniture/room makeovers (What color should I paint this piece of furniture, etc?). I know that sometime I get stuck on which direction to go when decorating and find it inspirational to see ideas on your blog. Looking forward to reading more post in 2012!
I love that you put your family first! I have to agree that I love listening to your voice on the videos. I enjoy before and afters, room makeovers and furniture makeovers. I follow a lot of blogs, and can barely keep up reading them all; therefore, I don’t think it’s necessary to post every day. Posting two or three times a week is plenty. I have never gotten into facebook. Doesn’t fb just make you divide your time between fb and the blog? Frankly, I have a hard time reading all the blogs much less checking out everybody’s fb page.
I just love your blog, expecially the before and afters. I am a firm believer that you should only post when you feel you have something that is important to you. I have been so busy that I haven’t posted anything for about a month. I feel that I don’t want to post anything unless I have something good to say. It is very time consuming to read everyone’s blog that I love plus write one as well. I will always follow, so don’t worry about that, family always comes first!
Susan
Hi Shaunna,I saw your house on Nate’s show,i would like to say i just fall in love with all your work.All the thing you have done in your house are very inspirational.All your posts are really very very good.If you mention places from where you got the things from the rooms you have designed then it will be really helpful, as it is very hard to find bargain priced items.It is ver hard to design any room with low budget.Thanks you!
I love your before and afters whether its redecorating or remodeling.
Great post and very timely as I’m working on some changes for my biz and blog as well.
I love your before/afters and project updates. Perhaps even if you don’t have time for a full post you could occasionally just post a pic of something you like? Inspiration is always wanted!
Happy 2012!
I love all of your before and afters and furniture redos and makeovers. Your blog was the first blog that I followed and it is still my favorite. I have learned so much from Perfectly Imperfect and you always provide me with inspiration. I still have so much to learn and I am looking forward to another year with you and your beautiful family. Happy New Year!
First of all, I love your blog and your ebook is what I go to when I am wanting inspiration for a piece of furniture. I appreciate your honest words. Of course, your family comes first! I often wonder how everyone does it. How you paint furniture, blog, travel, redo rooms etc. with kids. I wish I could keep up with it all like that! I love seeing your projects and paint techniques and the way you stage things. Relax and enjoy what 2012 has to offer!
Great ideas! I am your newest follower, follow back at tuliprow.blogspot.com
Love your blog and all that you do. I’ll read whatever you write, post when it works for you, we’ll be here reading. I think everyday is too much for even us readers to keep up with, let alone you with your small children. Happy New Year!
Debbie
I love checking in with your blog. You always have great posts! That being said, my favorites are the room makeovers. I love the wow factor of an entire room redone. But I also love that you break it down. You walk us through your thought process and then the how-tos of the individual components. I can’t wait to see what you come up with for next year! (Your dining room is still my all time favorite!!!!)
Before and afters, how-to’s… I don’t really watch videos. Go get ’em, girl! 🙂
I love your decorating style and furniture posts, but I’ll read ya no matter what the posts are! I love your blog and have you on my daily reads list:) happy new year!
Hi Shaunna, I have been following your blog for a few months now and love everything. I have just taken an Annie Sloan paint class and am going to start painting everything. I agree that family comes first. I am a stay at home mom with 3 boys. My youngest is now in grad 11. Where did the time go?
I have always done DIY for many years. Now that I have more time I plan on starting my own blog and sharing some of my own tips. You are an inspiration.
p.s. I love your accent, I live in Alberta Canada.
Keep doing everything that you are doing! I get excited when I see your post pop up in my email, I wait til I have a “down” moment where the words can actually sink in.
Thank you for being so inspirational!
Happy New Year
Hi, I started following you recently. First – a quick background to what I want to tell you. I am, what I would consider, coming a little late to the blog party thing. I own a design build company that I started and ran myself and has now doubled sales each year through this bad recession. I also do the design work and as well as run the field and now have some help along with a partner in the business which occurred as things grew larger than I could achieve alone. I opened a design center 90 days ago in my office and we have some resale and new furnishings – The Nest on Main (see fb page) but is in infancy stages. I had clients asking me to start a blog. I had been following you and Layla, but not really much else and not commenting.
Let me say this to you. I think what you are asking here is tremendously important and you are right! You are going through what I have been through. Once you get your wings and start flying – things happen quickly. And it gets big. And consuming. I have two small children and one grown and gone. I can tell you that family has to come first. (After God of course). If you don’t hold these things sacred, the opportunities are not as rewarding. Trust your gut. You have a great eye and much talent. I have a very southern voice too and would be scared to death to put it out there – but you go girl! You are younger and can make it happen. Look at Paula Deen’s voice – ha! I think a weekly or bimonthly blog post is enough. I think fb is probably better. Answering emails personally is not feasible when you get the amount of followers that you have or more – But if you are only writing for 6 people you aren’t fulfilling your call. So it is only growing pains that ail you now and these too shall pass when you hit your second wind.
Praise God that we can use the gift that he has given us to provide for our families and fill our soul. God blesses us when we do this as this is his intention for all us – this is why you are flying. Have a FABULOUS New Year! Good fortune to you.
I love blog…you are real and that makes it so relatable! You are the reason I have a new obsession…chalk paint:) Your videos are great and more would be great, too. I have your ebook and refere to it often. I am just starting on my furniture “renewing” projects and I would like more info on how to get those great pieces, ie.-where to find them and at great prices! Keep up the good work and thank you for letting us be a part of it! God Bless
p.s. I’m in Alabama too
oops….typo….”your” blog 🙂
Hi–I have just been reading blogs for probably the last 5-6 months, as I’m always a little slow to learn about all the “new things” out there! My children are all young adults now, and I just want to tell you it is very enjoyable to hear about your “babies”, because it always reminds me of something from the wonderful time that mine were little. I think your blog is a perfect combination of decor, family, etc and is perfect as it is!!! You’ve got your priorities straight and I love your creativeness also!! Keep doing as you have been****Your blog is ” perfectly imperfect” in fact!!! Happy New Year!! 🙂
I love your before and afters. I see what you have done to a space or a price of furniture and it inspires me. I loved all of your projects last year. The other thing I love about your blog is how you incorporate God, family, and friends. I feel like I am one of your friends. Thank you
What a great blog you have. This is my first time popping in but I’ll be back to check everything out in the new year. Heres to a wonderful 2012 for you.
Pru
LOVED all of your videos and info about Chalk Paint!!! 🙂 However, everything you do is pretty awesome! 😉 I am very happy to see you putting your family first! Excellent priorities you have there, my friend. Hey, will you be heading to Blissdom in February? If so, I will be in line to meet you. From one Southern Gal to another, Happy New Year! 😀
Oh, Shaunna! Girl, I love your transparency and your honesty. Your sweet southern accent. Your room makeovers. Your desire to be a good momma. Your faith. I wish I could sit down and have tea with you face to face every week. Bless you and Matt and your little ones this year.
xo,
Shannon
Whatever you do, it’s almost comforting to know that your family does come #1. I love the kind of balance that you have with all of those topics and the authenticity of who you are in all of them. 🙂
I just love your style…all of what you do, so keep doing it!! And I love that you are attempting to keep balance, so very hard in this technologically obsessed world! Keep seeking God daily for His plan…not always yours, right? And keep loving on your family, the most important thing in the world!
I love your blog! I am a bit new to the whole blog world but I must say that I am the most loyal to yours because you are always so honest and I love to see the things you do in your house:) i love all of your room makeover posts….I don’t know how many more of those you could do….when will you run out of rooms?! Furniture makeovers are the best though…that is what I love doing at home! It is great to hear that this year will be a year of balance for you!
It’s all about being happy 🙂 Being a consumate type A, I struggle with balance, but I’m learning.
Happy New Year! I adore your blog and you! Can’t wait to see what you do in 2012. I struggle with balance too, it is tough being a mom and making decisions about working-family. You are doing awesome. 🙂
I enjoy all you write about – from the before/afters, design ideas, reflections, trips to Honduras(what a great example of giving to others), and your life story. BTW, are you going to finish your life story? GOOD JOB! Keep it up!!
Hi, Shaunna! I want to see how your little ones might choose to paint a piece of furniture. I have been considering letting my boys paint some shelves or storage items for their rooms. I’ll bet your little ones might like creating their own masterpieces! Let’s do the project together:) Haha…imagine the messes.
Before and Afters and VIDEOS!! Love seeing you do things… like paint, wax, etc.. LOVE every post, though..
More tutorials and videos. I would really like to see more of the details on your pieces. For example, I’m always wondering what people do for the bottoms of pieces, or the sides of drawer faces, or feet, etc. How do you make it look really finished, or do you?
Shaunna, I love the blog exactly the way it is! I wouldn’t change a thing! It’s perfectly imperfect 😉
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