A few months ago I was minding my own business when Cottages & Bungalows magazine reached out to me. I was thrilled — they wanted to feature my easy Christmas mantel! I couldn’t believe it. The mantle they contacted me about was from an earlier year, and although the cover photo isn’t mine, I was honored they chose my project.
There was a hitch: my computer was completely dead and needed professional repair, and the photos were taken with an older camera and weren’t on my backup drive. I did have a few copies of the images, but not my best shots. It felt like fumbling at a big moment, but the magazine was gracious and flexible with editing, so everything worked out fine.
Yesterday I remembered the issue and drove to my local Lowe’s to see if they had any copies. To my delight, they had four left, and of course I bought them all. It felt wonderful to see my mantel in print.
Putting that Christmas mantel together only took a few minutes using items I already owned. I’m so pleased that both HGTV.com and Cottages & Bungalows have featured it. Moments like these — seeing your home showcased in well-known places — are surreal and humbling. I don’t take them for granted.
Look mom! My mantel is in a magazine! {jumping up and down!}
This recognition has motivated me to move forward with holiday preparations. I’ve had a project lingering in the “thinking about it” stage for months: a new mantel. I’m inspired to finish it before the holidays. Below is a sneak peek — the photo’s a little dark and blurry, but it gives a hint of the plan.
Thanks again to all the readers — including the quiet lurkers — for your support and comments. You’re the best!
I also announced the winners of the Where Women Create Winter 2012 Magazine Giveaway. Congratulations to Tiffini and Kristyn — both have been notified by email.
So, fess up.
Are you excited to get a jump on Christmas decorating, or are you waiting until after Thanksgiving?