2013 was a busy and rewarding year for projects around my home.
I enjoyed transforming this house into a comfortable, lived-in home. So many changes and projects happened that summarizing everything in a single post felt overwhelming, so I broke the year into smaller updates. Below I’ll highlight notable updates to the kitchen, entry and backyard, with a selection of crafty projects and small makeovers. You can follow up with related posts when you have time.
I’ll start with the kitchen, entry and backyard highlights, then share a few crafty moments and smaller projects. Part two covers additional room makeovers and updates.
If you’re new here or missed earlier posts, you might enjoy my candid story about the journey toward a dream home and the lessons learned along the way.
Below are highlights of favorite projects and updates from 2013 for the kitchen, entry/hall and backyard, along with a few creative DIY moments.
Favorites from the year
Two projects I loved: a simple DIY bottle lamp and a DIY map wallpaper idea that added personality and interest to a wall.
Entry updates
I refreshed the entry with a thrift-store dresser find, seasonal fall decor and a focused entry makeover that improved both function and style.
Crafty moments
I made a felt heart garland for Valentine’s Day, created small teacup gardens for indoor plants, experimented with book page art, and crafted a textured throw pillow inspired by a favorite store.
Garage and backyard
Outdoor and garage projects included building a teacart plant stand, creating a simple DIY firepit, organizing tools with pegboard, and progressing on a pea-gravel patio that improved backyard usability.
The kitchen — the biggest project of the year
My kitchen remodel was the year’s major transformation. The reveal captured the full makeover, and several follow-up posts shared how I organized the pantry, refreshed an island with DIY distressing techniques, and had trim professionally painted to tie the whole space together.
I also created a dedicated coffee station and paid attention to small styling details—like wooden utensils and everyday items—that bring warmth and texture to the kitchen.
Open shelf styling
Styling open shelves became a fun focus: mixing colorful and white dishes, arranging cookbooks attractively, and using curated groupings to keep shelves both functional and beautiful.
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You can find part two of the house projects that continue the story of room makeovers and updates.
Thank you for visiting and sharing this year of projects with me.
Wishing you a wonderful New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
I’ll be back soon with more highlights from other room makeovers, favorite recipes, puppy updates, and the rest of what I didn’t get to in this post.
Want to get your house cleaner and more organized this year? I shared my top organization posts from the year and a set of daily routines that help keep the house tidy. I’ll continue posting ideas for decorating and organizing the home in the year ahead.