A few months ago I was going about my day when I received an unexpected email from Cottages & Bungalows magazine. I still can’t believe it—they wanted to feature my easy Christmas mantel! It was from a previous year, and although it wasn’t the image on their cover, I was thrilled and immediately said yes.
Of course, there was a snag: my computer decided to die at the worst possible moment and the original photos were on an older camera and not on my backup drive. I only had some lower-quality copies available. It was frustrating, but the magazine was gracious and did a fine job editing what I could provide.
When I remembered the issue had been released, I drove to my local Lowe’s to look for a copy. To my delight they had four left, and I bought them all. It felt wonderful to hold the magazine and see that my simple mantel made the cut.
That mantel came together in just a few minutes using things I already owned. I’m so grateful that both HGTV.com and Cottages & Bungalows noticed it. Moments like this—seeing your home featured in publications—are surreal and humbling, and 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 my holiday plans. I’ve had a project on the back burner for months: a new mantel. With the holidays approaching, I’m inspired to finish it. Below is a slightly dark and blurry sneak peek of the project wall.
Thank you, dear readers—yes, even the quiet lurkers—for your continued support and for the kind comments on yesterday’s post. You’re the best!
I also want to announce 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 planning to start your Christmas decorating early, or will you wait until after Thanksgiving?