Friday, June 12, 2009

200 Posts - A Look Back

That's right - 200 posts, and just a few days shy of having this blog up and running for 1-year, I sit here amazed that I've found so much to say. Not only that, but also that so many of you have read it. With over 100,000 visits, 4,100+ comments, and over a 130 faithful followers - I am truly touched beyond words that you all share a part of your day - no matter how long - with me, here at Color Outside the Lines. Blogging, has been such a retreat for me, and I'm so glad that I get to rest here, in the good company of all of you. So thanks for the ride - here' s to 200 more. And now - a look back at some of your favorites:

I've been sequestered in the backyard here at Casa de la Vanderdogan for the past month or so working on the old gardens, new gardens, and everything in between. This "Bohemian Chic" tablescape really was born in the car on my way home from work, and with only an hour of daylight left by the time I arrived home, I threw it all together to share for Susan's Tablescape Thursday. I was shocked, but oh so flattered, when you all had so many kind things to say.

We experienced the journey of my screen door dreams coming true. A baby boy of West Texas - I grew up with a screen door, and I knew that I would always have to have one. Thankfully, after a few pouts and bribes, Scott agreed to let me have my way. I think so many of you remember screen doors from your past - and you lived vicariously through this post. The stories you had about growing up - sewing bobbins for child knobs, mother's scolding "Stay in, or Stay OUT!" it was an entertaining post, and I can tell you - the door is getting plenty of good use, whilst Scott yells: "STAY IN OR STAY OUT!"

We watched in amazement as the Yuppy Puppies pushed around the furniture in the living room, to create the Canine Transformation part 1. There were mixed reviews about this one, but mostly good, and I'll tell you - living in this room is really, really wonderful. Something about reading a book in those leather chairs, feet up on the ottoman, soft music in the background ... it's very, very nice! Great job Yuppy Puppies!

But before the pups changed it all up, we got to size up my first ever sewing project, the pillows I made for the chairs when the sofa was still in the living room. Remember those?! That combination post was a nice light refreshing change to the living room - and I think we all enjoyed seeing that, except of course the guest who said the room had "lost it's wow factor" ... read more of the post for that juicy story!

We went shopping, and found great vintage medicine vials that I used for bud vases, then vase filler in the living room. Your ideas on the many ways these could be used were fantastic! I really have very creative readers.

Christmas was a delight - in the dining room ...

and the living room, this year. You all had so many wonderful and delightful compliments to the two very different themes. I hope I don't disappoint when I add the third tree to the landscape this Christmas ... shhh! the details are a secret for now.

And then of course - there was the end of summer tent dinner last year. I received some of the sweetest emails, and the most complimentary of comments for that post ... thank you!
Once again, I don't know how to thank you enough for the continued support you all show to Color Outside the Lines. If I could shake all of your hands individually, I would. Thanks for watching, reading, laughing, and living with me - and fasten your seat belts - we've had our break, now lets get back on the road, together.

28 comments:

  1. Good morning Artie!!!! Wishing you the best blog anniversary ever! I so love reading and viewing your blog. I have only been blogging a year ... so I must go back and read your 'story' from day one!

    I loved your tribute to Joni - great job!

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  2. Congratulations on your 200th post -- I started blogging just about a year ago as well -- but I didn't find YOU until recently -- I did go back and read EVERYTHING -- but wished that I could have read it one at a time . . .

    Here's to 200 more!

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  3. Hello there, Artie! Wow, 200 posts! I was very intrigued by your tent dinner, so I looked it up and boy was I so impressed!!! Amazing! That looks like it was a lot of fun and you did a FANTASTIC job!

    I look forward to all your future posts!

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  4. Congratulations on 200 posts. That is quite an accomplishment. I have really enjoyed your blog and look forward to much more. Hugs, Marty

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  5. Hi Artie that was a quick milestone. Seems just like yesterday we were celebrating 100 posts. I'll have to say that I enjoyed all of your offerings and I look forward to future endeavors. With a big Hug ~ Robyn

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  6. Good morning Artie. I just found you last Sunday and am so happy I did. I must tell you this little story, as the title of your blog is very dear to my heart. When I was about 3, I showed my coloring book to my big brother, The Artist, and he looked at it and then said, you need to color inside the lines. I walked away thinking, what an abstract idea! That never occurred to me! Okay, I am sure I did think "abstract" at 3, but it was that feeling. Wishing you a lovely day. **blows kisses** Deborah

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  7. Good morning Artie. I just found you last Sunday and am so happy I did. I must tell you this little story, as the title of your blog is very dear to my heart. When I was about 3, I showed my coloring book to my big brother, The Artist, and he looked at it and then said, you need to color inside the lines. I walked away thinking, what an abstract idea! That never occurred to me! Okay, I am sure I did think "abstract" at 3, but it was that feeling. Wishing you a lovely day. **blows kisses** Deborah

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  8. Congratulations! How is it that you are already at 200 posts and I am still hovering at 99! :) Can't wait to see what the next 200 bring!

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  9. A lovely look back on your year! Congratulations on having a wonderful blog...a delight to visit.

    All the best of wishes for many more years to come.

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  10. Congratulations Artie! 200 posts are quite a milestone, & I'm looking forward to the next 200. Loved the great pictures from your previous posts & yes, I can remember hearing stay in or stay out with the screen door slamming. ☺ Diane

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  11. Wishing you the best on your 200th post! Quite an impressive wealth of information. Have a great weekend,
    Leslie

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  12. Congratulations! I can't wait to see you 3rd tree!. I am all about Christmas.

    Charla

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  13. It's funny how ones life changes after blogging for a year. Everything from eating, sleeping, gardening, cleaning, shopping. I love your blog and I'm so happy that your in this blog world with all of us.
    Blessings,
    Ginger
    P.S It's funny that you posted this, you may like the artical I have on my blog today.

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  14. Congratulations on 200 posts, Artie! I am so happy you entered the land of blog! It's been wonderful, getting to know you!

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  15. Congratulations Artie. Your blog is always a delight to read and I look forward to it each day. Keep up the good work.

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  16. Congrats Artie! Looks like I got in on your blog just in time to celebrate! I love your arts and crafts style home. I grew up in one myself but alas no screen door! Thanks for sharing! Look forward to 200 more! God Bless! Lauralu :)

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  17. Happy 200th anniversary. Boy, that makes you sound old, huh? Everything looks beautiful, but that tent is still incredible! laurie

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  18. I have a special spot for that last photo - that's how I found you :) It's difficult to believe it's been almost a year, and Happy 200th post, dear Artie! Your blog (and your phone calls!) flush out my day in the best of ways! I've been inspired, awed, entertained, consoled - I've laughed, I've ooh and ahhed, but mostly I've felt lucky. Lucky that our paths have crossed and to know such a wonderful, artist, talented and big hearted person - You are truly something special.
    To the next 200! Yippee skippee!
    xo Isa

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  19. HAPPY BLOG ANNIVERSARY my sweet Artie! You've come a long way since the days of RMS where many of us first made your acquaintance and enjoyed your unsurpassed talent, then.

    Wishing you another 200 more postings. It has been a real treat! Hugs, hugs, hugs
    -Brenda-

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  20. 200 Beautiful posts. You are very talented.

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  21. Hi Artie, congrats on your 200 posts! I certainly find a lot of inspiration on your blog, especially the gardening posts since that is my weak spot. You also inspired me to find some special hardware for the screen door we still need to pick up. After seeing yours, I knew I needed to add a special touch to ours. The hardware is sitting here just waiting for the right door. Thanks for the continued inspiration.

    So glad to be following along.
    ~Michelle

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  22. Happy Anniversary, Artie!

    congratulations - and thank you
    for inviting us in, sharing, and
    granting us (me!) a little more
    culture & sophistication!

    you do beautiful work, and
    have a beautiful heart to match.

    peace & inspiration~
    Chuck

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  23. Hi there Artie! I have just joined you and it looks like I've missed out on a lot of very good posts! Congrats on your 200th! Your gratitude is so refreshing....love that about you! Only wise people know that you are not successful without giving of yourself first as well as acknowledging those around you who helped you be a success! Best Wishes! Luanne

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  24. Congrats Artie!!! 200 posts...WOW!!! I am so glad that you started your post with my all time favorite!!! You have had some lovely ones but this is hands down my FAV!!!

    I can't wait to see what the next 200 bring...I am sure they will be gorgeous!!!

    Have a wonderful weekend!!!
    XOXO
    Cathy

    Thank you again for the info that you e-mailed me. I sooo appreciate it!!!

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  25. Congrats, Artie! on 200 posts & one year of blogging. It goes by fast, doesn't it? Loved your Joni inspired tablescape & outdoor feature. it is SO Joni!

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  26. Congratulations on your 200th post, Artie.
    I can't wait to see what beauty you have to show us in the next 200.

    xo
    Brooke

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  27. Artie, the last photo is what caused me to click that special little button called "Follow Blog!" I enjoy reading all you write and the photos that go with them.

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  28. What a great look back, Artie! Whereas I totally loved the yuppy puppy post (of course) my favorite has to have been the tent in the garden. The work you put into that for your dinner party was just over the top incredible!

    Justine ;o )

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