My 2019 Year End Review
Gooooood morning and happy New Year’s Eve! Can you believe it’s the LAST day of 2019? I’m kind of in denial about the whole thing to be honest with you. This past year was definitely the fastest year of my life and I don’t know how it’s already a new decade. But I woke up at 5AM this morning to sit down in the peace and quiet and spend a little time reflecting on the past year. For me, 2019 was a year of some really amazing moments and also some really challenging moments. Grab your coffee and let’s chat about it all!
This past year I feel like I finally found my groove as a mom of three. I’ve been pretty open about the fact that going from two to three was a challenging transition for us (mostly for me!) but this year I feel like things started to balance out. Little Ava Pearl is two now and we’ve finally figured out this family of five thing. Hallelujah! It’s still wild and crazy over here most of the time, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m also proud to say that I finally found a good balance with blogging/work and my personal life. That’s kinda tricky when it comes to this job–which can sometimes feel like a 24/7 gig. But this year I really tried to put boundaries up for myself in order to find that balance my life really needed. And I gotta say–it was totally freeing to give myself permission to say no more often. This year I spent more time with family and friends, ran my first ever 10K, read lots of books, and focused more on what matters most to me in life. I’m definitely going to keep that trend going in 2020!
This year I gave myself the freedom to share more of what I love here on the blog, which I gotta say has been SO MUCH FUN. I’ve been blogging now for four years (this all started in December of 2015) and in a lot of ways this blog has evolved with me over that time. I went from only sharing house projects and DIY to now sharing a little bit of everything–from home decor to affordable clothing, recipes, and even skincare. I feel like I did a pretty good mix of it all in 2019. And I think it’s safe to say this was my FAVORITE year of blogging. I loved mixing it up and trying new things. This year I decided to just have fun with it and I’m sooooo grateful to all of you for sticking with me! I also had some pretty incredible moments, like that time I launched my own curated collection with Cloth and Cabin back in March, which was so much fun! And then a few months later I had the honor of creating my own signature candle with Antique Candle Co, which is defintely one of the coolest experiences of my life. Creating a candle with my name on it was just surreal in every way possible. I still can’t believe it! It was such blessing and I’ll remember it forever. And if you ordered Warm Caramel Crumble, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart.
This year was definitely a year of personal growth for me and I feel like God challenged me in a lot of ways in 2019. I didn’t always share those challenges here with all of you, but I’m happy to say that I learned a lot about myself. Probably more than any other year of my life. And this year, I truly embraced who I am–flaws and all. I stopped caring so much about what other people think and I just let myself be me. In that process I learned that I’m actually stronger than I realized. I also learned that perspective is everything. What you think of yourself and your life will determine your own happiness, so you might as well focus on the positive, right?! RIGHT.
I want to thank each and every one of you for supporting me in 2019. God has truly blessed me with this space and I thank Him every single day for all of you. He’s been the one guiding my path all along and I will always give Him the glory because let’s face it–most of the time I have no clue what I’m doing!
Here’s to a new decade full of love, happiness and peace! xoxo
The Comments
Linda
Love love today post. Sarah you are my favorite blogger I love that you are just so real and honest with your post. I’m looking forward to what you will share with us in 2020. Happy New Years.
Sarah
> LindaOh wow, thank you so much Linda!! I truly appreciate that. Wishing you all the best in 2020!
Lori
Thank you for sharing your life with us!
Wishing you all the best in 2020!
Sarah
> Lorithanks of being here Lori!!
Jennefer Vizuete
Happy new year yo you and your family! I’ve loved following you this year! Your honestly and just being REAL is such a breathe of fresh air amongst a lot of the curated posts. Thank you for that. Here’s to a fabulous 2020!
Sarah
> Jennefer VizueteAh thank you so much Jennifer!!
Merri
What a sweet round up for 2019. Your IG and blog are such a light in this world. Thank you for sharing and just being YOU!
Shelly
> MerriI loved reading you this year!
Your candle is amazing, your Wal-Mart posts were great as well.( Some things that were affordable! )Your sweetness comes through every post and your sincerity. You are real, have a lovely home and live a real life that we can relate to.
Courtney
> ShellyThe comments from readers saying that you are down to earth is very true. I enjoy reading your blogs because I can relate to you. I feel like you are normal, down to earth and someone that readers can connect with. Earlier this year you talked about being unsure why you are doing this and if you should continue your blog. I have to say that I am very glad that you have decided to. You touch so many people with your words, kindness and inspiration. You have a knack for portraying that in your words. I believe that God put you in this position to share your joy and kindness as well as inspire others with your light. Happy New Year and thank you for all you do.
Sarah
> CourtneyWow Courtney, thank you so much for those kind and supportive words!! I truly appreciate it more than you know. xoxo
Kathleen
> MerriJust love your blog and your true self! Happy New Year to you and your family!
Sarah
> Kathleenthank you Kathleen!!
Sheilah Perry-Rosales
First just let me say Your kids are so stinking cute! Love getting the notice that the is a new post from you,it’s at times the brightest part of my day.Heres to more happiness in 2020 even if I start it out a year older.lol
Sarah
> Sheilah Perry-RosalesWow, thank you so much Sheilah!! I appreciate you!
glenda lafont
Wishing you continued success in
all that you do and a healthy
happy new year.
Gwen
Happy New Year to ya!!!
You, Sarah Joy, are such a bright light, a Joy, an inspiration in my life! I thank God for finding you on this space many years ago !! Keep doing you – as you are inspiring so many of us … to do us!
I am so excited for what 2020 is bringing!! I’m heading over to make a “cot of poffee” 😁 … it’ll never get old in my head 😁😁😁
Love ya!! ♥️♥️
Sarah
> GwenAh Gwen, I need to squeeze you! Thank you so much for the kind and loving words. I’m so glad you found me too!! Very grateful to have you here! xoxo
Kathleen
Love your post today. You are a true inspiration to all of us and thank you for sharing your life with us!
Sarah
> Kathleenthanks so much Kathleen–grateful to have you here! xo
Leticia Silva
Happy New Year Sarah! God Bless you and your family…the best to you for 2020!
Sarah
> Leticia Silvathank you Leticia, wishing you the best in 2020!
Gina Wright
I really enjoy seeing you on IG. You’re beautiful, real, and inspiring. I love that you give God glory but are not preachy. You share some of your faith but not a ton. Although I haven’t looked at all of your highlights maybe you could do one on how your faith affects your everyday life?
Sarah
> Gina Wrightthank you Gina, I really appreciate that so much!! Happy 2020!
Sonya
Thanks so much for sharing your year with us. I love how honest and real you are on the blog and instagram, makes you one of my favorites. I feel that you have remained true to you even in growth, thank you and wish you and your sweet family a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.
Sarah
> Sonyathank you Sonya!! You are so kind! Wishing you all the best in 2020. xo
Diane
Happy New Year!
I enjoy your blog and instagram stories so much!
Faith
HAPPY NEW DECADE TO YOU SARAH!
Like many followers I welcome a new post email every time i open my mail. It’s like the feeling of an unexpected letter in my real mailbox….a joy to find. I’m trying to send more actual cards of encourage lately, to widows I know, and dear friends that have moved across the country and are dearly missed. The art of personal handwritten notes has been lost to technology that zooms it in an instant…we such a rushed society. It’s refreshing to slowdown for an hour, sip a cup of whatever I feel like, and write a few lines and even make my own cards (much cheaper and I enjoy it a lot!) to send and put a smile on their faces. It’s about personal connection, especially when I include a picture of a cherished memory we’ve on the card front. I have a dear old friend I grew up with, shared an apt with, got married within a few mths of each other, had our children within months of each other, and she has recently moved to MT from CA to help her daughter and granddaughter going thru transition…I miss her and I had the most fun lining a box of sunshine ☀️ (yellow gifts) from CA to brighten her cold 🥶 ❄️ Wintery days…yellow sweater, lemon tart mix, gum, socks, all the things were yellow and I lined the box with a yellow poster board that I wrote notes on, and stickers. I saw the idea on Pinterest if you search sunshine box there. I encourage your readers to take more time to think of someone alone that you can have your kids draw pics for, wrote sweet notes, and help you shop for some sunshine 🌞 of your own to brighten their day. I’m planning on doing more of this in 2020…make a difference in someone’s day, with simple small kindnesses that are welcomed and cherished. Life can be hard, we can reach out in God’s love and care for others. Thank you for your hard work here, and in your home, your contented heart is refreshing in a world that can steal contentment from us so easily. May your love for Christ, your hubby, and children continue to grow stronger in 2020! You have such a beautiful spirit about you…He has great plans for you! 💝🙏🏻🕰
Sarah
> FaithWow, Faith! That is truly amazing. I agree with you–our technology based world has lost the value in handwritten notes and cards. Good for you taking the time to do that and bless others with your kindness!! You are a true gem.
Courtney
I just found you thru IG this year and I am so glad I did. I love your positivity and your home and family is gorgeous! Blessings to you and your family in 2020!
Sarah
> Courtneyah yay!! So glad you found me Courtney. Grateful to have you here!
Tylynn
This is such a wonderful post Sarah. Thank you so much for being so honest and real all the time – both here and on Instagram. You’re seriously one of my very favorites to follow! I can’t wait to see what you have in store for 2020!
Sarah
> Tylynnah thank you so much Tylynn!! I truly appreciate that. Grateful to have you here! xo
Angela Servello
Happy New Year my sweet friend. Just want to share with you how much I love you and your blog. Honestly Sarah, I get bored very quickly and lose interest pretty quick, but not with you and your blog. I have stuck with you for a few years now and all I can say is more please. You are so honest and quirky, which I absolutely love. I have spent my life trying to avoid fake people and there are so many, that when I “met” you, you stole my heart. I have only been blessed with sons, but somehow the Lord gave me the daughter I always wanted. I wish you and your beautiful family all the happiness you could ever want. Always stay true to yourself, it’s so important. 2020 here we come!!!💕🙏🎉 Hugs and more hugs. Angela
Sarah
> Angela ServelloOh wow Angela, you’re going to make me cry over here!! I can’t thank you enough for the constant support and kindness. You tare truly a light and I’m SO very grateful to have you here. Wishing you the very best in 2020!! xoxo
Sally Brown
Thanks Sarah for your interesting blogs. I do enjoy seeing you and yo ur family grow. Many blessings to you for the new year ahead!
Sarah
> Sally Brownthank you Sally!! Wishing you the best in 2020!
Maria Ward
You and your blog inspire me!!! I have enjoyed reading your posts so much. I wish you a very happy 2020!!
Sarah
> Maria Wardthank you Maria!! Wishing you all the best in 2020.
Sandy Cooper
Sarah believe it or not to taught me how to dream! And be proactive in alot of different ways, Thank you
Sarah
> Sandy CooperAhhh that makes me so happy! So glad I could help. Sending you a virtual squeeze. xoxo
Janelle
You’re the only blog I read and I am blessed to see how God is moving in your life!!! Happy New Year!🎆
Sarah
> JanelleOh wow, thank you so much Janelle. Grateful to have you here!
Kimberly Langson
I always look forward to your email so I can read your latest blog. You are an inspiration and a beautiful person
Sarah
> Kimberly LangsonThank you so much Kimberly!!
Robin
Love your blog! Look forward to all the things you will share in the new year. Happy 2020!
Sarah
> Robinthank you Robin! xo
Pamela
I have enjoyed your posts this year so very much. I began following your blog when you were posting about your home and DIY projects. With your expansion into other areas including clothing, candle collaborations with Antique Candle Company and Cloth and Cabin the blog has gotten better and better and is always fun and interesting to read and take ideas to use in my own home. I wish you and your family a healthy and happy 2020. See you next year!
Sarah
> PamelaOh my goodness, Pamela!! Thank you so much for saying that. I’ve loved including new things into what I share here and I’m SO happy to hear you have enjoyed that too. Thank you for being here! xo
Wanda Walton
I found your blog this year and it’s been a simple joy in my life. It’s been such a trying year for me personally and you would think at my age (62), I’d have it all figured out by now. But the games and rules of life seem to change every day. I have enjoyed your thoughts and ideas so very much. Enjoy and cherish those moments with your babies, it really does go by too fast. Have a blessed New Year. Looking forward to reading your blog in 2020.
Sarah
> Wanda WaltonOh I totally agree with you Wanda–life is always changing and we’re always going through different seasons. Some harder than others. So grateful to have you here. Hope you have a blessed 2020! xo
Candy
Happy New Year Sarah to you and your family. We are blessed to have you on this blog. I just love everything that you share. I only wish that I lived in the US sometimes to shop where you shop…I love Magnolia stuff, especially Joanna and Chips beautiful bed. I so want one…lol…
I wish you all the best in 2020 and look forward to more of your wonderful blog.
Sarah
> Candythank you Candy, I’m always so grateful for your support!! Hope you have a blessed 2020. xoxo
Sherry
I loved reading your post. What I think I love most about your blog and IG is how relatable you are. I see so much of myself in you and your life. I love that your finding the balance. I love that you set boundaries. I could definitely learn that technique. Looking forward to 2020. Happy New Year.
Sarah
> Sherryah thank you Sherry! Finding that balance is tricky but so worth it. Hope you have a blessed 2020!
Stacey
I agree with all of the other comments. You are “real” and people can relate to you. That’s what makes you special. Keep up the good work.
Sarah
> Staceythank you so much Stacey!! xo
Joyce Hale
Amen !
karen
You’re one of my favorites !
Best wishes for a wonderful new year =)
I will be excited to see what the new year
hold for all of us. You have the sweetest family.
Here’s to 2020 !!
Sarah
> karenah thank you so much Karen!! Best wishes to you in 2020!
Jmac
You make me Laugh out Loud with most of your posts. So thank YOU for that!
Always enjoyable to come to see what Sarah is up to!!
Plus you make me spend waaaaay too much money!!
Sarah
> Jmachaha well thank you!! Glad to have you here!! xo
Natalie Armstrong
I love your posts, blog, and especially your Instagram stories. I swear at some point in my day every day I think to myself I wonder what Sarah’s doing? And I hop on ig to see. Even my daughter enjoys checking in on you. She told me that you are a lot like me. I agree! We would be fast friends. Lol! Keep doing what you’re doing. Spread the joy!
Sarah
> Natalie Armstronghaha I love that!! thanks so much for following along Natalie! Grateful to have you here. xo
Karen
Happy 2020 to you and your family! I’ve truly enjoyed reading your blog – love the affordable clothing and home decor you’ve shared – and all the othe bloggers I’ve started to follow from you. My daughter and son-in-law purchased a wonderful candle for me from Antique Candle for one of my Christmas gifts and I’m happy to say my daughter is now following them! Thanks for doing an awesome job with your blog – I also love the posts with your Mom!
Sarah
> Karenoh that’s so great Karen, I hope you loved your candle from Antique Candle Co!! And thank you for being here. I really appreciate it!
Glen
Hi Sarah, I only read 2 blogs and you are one of them . My decorating style is the same as yours but let’s just say you are more advanced! I have a hard time deciding what should go where! Lol
I did appreciate your being real when you were wondering what your purpose was awhile back. We all have those days when we feel down on ourselves and feel insignificant. It helped me personally to realize that fact that it happens to everybody!
Thanks for all your hard work. I also think that you bloggers should not feel the pressure to post every single day…… or is that imperative that you do that?
MUch love to you and family in 2020!
Sarah
> GlenAh thank you so much Glen. I really appreciate that. I am so grateful to have you here!
Lorrie S
Happy New Year Sarah!
Teri
As many have already commented, your emails/blog posts always brighten my day! I love all of your affordable clothing posts, skin care and make-up tutorials as well as all of your decor ideas and finds! And I love that you keep your faith at the center of it all. Thank you for being real with us. Your joy and love for others shines through. You are an inspiration to many. Keep doing what you are doing! ❤️
Sarah
> TeriWow thank you for the kind words Teri, it means so much to me!! xoxo
jean
Sarah Joy,
I loved the past year of your blog site. You have such a sweet nature about you and you put all of yourself into your work. I love it that you give God the glory for how well your blog site has done. He is our answer in everyday life. I wish you and your family a blessed and happy New Year. Keep up the good work.
jean
Sarah
> jeanah thank you so much Jean, I really appreciate that so much. Grateful to have you here!! xo
Patricia
So glad that I found you this year. Your breath of fresh air was so welcomed. You keep it real and that’s what I enjoy. Happiest 2020 to you and yours!!!
Sarah
> Patriciaso glad you found me too Patricia! xoxo
Loretta DeSpain
Love today’s post. Waiting until the crazy of the holidays passed and things started to settled down so I could actually take time to read and enjoy and it didn’t disappoint!
Manuela
Sarah
I really enjoy your blog and your instagram. I have been thinking about creating my own blog but always thought I would have to stick to one area but that is not who I am. You have inspired me because you share more then one thing and it keeps my attention and now I feel I can do this as well. Looking forward to what you are going to share this year.
Hina Liaqat
OMG, so inspirational., I read your blog from time to time and feel so inspired, you are so full of life, you seem to have good circle of family and friends as well. Glad you enjoyed so much on new year’s eve.
Christine Schultz
Enjoy seeing your decor! Keep up the fun stuff on your blog.
Laquitha
Love your style in design, decorating, clothes, and values …giving God the glory completes it!!!
Sarah
> Laquithathank you so much!