A Year of Firsts

 As we near the end of the year I thought it might be interesting to highlight a few firsts on Charming Zebra.

I started my blog in March of this year.  (It was called "Charming" back then.)  My very first post was quite brief and mentioned some wheat grass a friend had given me.

 One of the first projects I posted was my handmade tissue paper carnations.  I ended up having a giveaway in which I made the winner a bouquet of her color choice.  She chose orange.

 My first thrift store furniture purchase was a white hutch from the Salvation Army.  I was so excited about this project at the time.  (And I still love it.)

My first serious furniture makeover was a little end table I found at the Goodwill for $4.99.  It took me forever and I did practically everything wrong but I loved how it turned out.  It was also the only post I added a video link to.

 My fireplace mantel makeover was my first project featured on another blog.  (Tater Tots & Jello)

 I transformed an ornate mirror into a chalkboard for a wedding gift.  It was featured on Frugal Girls and later added to their blog of wedding ideas.  This chalkboard has been the most viewed of any of my projects.  (The post that has received the most views overall and continues to do so though is the one I did on the Houses of Harry Potter.)

One of my favorite projects was the His and Her nightstands.  I found them at Goodwill and transformed them into something I was quite happy with. 

As I was going through these older projects I was able to notice the progression of my ability blogging.  I've learned so much these last eight months.  I was severely limited in my know how of the computer and the blogging world when I first started out.   I didn't even know how to copy and paste or even how to post a picture.  I've been able to teach myself through much trial and error.  Other blogs have been very helpful as well as just googling questions I've had about the most basic computer functions.

This new year I look forward to more advanced projects, much better photography and a more polished blog.  I want to thank all the friends, followers and fellow bloggers who have helped, encouraged and inspired me.  You're awesome!

(photo credit: 2011- drsharma.ca)