I know, we’re already almost a week in to 2014 and I’m going way back to 2013 and talking about it, again! Sheesh! But, bear with me as I had to give it one last little nod. I’ve officially deemed 2013 “The Year That Threw Me For a Loop!” In the best of ways, and the worst of ways, mind you. 2013 will always be remembered, in my mind, as a turning point for Studio DIY (huge, huge! overwhelming growth) and as the year we got engaged! Unfortunately, 2013 also brought about some medical challenges for both my family, and that “overwhelming” growth? Yeah, that meant many sleepless nights and our apartment looking like a party war zone 24-7. I’ll touch a bit on everything in this post, while sharing the tippy top posts of 2013 (You guys love balloons!), some hilarious (or terrifying?) behind the scenes shots, and a little bit about what I’ve got cookin’ for 2014, too!
Most Popular Posts of 2013!
(Says Pinterest + Google Analytics, unscientifically combined to make this list! And there are six because I love all six and didn’t want to pick just five.)
Ornament Balloon Photo by Mary Costa Photography, All Other Photos by Studio DIY
1. Giant Crepe Paper Roses: I was asked to make these for a Martha Stewart and Jurlique collaboration and decided, on a whim, to share my results here. And BAM! You guys lost your minds, pinned the heck out of them, and they became my most popular post of the year.
2. Confetti Dipped Balloons: I posted this project after my site had been down for a few days thanks to a server crash. I scheduled the post, then went into a day of meetings on a business trip to SLC. By the time I had a chance to check in that evening, they had already been pinned 16,000 times and you guys were going confetti balloon CRAZY! Now they’ve been pinned over 63,000 times, coming in just short of the roses.
3. Balloon Surprise Box: I’ll always remember this post as the first post of mine featured on Buzzfeed. It exploded my traffic and I got so excited! I also think it is the best idea EVER (Sorry, does that sound self centered? I just really want to receive a box of balloons some day.), so I have a few ideas up my sleeve this year for re-inventing it.
4. Conversation Heart Cakes: I think conversation heart crafts are my most fave (Can’t wait to get some of ’em going for Valentine’s Day!), and apparently you like your conversation hearts in cake form. I knew I liked you guys.
5. DIY Giant Ornament Balloons: Goodness! Despite being posted less than a month ago, this clocked in as my 5th most trafficked project of the year! Cracks me up considering how spontaneous this whole project was, sneaking it in after our big Martha party. But man, I do love these so.
6. Donut Balloons: 2013 was also the year of the donut. I think I’ve determined that you guys are the most vocal about the donut projects. The numbers may say that you like confetti balloons and roses, but the tweets, comments and re-grams say WE LOVE DONUTS. Don’t worry, donuts aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. So we can all continue this love affair together. I won’t play favorites, but I’m totally playing favorites, and saying that this was probably my most favorite project of the year. (Don’t tell the other ones!)
Perhaps I should just become a balloon blog, eh? Ha! I wouldn’t complain about that.
Outtakes
When you take 8 zillion photos of yourself and balloons outdoors, amongst the general public and all the elements, there’s bound to be a few winning outtakes. I actually get a lot of questions like “Do you really stand outside wearing a giant cake costume?” Yep. “Do people give you weird looks?” Yep. Though, I live in LA, where people photographing, modeling and doing other, shall we say, “bizarre” things on the street is quite normal. Here’s a few of the real star outtakes. Now I’ll just hope these don’t start circulating Pinterest, especially the one right below… where I look like a flower-crown-holding mobster.
I feel like I should be in an alley way, facing off with some other crown-yielding mobster with this face.
Cropped that car right outta this one! This is a wall we often shoot in front of, and Jeff stands in the middle of the street to get the shot, dependent on me to warn him of oncoming traffic. It’s a hazardous job, folks. Luckily it’s a pretty high priority of mine to keep him alive.
That time a donut balloon made a run for it.
There was no stopping it. While I DO NOT support letting balloons loose for environmental reasons, I couldn’t help but laugh about what the people who saw this floating around LA thought. It’s not every day that you see a donut soaring through the sky.
As recently evidenced on Instagram… I like to dance. And I do so between shots. Or, during shots, in this case. Pineapples were another big theme this year and I had SO MUCH FUN creating a bunch of pineapple DIYs. They may stick around for 2014 too.
Behind the Scenes
Everything on this blog always looks pretty put together. I try really hard to style and take the perfect shot. But what you don’t see is the pure INSANITY behind the camera. I wanted to keep it real here today, so I’m showing it all! Now run, screaming, away from the computer because the pure MESS that is behind the camera is hurting your eyes! Don’t worry, it hurts mine too. And this isn’t even the worst of it. But that’s what we call life folks, and it explains one of the 2014 plans I’ll discuss below.
How many Studio DIY projects can you spy in this picture? I spy five.
I was recruited to help with a photo background for an international store opening. When you must make a 5′ x 8′ background, there’s only one place for it to go… on your curtain rod.
Sometimes I get so crazed that I don’t clean up one project before starting another. (Ok, all the time.) This was the end of my honeycomb backdrop, and my test run for my giant balloon 2014. (p.s. Do you like how the donut and heart piñatas have photo bombed three photos already?)
Another example of not cleaning up before starting a new project. Leftover confetti wands from this shoot, peonies from this one and a whole lot of sprinkles thrown in there too!
Sometimes you hand off the cake for your shoot to the photo studio rep and he slams it in a too-small fridge. Then Leah comes to your rescue and fixes it right up. Bet ya couldn’t tell it was once smooshed, eh?
And Just a Few More Things
I’ve already gushed and gushed about how thankful I am for how much love you have all shown Studio DIY in 2013, so I won’t bore you with my sappy “I LOVE YOU GUYS!” talk any longer. But there is one thing I wanted to address, a not-as-fun theme that seemed to stick around for 2013. As Studio DIY started getting featured on bigger sites, and pinned by the biggest of pinners, the nasty comments came out. It happens to everyone, and that’s why they tell you not to read the comments. But I’m glad I did, because I saw a bunch of readers stick up for me and well, shoot. You guys rock. So I figured I should share a little something with you so you know just how much you’re sticking up for!
What are these comments you ask? Well, they’re about my weight. If you haven’t noticed, yes, I am very skinny. I know it, and apparently the world knows it too! I’ve been accused of not eating, having an eating disorder, and even photoshopping my body because “nobody’s legs really look like that.” Welp, none of the above are true dudes! And here’s why. (And I’m sharing this because I want to, because I want to be open and honest with you guys, not because I feel I need to prove anything to these anonymous Internet trolls!) Ready? When I was 13, I was diagnosed with a rare form (for children) of stomach cancer. It eventually led to a total gastrectomy. For those of you that don’t speak doctor, that means I don’t have a stomach. At all. Think of it like extreme gastric bypass surgery, but not for weight reasons. I am happy to report that I am 11 years and counting cancer free now, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t lingering effects from my major surgery. Essentially, it’s near impossible for me to gain a significant amount of weight. I can only eat a very small amount at a time, and my body doesn’t absorb nutrients like a normal body does. I have very weird sensitivities to bizarre foods (So, if you’re ever with me at a conference or somewhere where I don’t get to screen the food and you wonder why I’m not eating. It’s probably because I can’t eat one of the ingredients on the plate, not because I don’t eat at all!) So, other than if I’m lucky enough to ever be pregnant, I’ll probably always be around this weight. If you’ve wondered how my Instagram is filled with donuts and macarons and how I remain so skinny, I guess you can say that’s just the one “perk” of this whole ordeal. Though I also suffer from frequent episodes of nausea and pain too, so.. you win some you lose some! Honestly, I feel extra extra lucky that you guys have supported Studio DIY and allowed me to be self-employed because it means if I’m having a bad day, I can grab my laptop and work from the couch. Having a limited number of “sick days” at a 9-5 job just wouldn’t work for me and I’m grateful that I don’t have to deal with that.
And for those of you that have been following my recent medical battles, they are indirectly related to lasting effects from my big surgery. In October, I was hospitalized for severe anemia. That’s because my body can’t absorb iron! Luckily, we’ve got that under control now with IV iron treatments that I’ll get every few months for the rest of my life. (Hey, it could be worse!) They discovered the anemia when I went to the ER with severe chest pains after a rough plane flight. Turns out I also had a minor pneumothorax (aka a collapsed lung), something tall and very skinny people are prone to. After a relapse of that in November, they decided to do surgery in hopes of preventing future problems and that is why I was in the hospital again over Christmas. I’m out of the hospital now and healing slowly, but it didn’t stop me from dancing this weekend!
Phew! Are you still here? I promise the parties and confetti will return real soon. But I thought, after all of your well wishes while I was in the hospital, and after you fought back against the trolls of the Internet accusing me of things that just weren’t true, that you all deserved a little background! Quite frankly, I also have my whole cancer story to thank for this career of mine. It was when I was out of school for nearly a year, stuck at home and BORED, that I picked up a sketch book and started getting in to design, realizing my longtime passion for crafting and creating could actually make me money some day. Everything happens for a reason right?
And on to 2014!
Photo by Mary Costa Photography
Now that THAT is out of the way, let’s talk about 2014, shall we!? If one thing is for sure, I never really know what a year will bring. But I can tell you a few things I’m thinking about and working on!
1. Our Wedding!! Don’t worry, this isn’t going to turn into a wedding blog. But! I am going to share a bit about our wedding plans here, maybe once a month or so. Look out for the first installment soon!
2. New Series! Remember that time, way back when, that I got your opinions on some new series ideas? And then I didn’t do anything with them. Yeah, me too. Well, 2014 is the year! I’m hoping to get a DIY date night series going, a cake decorating series going and a few other things too. WOOHOO!
3. A Real Life Studio! As evidenced above, Studio DIY needs a space of it’s own. A tiny one bedroom apartment can only take so many giant piñatas! So in 2014 I’m taking the steps to get the space I need, whether it’s a separate studio, or a separate workspace in a new home.
4. Sponsors! I was lucky to work with so many AMAZING sponsors in 2013, and I plan to continue working with sponsors who fit the Studio DIY brand. I really, truly enjoy working with these brands because they help me bring content that I love to life! It goes without saying that every brand I work with is one I love, and every sponsored post I do is something I would post whether I was paid for it or not! I already told you about my exciting partnership with Balloon Time (Did you know that all came to be because of a Twitter conversation!? Social media RULES!), I have two pretty ridiculously amazing (secret-for-now) projects in the works, and I have my sights set on some other great partners too!
5. Conferences + The Like! It’s about time I officially say it, but I will no longer be attending Alt Summit this year. SAD!!!! Because of my lung surgery, I’m not allowed to fly or go to high altitudes for a bit, and that kind of knocks SLC right out, doesn’t it!? But! I will be speaking (My first speaking gig!) at Craftcation in April which I’m really excited about!
And that officially ends my longest post of all time. From here on out we’ll go back to our typical photo:word ratio! Ha! Thanks for sticking with me, for supporting Studio DIY, and for (hopefully) being PSYCHED about 2014! If you have any questions for me about anything I discussed here, ask away in the comments below! I’m an open book: medical, behind the scenes, 2014 plans. Ask away!
Cintya says
I truly love your blog, it’s one of my favorites. I salute you for all of your hard work and for being so open about your surgery. I wish you must success, and yes, I’m excited to see what more fun and creative ideas you’ll bring out this year.
Kelly says
Aw Cintya! Thank you so much! So glad I have dedicated readers like you!
Annie says
I loved the accents on the balloons – what a creative idea!
Congrats to your success so far and best wishes in the new year 🙂
http://littlestsparrow.blogspot.com
Claireabellemakes says
You are a huge inspiration despite being so poorly!! Thanks to YOU for keeping us inspired and in love with donuts.
You officially rock.
xx
Kari says
You rock!! You are so inspiring and have created such a cool space for us all to come to:) I’m sorry you’ve had to go through what you’ve gone through and then had to deal with all those stupid mean comments on top of it. You are such a strong person, though, and just awesome! Can’t wait to follow along in 2014!!
Elita Walker says
GO YOU! You’re so brave to share the details of your life, though you don’t have to, along with inspiring and fun DIYs!
Cheers to health, happiness, and epic good times in 2014!
Dana says
Kelly, wishing you all the best for Studio DIY and your wedding this year!! I hope you continue to recover quickly and get well, and I can’t wait to see all of the amazing projects you come up with in 2014!
Shelley T. says
I applaud your honesty. it’s can’t be easy to put yourself out there and share something more personal to all the readers (and critics!). Hopefully 2014 will be better than ever. Look for Joy in everything!
brittanyMakes says
oh kelly, you are the cutest! I love all your DIYs, from balloons to donuts to pineapples, to, of course, everything you dip in gold. It blows that there are people out there trolling and hating on your creativity, and clearly there’s no reason behind their cruelty. You have gone thru so much, and your readers do and will support you fully! I’m so happy that 2013 was your year, and I just know you’re going to continue to blow our minds in 2014. I can’t wait 🙂
Brooke says
You are one crazy awesome chick. I’m happy to work with you and keep supporting you! Cheers to 2014 xo
Brittni says
SO glad you decided to share all of this stuff today Kel. You’ve had such great moments in 2013, mixed with some really not great moments, but you came out on top! And I’m so, so glad! Happy to call you my friend. Can’t wait to see what you do in 2014.
Kelly says
Thanks, B! So happy to have you as a friend! I can’t wait to see what YOU do in 2014 either!
Rachel | 52 Weeks Project says
I LOVE the behind the scene shots! It’s so refreshing to see the chaos that is behind the scenes of a really great DIY post. I always wonder what my apartment would look like if I didn’t have to take pictures of what I make 🙂
Sorry to hear you’re getting negative comments from turds on the internet. You absolutely don’t deserve that. Just know that you and your blog are both amazing!
Kelly says
Thank you for letting us into your life. You are amazing, and although I am bummed I will not be meeting you in person at Alt, I am glad to know you from a far. It would be my greatest pleasure for my daughter Matilda to learn from your perseverance and positive outlook on a life full of medical setbacks. You are a blessing!
Kelly says
Thank you, Kelly! What a sweet, sweet comment. Wishing all the best for you and your daughter!
Mo says
Even though this included a recap of the top 2013 posts, this was by far one of my favorite posts of all time.
I love your honesty about your health, and it says so much about your bravery to share that with the world. Your outtakes show how you don’t take things seriously and are open to sharing “the mess” we all wonder about behind-the-scenes. Thank you for letting us into this part of your world!
Haters gonna hate, but just throw confetti at them 🙂
Kelly says
Thanks so much, Mo! I will totally throw confetti at the haters! Ha!
Kate // StyleSmaller says
I love every bit of this post. Thank you for sharing behind the scenes + for being real about life. xo
Steph says
Glad you’re healthy again & doing so well 🙂 Looking forward to seeing more of your stuff this year & of course, watching your wedding unfold.
Jess says
Congrats on your well deserved success! I’ve been reading your blog for a while and it’s so exciting to see the growth and new opportunities coming your way. Wishing you health and happiness in 2014!
Kelly says
Thank you, Jess! So happy I’m lucky enough to have dedicated readers like you! Wishing you the best in 2014 as well!
alicia says
Awesome post Kelly. Wishing you a happy, healthy and balloon-filled 2014!
Samantha Peterson says
You rock, that’s pretty much the jest of it. Can’t wait to see what is to come in 2014!
Emily says
I came across your blog recently and just fell in love with it! Thank you for inspiring us and being so open and honest. I cannot wait to see what you have in store for 2014! All the best for your health. Cheers!
Kelly says
Thank you Emily! So happy to have you following along now!!
Kathleen says
I’ve only just discovered your blog a few weeks ago and I’m already amazed at what an inspiring, creative and strong person you are!!
I wish you all the best (health-wise, blog- and “career”-wise and of course for your wedding) from the bottom of my heart! You deserve it!
Jillian says
And through all that, you have brought so much sunshine to others! Thanks for your daily inspirations & strength Kelly!
Marisa says
Kelly!! You are so amazing. You’re a brave young lady being so strong to face the mean internet world like you have, and we all admire you for it. You are always such an inspiration to me, and I love love love your work! I know this year has HUGE things in store for you. Keep up the amazing hard work! You are seriously going places, girl!! Love & Hugs!! Xo
Kelly says
Thank you so much Marisa, it makes my day to know I’ve inspired you in some way!! Wishing you the best in 2014!!!
Amy says
Kelly – Happy New Year! I’ve been seeing photos on instagram and I am so glad you are okay!! And to put your very personal self out there today just shows what a truly amazing woman you are!! So glad to hear you are okay and hanging in there! And I love to see that your “behind the scenes” world – nice to know there’s a crazy artist behind all of the amazing work you do. Congrats to you and Jeff, too!!
Amanda says
All I have to say is that I Love You Kelly! Keep on kicking ass.
Pat Newman says
You stated your case with such compassion for the neasayers. Your blog was so interesting and beautifully written. You have been blessed with another talent, the written word. Good luck to DIY in 2014 and hopes for a break from the medical field as well. You are breath of fresh air , Miss Kelly,
Laurel (@abubblylife) says
Such a great post!! Very happy to hear you are healing up and I hope the recovery is fast!! Best wishes to you and your husband to be and a very bright, happy, donut, balloon future!!
Mallie says
Love you, Kelly!! You’re so strong– I’ll second the ass kicking!
Amber says
I missed the whole mean comments. That just makes my heart hurt. We’ve never met, but through our limited communication, I’ve come to thing your are pretty awesome and would be a blast to hang with. I have loved watching your biz explode over the last year. I get all, “OMG ITS KELLY!!!” whenever I see you on Pinterest, or Buzz Feed or wherever else. Who could concentrate on how skinny your legs are when you heart is bigger than Texas! Oh and I really hope you talk about your wedding plans a lot!
Kelly says
Aw! Thank you so much for your continued support, Amber! You rock!
Vanessa: thequeenofswag says
Kelly you are an inspiration to us all and you’re beautiful on the inside and out. Your talents are inspiring and don’t let anyone ever bring you down. Thank you for sharing your brave story. And even though I have never met you, we are donut loving twinzies. 🙂
Kelly says
Yay for donut twins! Thank you so much for your support, Vanessa!
Amelia Ryczek says
I’m so sorry that on top of everything you’ve already had to deal with, people made comments like those. People can be so incredibly rude, but just know that the people making those comments are not your core readership. Those of us who are would never overlook your creativity and talent to make some jab about your weight.
Laura Parke says
you are amazing!! i’m so excited to see all of the fun projects you come up with in 2014 and wish you health and happiness in the new year!
emily says
JUst love how you stay and remain so upbeat, such an inspiration!
Aileen@AtHomeinLove says
Wow, you are such an inspiration! Love all the outtakes & behind the scenes photos and cannot WAIT to see what you do in 2014!!! You are awesome 🙂
Helena says
I’m bummed I won’t see you in SLC but so happy for you in everything. You and Jeff are so kind – all this success couldn’t happen to better people! Stay strong lady (and gent)!
TLHayden says
I’ve been keeping up with you for a year now…. staying quite that’s all 🙂 but you’ve inspired me alot!! I love your happiness and drive. I told my hubby we are so much alike and I make him do everything too! So Jeff is not alone;-) I so hope I can do something with you soon. I have a two year old and I am a work from home mom. Sometimes it’s hard to get anything done with her around but you made me realize I can do it, and I am so ready to push my own business and blog this year! …. those haters…smh
Kelly says
Aw thank you so much for your sweet comment! Glad to know Jeff isn’t the only guy out there being forced to do some of these crazy things! Ha! Wishing you all the best in 2014!!
Jessie says
You are a rock star, Kelly Lanza! We will miss you at Alt, but we will certainly dance on tables and sprinkle some confetti in your honor. Wishing you a beautiful and healthy 2014. xx
Kelly says
Please do! And take photos of all of the above so I can pretend I was there! 😉
Marissa says
You go girl! So happy for you and all your success! Cheers to making more fabulousness in 2014! <3
Katie Covington says
You. Are a rockstar. A sparkly one at that. Get 2014 so hard girl.
Gilit @ Shoes Off Please says
Kelly!!! I know I don’t actually know you but you can’t have a huge online presence like yours without your true personality coming out and I am genuinely so inspired by you! I don’t say it lightly at all. Creatively, with your always gorgeous DIYs and as a person. I mean…damn.
I missed the trolls but I am here to beat the crap out of them if you ever need. I love watching your site and business grow and can’t wait to see it continue to ever greater heights!!
Here’s to your health, happiness, and business!!
Xoxo
Kelly says
Thank you so, so much! And happy you have my back against those trolls. 😉
Stephanie says
This post really touched me. Thank you for sharing such a personal part of your life–it encouraged and inspired me. Wishing you a wonderful 2014!
Elle says
Wow! Another awesome post! You are such an inspiration to me in so many ways. Overall, since I’ve been reading your blog I’ve felt like a more fabulous person. I love all the joy and character you put into your blog, despite your many encounters with the crappy side of life. Thanks for blogg’n Kelly!
Mandy Pellegrin says
Thanks for sharing this. I know it probably wasn’t easy, but you’re a rockstar for doing it. Here’s to feeling better in 2014! <3
Leah says
You are so inspiring Kelly…I feel lucky to call you my friend! Keep fighting and making beautiful things. Those internet trolls can…well it wouldn’t be very lady like to say. Anyway, I will always be there to re-frost smooshed cakes for you and eat them for that matter if you need the help! Here’s to making the best of the worst situations. You are a bright star, keep shining! Cheers to a new year.
Kelly says
Thank you Leah! So, so glad to have become friend this year, and that you were there to rescue my poor little cake! Looking forward to an exciting 2014 for us both!
Melissa says
You are amazing. May everyone have the balls you have to do big things and set things straight.
Heidi says
Thank you very much for being brave enough to share your story! I didn’t think I could be more impressed with you from your work alone, and here it turns out you’re a superwoman too!
amy c says
You are so cool, Kelly. You had an amazing year and 2014 is going to be even more amazing. You are so brave to share about yourself and your struggles. Makes you even more fab than before. 🙂 Will miss seeing you in SLC. Happy new year!
lyndsay // coco cake land says
kelly!! you sweet, beautiful and BONKTASTICALLY INCREDIBLY TALENTED girl! thank you so much for sharing this post. i’m getting hot-blooded angry thinking about any jerks that might have made you feel crappy on the internet. (i’m guessing instagram? it’s ghastly what some people decide to write). forget those nerds! you make the internet such a sparkly, positive and creative space! honestly, your creativity is absolutely EPIC. you know i’m a mega fan!!
i love the behind the scenes pics and the hilarious outtakes. poor donut balloon! such excitement for you in 2014 – can’t wait to see it all! wishing you tons of happiness, success and continued healing and health this year and beyond. xoxo
Kelly says
I can always count on you for the best use of adjectives, Lyndsay! 😉 So happy to have connected with you this year, and thank you so much for your support!
Sarah says
You are one talented, inspirational lady! I cannot wait to see what you do 2014!
Kevin | Thou Swell says
It’s amazing what you’ve gone through and what you’ve overcome, and yet you still are happy and optimistic. It’s really inspiring! You are amazing. Keep up the fantastic work on your blog and your awesome attitude.
Carrie // cue the confetti says
Wow. This might be one of my favorite post ever. I love seeing your honesty and real life and cuteness and crafty all in one! 2014 is going to be your best year yet!!!
tessa says
keep rocking it. wishes for a healthy new year and a beautiful wedding and more creative ideas 🙂
Michelle Harriman says
Kelly I love you and you’ve been an inspiration since we were 5 years old! I am so happy for everything you’ve accomplished in your life. You’ve worked SO HARD to get to where you are right now. So many people wouldn’t have the will and drive that you have to make something of your self. It is because of YOU that I am a nurse today, and I wouldn’t be where I am without you! I can’t wait to watch and walk down the aisle at your wedding! Cheers to a happy and healthy 2014!! I love you to pieces Kelly! xoxo
Kelly says
Thanks Michelle! =) I like to credit our “paper crafts” business as my early start in this career. Ha!! <3
Chelsea C. says
I’m so happy you decided to share, Kell. We’re all just people, after all, right? All we can do is our best, and you do that day after day — which is so inspiring to the rest of us. Keep trucking, friend. You’re doing everything right. 🙂 xoxo
Jessica @ The Budget Savvy Bride says
You are amazing and strong and courageous for sharing your story. Congrats on all the success- you totally deserve it. Wishing you a healthy and happy new year! xo
Joy says
Oh Kelly, I’m so glad that you’re doing better now, and that they were able to diagnose & treat you. The fact that you kept this blog going through all of it is totally incredible. It puts into fresh perspective the kind of dedication it takes to build a successful personal brand. You deserve all the good things 2014 will bring you! I’m sad to be missing you at SLC, but I hope we’ll have a chance to bump into each other later on this (incredible) year. xo
Kelly says
Thank you, Joy! I’m sad to be missing you too, but yes! Let’s hope that we find an excuse to run into each other some other time this year! Have a great time at Alt!
Lindy says
I love this post! The behind the scenes shots are great! I always love seeing those. Thank you so much for sharing your personal story! You have an amazing, positive outlook on everything and it comes across in your personality as well as your creative diy’s. I make a point of checking your blog every day and have really enjoyed following you. I look forward to 2014. All the best to you!
P.S. I follow you on Instagram as well and when I saw the video of you and Jeff dancing the other day I wanted to start dancing too. It was awesome! Totally made me smile! Keep on dancing lady!!
Kelly says
Thank you so much for popping by here every day, Lindy! It means so much to me to have dedicated readers like you! And glad you continued to pop by, even AFTER our ridiculous dance moves were revealed to the world! Ha!
Emily @Happy Home Studios says
You are so inspiring! I love this post so much! You’re so positive about everything and seem ready to take on 2014 with balloons soaring and sprinkles flying 🙂 I can’t wait to see more and also, the out takes were so great! It’s fun to see the behind the scenes! Thanks again! Cheers!
Kelly says
Thanks Emily! That description of 2014 is pretty much exactly how I hope it will go! 😉 Can’t go wrong with sprinkles and balloons.
Heather - Chickabug says
I honestly didn’t think I could admire and respect you more… and here, thanks to this post, I do. : ) I can’t wait to see all the new projects (and pineapples) you’ll be bringing us in 2014!
Zilah says
Hi, dear (i feel I can call you like this because I felt so much empathy recadinho this post).
I’m from Brazil and knew your blog recently. I was already in love with your projects and with your baloon obsession (I’m lado obsessed with mushrooms), but reading this post I made sure that you’re obde of the most inspiring bloggers I’ve ever met.
You’re always happy and positive and this reflects so much in your crafts. Hope you can still always like this!
Kisses and a happy new year <3
Bethany says
This post totally made my day, for so many reasons. Love all your top posts! You are seriously talented!
LARY@Inspiration Nook says
Love your honesty Kelly! I came across your blog sometime last year and it was immediately bookmarked.
For some reason I feel like we know each other HA! I do wish I could work on my blog only and not have a 9-5 production job. Maybe we could work together someday, we do live in lalaland. Cheers to 2014!
Katie McC says
My family has the English Watch Maker GIANT clock in our living room to! It’s such a statement piece, I could catch that clock from miles away. =) Love Love Love the recap of 2013! Your pictures, DIY and site are beautiful and so is your story! Can’t wait to see what you have been working on for 2014 and congrats on the engagement.
Terrie says
I love seeing the outtake pictures =)
I’m glad you’re feeling better and recovering from surgery. Thanks for sharing your story with us. I just love your positive, cheerful attitude!
Thank you for all of the awesome DIY inspiration! I’m looking forward to seeing what you have in store for 2014!!
Natascha says
Dear Kelly, could you please tell me where I can get these copper sheets you show in the picture for the backdrop (international shop opening)?
Regards from Switzerland, xxx Natascha
Emily Hingston says
Hi Kelly
Fabulous post. Thanks so much for sharing. You are such an inspiration. Congratulations to you for all your achievements. Good on you for working so hard and following your dreams despite the other things life throws at you. Funny how some people look at things from behind their computers and criticize and judge. (What a bloody waste of time). But most of us are thinking: “What a gorgeous and talented chicky babe”!
And we all can’t wait to see what you pull out of your bag of tricks next.
x
Dani H says
You really are an inspiration ~ wish we could dunk those internet trolls in a tub of blubber! Love your site and your designs and, especially, your attitude. Best wishes on your engagement!
Molly says
I just found your blog through a post on Pinterest…and wow, stomach cancer…I have a couple friends that have Crohn’s and that affects how often, how much and what they can eat, so I figured that might be your situation.
I’m sorry people were so nasty to you. I was wondering why you were so slim too…and now I know.
I’m happy for you that you are cancer free and I hope 2014 is a better year for you in that you won’t have anymore surprise hospital visits.
amanda says
Your story is so inspiring. Thank you for being so honest and forward about all your experiences, and thank you for finding your passion! Your blog is one of the most exciting ones out there to follow. Can’t wait to see what’s next. Have a great 2015!
Stargirlmand says
Hey kelly, this was a great read, thank you for sharing. I have had struggles with long term illness myself, so great to hear you still manage to do so much and fit it in around “off” days. Brilliant inspiration…. i was also pleased to read you mentioning that you do not support balloon releases as this is a big bugbear of mine, as is the problem of plastics in the ocean…. so thank you for writing that, and if at all possible, maybe you could mention it on your posts from time to time, as you use a lot of balloons… i love balloons too but it’s really shocking how far they can travel and how many end up in the sea…. thanks Kelly… keep up the good work! Xx