I’ve spent the past week recapping the most popular projects and posts of last year…and there were a lot of them. But what made 2015 so unbelievably special was you…and the experiences and opportunities that came from your support, readership, comments, and genuine enthusiasm and encouragement.
While I tend to always be pushing forward, it’s key for me to slow down in order to acknowledge all the blessings I’ve been given…both big and small…so I can truly express my gratitude. In a world of endless To Do Lists, it’s easy for me to lose sight of what I’ve accomplished, so I hope you’ll indulge me one last recap post of 2015, sharing my personal highlights.
I struggle to write these type of posts because they feel a little narcissistic. But I often have to remind myself that this blog is my happy place…my own personal scrapbook and life’s chronicle…of not only what we do to our home, but what happens to the people in our home.
There’s no question being photographed for the cover of Redbook was one of the highlights of my life, let alone 2015! That was a once-in-a-lifetime experience I’ll never forget, and my mind is still boggled that I was chosen…in large part of because of you guys and your persistent votes!!
Behind-the-Scenes of BHG Shoot
American Profile Earth Day feature projects
American Profile Valentine projects feature
Spray paint Project feature in Redbook magazine
Not only have amazing opportunities and experiences come from this blog, but so many treasured friendships. Many of my closest friends are now people I’ve met online…some of whom, I’ve still yet to actually meet in person (I’m talking to you, Freckles Chick!). That concept really baffles my mom, but I’m so grateful for the relationships born from this special place.
*Personal*
We had some really big personal moments and changes last year…starting with unexpectedly selling our house, buying a new one, and moving!! There were a few hiccups and growing pains, but in the end, it was a positive step for our family. Not to mention, all new spaces to decorate!
My sister also married the best guy ever, and after celebrating her bachelorette in New York City, my entire family was part of her gorgeous Montana wedding.
Some posts take on a life of their own, and I really have no idea why one project resonates more than another…but these posts (along with the most commented ones) received more views than any others in 2015.
It’s fun for me to see who you are, and where you’re coming from, according to Google Analytics:
More than half of you are referred here from other sites…so thank you to these amazing bloggers who so generously share my projects and include me in their blogrolls. Without them and Pinterest, I’d likely be writing to just my mom and aunt each day.
That said, the majority of the amazing opportunities that come my way, are because of you, darling readers…I know without your support, enthusiasm, kindness, and interactions, none of this would be possible. I can’t thank you enough for popping in every day, week, month, or leap year…whenever it is, I’m thrilled you stopped by! Even the lurkers…I know you’re there!
I know this post was a lot of toot-tooting my own horn, so thank you for indulging me. God has blessed me more than I could have ever imagined, and I’m beyond humbled by your friendship, support and kind words. With all my heart, thank you. #grouphug
Your encouragement makes me excited to share each project, and continue doing what I love so much. Starting this blog was the best whim I’ve ever acted on, and I can’t wait to see what’s next. This year has already started with a bang, and I’m excited to share all the ideas and projects with you. I pray 2016 is your best yet, lovebugs!
Love your blog! Look forward to reading it each week and can't wait to see what you have in store to share in 2016!
You have had an amazing year! I've been reading your blog for a few months & enjoy the variety. You lived in Nashville? How would you compare fashion there to where you live now?
Cassie! What a wonderful year! My friends and family know you as "My Texas Blogger" as in, "Where did you get that cute necklace?" (or scarf, bag, watch…) and I say, "Well, my Texas blogger told me about this site… I pack better, travel more comfortably and look more put together because of your wonderful tips. Nordstrom, Accessory Concierge, Old Navy, UPS, this Michigan reader in the older demograpic and her daughter in the younger all love you!!!
My favorite all around blog!! (And I would fall in that 45-64 bracket) ;~) It may be your part time hobby, but you would never know. It's obvious you put your heart into your "not so little" blog. Congrats on all the accolades! Well deserved!!
WOW, you really have accomplished so much this year! I especially love to hear how many great friendships and collaborations have developed from this. In fact, I actually discovered your blog from Jen's I Heart Organizing site last year and have been following you ever since 🙂 You really seem to put your heart and soul into these posts and it shows. I would love to learn how much time it takes every week to accomplish this – between this and your other job you must have an extremely full plate!
Love your style and enthusiasm on every project you tackle. You encourage me to be bold and step out of my comfort zone. Keep doing what you are doing, success looks great on you!
This is a fantastic post! So many great things in one place!!!!! You are one blessed woman!!! Xo
Wow! what a wonderful year, congratulations on all the big achievements! I've been a reader for maybe 2-3 years but first time ever commenting. I am always in awe of how you manage, I am also a working mom (with one 9 year old and a baby due next month) and I have so many things to learn from you, my house never looks as good as yours LOL
You truly are an inspiration!
I discovered your blog from the Pinterest Told Me To site last year; I'm very thankful to that sweet Nordstrom enabler!! I love seeing what's new in Sugar Plum land before I tackle my inbox at work #sorrysonotsorry. Your travel tips convinced me I COULD pack for a 10 day/two climate trip with just a carry-on. Now if I could only convince you to fly to San Diego to decorate my new little house by the beach!! Here's to 2016; I can't wait to see what you have up your gingham sleeve!
Your 2015 was stellar Cassie and you deserved every bit of your success! It's apparent how dedicated you are to this blog – but also to your family, friends, and your home. That shines through. I've been a long time reader here and it is wonderful to see that your voice has stayed the same, no matter the heights of success you've reached. It was so nice to finally meet and spend time with you last year. And if you ever meet Freckles Chick, I'm crashing that party. She's elusive, that one 😉
Wishing you even more great things for the coming year. xo.
Such a huge year for you! So many years of work and dedication paying off. I'm glad I've followed along the past two and can't wait to see what 2016 holds for you and your family.
Am moving steadily out of the "lurker" category into an avid reader who loves your blog and is happy to say so! You've provided a lot of fashion (another 46- to 64 member here!) and décor inspiration in this past year, not to mention lots of pure enjoyment. You deserve every bit of the success that's come your way in 2015, and more yet to come.
I love your blog, all your posts, your style, and your sass 🙂 You seem so genuine and like such a fun person 🙂 Congratulations to you for a wonderful 2015 full of so many blessings!!
Wow, I don't know how you maintain a job AND continue to update this blog. It just goes to show how passionate you are about what you do here. 🙂 Thank you for your inspiration and great ideas! Here's to a wonderful 2016!
What an AMAZING year! You are one talented lady, I'm honored to know you!
xoxo
Kate
You have had an awesome year! Here's to a wonderful 2016!
My Goodness!!!! You have had the quite year! It's been so much fun for me to watch you on this ride!!!! Congrats on all the success!!!!!! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
You are amazing and thank you so much for sharing it all :-)You give me so much inspiration every week, thank you!! Charlotte Denmark 🙂
One helluva year my friend! I'm so happy for all the good things that came your way and I am honored to be included in some of them! Our friendship is among the best things to come out of blogging for me! Love you tons! ❤️
I found your blog a few months ago, and I have to say I love seeing your emails in my box. It's like getting a great letter from my best friend! Thanks for all your tips and advice, and well, EVERYTHING! I'm so happy you are being rewarded for your hard work and hope 2016 is an even brighter year for Hi Sugarplum!
What a great post. Ok, I had no idea you worked outside of this blog. What do you do? Why did y'all decide to move from Nashville? Why did y'all sell your house and move into this one?
Ha, lots of questions! 🙂 #iloveit I work in marketing & sales, we moved from Nash back to Texas bc both our family is here, and the new house found us…we weren't even looking to move!! xo
No kidding! just one last question: How Do You It???? Any pointers on time management? work/life balance? even for a stay at home mom like myself?? I'm new to this, worked in Marketing for 10 years! But this being at home and trying to fulfill a dream seems nearly impossible!
Girl, I don't do nearly close to all of it! If one thing excels, another suffers. I wrote a post about it actually: http://www.hisugarplumsblog.com/2016/01/whos-doing-it-all-not-me.html
What an amazing year …Love all of it and Super excited what 2016 brings your way !!!
lovely blog!
Ball Dresses 2016
Just reading your blog for the first time and I never read blogs… I love it and you! We could totally hang. I'm an enthusiast of all things art and design, a certified interior designer, wife and mother of two in Richmond VA. Looking forward to reading more!! Do you have a closet makeover in your history?? I'd love to see.. Really enjoyed the craft closet one. 😉 LTS
I am such a huge fan of you and your work. You just seem to put so much love and character in your home, your wardrobe and your creations. Congratulations on all of your success, I can't wait to read your 2016 Recap! And last but not least, thank you for inspiring us gals all over the world. I can only aspire to achieve a slice of your success but moreover learn how to be confident in all I do. Cheers!