Best of Keep It Beautiful Designs in 2015

It's that time of year again. Can you believe it? I really like this time of year. It's a time that we all reflect on the year and think about what we want for the year to come. 2015 was filled with wonderful memories and experiences. Our middle guy started school, I became a regular visitor on Daytime Ottawa television and we decided to take the plunge and renovate the basement. Our family is happy and we're doing our thing. I did, however, continue to struggle with the loss of my friend Robyn, especially last winter, but reaching out for help was the best thing I ever did. I feel strong, myself and a happy girl.

Thank you to all of you, my readers for continuing to support this blog. Every year, because of you, it has grown to levels I had no idea was possible. Thank you for tuning into my little spot of the internet world. I hope you have felt inspired to take on projects in your home, feel good about trying new things and that when you create beautiful spaces, you feel beautiful.

December has been a zoo but relaxing at the same time. How does that work? I tend to start the holidays, really relaxed, thinking I have so much time. Then, all of sudden it's the middle of December and I'm on GO-mode! We've had a wonderful holiday of total relaxation at home and the cottage. We have ate, drank and surrounded ourselves with family and friends. Isn't that what it's all about? The kids were totally adorable on Christmas eve and morning. Our boys were in the Christmas pageant at church, playing a wiseman and angel. They melted my heart when they walked down that aisle, wearing burlap sacks on their heads and filled with Christmas wonder. Christmas morning was a classic nut house. The kids woke up before light and ran down the stairs like Santa was still in the house. I want to bottle that belief and wonder.

Overall, I've been on chill mode the last few days. So much, that I realized I haven't even show you my own holiday decor (not so good for a home design blogger ;)

So, my friends, here are a few images of our home this Christmas season.

One of my fav things about end of year, is looking back at what you loved about keepitbeautifuldesigns.com this year. Here is what your favourite posts were this year...

Based on my stats, the posts that got the most traction were definitely on the basement renovation. Although the renovation took longer than expected, we are thrilled with the results. It has completely changed the way we live in the house. Best money spent. It was the city that slowed us down and our contractor continued to work extremely hard through the city's demands.

Our bit of our journey was here, here, here and here. Stay tuned for the final, final reveal in 2016 :)

The best DIY was the Industrial Toilet Paper Holder

My friends, you appear to love to decorate your mantle as much as I love to decorate mine because these ones you read and read.

Decorating for Winter

Spring mantle and Summer

Food wise, Aunt Nancy's chocolate chip cookies was a hit.

Apparently you all love your gin and tonic. I don't blame you!

Travel wise, Chateau Montebello and the Wakefield Mill were highlights.

I was thrilled to be featured as a designer, in the UK.

Kids' parties, including a digger party

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A few more that seemed to be your favs. Xmas baking, giving a room an up-do and Halloween decor

My friends, I wish you all the best in 2016. I hope your heart is full of warmth. Thank you for your support and looking forward to 2016 with you. From my heart to yours, I hope you enjoy a kiss on New Year's Eve and too much champagne so you dance on the table.

Keep it beautiful.

xo