Wrapping Up 2020
What a year. With a deadly pandemic, extended time at home (coupled with unemployment for far too many), a climate crisis, a social justice movement that pushed us all to examine our roles in systemic racism, and an excruciatingly painful election season, it’s easy to focus on the stressful side of 2020.
But as the holidays rolled around, I started thinking about all of the things I have to be grateful for this year. And there are so many! It’s not just a wasted year after all. So I wanted to share my year in review for 2020 in an effort to spread some joy, with hopes that you’ll continue to pass it on. Read on below!
Collecting More Plant Babies
You might have noticed that I’ve developed a bit of a plant obsession over the course of the last few years. And this year, with so much time at home…well…things snowballed. I’m at 60+ and counting now, with an ever-growing wishlist of rare plants I want to add to my collection. My most recent additions include a striped Philodendron brasil and a black-leaved ZZ raven. If I had to pick a favorite, though, it would be my Monstera deliciosa from my grandpa’s backyard (but shhh, don’t tell the others).
Time with Family & Friends
With so much extra time on our hands, Devin and I spent lots of time talking to family and friends, both in-person at a distance and via FaceTime. It’s been so great to catch up with people I don’t normally have time to stay in touch with! Plus, my brother-in-law got married this year in a very small, family only ceremony in La Jolla (after negative COVID tests for all guests), which was absolutely perfect and so beautiful. My heart is full and I’m so lucky to have so many wonderful people in my life.
Designing Our House
I’ve had such a blast getting to design my own space this year! Although I will admit that it’s true what they say – designing your own house as a designer is no easy feat. Which is an annoying thing to complain about, I know. We still have some work to do on the bedrooms and bathrooms, but I’m so excited that the living rooms and dining room turned out exactly as I’d hoped they would. They feel inviting and cozy and very “us,” but with plenty of retro mod, boho style! You can check out the photos of the spaces in my portfolio: Global Greenhouse & Terracotta Cottage.
Launching My Business!
And of course, last but not least – I launched Studio Connolly! Running my own design business has been a goal of mine since before I graduated college, and I’m so happy that the time has finally come to pursue it. And as an added bonus, I get to incorporate my passion for sustainability and the environment! What a dream. I’m so grateful to all of you for following along with me in this journey, and for trusting me to design your homes for you. Keep an eye out for some exciting projects in the works!
Studio Connolly will be closed from December 24th through the end of the year, so I’ll reconnect with you all on January 4th. Happy holidays and cheers to 2021!
