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Friday, July 11, 2014

What A Difference A Year Makes!

Hello everyone! A couple of weeks ago I suggested that some exciting things were up ahead. Well, today is a big day for me. It's my one year blogiversary!! Today's post is a reflection on this past year and the progress that I've made. Then tomorrow I'm turning the celebration up a notch with a HUGE giveaway! During the next couple weeks I have special posts planned, namely some awesome guest posts! So make sure to come back to join in the celebration and see what special treats I have in store.


I've been feeling a real nervous excitement for the last couple of weeks leading up to this day. This is an important event for me because it's given me such a sense of accomplishment. When I began my blog I wasn't too sure I'd make it this far. I began blogging with a lot of passion and hopeful thinking. My first couple of months though were quite the emotional rollercoaster. I often struggled with self doubt and discouragement. Eventually the extreme highs and lows turned into quieter ripples. Now I have much more confidence in myself and the highs are bigger and more frequent. Not only am I thrilled that I've made it this far, but especially that I have just as much passion now with even more drive and ambition.

Equal to the feelings of accomplishment are those of deep gratitude. I've had invaluable help from my family who have been so crucial with their feedback, suggestions, and encouragement. I especially am beholden to my husband. Without his artistic genius and photoshop know-how, I would be completely lost! I had a real vision for my blog's imagery and he had the patience and talent to turn my awkward sketches into exactly what I wanted.

I am also indebted to my sister Mel who helped me finesse my Nail Polish Society Declaration and bio. Even though the delivery is a little tongue-in-cheek, they reflect my true feelings. My sister helped me to formulate my message in a way that I hope inspires others too!

I want to thank my family and friends for their support, who followed from the beginning when it was just me and them. A GIANT thank you to all of my awesome readers. Your comments truly make my day! I'd also like to thank the academy...

*takes a bow*

Thank you for bearing with me through my speech. Now I'd like to share some photographic proof of my improvement. Last year when I discovered the world of nail blogs I was inspired to try nail art for the very first time. Here is my inaugural attempt:


I did this mani about a month before I decided to start my blog. It may not look that great, but it was enough to get me excited about all the possibilities nail art offered. This photo never made it into the blog because I knew I could do waaay better. My education is in no way complete, but here are are a few things I've learned so far:
  • cuticle care
  • hand positioning
  • using a lightbox
  • nail art techniques
  • quality top coats
  • shaping my nails
  • photoshop (I still need a lot of help in this area)
Did I forget anything? Now here's a sort if recreation of that very first attempt:



Better, no?

I'll see you tomorrow for the kick off of my giveaway!

xx Emiline xx

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