A Facelift, an Interview, and a New Cottage

There’s been a lot of excitement swirling about this week, here at Cottage8.  For starters, unless this is your first time visiting my blog, than you’ve probably noticed my new look, including my brand new header.  But we didn’t stop there, oh no!  Not only did my blog get a facelift, we completely redesigned my entire website too {as shown above}.  I say “we” but all due credit goes directly to my very favorite web designer, Cathy at Avalon Rose Design. 

  

To say Cathy is beyond brilliant would be an understatement.  This gal is a complete creative genius.  If you have ever contemplated starting your own website, I can’t recommend her strongly enough.  Not only did she simplify the navigation of each page of my website for easier browsing, she also re-designed my entire Cottage of the Month feature and my Archives.  She felt that my website and blog should reflect my new direction and current decorating style, and that an upgrade after four years was desperately due.  I couldn’t agree more.  And fortunately, most of you agree as well. Cathy documented the entire re-design on her blog, complete with before and after screenshots.  {If you’re coming here for the first time from Cathy’s blog, welcome!} 

  

The feedback I’ve been getting on the new design has been overwhelmingly positive.  {Thank you for your supportive emails}.  I have always felt the need to keep pushing my direction forward, and go outside of my own comfort box.  Just like when I decided to completely change my decorating style after 10 years of doing the same old thing.  It was both terrifying and exciting all at once, but once it was done, I was glad I did it.

  

A few of you have asked where my squeaky gate went.  To be completely frank, that squeaky gate was more of pain than a joy.  I, for one, could not enter my own gate. I kid you not!  When you are dealing with flash (animation and sound files) it tends to freeze up more than it actually works.  Believe me, I have the emails from frustrated viewers to prove it;  including one email from a woman who unknowingly had her speakers cranked all the way up, and when she went through the squeaky gate, the cat that had been napping on her lap dug its claws deep into her legs, then shot straight up in the air and nearly gave them both a heart attack.  After that, I decided that was the last straw for the beloved squeaky gate, may it rest in peace.

  

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In other news, I was interviewed by the very lovely Aimee of Garden Adornments.  She’s an extremely talented woman with so much zest and energy.  She has a beautiful blog, on which she’s hosting a really generous giveaway, and she also has a really cool etsy shop.  I am flattered to be featured on her blog.  Thank you, Aimee!  {And if you’re coming here for the first time from Aimee’s blog, thank you for your visit!}

  

  

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And last but not least, I know I usually drop a reminder bomb on you mid-month, but I couldn’t wait another second to tell you to check out this month’s Cottage of the Month.  I’ve featured Cindy’s house from My Romantic Home.  She was the perfect choice for February, the most romantic month of the year.  {And if you’re coming here for the first time from Cindy’s blog, thank you for stopping by!} 

  

  

Thank you for all your support you guys!