Join me as I take a look back at 2021 and count down the top ten readers’ favorites from the past year.
It’s fair to say that, like most years, 2021 was not without its share of bumps in the road. But, as I look back on the past year, there is also a lot to celebrate and be proud of. With the start of 2022, today feels like the perfect day to reflect on some of the accomplishments that I’m most proud of and to count down your top ten favorite posts from the past year.
2021 Year In Review
If you would have asked me a few years ago about my future goals, I’m certain that building a blog from scratch wouldn’t have crossed my mind. But life is full of surprises, isn’t it? With some encouragement from a few friends, I took the leap and I’m happy that I did.
MWLS is a labor of love that has afforded me so many amazing opportunities. None of which would be possible without your support and encouragement. Every like, comment, share, and pin mean so much. Thank you for being here with me on this journey.
In January, I joined some friends to start a new supper club blog series. I love to cook and entertain, so these twice-monthly posts have quickly become some of my favorite ones to share. If you’re new to the series or have missed any of the past months’ tablescapes and menus, you can catch up here.
In June, I celebrated the blog’s first anniversary, followed by a trip to Atlanta for the Haven Conference in July. Highlights of the conference included meeting up with old friends, making new ones, and my DIY Lego table being selected as a finalist for the Rust-Oleum spray paint challenge.
This year I also had the opportunity to work with some of my favorite brands, like The Home Depot, Ryobi Tools, and Mrs. Wages. And in August, I was chosen to participate in the Jeffrey Court Tile Renovation Challenge. Talk about a pinch me moment!
We learned so much during the renovation process, and I’m proud of all that we accomplished. I still can’t believe that we transformed our kitchen in just six weeks.
I’ve got some big dreams for the new year, and I can’t wait to see what 2022 has in store.
The Top Ten Readers’ Favorites From The Past Year
Last year’s top ten posts, included some of your all-time favorites, so I couldn’t wait to see which posts you loved the most in 2021. And let me say that this year’s top ten posts do not disappoint. The countdown includes home tours, recipes, and one of my most favorite DIYs of the year.
Did your favorite make the cut? Here’s a look at the top ten readers’ favorites from the past year.
Frozen Pineapple Margaritas
Coming in at number ten on the countdown of your favorite posts from the past year is this recipe for frozen pineapple margaritas. A little bit of sweet and a whole lot of yum, they put a tropical spin on the popular Mexican cocktail.
Make a pitcher to enjoy on Taco Tuesday, or serve up some frozen margs at your next Cinco de Mayo party.
How To Create A Boho Summer Picnic
This summer I was inspired to create a casual boho picnic in our backyard.
I enjoyed mixing and matching vintage flea market finds with cozy floor pillows and throw blankets to create the perfect casual outdoor dining experience.
Creamy Broccoli Salad
Tossed with a sweet dressing and loaded with crispy bacon, raisins, and sunflower seeds, this creamy broccoli salad is always a crowd-pleaser.
A staple during the summer months, it pairs perfectly with all of your favorite grilling recipes. And with only seven ingredients, it’s super easy to make!
Lemons and Lavender Summer Home Tour
Home tours are some of my favorite posts to share here on the blog. So it should come as no surprise that they are some of your favorite posts, too! All of my home tours cracked the top ten on this year’s count down.
Coming in at number seven is my lemons and lavender summer home tour. The inspiration for my decor came from our summer porch and two big planters that were bursting with gorgeous yellow and purple blooms.
I loved the flowers on the porch so much that I brought those same colors indoors, and the theme for my summer home tour was born.
Simple And Fresh Spring Home Tour
Bunnies and greenery were plentiful on my spring home tour. It has me dreaming of warmer temps and sunshine as we are currently bracing for a big winter storm.
Check out the tour for simple spring styling ideas like my garden tablescape and DIY door basket.
Doritos Taco Salad
Made with crisp lettuce and topped with crushed nacho cheese chips and a zesty Italian dressing, Doritos taco salad is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ready in just 30 minutes, this salad is perfect for a busy weeknight when you need a quick and easy meal.
Old Fashioned Strawberry Peach Crisp
Bursting with all of the fresh fruit flavors of summer and sprinkled with a sweet crumb topping, this strawberry peach crisp is an old-fashioned favorite.
Top with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, and enjoy a bowl (or two) of pure dessert heaven!
DIY Bathroom Vanity Makeover
This bathroom vanity makeover is one of my favorite DIYs from 2021. I’m so glad that it was one of your favorites too.
And would you believe me if I said that the whole project cost less than $100? Yep. It’s true! If you’re thinking about painting your cabinets in the new year, be sure to read my post first for tips on how to prep and my secret to scoring a gallon of paint for cheap.
Cozy And Classic Holiday Home Tour
Coming in at number two is my cozy and classic holiday home tour. This year I used a blue, green, and tartan plaid color palette to decorate our home for Christmas.
It’s a bit of a change from the traditional red and gold colors I used for last year’s holiday home tour, but I love the classic wintry look. And the colors will make it easy to transition our home from the holidays to a neutral cozy winter look.
Rustic Cottage Fall Home Tour
And the most popular post of the past year was our rustic cottage fall home tour.
It’s no secret that fall is of my favorite seasons. I’m so glad that you enjoyed this year’s tour as much as I enjoyed sharing it.
The Top Ten Readers’ Favorites From The Past Year
That’s a wrap on the top ten readers’ favorites from the past year. Were you surprised at which posts were the most popular?
I have a lot of fun projects and recipes planned for the new year. I can’t wait to share. What are you most looking forward to? Leave a comment and let me know. I’d love to hear from you! Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2022.
With love and appreciation,
Aliya says
Jen!!!! My favorite post made it! I’m sure you probably could guess, but I’ll tell you just incase… YOUR BOHO PICNIC!! I love love loved that one!! ❤️ Happy New Year!! So excited for 2022!!! We’re turning 2!!! XoXo
midwestlifeandstyle says
Thank you, friend. You were the inspiration for my picnic…thank you! Can’t wait to see what this next year has in store for us both!