Friday, August 28, 2009

One-Year Blogiversary

Today it's been a year since I started this blog and the building of Myrtlewood Manor. At the time, I just wanted an online site to journal the building process. I never guessed there were so many of you out there doing the same thing! Over the past year, I've had the opportunity to meet (online) and be inspired by so many fellow miniaturists. I've really developed a lot creatively and technically, and that's thanks in no small part to all you kind folks who so generously share your miniature endeavors and techniques. I look forward with eager anticipation to each new post by all my new friends.

Year 1 Progress Report:
In the first year of building, I've managed to build the base, frame the first floor, brick the front porch, complete all the floors on the first floor, build all four walls for the dining room, and build a wall of bookcases for the library. When taking breaks from construction, I've built some furniture from kits, as well as tried my hand at a number of other accessories. I've also worked out most of the color scheme for Myrtlewood, which was not easy given my indecisive and perfectionist nature, and amassed quite a few of the fabrics, paints and wallpaper I'll need to decorate the various rooms.

Grand Plans for the Future:
Since the planning stages, I've estimated the building of Myrtlewood as about a 10-year project. In Year 2, I hope to complete the library, the parlor and the entrance hall and tackle the wiring. In Year 3, I plan to build the kitchen and butler's pantry, the music room, the ballroom and the grand curving staircase in the main hall, as well as install the ceilings and light fixtures for the first floor. Years 4 through 6 should see the completion of the second floor, as well as the building of the grand front porch with columns and some work on the exterior of the Manor. In Years 7 through 9, I plan to complete the third floor and start work on the roof. Finally, I'll use Year 10 to finish the roof and exterior of the Manor, as well as any final interior or exterior finish work still needed.

Whew! After all that, I figure it will take me at least 10 years to make all the furnishings and accessories. And then? Well, I can't think that far in advance, but if I'm still into miniatures in 19 years, I'm sure I'll be able to come up with some other project to tickle my fancy.

5 comments:

Ara said...

Sounds like you've got it all planned out!! Hope I'm still around in 19 years to see the final product!!! (I'm sure I will be!) But until then I am just happy to enjoy watching the process! Congrats on one year!!! hugs -ara

rosanna said...

I love your project, I have given myself the same time for my Casa Rossa. No hurry and I'm a perfectionist too. Hugs Rosanna

dalesdreams said...

Wow, just wow!

I know I will continue to enjoy your postings. :)

Sans! said...

Firstly, your new look is fabulous! What a celebration and beautifully apt. Left and right column in perfect alignment and everything balances! :).

I love your 10 year plan. I am finishing my 1st year this December and although I have done nothing for the palace, the "annexes" have been fun. It will be interesting to see how long we (you, Rosanna , Ara, me?) will all take.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY :)!

Texas Belle said...

Thanks so much, everyone!

Sans, :-) I am hoping that the reason you were away from blogland for a while is because you were off commissioning someone to build the palace. I'm really eager to see that project started. Don't make me come all the way to Singapore to kickstart your building efforts, LOL!