My Dilly Dallying Diary

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

A Balancing Act

So I am six months almost into my crafting business over at Etsy, and after some newbie lull in the beginning I've got a few sales under my belt, a growing follower list on Twitter and most importantly a growing vision of where I want this all to go. This is all wonderful but the thing I'm struggling most with is the balancing act of mother, wife, entrepreneur.

It takes time, energy, commitment and some money to grow a business. However first and foremost for me will always be my family. I am a stay at home mom, and I do my best not to compromise the quality time I spend with kids for my business. Most days I do a pretty good job but some days I just don't. And then I feel guilty and frusterated and everything suffers for.

For now I'm just hoping things get easier. I hit a stride with my business and my kids who are very little now (1 and 3) will grow a little older and a little more independent. In the mean time anyone out there have any great advice for ultimate juggling act?

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Thanks Mom

When I was around eight years old my mom taught me to embroider. When I was around 10years old my mom taught me to sew. Because I was an annoying pre-adolescent, I rolled my eyes and probably said "Why can't we just go to the store and BUY something." Fast forward 20 years and now I pride myself in my ability to operate a sewing machine, manuever an embroidery needle, and I am always learning new tnings like how to make pretty little beaded flowers for me and my daughter.

I get so much joy from creating beautiful things by hand. Nothing makes me happier than creating beauty for my home and others. I love making jewelry, painting with oil and watercolor, drawing and sewing.

Two years I took the plunge and left my career to be a stay at home mom to my beautiful son. Since then I have had a daughter and could not be happier with my chosen path. I'm so grateful that Etsy has given me a creative outlet that I can incorporate into my family life.