Monday, July 25, 2011

Just for Me

About a year and a half ago with a colicky, tiny 2 week old I decided to find a hobby.






(a rare moment)







I've never really had a hobby other than working out/running which is what I filled my spare time with in college. However with it being December, freezing and snowy and our treadmill tucked in a dark basement corner running didn't appeal to me at the time. Paper has never been my thing so scrapbooking was out but I do like pretty, trendy fabrics. Yes, a sewing business, I could make baby items because we all know everyone always needs a unique baby gift, and I will call it Poplin because well it's a type of fabric and sounded cute.











Yesterday I was part of the Seventh Annual Summer Craftacular, it was my third craftacular and once again a success. I don't only mark success by sales but instead the experience. Crafting is a hobby I would love to grow and turn into an even more consistent source of income but it takes time. My booth yesterday was on the main level surrounded by serious crafters, they are hardcore with their own little shops and cool credit card machines that plug right into their cell phones. I definitely have improved since last year moving from downstairs to the main floor, sprucing up my display a LOT and ready with eco friendly white paper shopping bags. As I watched and listened to the other crafters I soaked it all in like a sponge, the learning continues.











At times I do feel selfish and guilty, last week the majority of time was spent on Poplin. My kids watched a bit too much tv, spent lots of time with Nama and our house a complete disaster with little Poplin piles and projects scattered. But it felt good yesterday and this week will be better, I am a wife and mom but also need this just for me. I want my kids to see me work hard, be committed and persistent while at the same time hopefully I can inspire other mamas to find something just for them. We all need time for ourselves and something to be proud of, whether it be a craft, cooking, reading, blogging, volunteering, whatever just something.











What is your "just for me"? If you don't have one try something, be confident and find the little successes.

***One commenter on this post will win a Poplin ring or flower pin (your choice). Tell us what your "just for me" is...

Winner will be chosen randomly Thursday evening.

5 comments:

  1. I remember coming to your house at about this time for a play date, and we were talking about needing hobbies and I'm so glad you went for this one! It suites you so well and you've become wonderful at it! I, on the other hand, have yet to come up with my hobby. :( And you're right, we do need something for ourselves, other than wife and momma. It's good for our entire families. Time for me to start brainstorming! Thanks, friend!

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  2. Hmmm...my 'just for me' is definitely my sewing/jewelry making as well. When I'm being cranky Jared tells me to 'go downstairs and make something'. It ALWAYS helps! I'm glad you found something you love and I SO love that you take the journey in 'the beast' with me. It was really fun having you next to me this year AND the girls were so excited to see you and your 'beautiful' (quote from Cedi) booth!

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  3. ps. I love that Pace was just 2 weeks old ;) Capri was just 4 days old when I first opened my etsy shop ;)

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  4. Cole~ I love to think about this kind of stuff, it's so good for the soul I think...I guess my "just for me" thing would have to be srapbooking and jogging. I know that God has equipped us all so uniquely with these gifts/talents and needs; it can be so healthy to just remember this as often as possible. thanks for the refreshing reminder to take time for ourselves and nourish the "me" inside ;)

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  5. I used to scrapbook before I had Weston, but just haven't found the time or motivation to get back into it. I definitely agree that it is healthy and re-energizing to have that time just for ourselves without feeling guilty. I recently inherited my Grandpa's old sewing machine, so I may have to learn how to sew. ;) Thanks for the inspiration!

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