Balancing Act

Most of my blogs lately have been specifically about my buisness promotions, products, and so on. Mainly, because I have had a lot happening in that area, and have been working on a lot of new items. But, this blog is about all aspects of crafting and running a business and being a mom. So for today, here is something a little different!

I have been shedding weight lately. I have wanted to lose weight for years, but haven't had much luck. Some of that was lack of lasting motivation. Some of it has been due to my medical conditions that make it a challenge for my body to actually lose weight, period. Last Christmas, my mom had my wedding rings sized bigger for me, because they were too small and I hadn't been able to wear them in months. I couldn't afford to do it, so she had it done for part of my gift. Now the rings are sliding around on my finger!

How am I doing it? I have a very, very active 4 year old boy. I substitute teach, and this year I have had a lot of work so far. Starting in about a month, I will sub full time for several months. I am crafting. I spend my down time creating, which I love, love, love. But besides crafting, I am starting, not just running but starting, a business that I think will be a success.

Now, starting a business is different from running one. Right now, I am going crazy trying to promote my shop, learn how to take fantastic photos and how to edit them, making my shop just right, and design my logo, business cards, address labels, and all that necessary "stuff". I am working hard to make my company have a cohesive look, one that is professional and interesting.

I am exploring all the places I can sell my work, where I can advertise, where I can network. I have started this blog, and kept it up to date. I have lots more ideas for it, but not enough time yet to get them into motion!

I have been attending craft fairs. Which means figuring out how to display my items, how to set up my booth, and the time I invest being there. And building stock, so I have lots and lots of items to sell.

So, have you wondered yet when I sleep? I don't. Not much, anyway. I don't eat much either, as I am too busy and distracted most of the time. This is how the weight is coming off. And you know what? I may be tired a lot of the time. I will have to sleep more at night when I start to teach full time. But I feel good - really good - for the first time in a long time.

I think this is because I have a purpose, and I am doing something fulfilling and creative. I love what I am doing. I love being a mom. I love teaching. And I really love running my business. After 3 years of unsuccessfully looking for a job, trying to figure out how to live with chronic illness and disabling pain and fatigue, and of dealing with a highly difficult child, I was frustrated and depressed. Not to mention broke.

But now, I am helping to support my family, and I am doing something constructive on days that I can't even get off the couch. Most of all, I am expressing the artist in myself - something I have never been able to do enough. I am teaching, something that I think I was truly meant by God to do. I am raising a beautiful, loving, smart and sensitive little boy. I am fulfilled. I am crazy busy, and tired, and my house is a mess. And I love it.