I’ve tried to write this post many times. It just seems to be a tough one to write. One that could be misunderstood, but I kept coming back to it, so I’m just going for it.
I get a lot of e-mail. Some people need help with paint or furniture or a room. Some have comments or stories to share. I love them all, but my very favorite are the e-mails from women who are sharing how their creativity has been “awakened” through reading my blog.
We are a society that defines someone by what they do. When you’re a stay-at-home mom, what you do is laundry, grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, dropping kids off, picking kids up, picking toys up, putting kids in time-out, taking the trash out, filling the water dispenser, emptying the dishwasher…and on it goes. Day after day.
Now, I will stop here to insert that I find great joy in homemaking and motherhood as a whole. I guess I could do without the laundry and cleaning toilets, but I really love it and am blessed to have two fun little boys, a supportive husband and a great home to care for. There came a time, though, when I was sitting on my sofa with a 4 month old and an almost two year old and I felt really lost.
Again, I am going to clarify that I wasn’t lost in who I was as a person, a wife and mom. I just felt like I had pushed all of my hobbies and dreams and goals on the back burner and I was lost in a sea of laundry and dishes and diapers. I know a lot of moms feel like this at some point.
When my family encouraged me to start my business almost three years ago, we all thought it would be a nice way to contribute to the family budget. I had no idea it would awaken my creativity, resourcefulness and confidence. I didn’t know it would give me something I really craved…work that could be finished. I could paint a piece of furniture and stand back and look at it in its glorious doneness. It’s hard to do that after you empty the dishwasher and put dirty ones from the sink right back in.
God used my business and this work to pull me up out of my wallowing-in-the-house-all-day-in-sweats-with-two-babies-funk. I had a happy life, and now it’s even better. I guess the best way I can say it is that I had a good cup of tea, but now it’s overflowing onto the saucer and spilling all over the floor. Some days I feel like I could burst with excitement and ideas and possibilities.
I want to encourage all of you…those who are feeling isolated, tired and lost. Those who once loved to do things, but now all you do is “the routine.” Stop churning and start doing. If you love to cycle, buy one of those buggy things and haul your kids around town, so you can cycle. Or join a gym with child care and take some spinning classes (which I think are total torture.) If you love to decorate, don’t shut that down because the jump-a-roo is an obnoxious eyesore in your family room and you’re losing the battle with Cheerios and Goldfish. Maybe claim just one room as your creative playground.
I really think that this isn’t about the superficial action of doing a hobby, it’s about using your God-given gifts and talents. It’s about setting an example for your children and inspiring them to pursue their dreams and goals.
The funny thing is, even though I’m now a business owner, blogger, antique dealer, and writer, when people ask me what I do, I still say I’m a stay-at-home mom. My title hasn’t changed, but what I do day in and day out has.
Great post, so many different seasons we women go thru. Your advice applies to women in whatever stage and place we might be in. God gives us all gifts and talents. It's up to us with God's guidance to find how to best express them. Blessings, Debra
Amen and Amen. I posted a clip recently from a religious sermon about creativity. Creativity is absolutely vital to all of us and our divine natures. Whether a beautiful cake, a beautiful room, or welcoming garden… Whether it be a restored vehicle or music piece… those small acts of creativity by each and every one of us makes the world a much much better place.
I am trying to remember this as I too, juggle children and grown up life
This is a great post Marian. Even though I am the mother of two adults I remember those feelings well. As my role in my kids life has changed those same feelings have arisen in a different way. What will I do with my life now? I cant tell you how you and other bloggers have helped me make this transition in my new phase of life. Thank you for what you do and for a young woman you are very wise.
Love.
Wow what a great post! Two years ago my youngest went off to college and boy did I feel lost. I have enjoyed reading your blog over the last year and a half and you have inspired me to do try some new things. Thanks!
Amen Marian. Very well said. That is how I felt. Like I wasn't really contributing to the family. eventhough we all need clean clothes and healthy food to eat. It just brings me such joy when I can tell my husband that I can pay for preschool or our little summer vacation.
Yes, thank you.
Yes, yes, yes…I love it!! You inspire me to do greater things. I am close to being on the verge of an empty nest and get giddy about what the future holds for me! Your a blessing!
What a lovely message!
Fantastic post…enough said.
Well said Marian, I too had the same experience although I'm not 3 years in like you, I'm just getting my feet wet and the excitement and tea cup are both overflowing. And I know my kids are watching, they take notes of 'mom's work' and imitate and encourage nearly every day. SAHM at it's best, beyond the ordinary routine and actually DOING something. We are so blessed.
Hello Marian,
So true! Back in 1987 when I began to take decorative painting classes, my husband noticed a difference in my whole outlook on life. He said I seemed so much more content with our life and family.
And like you, I was a very happy and content SAHM…no complaints there.
But something happened to me in painting class..it's hard to explain. I just felt a different kind of joy…yeah that's it…JOY!
That joy overflowed into my ever day life and I flourished as a woman.
I totally get you
;->
Janet xox
http://theemptynest-janet.blogspot.com/
Perfect! We all have God given talents, and what a sin to ignore them, or stifle them simply because we love our kids. I love my kids with all my heart, and I made the choice to stay home with them, but as they grow and their needs grow I realize I need more in my life, and that I have more to offer than cooking/cleaning/shuttling. I still put them first – but there is suddenly more room for me and my gifts in my life. (And I think a happier mom is a better mom too!)
Great post! I appreciate your honesty. I was in the same position a few months ago…I am a wife, mom and Gramma…and I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world! My kids are grown. But, I needed to regain my "me" status. That's what I've been working on. Regaining my creative mind is one way. And yes, you have inspired me many times in my search for this creativity! Thank you!
Hi! I've never commented here before because, I'll be honest, I felt a little intimidated by your complete awesomeness 🙂 This morning I was hanging out sheets and I was feeling extremely down…my kids are both in school and I don't have a paying job and I was thinking "what am I doing?" I realise that I am really lucky to be able to stay home and paint things and decorate to my heart's content, but I was feeling guilty for not working (for money anyway). So basically, I just wanted to say thanks for posting this…I don't feel so alone anymore 🙂
Cas x
What a beautiful, inspirational post….I love it!!!
I loved this! What a beautiful well written, right from the heart, post. Thank you, Marian! I have felt this way for so long now. In fact my husband and I have been married for 25 years now and when we first started our family I went through a time where I wasn't creating anything (except babies!) and I told him, I NEED to make something, if I am not creating art in one way or another you are all missing out on the person that you married and the mom that these kids deserve. I feel so strongly about it that I have passed it on to our kids and young moms that I know who are in that funk, the one where you are trying to still define yourself.
I'm so glad you listened to your heart and hit publish.
t. xoxoxoxox
Ohhh Marian ~ This is such a wonderful post and I love what the others have commented ~
I have always been a stay at home mom and now have two grown married daughters ~ I started my business about 6 years ago and LOVE it ~ It definitely is from God ~ He lets me use the talents He has given me and knew that I would need this at this time in my life ~
It is funny because I still say I am a stay at home mom too and always have ~
We are truly blessed!!
xoxo
Lori
I know exactly what you mean! And reading blogs like yours has most definitely helped me to awaken creativity I didn't know I had. The few times we have met you have always encouraged me and assured me that one day I could have my own business! That has meant so much to me.
Sarah
Just one more reason I think you're the absolute best…thank you so much for this post and for continually inspiring me…
You continue to be an inspiration…although my journey started with facing approaching empty nest syndrome, I couldn't be more grateful for the chance to unleash my creative side, and for the inspiration & support of talented women like you!!
You are an inspiration. Thank you.
God used you to speak to my heart today. Always enjoy your posts but this one happened in His perfect timing.
What a lovely dose of true. My 2 yr old has me tearing my hair out today and my 11 month old needs me to do everything for him. I wouldnt give up the privilege of being a stay at home mom for anything, but like any job, some days are tougher than others. Only we don't get to complain about our "coworkers". I love my projects and find that's where my trouble lies, trying to take care of 2 in diapers while working on other things. Somedays, you just have to accept that nothing is going to be accomplished other than loving your children (and keeping them alive). And that's fine. But keeping a sense of self and having other interests is so important in keeping your sanity. Because some day, the kids will be all grown up and taking care of themselves. And darn it, I will need to have something to focus on!
What a fantastic post! I'm not a mom, but I am a stay-at-home wife and there are days when I do feel like all my life is one endless lot of cleaning and laundry. Thanks in part to your blog and a couple others, I have been so inspired lately to try to get back into making things and trying new things. So thanks!
Well said! Thank you.
Beautiful post. You've put into words how many of us feel. Thank you for the inspiration and encouragement.
Wonderful post! Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us, you're an inspiration!
Abby
You are so young and have such a wonderful outlook on your life and your priorities are so on target! i wish that I had been so wise when I had young children! My kids are 29 and 20 and I try to still be a mom and wife first. As a pre-k teacher I think that God put me in this place, working with at-risk families, so I can help them to be all they can be. I look at your blog as my "me time" so I can create and keep that part of my life going. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, it makes your blog very special to me!
thank you thank you thank you!! I have enjoyed your blog more than you know. My husband is a college pastor we moved from SD to CA three years ago we have a 6, 4, and 2 year old twins! I just opened my own booth at an atique store and feel that my creativity has awakened praise God! Now I'm just struggling to find the balance in it all 🙂 love your blog. Thanks, and God bless, Libby
You have totally inspired me Miss Mustard Seed. Sometimes in the past I was embarrassed to say I was a stay at home Mom, but I Love my "job" and wouldn't want it any other way. The two best accomplishments in my life are my son and daughter!! I feel if the desire is there I can accomplish anything. PS You are amazing, creative and inspiring ~ go girl!!
You are such a sweetheart to encourage as you do. It is very inspiring to read your blog and visit. I know I have met some amazing talented people. I think blogging opens the door of the homes that want to do that and it is a really wonderful way to enjoy a talent you might not otherwise get to share. Thanks for your post!
Sherry
Love this post!! Just wanted you to know that you inspired me to take a leap of faith and start my own business. I read all of your posts about doing so and felt God saying, "It is time". You will never know how much you have blessed me by your words of encouragement. This post is just {MORE} icing on an already iced cake!! Thank you! And BTW, the business is doing great! So thank you for all the tutorials too!
I have NEVER posted a comment on any blog, but yours is one I read daily. I was screaming YES! thats me inside as I read your post…..I have a 19 month old, a almost 3 year old and an 8 year old…I'm a SAHM and homeschooler to boot….I am feelin' you girl! Your Awesome! and such an inspiration. Because of your blog I have slipcovered a boudoir chair, made pillows with graphics and I am about to embark on making slipcovers for my parsons dining chairs (125 from Ballards, no less, can we say Lowes drop cloth?)…Thanks for all you do for all of us in blogland! Neeley B.
Love it!
B
Woohoo! I understand right where you are coming from!! Thank you for saying it out loud though!
Thanks, Marian, for being honest, genuine, and encouraging us as women to be more diligent in ALL matters of the home, not just the things that MUST be done. I have found so much joy creating in my home over the past few months. After debating for a little over a year about starting a blog, I began mine this past spring and it has been a blessing to me. It doesn't matter to me if it never becomes a huge success in the blog world; I am a better and more creative homemaker because I'm documenting my journey. You have helped to inspire me in my home, and this post is no different in its level of inspiration than when you post about redoing furniture. May the Lord continue to richly bless you as you seek to honor Him in these many roles that He has given you!
Thank you for writing this. I currently have a 2 year old and am expecting another baby in March. Having been sick the last 3 months has really left me feeling at a loss. I barely have enough energy to make it through each day and really miss my "creative" outlets. Thank you for reminding me to take the time for myself and it wont be like this forever. 🙂
great post MMS… you couldn't have said it any better. So, let me take this opportunity to thank you for all that you have awakened in me. I admire your courage, and certainly your ability to create beautiful furniture, rooms, photography, and more, and how you so humbly share it with the world. I think your great, and I tell people about you all the time.
Your post makes so much sense to me and I applaud you. I think we need to identify ourselves less by what we do and more by who we are {inside}. I think then we start to find answers. Thanks so much for your honestly and spoken from the heart words, Marian!
XO,
Janie
Thank you for these wonderful words! I'm so glad you did find your way to your passion. It is an inspiring story with beautiful fruits of your labor! (in furniture and the intangibles, like this community here!)
Writing my blog and having a focused purpose for my creative endeavors has awakened my creativity even more. I love that!
Hi Marian,
I swear you have been talking about me!! I am a stay-at-home mom to 2 amazing spirited little boys, and I am thankful that I can stay home with them. But, I have been feeling like something is missing in my life, and I feel ashamed sometimes for wanting more out of life. My dream is to have my own home decor store, but not having the money you need for something like that, I have decided to open up my own space in a fabulous antique shop. This is my first step to achieving something just for me. You and your blog have truly inspired me to get up and start trying new things like upholstering my first and second pieces of furniture, who ever knew I could do that? I didn't, but thanks to your tutorials, you gave me the confidence I needed to just do it! Thank you!
And thank you for this wonderful post!
Sincerely,
Melinda
A truly wonderful,inspiring post!
Fabulous post that really hits home for me. Thank you for the inspiring words! I don't have a blog (yet)- I'm too busy reading 100's of others! Plus being a stay at home mom (though I do some work for our business from home; accounting.) I feel like I have lost myself somehow, but I am beginning to find myself, one blog at a time. I bought a chair from craigslist yesterday for 20.00! 🙂 Baby steps (me) 🙂
I have read a lot of blogs, but I will definitely give you the kudos award! You are not only an inspiration, but you have just given us all the "permission" we often search after to be MORE of who were created to be and not feel bad for wanting to do so! 🙂 I love your blog… But most of all I love your values and the message you send! <3
The timing for your last post could not have been better. I recently discovered your blog a couple of months ago(yes I am late to the blog scene) and you made me feel like it was ok to be obsessed with painting, old things, and decorating. As a stay at home mom I thought I was alone in that for so long! But you gave me a new confidence. I even gathered the courage to start my own blog this morning. Thank you for being such an inspiration and making me feel like what I do each day (be it loads of laundry or painting a dresser) is important.
Amen! Everyone has a talent if only they would open their eyes, mind and heart to it. Whatever you like get put and do it! This is a fabulous post to encourage women not to get lost in their life and I can tell you that you don't have to have kids to lose. Yourself.
Great post. I think every woman goes through those feelings at one point or another. I am inspired by you on a daily basis. Whether it be a piece of furniture you painted or a post like todays, I look forward to seeing your blog pop up on my sidebar with each new post. Thank you so much.
thank you for your wisdom. thank you for your courage just to say what is in your heart and mind. thank you for reminding us, whatever we do, it is just fine.
xow.
Well put, MMS. My youngest is going off to college next week, and while I hadn't totally put my creativity on the back burner, it was curbed somewhat because of my other tasks at hand (I homeschooled, so it was my full-time job). Now that I have lots more time, I'm BURSTING with creative ideas. When people say to me, "What are you going to DO after your youngest leaves?"
I snicker.
Fondly, Tami
http://www.thisandthatfromtami.blogspot.com
When you give your all to God and say "Here I am Lord, use me!" …the Holy Spirit works through you to send out words at "just the right time"…this is that right time.
Glad you are willing to let the Lord work through you!! Very encouraging words indeed!! Thanks…I, too, needed to read this post today!!
Blessings to you, Marian!!
Vicki @ My Favorite Things
AMEN Sister! You hit all the right notes with me. I am very greatful to have found all of you who gave me the courage to get out there again and do the things that really bring me full circle. You inspired me MMS! Deb
What a great post Marian. it really resonates with me. and will resonate with so many other women (and perhaps their husbands also). I have found such creative joy in painting furniture and I so get what you mean by this whole post.
cheers Fiona
Thank you. I'm not a mom but I'm stuck in my routine in my corporate job and life and blogging has made we feel "me" again. Thanks for sharing. This is why we do what we do.
very well spoken. great, reflective post. 🙂
you are SO right!!
im in the processes of starting a new adventure, and am so excited. women like you who i look up to for the inspiration to keep pursing this dream and that just because I had kids and a husband before I started it- doesnt mean im too late!
I was a SAHM with my children when they were growing up. I loved my life and found all the creativity of being a homemaker and mom. Now, at a time when I need to be creative all the more, I have to go to a 40 hour week job because I am now supporting myself. I relate to the lack of energy to do the creative things because my job takes it all out of me. Every phase of life is demanding for a
modern woman, only with God's help can we find and
make time for the important things that we are created to do and be. Thanks for your blog. God bless your family.
Marsha from Texas
I've never commented on your blog, except for some giveaways, perhaps. I've been reading for a while… a year? two? I can't recall, but this post warranted a comment for the timeliness of it.
I've just been living this very idea and feeling this shut-down you described… a wallowing in the "joys" of motherhood. I love my kids and wouldn't trade the blessing of raising them myself, but do I have to trade myself for this? Can I do what I want to do?
I want to write. My fear holds me back more than anything, and I blame it on the endlessness of the day-in-and-day-outs of laundry, dishes, chores, DINNER (the bain of my existence), and everything else that needs handling. I'm not a crafty or even designer-ish person. I am a wordsmith. Or have the hope to be.
And so, dear Miss Mustard Seed, thank you for this post, an echo of my own thoughts over the previous weeks.
And, though I'm no designer, you have helped me see potential and possibility in my surroundings. I am awakening to all kinds of new awareness.
Thank you, and thank you.
We are a society that makes judgments based on what we do for a living. When we meet someone the first question asked is "what do you do?" Women, especially are pulled so many ways. Should they stay home and raise their children, or work and leave their kids with a sitter, or work from home or start a home based business?
I love to read about women who feel comfortable with their choice, and work hard to make their dreams come true.
Thanks for a wonderful reminder to follow our dreams.
Well said, my friend!
Thank you for sharing such a sweet message!
Wonderful post! You and others have inspired me to keep going when I thought that perhaps others in my life were right and I was wrong, even though I knew I wasn't wasting my time or money. It's beginning to pay off. I'm going to enjoy it as it grows and keep believing in myself.
A big thank you for the openness with which you approach your writing.
I wish I could have the first to comment here. Your post is beautifully written and I can tell it's from your heart. Even though I'm not a "stay at home mom" you are still very inspiring to me!
p.s. I'm still going to cover my kitchen chairs; I bought the cording already. One step at a time!
I told my husband today that it makes me happy to look down and see paint on my hands. You certainly inspired me to start trying. Lovely post.
Thank you for the inspiration. As a stay at home mom and creative person who often feels trapped it's nice to know I'm not alone in how I feel. Sometimes I feel like my gifts are being wasted, and I know I just need to venture out and do it – create. Sew, paint and everything in-between. I am hoping to start a small business this fall and am so glad to hear that others have done the same and flourished. Love your blog and your honesty. Thank you.
-Jill
A beautiful message from your heart. You speak so eloquently for so many of us stay at home moms. My children are grown now, but this message is still so very meaningful. Thank you! Blessings sweet lady. You are awesome!
I have stayed at home w/ my kids for 18 years. I found this wonderful blog land when googling to do my first furniture redo and saw these amazing creations by womwn just like me. It was like a calling to me. I love being a Mom and it's first and foremost but I wake up every morning now w/ a new found purpose and I love every minute of it! The hunt, my flea market friends, being creative. What a great post that so many of us can relate to! You are such an inspiration to so many of us. You found your calling and we are all joining you on the ride…yay you!
Great post Marian! You're so right, action toward passion is the key! Vanna
Awesome awesome post Marian! Thank you for sharing! I'm totally in that "lost" and trying to find myself again mode! Some days are much harder than others, and other days are super great!
I really needed to read this, today of all days, so first of all, thank you.
This afternoon I found out that my job will end on September 5. It's a job I have loved for 11 years and I hate to lose it, but times they are a-changing.
One of the first things I did, after breaking the news to my husband, was to share this news with my friends and family via Facebook and my blog. It wasn't so much that I wanted their sympathy, but that I knew they would be encouraging and I cherish their prayers. They have not disappointed.
As I contemplate my next steps, I will be thinking about what you wrote here. It's not that I am in that "cooped up at home Mommy phase," because I'm a nearly empty-nester, but I am looking at a big change. Your words have already helped to inspire me.
Yours was one of the first blogs I followed, and today you just showed me again the reason why.
May God continue to bless you!
Val
Thank you so much for your beautiful insight. I am a college vice president working on my Ph.D. with two grown children and a husband of 27 years, but a major upheaval at my college left me in a total funk. On top of gaining 30 pounds from quitting smoking (yay, me!), I found myself falling back into that old routine of dressing up as little as I could get by with and shutting myself away. Then I discovered your post on using drop-cloths for upholstery, and I was hooked. I have spent this summer reconnecting to my creative self and discovery that I can do all kinds of neat things I didn't know I could do. Thank you for giving to us older, experienced working women who need a breath of fresh air, too! You're awesome, and I love to watch your videos and hear your "banshees" in the background. LOL
Dear Miss Mustard Seed, This is an important message especially for moms of young children but it's applicable at any age. It's vital that we continue to nurture that creative part of ourselves that is so easy set aside when time and money pressures mount. I'm a 55 year old mom of three grown boys (men, now, with children of their own), and when my kids were little, gardening was my creative saving grace. Gardening catalogs and books from the library were free and allowed me to dream bigger than my budget permitted in those days. My boys still tease me about taking hardback gardening books on overnight backpacking trips, where every ounce you carry counts. For me, creativity, dreams, and hope are somehow interconnected. As Emily Dickinson says, "Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul and sings the tune without the words and never stops at all…" May you sing long.
Debbie in Washington
dcm9@uw.edu
Thank you! I swear you have taken the words right out of my mouth. It's nice to know that I am not alone. Power in numbers dear blogger! =)
You are my hero and inspiration. I'm an empty nester who substitute teaches, but I hate having to discipline. I love teaching. However, I am exploring following in your footsteps, but my own path. Thanks for being transparent.
really lovely post.
thank you.
cheryl xox.
that was perfect! i completely understand that "lost" feeling and i am now finally unleashing the creativity i have long suppressed and enjoying every piece of it! in part it is thanks to you!
Amen. Loved this post. I just might link to it here in the near future!
Wow! It is just so refreshing to hear true stories and to know that you really want other people to have the same confidence that you have. Thank you from a new stay-at-home mom/childcare provider who is loving life, but often feels so overwhelmed. Much appreciation!!
I'm in the same spot as you used to be. I have an 8 month old and two and a half year old and have stayed a home for only 8 months and am already going crazy. In the last month or so I've really tried to up my creativity. Thanks for this post. Helps me feel normal.
Today was the perfect day to read this post, for me. I have an 18 month old – which means mostly all I get done on a daily basis is putting cheerios in a bowl, sweeping cheerios up with a 25 pounder clinging to my legs, getting more cheerios out… you get the picture. In the now dwindling 45 minute nap time I try my best to "get things done" but always want to make something, or do something creative, but laundry usually holds me back. Tomorrow I'm going to go for it! Thank you!
Marion, I was one of those emails telling you what an inspiration you were to me. You still are. Now about a year later, I have a sucessful blog and my business is growing and growing. I do several antique shows a month, and I now sell in two retail stores. So… I want to say thank you and Amen. Thank you for encouraging me to start my blog. It really HAS grown my business just like you said it would. I still remember how excited I was when you responded back to my email. I really wasn't expecting anything. That was what pushed me over the edge. Now for the Amen. Keep up the encouraging words to follow your dream and use the talents God gave to you. Terry from the vintage bricoleur
Well said Miss Mustard Seed. I was pretty sure you were the real deal…now there isn't a doubt in my mind.
I feel what you have felt. I am encouraged by my husband, my parents, my children, and now also by you. God did give me a talent. I think in addition to my "mothering", he expects me to use it! Thank You for your sharing your gifts. You are a true inspiration!
Amen! Great post, thanks for sharing your testimony and your heart.
I know you've touched a lot of young moms. I'm not a young mom; but an empty nester, wondering now (all the time) who I'm supposed to be now. Fearful of what I might become… You've touched me to the core. Thanks so much~ Pat
Wow Marian, what to say… your post has touched me deeply. I would only have to change very few words around to make it my story, only in reverse. My kids are adults, and I was an antique dealer, had spaces in several stores, did shows, painted things, etc. Loved it! I derived so much confidence from doing so well with it from the very beginning. Then I had health problems, and a dying Mom to take care of, and now I've been dealing with one tragedy after another *but* I am so blessed still!
I really miss having booth space and doing shows, it just isn't physically possible anymore. A lot of times I feel "less than" and "has been" and yes, I do more than my fair share of wallowing in sweats. I so miss the business and all of the confidence and praise. 🙂 (That's the human part of me). I love art and have a new (old) tiny house with a studio in it and a lot of awesome things at my fingertips.
I have let "obstacles" and priorities take my art time and inspiration away from me. Sometimes when I read blogs, I just get overwhelmed, because I know I can never "do that" or "be that" again. God has been showing me what to do, and I know he wants only the best and happiness for us, so I'm going to make my art a priority. Besides the Lord and my family, it really feeds my soul. Thank you for speaking straight to "me".
Love and Understanding (and much gratefulness),
Sheila
SO TRUE. God has blessed us each with a trait that He has: the desire to create. It doesn't matter what you create, but DO IT!
I'm going to be directing people here!
your best post yet! thanks
I remember that feeling well. But being an 'older mom' raising a newborn was all I could deal with at the time. When he slept I slept. I just didn't have enough fuel for more.
But I remember the day I finally plunked something in the middle of a coffee table. It was like the switch flicked on and I promptly started training my very young son to leave it be.
I feel there's a time and season for everything. Forcing doesn't work, but neither does avoidance. Do what feels right alongside our little ones, not instead of them. I have to slow myself down constantly to this day. My time will come. 🙂
Donna
Thank you for writing this post Marilyn. I "discovered" you within the last year, and am one of those women whose lives have been profoundly touched by what you do. When I first read your series about starting one's own business, especially the post about facing one's fears, your words jumped off my laptap screen and shouted at me! I am the 45 year-old mum of a busy 4 year old boy. He came into our lives as a miracle – unexpected, but most welcome. I have found this mothering experience to be a huge learning curve, and have had to face several personal challenges since his birth. Finding your blog, has helped me to find "me" again. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I hesitate to call myself creative in the company of such gifted women as yourself and the others talented women whose blogs I now love to read, yet I know that there is a part of me which longs to express itself with paint and fabric and flowers and all of the the things that us like-minded girls love. I have started thinking about starting a very small-scale business and a Facebook page, thanks to your encouragement and inspiration. My husband was diagnosed with bowel cancer today, and during this last week, whilst he was undergoing tests, my instinctive reaction was to stop – to put life on hold until I had a better idea of what the future has in store. Once my initial panic subsided, and I resolved to re-focus on my Lord, and then made some clay tags! It was wonderful to get lost in what I love again. Thank you again for sharing what you do – I love seeing your beautiful work, and appreciate your generosity. Love and blessings from Australia xxx
I'm glad you went through with the post. I've been cleaning up my bedroom (a.k.a. study/sewing room/library) to try to make it less cluttered. This morning I saw a small pile of my kids' clothes (for the umpteenth time) that needed to be mended or modified so they could wear them. I'm so used to ignoring such piles and thinking "I'll get around to that once the dishes are done…. or once the front room is picked up again…. or once I've weeded…." Truth is, I never do get around to it.
Until this morning. I walked by the little pile and decided I should forget about the messes around the corner and just sit down and get it done. So I did. And it felt great. My son was excited to wear his "new" shorts and my daughter immediately changed into the capris that used to be too big around the waist. It didn't take very long, and it was empowering.
Such a small thing, but like you said about finishing a piece of furniture: It was finished – completely finished.
My 7-year old son will occasionally offer to help me finish some chores so that, as he says it, "so you'll have time to work on one of your projects." He knows I have a long list that never gets touched.
I'm glad you wrote your post. I hope I can improve myself through the things that I do. Thank you for the extra inspiration.
Oh my, thank you for your honesty and transparency! I'm entering this stage of life where it isn't just about "me" and "what I love" anymore, but is vastly changing to include much more than myself. I feel so blessed to have that opportunity, but last week, I felt SO overwhelmed by what I felt I was giving up. After praying about it though (and now reading your post…God's timing is so perfect!!), I feel so confident that his will is so much greater, richer and more colorful than my small amount of vision and plans. Thank you again for sharing your heart!
Bless you. And thank you for reminding me. I am lost. I am where you were. And what I want to do but never get around to doing is write. Thank you for understanding. Thank you for your example. Thank you for your inspiration. Thank you for your inherent beauty. Thank you for your encouragement.
In addition to being a wife, a mother, a blogger, a business owner, and an antique dealer, your also run your own little ministry. You inspire women to create, to use their God-given talents in a way to beautify the earth in their own tiny sphere. You give women encouragement and vision. You are a gift to those of us who know you and know of you.
Thank you.
Good information for anyone sitting on the couch and wondering what became of their life. Pray and faith help you find your joy. So glad you found yours!
AMEN! Great Post!
Blessings
Robin
I started reading your blog about a year ago, I had just had a new baby along with my two older ones and our family was going through some changes. I felt stuck in a rut. I felt and still feel like I have so much to be discovered inside myself but I had put any desires aside. I am a wife and mother first and I love taking care of my family so I just felt like my 'me' time will come. I finally decided that it was me that would need to make things happen and I have slowly started trying new things and just learning how to find myself. Over the last year I have read some of your posts and just felt such a connection with your words, on those crummy days you have given me the boost I needed. You are such an inspiring person I admire your drive and your truthfulness it's so refreshing. So Thank You. Your blog and your words are such a gift. It has been so neat to watch Miss Mustard Seed grow…
Thanks! 🙂
Cathy
Thank you for posting. I think so many of us can relate to the words above. Even though I have only been at this a few months, blogging has been such a creative outlet for me and a time when I can just be "ME". It's so important to have something that keeps you refreshed and doing something that YOU love.
Thank you so much for writing this post! And for writing your blog. It has been such an inspiration for me. I too have two small children and I love them dearly but it has been so fun to have my own "thing". I discovered your blog a few months ago and it was part of a perfect storm of events leading to me having more of an opportunity for a creative outlet. Thank you so much for sharing all of your wonderful ideas and especially for opening my world to chalk paint!! Love that stuff!!
XOXO!!
very inspiring.. thank you very much.
love from Malaysia
amazing thank you! i love that you still consider yourself a stay-at-home mom!!!! i wish i had had the courage and vision to do what you've done years ago. but it's never too late! like you said, i too have a happy life, but i think it could be so much happier if i would just allow me to break out of my shell!!! so inspiring, thank you marian! bisous!
You nailed it. Thank you for writing so perfectly what so many are feeling and thinking. I love your blog and I come back to it multiple times a day because I don't want to miss anything that you post about!
~Michelle
Yikes! 101 comments! Not sure if you will get to this one. Thank you for your honesty. So refreshing when a woman steps up and shares openly with other women.
I started my own blog a few weeks ago (after lots of praying and encouragement from friends and family) http://www.projectqueen.org "turning the daunting into the doable" I want to encourage women try things they are afraid of. Why are we so afraid of failure? I'm 48, 4 adult children and 1 in her last yr. of h.school. I feel like I'm beginning to figure out who the person I was before kids, but with a lot more maturity. Praise God for you Miss Mustard Seed. You are an inspiration and like me, being a Mom is the hardest most amazing job we will ever have.
Mandy
I think you helps many woman with this post !! it is great…that is my live at the moment too…thinking about the things i do….and ask God to help me true this difficult time from me…..i'll come back i feel it but
oeps…sorry…I must first go through a deep valley…work on myself…and this loss……than i'll be back stronger than ever…..high five !! love your post !! thanks a lot….xxx…from me…Ria..
Thanks…I really needed that today!!!
Very great post! I'm at the beginning of a new business and scared to death! Why is that? I think once we have children we become more afraid of failure. Your not just "failing" yourself but you also feel like you are "failing" your children. It's nice to be reminded that we could be doing amazing things and setting great examples of accomplishment for our children instead!
Loved your post 🙂
Thank You for the encouragement. I was a stay at home Mom and now my kids are grown.I have been dabbling in furniture and upholstery for 20 years. Often times feeling guilty almost, about finding joy in something other than my family. Your post has encouraged me that this nesting that we do is a God given talent. There are seasons to our life. Our kids grow up and move on and there is nothing wrong with exploring other interests outside of our kids.
Thank you for all of your inspiration!
This is a great, encouraging post. I'm wanting to be a stay at home mom, but I don't want to "lose myself"….which sounds awful, but it's true. I really do think that my blog will be the perfect creative outlet though. You are an inspiration!
I have a garage full of antiques and collectibles that's just been sitting there for years; your post has encouraged me to contact some antique dealers and try to sell and/or repaint some for greater appeal to sell.
If my spirit gets low, my supportive husband says "you need a project" – when I'm in a creative mode I'm the happiest. I read your blog and see how dedicated you are to succeed and how much work you put into your business. I don't have the energy anymore to go full speed like you, but you encourage me to do what I can and to enjoy what I do/create. Judy/Houston, Tx
I just wanted to say thank you for your post. Seeing all the comments already, it's clear that so many women can relate…and it's so nice to not be alone (we never really are although it's easy to feel like that sometimes!)
Our plans were to have children and for me to be a stay at home mom, but the Lord has other plans for us. Some of that plan has been revealed, but for now I'm kind of in a holding pattern. When I'm not working at my mostly non-creative full-time job I am home doing laundry, cleaning toilets, making meals, and helping my husband with his work which is managing rental property (so I'm cleaning other people's toilets too!). That leaves little time to pursue the things that makes my heart excited. Althought my husband encourages me to take time to do those things, I feel guilty. The Lord is working that all out in me, although it's a slower process than I'd like.
In the meantime He's created new opportunities for me to use the gifts He's given me both at work and outside work. No one else at my office likes the creative type projects – and I get just as much joy in offering to do them as they do in being able to avoid those projects. Not what I would have pictured, but it's an opportunity to use my creativity at work, for His Glory.
My husband's business is growing, and there are so manyh creative opportunities for me, like desigining a logo, that satisfy my desire to be creative.
I think it's rarely what we picture it will be… I would have chosen card making, furniture painting, decorating, but instead it's using creative recipes to can our food from teh garden, desigining logos and websites and making invitations at work. And when I stop and look at how the Lord has answered my prayers, heard my cries for opportunities for some type of creative expression when the mundane of life seems suffocating, I see how he's flown open the door and uncovered talents I never knew existed. His ways are far better than ours!
I think I will print what you said and put it up in my cube! Stop churning and start doing!
I dont have kids, I work full time but I understand that I am stuck sometimes doing what I don't love deeply and keep wondering there must be something out there which should give more meaning to my life. But afraid to pull the plug at work because of security, risk and all that.
Godo thoughts! Thanks for being open and sharing.
I have to say I love this post!!!! Being at home is the hardest job I ever had. You do not get lunch breaks, pay raises, and it is 18 years++ to really know if you did well on the "job". I have already written to you how I lost my creativity through cancer diagnosis and your blog helped inspire me again. I don't know if you had a chance to read my bio on my blog, but I faced the same challenges when I left my job outside our home to stay at home when one of my children was born with multiple medical illnesses. I found God had shut one door outside the home but openned a creative one.I am a little older and grew up when women were leaving the home in droves. We were told we could do it all and should. I was looked down on as a stay at home Mom. Looking at my cancer diagnosis, I wondered about what would be written under my life for accomplishments if I passed. No I never became the president of a bank, but I have 3 successful, happy, healthy children. That was my "job" and I realize it was my greatest accomplishment. I am creative and have had my work published, but in the end it is this knowledge that was a great gift to me.Hang in there ladies, this will be your gift too! God bless you for writing this post.
this is true also for those of us who work. a year ago i realized that my life had become work & husband, & when he was unavailable (as full time students often are) i would think about work. not healthy!! so inspired by the pink & polka dot blog, i decided to try to make a slipcover for my couch–and i'd never really sewn anything before!! and i haven't looked back since. 🙂 i too, needed a sense of accomplishment where the stakes weren't so high & the goals were completely my own 🙂
I just started working part time out of financial necessity. I have a 3 year old and an almost two year old. This post really spoke to me this morning. I have given up sewing, doing triathlons, and working two jobs- more than full time to be home with my babies and I've loved 90% of it but going back to work has made me feel like a whole person again. I was feeling a little guilty about enjoying it but I think it has made me a better mama. I'm going to celebrate that.
Such a great post Marian. I'm also a "stay-at-home mom" with my own business. i started it before kids so that I could contribute while raising the kids. I took a year off when each of my four kids were born but couldn't wait to get back to the business again. It's so hectic trying to manage it all but I wouldn't give it up for anything!! I'm sure you've inspired many women to do something for themselves. It's soooo important!!
Great post.I'm not a SAHM. I have to work and still do all the SAHM things after 40 + hours out of the home. I so want to have my own business. I keep coming up with the not-so-same but same excuses why I CAN'T JUST START.I'm trying to find how GOD wants me to use my artistic talent.I just can't find my groove so to speak. I feel defeated before I start anything. The not good enough,isn't qite right color thing seeps in. Ya know what I mean.I guess it's doubt in myself.I need to put my 100% faith in GOD. I GET SO DISCOURAGED WHEN A PROJECT TAKES TOO LONG.When I read blogs it just seems like you all can handle it all. A project seems to be done in days time. Thanks for the encouragement.I'll keep trudging along.
Mary
RENONFL@YAHOO.COM
Amen seesta!
I am right there with ya! I decided four months ago to start refurbishing furniture & set my goals on a local art show the first of August.
It came and it POURED – all day! Even in the heavy rain, people came and went crazy for our furniture. Six days later, by the Grace of God, we (oh yeah, my sister is part of the package now – lol), signed a contract to rent space in the coolest store ever!
I'm SO excited! On such a high that I think I'm literally hovering. My family, on the other hand is feeling neglected. I've spent the past 11 years as "mom" and, to put it nicely, they're not adjusting well.
It's hard. I'm working from sunrise to sunset, then after everyone's asleep, I'm online trying to figure out how to set up a blog, how to post on one and then not have it re-post to everyone subscribed when you edit some teensy, weensy thing on it. I'm also trying to order business cards – yikes, we move in TOMORROW already. Happening SO fast, Just wish my family was more supportive on this journey. I prayed and prayed and prayed about this and I'm certain God is leading me in this direction, just need the strength, patience and a clone wouldn't hurt either.
ps – I just signed my sister and I up for HAVEN! Can't wait to meet you!!!
We need to live for ourselves as well as those we love. My kids pointed that out to me when they very sagely said to me: "What ELSE do you do aside from take care of us?" One day the care-taking ends and we have to be ready to take care of ourselves…Thanks for this great post..speaks to the way a lot of us have felt and are feeling..
I love this post. I am literally in the exact situation as you and started Midwest Cottage for the same exact reasons. It allows me to be me, it allows me to be creative, earn money and so many other things. Best thing I ever did for myself. Honeslty. Love your blog. Love, Love, what we do.
You are SUCH an inspiration! I am not a stay at home mom I work a 40 hour per week job while also trying to take care of 2 boys, a Husband & my house… My house is turned upside down right now!!! I can't tell you how many times I think to myself, You don't have time to do something "YOU" like right now… But, I feel like everytime that thought comes up, I will read a scripture or VIEW your post & I feel like God is encouraging me to continue~ Thanks for all your creative encouragement & inspiration~ God Bless you!
Thank you for a great post!
Jackie
Marian, what a post…the perfect post for me! I am still in the midst of the mountain of laundry and piles of unwashed dishes. However lately I have started to take out some time to work on one of my passions, jewelry making, and it has been so much fun!!! (Are moms allowed to have fun? haha!) Thanks for your encouragement. You truly are in inspiration to me, in so many ways. God bless!
-Grace
Such a great post!! So many women can relate to this!! love the good cup of tea quote!
Very well written, Marian. Thank you for your encouraging words. I know it puts you in a very vunerable place anytime you bare your soul to readers, but you have done so beautifully. I am a 30 year old, who just 2 months ago gave up my career in the medical field to be a stay at home mom to my 2 kids. I truly love my kids, and the fact I get to stay home with them. I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world. However, there are days that I feel completely lost. It's almost as if I am being swallowed up in my children and housework. I am also struggling with not contributing to our family income. Our income was cut by half when I left my job, and now we are living on an extremely tight budget. I have found my creative outlet, and now am looking to find the confidence to share it with people outside of my home. I am afraid of failure and rejection, and am hiding away my talents rather than share them and give them an opportunity to grow. So, thank you for this well timed post. Maybe I may now find the courage to pursue a dream outside of the never ending cycle of laundry, potty training, and finger painting. Thanks again!
I went through that same 'lostness' too when I was a young mother… I thought that I had overcome it when I started to work full time when my kids were in high school, but now that I'm an 'empty-nester' and quit my job… I have been going through it all over again, wondering what to do with myself to start feeling relevant again.
Thanks for the encouragement, and for reminding me how to get out of it.
I couldn't have said it any better. I have been a stay at home mom for 18 years, dabbling in part time jobs here and there and at the schools, etc. But I totally felt like I lost that creativity and spark I needed to get thru the 'same ole, same ole'. I used to decorate, and love to do crafts, and make things…and that got lost in the laundry, sporting events, making dinner, taxi driving day to day grind. I have now taken up photography, and I am refinishing several pieces of furniture ( with chalk paint) and finding that 'spark' again. Thank you for being such an inspiration!
Amen!! That is exactly where I found myself 1 1/2 years ago. I had this beautiful brand new house that needed decorating, but I couldn't do it. I was in a homemaker routine. Which was fine, and good, but I felt like something was missing. Then I discovered a friends blog, which led me to you and Donna (FJ) and others. I got inspired to decorate my house, and to fit in some creative stuff. Now I just have to make sure that stuff doesn't get in the way of my normal housework and caring for my home. I realized that part of my "job" as a homemaker was to make my home nice, and decorate it. Its been a lot of fun and I'm definitely not done yet! Thanks for the inspiration!!
Great post! No matter what it is one likes they should do it and with passion!
I really think most women have experienced this feeling in their life. Thank you for addressing it and encouraging everyone to LIVE their lives.
Well done! 🙂
Thank you!!! I really needed to hear that! 🙂
Beautiful post. A friend of mine — who had 6 children — described housework as threading beads on a string with no knot on the end.
I used to sew all my daughters' clothes — and they had BIG wardrobes! When people asked why I did it, as we could "afford to buy," I said that it was one thing in my life that got DONE.
I began it, I did it, I finished it, and I didn't have to sew the same little dress or shorts set ever again. So I know exactly where you are coming from. A good life, made better.
Best of luck to you, and to the probably 99% of women who have had this same or similar experience at some time in their lives.
PS and you are inspiring me at the ripe old age of 59 to finally haul the stash of old little tables and chairs out of our shed and PAINT them!
Cass
OH MY, Tears are clouding my vision. I relate. We raise three kids and I worked out of the home most of the time. Now we are blessed to have a second go around with our granddaughter, and I trying to stay at home this time, but the economy makes it hard. By background has always been houses. I have designed homes creating construction plans, worked as an interior designer, owned a floral and greenhouse business… I can't function without an element of creativity. I'm the person who is always recreating the wheel.
Since reading your blog I have been redoing furniture and selling it through an occasional retailer. With success!
So thank you for your courage, you have put these feelings that can easily be misconstrued in to honest heart felt words with clarity. I relate.
Marian, I've recently discovered your blog, and I love reading it! I spend quite a few hours reading it all! When my kids were born, I stayed home too, as their father had a very good income. I wanted to start my own business too after a while, and was planning on importing interior decoration objects and tableware. He stopped me from doing this, only later I understood that he wanted me to be financially dependent… After our divorce I had a really hard time finding a good job. With two young kids you can't work long hours. I found temp jobs, I always hated the work. But at least I had an income. However design and decoration was always on my mind. After several attempts, and now at 45 finding it hard to get an office job, I am here. Looking at recycle design, painting, decorating. I've found lots of inspiration in blogs like yours. Reading your story I just want to tell every woman, every housewife: always find an activity that keeps you busy. Even if it's for charity, you are still working on your skills! Or you can just take classes (I have a friend who takes photography classes, she is really good now). Not only is it good for self-esteem, sometimes good for the wallet, but it is important for the day you might be obliged to enter the job market again. Your husband could lose his job. He could leave you. You could become a widow. So many things happen that we do not foresee. And if your husband does not support you in your projects, a big big red light should go on!
So Marian, you are truly blessed, having a supportive husband, being a stay-at-home mom realizing your creative dreams and making money from it.
I do not regret one moment everything I have sacrificed for my children, but I do wish I had used my time a bit more creatively when I was married. Even if it was only to take classes (divorce came when I put my foot down in wanting to earn money). Thanks for yor lovely post!
What a great post and so true for every mom out there. I'm trying to establish some boundaries for myself to be able to create and use my talents. It's nice to hear other moms talk about it.
Marian you rock!
You can now add life coach to your resume. 🙂
Michelle
Two words…. Thank You!
just what I needed to read, xx
Thank you–it's been on my mind lately as I sit at home with three little kids all day!
such a wonderful generous post. but, you forgot one very important job description… teacher! It is through your teachings that you have enriched so many…. thank you for always sharing.
best,
joan
Bravo and Amen sister! I'm pregnant with my 3rd child and still plan on keeping my spot at The Brick Basement Antique Mall, painting furniture and "picking" for items for my shop. I've had a few people say aren't you going to give it up now? Well no, this is what keeps me sane and a "better" momma and wife. God has blessed me with a "creative eye" and as long as my plans are aligned with His then I will continue….THANK YOU FOR being a BLESSING in the lives of your blog readers!
I have to chime in and thank you.
I was one of those women with 3 kids staying home frustrated with the daily grind until I discovered blogging and diy. I had always loved doing projects around the house but your ideas inspired me and the support I got from your blog and others was great. I even started my own blog – unfortunately it has been on hiatus while my family moves but I plan on picking up where I left off once we get to our new home.
I know your post speaks to so many of us who had careers before kids and then felt lost staying home. There is an incredible internal fight in my mind between doing what is best for our family and doing what is best for me. In other words, I know my kids are better off with me in the summer being able to have unstructured, lazy, play all day outside days than be in daycare for 9 hours. However, doing load after load of dishes or laundry or picking up toys is not what is best for me. In fact, it makes me go crazy.
I think what we miss the most is the satisfaction of a job well done and actually having someone really appreciate what you've done. Let's face it does anyone really appreciate it when you put all the socks and underwear in the drawers but when I was working there was nothing better than really nailing a presentation or giving someone a promotion or making a customer love your company. I don't mind sacrificing my career for my kids but I just need a little something of my own. I think we all feel that way.
I loved your post. Keep 'em coming.
Where's the "Like" button???
Your blog has inspired my in so many ways. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Beautifully written! You are wonderful for going through with the post. By the abundance of comments, it is obvious that it was well received. Thank you so much for the continued inspiration!
Marian, I wish you were my next door neighbor! You are amazing. Thank you for the inspiration you give me. Thank you for this post.
So, so true! We moved to a new house a few months ago where I finally had the space (physical space and mental space) to start making things again. As I started actually making things I told my husband that I feel most like myself when I'm being creative. I forget where I saw this quote, but it said something like "don't give up on something that you can't go a day without thinking about." It may take time, but so worth the hard work in the end. Your story definitely resonates with me.
You are such an inspiration to me. I'll be losing my job shortly and am very scared about the future but I read your posts and realize that maybe I can do something with my crafty side. I'm working hard on setting something up and hopefully it will be done next month. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your example.
How beautifully you said the words so many mommas need to hear.
Thank you for this post. I couldn't have said it any better. Just recently I have followed a decade long dream to become a phlebotomist and I do paramedical (life insurance) exams. I am also redefining my house to reflect more of me and less of the expected 'norm'. And, like you, I still say that I am a SAHM!
stacinay.blogspot.com
If you read Proverbs 31 closely, you'll see that the "perfect woman" has household servants, and she is out and about buying real estate. 😉 I love my kids but I need to work on something other than just household chores. There's nothing wrong with that. It's good to be balanced!
I was JUST talking to a friend about this when it came to why I quilt, or sew or even mow the grass.. while the grass only stays cut for a week that is 6.5 days longer than the laundery stays done and quilt is done forever and this add permenance and meaning to our lives, we need this as mothers.
Maddie
Thanks for the post. I have an 18 month old and a 3 week old baby. I needed to read this.
you have plenty of comments, you don't need mine but I just want to chime in and say I wish I would have read this 22 years ago when I was sitting on the sofa with a newborn and 3 year old..yes, my life was good..but like you say, it was a constant "undoneness" that gets to you…I finally found some crafts to do and that help tremendously…
bless you,
maureen
thank you for putting exactly how i feel into words! i am a stay at home mom, who is trying to build a small business selling vintage and handmade, as well as blogging about what I do. you are a great inspiration and i just love this post, it really made my day! i am going to quote some of it on a blog post of mine if you don't mind. Thank you again for your awesome words and blog!
This is wonderfully inspiring. I don't have children yet, but part of the reason I'm so excited about being an entrepreneur and doing what I do is that I hope it will enable me to maintain that "other" part of myself when I'm a mom. I'm glad to know my plan works 🙂
AMEN!! I love this post and couldn't agree with you more. I love that I can be a mother, wife and creator all at the same time. I am no way saying that I have achieved Proverbs 31 statice, but I often think of the part that says "She sees a field and buys it". I feel like doing what I do is my "Field" and I so enjoy doing it!! You have been a huge inspiration to me and I love your work! Still hope to come see it in person one day when we come back to VA to see family!!
I really appreaciate what you wrote about, mainly because I see in you what I could have become when I was your age had I had some support from my family. Now in my 50s with a very supportive husband I could still do it, now my life has changed and I don't wish that in my life right now. I have evolved in a different direction. What I do now is for me and not for business, I work full time, but I do still enjoy the creative outlet of redoing furniture. I feel without the creative part in us we will wither and die. I did die for a time, bad marriage, seven children, etc. But I can rejoice and enjoy if only vicariously in your success. I say go Marion, I love what you do and I love your site and most of all I love how you are a warm and generous person willing to help all of us out with your knowlege and skill. Keep up the wonderful work.
Well said…we women are often too hard on ourselves and I can see that from all the comments. I didnt discover the joy of pursuing a passion until empty nest syndrome hit and it has allowed these past five years or so to be the best for me personally. That takes nothing away from the joy and pride I felt being a stay at home mom but it can be overwhelming. I never felt like a job was complete and I never really received those "strokes" you get when in business from a job well done etc. You are all so young and I would only advise you to really make the effort each day to review what you have, pursue what you need and it all works out in the long run. Your best days really are ahead of you…time is not running out, I promise.
Awesome!!! I'm an older mom, all my six children are married and out of our house…anyway I'm so happy and proud of your words and example! I've always kept busy with my furniture and painting business. It is so fun and fulfilling. And it is a great example to my children and grandchildren. As long as you stay balanced with family and business. thank you, Sue mymoon1211@msn.com
156 posts from women like you and I feel like me… Its so inspiring to know that we are not alone on those days we feel so alone and overwhelmed by the tasks ahead of us.. God bless you!
What a lovely post. My three girls are all grown and on their own now, but I am so happy that I was able to have an identity outside of mom and wife. I LOVE being a wife and mother and considered myself a Super Mom (until they all hit those teenage years!), but I also LOVED creating and painting so that I had that world too.
It's all about balance and taking care of your family AND yourself!
I'd like to get a great big wad of silly puddy and stick all the last 157 comments together into mine!
Whether you're a woman working inside or outside the home, or both, there are still 17 loads of dishes to do and clothes to wash each week. It's mindless drudgery.
Pursuing my creative interests and talents and then writing about them all in a blog has been life-changing for me. If you've ever wondered about writing a blog, give it a try. Even if you're the only one who ever reads it, you'll enjoy the experience. There's a whole support system and caring community, here in Blogland, and Marian is one of our finest sponsors!
Blessings to you!
You totally get it! I was there, too. You are right, also about how painting a piece of furniture is a job complete. I never thought of it that way. Where I live, I don't know others like me, ( crafting, decorating, trying to start a business) so it's nice to go online and find other moms like me.
My youngest son was born in 1999. We already had 2 boys, ages 3 and 4. For years, I felt overrun by the responsibilities and joys of being a mom. I worked part-time, so I was able to get out of the house, but I had no extra time to create. I spoke with a therapist friend of mine about feeling like there was an empty place in my life, BUT that my life was crazy good. During one of my visits, she started asking me questions about my interests. I told her I didn't really have time for "interests." Here is what she said…"Over the 35 years I have been in practice, I have discovered that clients who supress their artsy/creative side have a very, very difficult time in feeling satisfied…or in balance. Well, as in balance as a busy mother can be. You must find an outlet for all of that pent up creative energy, even if it's just picking up a crayon and coloring…" She was exactly right. When I don't create for a while, I start to get in a funk or extremely antsy…AND I gain weight! Glad you have found the outlet that lets you be more you. Jeana B.
Well said……
Right from your heart, to MINE, I feel. (Well, and everyone else who reads this blog).
I started my own blog on June 9,2011, the day I had my only child, my daughter, move out at age 18. She decided it was time to "spread her wings" and by golly, I was more than ready.
I named my blog "WhyCuzICan" which is how I was feeling. Life has handed me more trials than I think I can handle on many days, but somehow I manage. Why learn to craft, decorate, and do for myself for a change? BECAUSE I CAN. It's become my battlecry.
The love of my life, my dearest husband of 14 years is in the possible last year of his life- he is battling Stage 4 Renal Cell Carsanoma (Kidney cancer) has has done so for 4 years, 2 months. Prognoses of survival at 5 years for the spread/kind/staging of his cancer is 90% mortality. In other words, he has a 10% statiscal chance of making it to June of next year.
BUT– is all of this, he has never shed a tear (though I've come close to nervous breakdown more than once)- because he says "If Our Lord decides to call me Home to be with Him, Suzanne, I'll go. But until He calls me to let me know to help prepare you, I will continue to live my life he has given me. And so will you. Don't feel sorry for me; feel sorry for those people who have never started living and sharing with others. We do what we do, because He wants us to live that way. Don't think of what I CAN'T do, think of what I CAN do".
His attitude is my own battlecry.
God Bless you and your blog- you are an inspiration Marian!
Sincerely,
Suzanne in NW Illinois
Beautifully said and it will no doubt inspire.
Thanks for the great post! Very inspiring and hit close to home. I work outside the home and it's very easy to fall into the same old routine.
Thank you for this post! It's very encouraging.
~ Monique
Wonderful post!
I don't know how old you are, but you have such talent, beauty, kindness, and creativity. And now, insight, too. You are wise beyond your years, Miss Mustard Seed. I know your blog touches my heart and mind often and I am sure the younger women feel your wisdom even more than I. Thank you for all you do for us.
I thank you also. My husband and I raised 4 sons. All grown. I am a grandmother now and getting to do it all over again -somewhat- because one of those families lives with us.
The economy, you know. LOVED that I was able to be a SAHM for most of the time, even though God allowed us to go through extreme financial difficulties. Through all those years I knew that I MUST create. Or shrivel to nothing. My husband built me a workshop in the laundry room and I had a gift basket company for a few years. Now God is using you and your words and your projects to inspire me to see what He can do through me now. Hugs to you, Marian.
I don't even know that you will read this post…there are so many great ones. I just want to say this post touched my heart. I am an "empty nester" and have been for 2 years. I was a teacher/administrator for about 30 years. I stayed really involved with my work (calling…I think teaching is a calling) and my family and my church. I never allowed time for my creative side; just too tired I guess. Now that I have retired, I have my own booth in a small store and repurpose things and paint furniture. It has been a pleasure to read daily about "your real life" as a wife/mother/business owner/blogger, etc. Your passion has been contagious and empowering. It has helped me tremendously to take risks and enjoy the journey. Isn't it interesting what God puts in your path to spur you on. A BIG thanks for all your hard work and sharing the moments of joy, disappointment, confusion, stress, celebration, etc. Blessings!
Excellent advice. There are so many ways people can use their God-given talents. I volunteer with my Church at the local soup kitchen, coordinating workshops for the elderly and those who care for them, and I also volunteer with the local Humane Society. I tell people, I work, I just don't get paid.
a beautiful message
Hello, For over thirty years I worked as a home economist with the Cooperative Extension Service helping women, like you find their creativity, learn, and grow while nurturing their families. It was wonderful to read your story. I also remember feeling a little lost myself when I was at home with four children and still looking for a creative outlet for myself! Good for you!
Wonderful Marian, and it looks like a few of us can relate huh! Keep up the great work, you are truly an inspiration. YOU are our gift from God 🙂
So beautifully written, Marian! Thank you for being such an encourager!
Ms. Marian, you are so right. I finally realized this summer that instead of doing all the things I "should" do FIRST, if I do the things that are fun first, I have more energy to do the "shoulds" later. I never got decorating projects done because I "should" do the dishes first.
My husband doesn't like you very much… I just took over 'his' garage with my new found – mustard seed inspired – confidence. My projects are just beginning, and they are coming along slooooowly… because I'm am also SUPER blessed to have a full-time Mommy job. Today was the day I needed some extra encouragement (good thing I sat down to the computer instead of heading off to the garage!!). THANK YOU!
Thanks I needed that!!!! I don't have children but I'm a domestic manager :). I have lots of ideas but my confidence is not so high but you've made me feel a little better. I love all your blogs. thanks for the inspiration.
Karen
Wow, I felt myself getting quite emotional over reading this insert to your blog.
It really spoke to me.
I feel as if I have lost myself in my duties as a business owner, stay at home mom, and partner, and whatever other hats I juggle on a daily basis.
I used to love to create. I would see something broken, out of date, or on the roadside and think "oh, I can do…." Currently, I feel drained and over-whelmed
Then I found your blog, and as you wrote, it awoke something. Something that has been buried for a long time… me.
Even though I am busy with a recent move,
4 1/2yrs & 8 mos girls, running a business, my household tasks, and painting our new home, I have waiting for me 6 beautiful cane back chairs, a french provincial dresser, and 2 french tub chairs with cane and tufted backs..
I look forward to my daily update to your blog, it is my glimpse of the outside world, while I am consumed in mine.
Thank you for being an ispiration
Love what you had to say and want to let you know, it doesn't just apply to stay at homes of little kids but anyone that's not doing something that makes them feel creative and fulfilled and productive.
Such beautiful sentiments! I've experienced all of these emotions and know the joy of pressing beyond them and finding the joy that accompanies purpose. Of course, this is just our Creator expressing His creativity through us!
what a beautiful post, thank you. it's at this point in my life that i'm finally working on my professional career that i've went to school for. we have a new home and i'd love to start a family. even though what you said didn't directly apply to me, it still was a breath of fresh air. about two months ago i started a blog on the process of renovating my home. i've never felt happier. your post reassured me that i need to do what i love not only what i've felt i was supposed to do. thank you for that.
ashley
Well said!
I can so relate to your insights: I spent 15 yrs. in a retail banking career before I stayed home after the birth of my son. I LOVE being a stay at home mom – but, I have truly never worked harder in my life. I started my own business a year ago… I'm so thankful for that small creative outlet & a chance to do what I love!
Thanks for sharing your vision & encouraging others to develop their talents!!
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I could relate so well! You are truly inspiring.
As MMS's Mom – I can't tell you how proud her Dad and I are of her. She does have a lot of wisdom for her years. This has been such a fun journey and you ladies in blogland are awesome. The comments are amazing and each one inspiring. Our biggest surprise is how well Marian writes. We never knew that – I don't think even Marian knew that. But we always knew she was sincere. The fact that she can inspire others is icing on the cake and a part of her business that she never even considered. It makes my heart melt to read your stories and to think that our baby girl can be such as inspiration to so many people. MMS's Mom
i had four children when i was young…they were just about stairsteps…so close together,,,,the last one was a bit later but still four young children occupied my time and space for years,,,there were some very hard times in those days…my oldest child, a son, was stricken with menengial encephalites when he was just turning five. it left him profoundly deaf. much of the coming years were spent finding good medicaL and educational resources….we were financially strapped as well, so many christmases were very lean.
but, God had a way of keeping us "intact" and the years melted away quickly…i am now a stay at home mom and grandma…i always have plenty of time and support from my husband who must really adore me…my creative juices have run over, so to speak, in many directions, but i think i have now found my voice and my passion…..hang in there young moms….. the path will open up for you….stay true to what you believe, and let Him do the rest….thank you for sharing your story mms..you surely are an inspiration….
Preach on sister! Loved the post!
Marian,
I thought you said it beautifully. You really have a wonderful spirit doing God's work….
Thanks,
Debbie
I feel like this post was from God to me. A direct answer to prayer. Thank you for being obedient to your call.
You inspired me to lease a booth at The Liberty Belle ( http://www.libertybellekc.com/ ). The Liberty Belle is a once a month vintage market…we are open the first Friday, Saturday and Sunday of each month. I see all the beautiful things you make, and it inspires me to do the same. Your blog brings me soooo much joy 🙂
God has truly blessed you and I am so happy to know that you know it, and share those feelings. Helping others is truly your calling, in many ways, Marian. Thank you, Beverlee
Oh my gosh you have me crying. Thank you so much for this. You explained how I feel completely. I have a 6,4 and 2 year old and was wondering if 'this' was all I was going to do for the next 20 years. It wasn't until just a few months ago that I started thrifting and finding furniture to repaint and little treasures to upcyle or give new life too. You are truly an inspiration. I love being a stay at home mom and having this outlet to express my self has been amazing…..plus the self confidence it has given me has helped me to help my family more. Thank you, thank you!
Marian,
You stated it beautifully. I feel the same way and I thank you for sharing your God given talents with the rest of us. You inspire me to try DIY!
Karen
Oh, I wish I could hug you. With age, you look back and say, oh I want to tell her that when she's a grandmother, looking at her own daughter, daughter-in-law, she'll say, she doesn't know how tough she is, how deep she'd digging.
I begin (I'm a yoga teacher) my restorative meditation with students asking them to begin in gratitude and joy. Sometimes gratitude comes with a very HIGH cost, and sometimes joy is faking it.
You are a tough, grounded woman. I never suspected you were "lost" I think you're so creative and good at so many things that doing all things well gets a bit confusing.
I love your blog. Enjoy. Joy. Gratitude.
Dee Buckingham
http://www.RisingTideYoga.com
Great post! Well written. I agree – it's wonderful to foster talents, seek out a creative outlet and feel that you "finished" things.
Well this certainly struck a cord with many bloggers. I don't know how you all do what you do with kiddos underfoot.
Great post!
I have no experience with the down side you're describing (I'm a guy and I have no children) but I just had to chime in and say that, even for me, that was a totally inspiring post. You do great stuff Miss Mustard Seed – both with furniture and with blogging. Thanks very much.
Yes!!! I love to sew, quilt and decorate my home and it keeps me sane. Currently I have a 5yr, 2 yr and a 1 mth old. So it'll be a bit till I get to be creative, but I am really looking forward to getting back at it once the baby's schedule allows me. Before I realized that I needed to do "my" things I too was feeling lost. Thanks f or reminding me of this.
It is such a huge relief to know that there are others out there with the same frustrations and dreams. I have three children under three and a husband in the military and I have to also say that your blog has helped me find my creative side and I find it a place of encouragement and smiles! Even though I am stuck in 'the routine' of life as a SAHM I think of you as the perfect example of someone who is doing what I want to do and proof that it CAN be done. I've just started putting my feet in but I know I can do it because YOU have done it. Thank you for using your story as a testimony for all of us lonely and tired moms out there who have big dreams! God Bless you and your family and can't wait to see you at Haven!!!
Wonderful advice! I have been a stay at home mom with my 3 boys. Would not have changed that for anything. I can still remember that feeling years ago, sitting in the corner crying my eyes out not sure who I was anymore. Feeling like I had no "me" left. They have almost all flown the nest now. And I'm still searching for "me". I wish I had done it sooner. 🙂
Wonderfully put! I am the mother of a 9 and 11 year old and I very much remember feeling lost. Now I have a part-time photography business, blog, and enjoy decorating our home with DIY projects. It's made a huge difference. I especially love what you said about doing a project that can be finished. I've never thought about it that way but now that I've read it it makes perfect sense. Thanks!
I did exactly what you said NOT to do! I have been creative since the day I was born but keeping up with 4 kids made it impossible to do what I wanted, someone always needed something. Occasionally I would find the time to piddle here and there but never as much as I would have liked. So the last kiddo is at home for a couple more years and I have realized the time is now. My last day at my job is Thursday and then I am getting busy! You've been a great inspiration! thank you!!!
It's amazing how many mountains your moving with this candid post. This is what it's all about.
Awesome outreach!
I too am a stay at home mom… and loving it!!!
vintagebeachhouse.blogspot.com
Great post.For me its the case of doing it all againMy youngest is 16 and only one of my own kids left at home.But we are now bribging up 5 soon to be 6 of our grandkids.Our eldest has had bi-polar and chose some not so great paths.So its full on again here.I lost myself for awhile last year and then got back into creating and my vintage collecting that I love.I am never bored but sometomes frustrated and often just plain tired but I am happier when I can create.
I have been in that funk! I have one young son I stay at home with and started to feel completely worthless, not as a mother, but as a person. I moved 1100 miles away from my family after getting married and had my son just over a year later. So I was dealing with some big changes, including learning how to be a good wife and mother, and starting new so far from family and everything familiar!
I just started crafting and it has saved me! You put into words things I have been starting to realize but hadn't been able to put into words yet. It's good to hear someone say them….write them.
Just two cents…Thank you
What a wonderful, supportive person you are! No wonder you are successful – it's well deserved not only because of your talent but also because of your kindness! All the best to you…Barbara
There's a bit of a long story behind how one of my most treasued 'things' came to me…but I think this little piece of worn wood bears a message appropriate for you and you readers:
"You have helped me in my work & in myself,
And I have helped you in your work & in yourself,
And I am greatful to Heaven for this
you & me." Corey , 58 Vintage Faire
you are inspiring…
Thank you so much for this wonderful outpouring of your heart and feelings to us in blogland. We can all identify with you in so many ways. Thank you for the inspiration, confidence and encouragement to keep going and striving to grab our dream and run with it. Love everything you do. I want to be more like you!
Inspiring post with great advice…as usual!
What a wonderful post. So many of us get caught in what we HAVE to do or SHOULD do. Personally, I let my job suck me dry.
Lately I have been a soft shoulder to two friends who were watching loved ones die of cancer. Those two people had no passion or joy in their young lives and gave up without a fight.
Ironically, I have terminal cancer but the love I have for upcycling furniture and creating in general, plus my new blog sharing my journey has kept me going. Most of the time I forget I'm ill. It isn't what my life revolves around. I have astounded my doctors because I am not going downhill in the textbook manner.
We have to find our gift and use it to live our best life. Sometimes it takes every brave bone in our body to step away from how it "has always been" but it is worth it. Really.
Thank you so much for posting this.
It really put into words what I have been trying to articulate all summer. I teach 9 months a year for the past 17 years. Been a mama for 12 of those. LOVE being a wife, mom and teacher!
Started a blog the second school let out this year and I have totally woken up an old part of myself! It has nothing to do with the other areas- except that it makes me better in all of those areas!
Thank you!
Kerry at housetalkn.blogspot.com
Thank you! Very Inspiring! Nothing brings more pleasure than being a mom! The good and the bad! But it's those moments you are on the way to "school" with your daughter (2.5yrs), you round the corner and the sun is now blaring in both your eyes and she says "mommy turn it off". Those are the moments that remind you why we sometimes forget to take time for ourselves. True as it is….time for mommy is what makes us a "whole" person. Thanks for reminding all of us to take time for US.
Just wanted to say "bravo"…
After 200 comments I am sure you have heard this, but Thank You! I felt the same way when I started my business and now even more so that I blog about design! I feel inspired everyday by other bloggers, or things around me… I look forward to my computer time, and design time everyday in between laundry, making meals, picking up toys, yelling at the kids to stop fighting…. etc! Always great to hear other feel the same way!
Tiffany {Living Savvy}
Oh my! What a wonderful post. I USED to be a crafty, artsy, creative person. I USED to have a craft room, which turned into a craft corner, which turned into a box of crafts I would pull out on occasion. Then the box went into a closet and then down to the basement, back behind Christmas decorations and suitcases. Then I started following your blog (as well as other wonderful designer's blogs). The other night I had a light bulb come on in my brain! I remembered the room out in the garage my husband used as an office and is now EMPTY!! WooHoo!! Mine!! I've always wanted to do a room in soft colors and lost of white. I see a creativity room coming about and my dusty ol' box coming out of the basement. Thanks for inspiring me!
This was a very beautiful post. Thank you for the encouraging words. God Bless:)
Thank you so much for this post.
I have a 15 month old and work outside of the house. My husband stays home part of the week with our son. He has maintained a lot of his pre-child activities but I have not. I was asked to teach/coach some students in something that I love. I was struggling with the decision because it takes me away from my family for a short period of time. After reading your post I felt much better about my decision. It is a creative outlet for me and it makes me happy. I struggle trying to be all of the things that I need to be for my family-money earner, mother, nurturer,cook, teacher but the person I ignore the most is myself. Thanks again.
Thank you
Have you seen that WUSLLU has a link to this post and their deal of the day is tied to this post? Your influence is far-reaching, a lot farther than I bet you ever imagined! Good for you! You Rock.
Great advice. I remember when my girls were little and I was so tied up in "doing" all the things that had to be done. I'd feel this overwhelming desire to shout "I have to make something". Luckily I had a supportive family that new it was good for mommy to "create" even if it was just a throw pillow for an old chair or a batch of cookies they were going to eat.
Now my girls are 26 and 21- I don't know how that happened so quickly but we create together and I couldn't ask for anything better!
Okay, long time reader first time poster. Everyone has said it: it's wonderful and humbling to share in your posts with you. And my heart further melted with MMS mom's post (#185). Happiness.
You and other bloggers have inspired me tremendously.
At night in the 1 hour that I have after my little 2 year old goes to bed (I have a full-time job as a univ. professor), I used to just watch TV. Now I have a craft room and make all kinds of things- necklaces and earrings, headbands out of my husband's old ties, make art out of paint chips, spraypaint frames to re-use. It's fun and relaxing. Thanks.
E.
Great post!! I am very blessed to work at a church that allowed me to bring my son to work with me for his entire first year! While that is different than being a stay at home mom, I get what you're saying about your daily routine putting your hobbies on hold for awhile. It was hard coming home everyday after caring for my son and doing my job to find the motivation to do something creative. Your blog and your story of being a mother to toddlers and starting a business with a small budget has given me the push I needed to do something I've been dreaming of for as long as I can remember. It's so great seeing your life being fulfilled in so many ways!
Great post!!! I will be losing my job in 3 weeks and will have more time then I have ever had. I was never a SAHM, DH is self employed so we never had to have "childcare" and I have worked mostly fulltime for the last 31 years. We just worked around everything. My boys are now 28, 26 & 14, but all still at home. (We live on a ranch). I have always tried to find a place for my hobbies & crafts in the little free time I have had.
I am so looking forward to seeing what I can do to make a living doing something creative. My dream!
Friends and co workers ask how will I keep busy? Am I looking for another job?? Not yet, if I can make it!
I have so many projects and ideas running around in my head I don't know where to start in 3 weeks!
I love your blog, you are so talented and inspiring! Thanks!!!!
Great post! Thanks, Marian.
Blessings,
Marilyn
Dear, dear Marian,
I am a day late – internet and computer problems yesterday kept my from my emails and blogs but I just had to comment – for the first time. Really just to thank you for the inspiration. I am a relatively new follower and I look forward to your daily posts so much. I want you to know that you have inspired me to begin to do things I have dreamed of doing but didn't have the confidence (or time in the past) to do. I love your warm and honest approach to your business. You have made me realize that I can dig in and find my confidence to pursue my dreams.
Hugs and best wishes always
Lynne
WOW!! Thats great!! I felt the EXACT same way, thats why I've started my blog…you inspiring story is helping realize my dreams of turning my blog into a business can be done! Thank you so much 🙂
A very nice post Marion….
Wow, I just want to say amen sista to all of it. That my friend, was an inspired post to write. Not all of your good work comes from just the creative side of you. Thank you!
Thank you for writing this post . I'm sure you're busy, with kids, dishes, laundry, the business and the millions of comments, but this post really designated with me and I wanted you to know. My baby is starting 1st grade next month and it will be the first time in 11 1/2 years that I will be by myself. I am frantic with panic on what I will do to "prove" myself. What will I contribute now, with full days to myself? I feel pressure to find a job (thankfully I do not have to work), to prove myself. I'm desperate to find my creativity, my passion, to figure out what I'm going to do "when I grow up". This post gives me hope that I can create something, grow, and find my niche. Thank you again for making me feel "normal".
What a wonderful post..If I said it once I will say it again..You are inspiring and your honesty always comes through in your posts..There is no greater job than being a mom..One that I have identified with for 34 years..God Bless you in all of your future endeavors..
Janet
It's wonderful, all your talents. You're really good at what you do by what I can see on your blog. Congratulations. Here's the thing though, every single time I read your blog (really, every single time, I leave my computer thinking about you and your kids and your husband, and your home, your every day family life) and I see how much you do in one given day, I am in awe, and I can't help but wonder how on earth you fit your children, your husband, your home, your parents, your siblings, your good friends, into your life. I am a mom of 3 grown girls. I have always been a stay at home mom, sometimes working temporary non-stressful part time jobs, so I know how busy I was and still am. so busy with just being a mom and wife and homekeeper. so busy with just washing the dishes, cooking good meals, doing the laundry, cleaning my home, mending, sewing, decorating, making sure my husband went to work every morning in freshly ironed clothes, and listening to my girls, and talking to them, and doing things with them, going on dates with my husband, keeping my garden looking half decent, trimming my trees and bushes, planting my annuals twice a year, keeping my front porch and home looking and feeling homey for my family. Taking my sweet pups for daily walks.Exercising to keep myself healthy for not only myself but for my family. Shall I go on? I just don't understand how you can do it all. Really, I can't figure out how you do it. and do it all well. You baffle me.I can't figure it out. WOW.
Thank you for this. I just found your blog through Beth @HomeStoresAtoZ. I am SO excited to try to make a farmhouse table!!! I am a stay at home mom of 2 boys also who has often felt lost wondering what else I'm supposed to do. I've just discovered DIY home decorating and repainted a dresser just yesterday. I am wondering how to fund this new hobby, as even paint can get pricey. Any thoughts or suggestions?
Wow, that was cool. And I read your Mom's comment, too. Awesome, to read your blog!
I have been a very creative stay-at-home Mom
for so many years. I just didn't have a blog,
a business or a shop. But you have inspired so
many women who read your blog-me, included.
I look forward to your blog posts and I know
you will always come up with something very interesting to read and look at. Much continued success as you keep creating wonderful things in your life!
What a well-written post. I echo what others have written. I, too, am an SAHM (though my kids are much older). My youngest (10) has become well-versed in the world of stain, spray paint, & thrift stores. Isn't life wonderful?!?
MMS – Thank you for your honesty. The more women that open up like you do, the more women won't feel alone in what they are going through.
I have found myself in a similar funk but different circumstances.
My son, now 4, goes to Preschool 4 days a week. He loves it and I don't feel guilty about that. I worked part-time for a while but am now back full-time. I am truly blessed to have a wonderful corporate job that I do from home which gives me the flexibility to pick my son up early if I want to and go to all of his school activities.
As fortunate as I know I am I still crave more. Up & quitting my job is not an option right now. I wasn't sure what to do. Then I got inspired – from your blog & so many others. I started taking time on Saturday mornings for myself and going to more yard/estate sales. I started crafting on my lunch hour. That lead to me opening my own antique booth.
There are not enough hours in the day to do it. I'm often exhausted & overwhelmed. But you know what? I'm SO much happier! I tell folks that my little antique booth is my one area I can decorate how I want and no one needs anything from me while I'm there. Instead of just watching TV when my son goes to bed I'm keeping my hands busy by crafting or painting furniture.
Thanks for listening and for making opportunities for all of us to share! Can't wait to hug you at Haven 🙂
Stephanie
http://junkernewbie.blogspot.com/
As children of God created in His image, we are meant to be creative in some way, shape or form. How that manifests itself is different in each person. For me, it's usually through cooking and baking. But life sure can grind us down sometimes where we lose our passion. Thanks for the reminder, Marion. It's both terrifying and thrilling when we step outside of our comfort zone, but at least we know we're alive and not some automatron!
I was a SAHM many years ago…now I’m an empty nester. The years have flown by and now my little ones under foot are grandkids! My life verse has been Isaiah 43:19 (NLT) “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.” At times it can feel as if I am in a dry wasteland…but I need only look up! Something new always seems to be bubbling under the surface if I’m willing to embrace it and trust where it will lead. Thank you for sharing your heart and taking that “wilderness” path (that at times can feel lonely when we stay at home with small children). Your courage is an inspiration to many that will come after you!
Thank you for this post. I really did need to read it today. I have been a SAHM for a year now and a single mom for 2 1/2 years. My husband is a War Contractor working overseas. NEVER did I think this would be my life. I have been in a funk the last week because I am "just a mom." I really am encouraged to do something for me.
Thank you!
Just what I needed to read today…Thank you 🙂
I love what you had to say. I raised my 4-kids many yrs ago, the youngest 23 now. I still don't know what I truly want to be when I grow up but your blog has shown me what I like to do. Now, I only need to find time between full time employment & school to do it. Thanks again, we can all use words of encouragement from time to time.
I realize you already have so many people singing your praises on this particular post but I wanted to add mine to the choir. I really loved this tender and quite touching insight. I have 5 children: twins 10, girl 8, boy 6, boy 3 and my hands have been quite full. I often feel like there is not enough time (ok really? let's be honest…desire and energy) to get done the essential "work". I have loved reading blogs that inspire me to make the house a home and do it on a budget (especially MMS). I am still in the getting started mode but I really very much appreciated the great heart you have to share your time and talents with those of us who are less creative but know a good idea to copy when we see it. Literally, I thank Heaven for you today! 🙂
WOW! I'm a stay at home Mom of 5-who has sat there on that couch 'LOST' as well.(MANY TIMES) I have only recently tried to 'take back' some of the 'ME' that I am accustomed to handing out to the rest of my family. This is very inspiring. YOU are very inspiring! Melanie~Rustic Ruffles
Thank you for sharing your experience. God used your business to help you and others find themselves. I’ve been praying about what to do next, I love being creative yet every job I’ve had hasn’t been, and none of them were satisfying. Lately, I’ve been wondering how I can turn my creative endeavors into a business. You have given me and a lot of your readers a lot of hope. Something we all need just a little of. Thank you so much for the inspiration.
Just browsing your wonderful blog and came across this post. Thank you for the encouragement people like me! I too am a stay at home mom. Two kids. Husband. House. Busy life. Followed my husband to Texas for medical school. Then to Delaware for residency. Wouldn’t change a single thing. But I also have put a lot of me on the back burner (my own doing….not for lack of encouragement from my husband). I started blogging last month, after thinking about venturing into the blogging world for two years. I’m astounded at the readers and support I’ve received. It’s like a whole new world to me. I’m working on having my blog re-designed. I’m watching my blog hits reach 1000 in 2 weeks. Then triple in another 9 days. Then double again in another week or so. After 5 weeks, I’m at 8000 hits. I’m so excited to see where the Lord takes this venture in my life. I’ve prayed about ‘what’s next’ quite a bit. And I’m now wondering if this is what I’ve been praying for! So anyway, thank you for the encouraging blog post.
Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Jen
athomeinthenorthwest.blogspot.com (new blog design coming just after the holidays!!)
Well hello there!
My best friend’s mom, who has watched me grow up for nearly 20 years, just sent me your link, specifically this post. I just launched a website/campaign for widespread sassy happiness, focusing on living your dream. Of course, this requires using your God given talents that make you feel alive every time you do. I am also a SAHM to two little girls, 5 and 2, and take care of two other littles to contribute to our IRAs. 5 years into this gig, I often feel lost and remind myself the days are long but the years are short. It was purely lovely to read this post, from a self-made business woman who continues to live the dream while maintaining her role, the most important role, as a SAHM. Truly, thank you.
Marian, I just found this post and it made me smile. That is exactly why I started my blog 3 (or so) months ago! I love being home with my kids but I felt like I wasn’t utilizing my creative talents and felt a little lost because it is something I LOVE to do and wanted to do to keep a little piece of ME!
Marian, This is the first post I’ve read, with the exception of the past few days relating to the Spring Market. I clicked on it for its title. And read it…completely understanding. My circumstances are different. I was a homemaker. (Until my husband left for a ‘Barbie’ look-a-like…) I began writing my blog Playing with Perfect about two years ago–a year after the shit hit the fan. I have a BA in Finance, but never used it. I got my first, full-time job at 38 at an engineering and design firm. Was laid off after 2 years. I have always been creative, wrote freelance from time to time over the years–and I’ve needed every ounce of my creativity to survive without a ‘real’ job the past (almost) two years. I’ve bought and sold furniture. Am an eBay PowerSeller and Top Rated Seller. My blog has grown steadily in readership. I’m often told that I am an inspiration…. My children are doing well–they are with me the majority of the time. And because they are my priority, I cannot be gone from the house 50 hours per week, as when I worked for the engineering and design firm. And so I choose to piece together my finances (dicey at times!!) and be present to raise my children. Tomorrow will be my first Spring Market. And I cannot wait. And I plan to keep reading and following your progress. It lets me know what is possible. For all my successes, I am not yet at a point where I have steady income. That needs to happen soon. I sincerely wish you a wonderful weekend, many sales, that you meet many new people and have lots of fun. By the way, this was an excellent post.
Amy
(The lady who bought/sold vehicles to get to Virginia…)
Now this is an oldie post but one that the Lord has lead me to..I wrote in my inspiration journal yesterday> “I felt the Lord say, share you desire Angela.
To stay home full time. to be a blessing. Have my business Free Spirit Haven, “helping you make your house a home” be at home (for now) opening it up to the world (through internet, open houses, etc). Having work shops, open houses, ministering on the internet, you tube. Being on HGTV or TLC or OWN. Being able to help my family financially and bless everyone.”…..blessings dear sister and thank you for sharing your heart with us all.
Oh boy, the angels are working tonight! I haven’t been to your blog in years (sorry!) and for some reason I decided to pull you up and saw this post. Forgot how similar we are (2 kiddos, in PA). I’m at the very place you write about: 7 years of staying home and I’m desperate to get out of the house and work. do I get a certificate in decorating/design/staging? do another house/home -related job; ditch my blog or step it up and make money? I think I have a good brand going but would like to expand to a broader market. What to do…. thanks for your honesty in your post and for letting me vent!
I was in a bit of a funk since my Dad passed-away two years ago… and the anticipation/anxiety that next Fall I’ll become an ’empty nester’ with my two young adult kids both in college! I had my epiphany about a month ago – and your most recent post [writing a book] and following your dream has also provided the encouragement that ALL is possible with hard work and desire! Thank you and continued best wishes!
Thank you for this encouraging post. I’m older than you, different stage of life but am in process of change. Major change as Dave, my husband, passed away. God is now my protector and provider and, I truly believe, He’s using all manners to encourage me in my new life. Including your blog which will now come by e-mail.
TMI but here goes anyway -smile-…I’m away from home and the farm, taking the first year anniversary of Dave’s death to ponder, consider, pray for direction, guidance, encouragement. God is faithful and has provided, time and time again.
When I return home, it’s with the knowledge the direction I’m going in is His will. Again, thank you so much for this post of encouragement; may God bless you, yours and the work of your hands and heart.
Hi, Just wanted to say, I loved your post (and your website and blog) I am older and in a different part of my life, but have been praying for direction and since reading your blog on being lost and finding yourself, I feel like God led me here for a reason. I do work full time, but have been pondering with my creative talents and yearn so much to do more and share more about things I create. In reading your blog I realize, that I should go forward and not backwards (and squash my creative talents) and that even if it is only a small start, because of lack of time, to do what I can when I can. Thank you for story, you have no idea how much this has meant to me.
An answer to prayer……………………blessings to you and your family……..
Thank you so much for this piece.
I have been drowning in the dreaded state of “funk” intermittently for some time.
Reading your “about losing and finding myself” this morning .. was the tonic I needed.
Kudos and gratitude!
Thank you for this post. I recently found your website via Pinterest. The Lord lead me to this post. I was crying to my husband about exactly when you wrote about the previous morning. He was not understanding the problem. I read this and it brought tears to my eyes and uplifted my soul. You wrote so perfectly what I was feeling but unable to express. Thank you for sharing your heart
I just came across this through a link you posted today 7-13-13. First of all, I felt like you were talking directly to ME. Especially the part where you said it was something you could Finish. My babies are almost grown now, 18, 16 & 14, but the job is still not finished … I doubt it will ever be! And in the mundane day in day out of raising them, I swallowed the creative urges and did for my family. Reading your blog and Kristen’s Blue Egg Brown Nest has made me come alive. I honestly feel reborn. I felt blessed being able to raise my girls and be a stay at home mom, but being able to still be there for my girls, do something that I LOVE and bring in a little money on the side is more than I ever hoped for.
So THANK YOU MMS for giving us moms the courage and the confidence to say … sure! I can do that!! And for giving us inspiration on your blogs and through your words. I’ve only sold 2 pieces so far, I work out of my garage, but its something. If it grows, great! If it doesn’t, thats fine too. I know I can take someones give away and make it beautiful and I Know this because of you. <3
…….”I want to encourage all of you…those who are feeling isolated, tired and lost. Those who once loved to do things, but now all you do is “the routine.” Stop churning and start doing.” By reading the replies I think this post was universal. It crosses over to any woman no matter her age or stage of life. The replies are heartfelt and sincere, and stir an awaking in the crossroads of life. Bravo MMS!
I just started about a month ago, reading your blog…..so very thankful I did…..My husband and I started our business Found & Kept two years ago, selling re-painted and re-purposed furniture and decor on Facebook garage sale groups. Now two years later, we have space in a friend’s store, and it has been glorious! Your heartfelt words in this post (and so many other words of wisdom you have shared) filled my heart with joy, and gave me the reminder that it is good and true, to do something you love. Our business (the finding, the painting, the re-loving of the pieces) fills my soul, and I know it is our right path that God leads us on…..we are blessed, we can bless others, and our hearts are happy…..Thank you for sharing your path with us