It's been a while

So it's been a while. I've been busy. 

This summer was one of those that felt like someone threw me in a blender and turned it on as fast as it could go. 2 fairs, 3 trips out of town, a broken arm, a concussion, hand foot mouth, family visiting us, and a death in the family made for no sleep and a need for an uneventful fall and winter. 

Now that our summer is done we're onto bigger and better things. 

My sweet 3 yr old started preschool this morning (at home). She starts gymnastics tomorrow. No mommy and me class anymore! I'll be glad to sit and watch her this time around. It'll be good for the both of us. 

Business wise, I have 2 maybe 3 fairs coming up this fall. The first is outdoors in Hadley, MA on October 15th. I can't wait! Outside on a crisp fall day, hopefully with a good view of the beautiful fall foliage which should be at its peak that weekend. The second is at a high school in Springfield, MA on October 29th. It benefits the sophomore class. Hoping all goes well. The 3rd, if I get in, is in Reading, MA on December 10th. 

{picture is of my 3 yr old excited about starting preschool}

Long day in Boston

Had a long busy day today. Attended an all day conference in Boston. Lot of walking, rode the crowded T, and sat in crowded workshops. Ended my day in the lobby of my husbands office reading a book. Worst part was that it rained all day. So I spent several hours soaked from the knees down. Oh well. At least I learned something other than not to ride the T during rush hour.

{pictured is the book I've been reading in my spare time lately and the corner of my badge I was given to wear at the conference}

Working.....again

Busy working again. Hoping to work a couple fairs this year. But if I'm gonna work fairs, I need to fill out applications. Did this one last year and did fairly well considering what I paid. Figured I'd give it another shot. It's Mother's Day weekend, so I'm hoping people will be out shopping for last minute gifts. 

If you will be anywhere near West Springfield, MA, come visit. But something from someone. Enjoy what will hopefully be a beautiful weekend weather wise. 

Crazy weather

From spring to winter in about 12 hours. She loves both. Sometimes you just gotta take advantage of the opportunity to go out and play. 

I challenge you.............

So here's the thing, as I am starting a new year and considering where I want to be a year from now, I have taken the time to look back on the last few months and all that I've learned about myself, and the craft fair attendee/business owner world. 

The biggest thing that has jumped out at me is the number of people that work these fairs that I've started working. And not just work because they want to or enjoy it, but work these fairs because they need the extra income. You see, not everyone has the ability to work a traditional job. Some people have kids or elderly parents that are dependent on them for their care 24/7. Running your own business out of your own home with mainly an online and/or craft fair presence brings a certain level of freedom and flexibility that working an office job or anything else doesn't offer. Working from home allows you to attend all your kids school functions and sports events and to be there whenever or Drs appointments or attend to all your elderly parents needs. No need to worry about limited sick time or PTO or having to pay for day care/after school care. Not everyone has family willing and able to help as needed. 

In other words, not everyone is like me in that I am able to take my time figuring this out. 

So here's my challenge for you......... Go online, check your newspaper. Find some of those small, school or church run, or town fairs and attend them. Your presence is a big encouragement to the people working the fair. And, trust me, you will be surprised at what you can find a these fairs and the good quality jewelry that often shows up at these fairs. Who knows you may even find something that would make a perfect gift for someone in your life. Go, find some fairs happening this year, and make someone's day by purchasing something. 

Who knows it may end up being the difference between someone being able to pay off their electric bill or being able to buy more than just a loaf of bread at the grocery store. 

Please. 

Ok. Stepping down off my soap box. This is just something that is important to me. That we support those who need it. 

Oh yeah

So why am I always working at 10 pm??? Oh yeah, I have a 2 yr old who keeps me busy from 7:30/8 am til 9 pm. 

Anyway, take a look at all the fun fabric taking over my home!! 

I'll take what I can get

So where I live now with my family, we have no space for any kind of a sewing/crafting corner or room. But we have a spare closet that was empty for a while and got taken over by boxes from electronics. We cleaned it out, got a shelf, and voilà!! I now have some storage space that doesn't involve boxes in the basement. 

Best part is that I can leave it as messy as I want and no one will ever now because I can shut the door on it and hide it. 

Anyway, I'm loving having the space. I can find stuff again. One look and I know what I have for thread or embroidery machine stabilizers.