Born and raised in a small town in Maine – population around that time of about 1200 – I always had a feeling of “moving on” both physically and mentally.

In my heart, I felt I had a purpose that a small town just couldn’t fulfill. Of course, I am forever grateful for those beginning years as they provided me the very foundation that makes me who I am today and set the tone for my now-evolving path. It will forever and always be HOME!

But more lies beyond “HOME”. There is ADVENTURE…and I knew I wanted it! Having just graduated from high school I was working a factory job. Making shoes. Yes, you read correctly—SHOES! Now as a female, I love me some sassy shoes but working in a factory to make them wasn’t exactly inspiring! In fact, I wasn’t even good at it.

One day, I decided it was the day to “move on”. The chosen place for my adventure and next experience as HOME was Florida—the beautiful state known for its postcard-perfect beaches where I still reside today.

When arriving in Florida a JOB was undoubtedly at the top of the list because I quickly realized the cost of living was significantly different from that small town where I had grown up. I embarked on my second job (and not-so ironically) my second worst job ever(for me).

I began working at a customer service desk in retail. I discovered right away that I did not have the experience required for that position.  This just wasn’t the “dream” I had in my head.  I lasted about a year and then I began my CAREER in the automotive industry which would be my chosen path for the next 31 years.

Starting out in an entry level position I worked my way to management. It was a very gratifying position both personally and financially, however, I did have to make TIME sacrifices. I was able to raise two beautiful children that are literally the reason my feet hit the floor everyday, but those babies needed fed. Can I get an “amen” from my fellow mama beaSometimes working 12-15 hour days I missed out on dinners, school activities, baseball games, and just the family time that we all had hoped and longed for.

Do I have regrets? While I recognize that I cannot get that time back, I’ve also learned that providing is the top priority and that beating myself up is never the answer. Reflection is an amazing thing. I recall that I was taught WORK HARD, MAKE MONEY, RAISE YOUR KIDS, AND RETIRE. In my mind I thought I was doing it the right way. Society would say so.

Though I do not feel it was a bad timeline of events for perhaps a majority of society, it wasn’t for me. One thing I can tell you, my new found friend, is that from my experience, it doesn’t have to be this cookie-cutter way that general population deems typical.

You CAN have a JOB that inspires you, the TIME to enjoy your babies and hobbies while still WORKING HARD (or PASSIONATELY, I like to say), MAKING MONEY, RAISING (and nurturing) your kids and RETIRING (perhaps much sooner and with a much healthier outlook).

What brought me to this revelation was the season that my last child graduated from high school. When the “quiet time” I had desired for so many years became a silence that I just could not embrace, I went in search of my new purpose, which led me to my small home business!

My love for crafting and DIY led me to opening a small online home decor and stationery store.  Some of the items are sourced and purchased, while others are handmade. I have been inspired by others and now I create my own unique and personal spin on home decor and stationery.  Learning new tips and tricks has been so fun and fulfilling!

Currently, I am preparing for my first Craft Market which is totally exciting, and if I am being totally honest a bit scary too!  I will be making new products, sourcing products, and sharing my set up and display items that I will be using. 

I would be honored it you chose to be a part of it…

You can follow me on Youtube where I share studio vlogs and days in the life of a crafter or on Facebook where I make fun and cost effective home decor items and gifts! 

Soon I will be able to share my reviews on what was most successful and yes I will even share the challenges. What worked and what did not.

 Hope to see you soon!

My journey continues…