There is joy in work. Returning to work after years as a stay at home mom can be fulfilling and dare I say it, fun.
Ah, a new year. I love a clean slate, don't you? There's something about opening up the calendar and seeing a blank page, a fresh start...365 new days full of possibility.
It energizes and excites me and this year has proven no different.
Except.
Except that this year, I have two blank calendars on my desk. One is for personal use and one is for work.
Work.
It's a word I haven't used in a long, long time and I rather like the sound of it.
A lot.
In March of 2013, I pushed that little orange publish button for the very first time. I needed a distraction, a hobby and I wanted to write.
I thought that a blog would provide me with a creative outlet. I never imagined that anyone but my family (maybe) and a few of my friends (love them) would read my posts.
Boy. Was I wrong.
Almost three years in, my audience is a little bit larger than I thought it would be.
My articles have been published in several very large online and print publications, some have been nationally syndicated.
In November, I became a home and garden contributor for a local paper. I have worked with brands and my craft/ DIY projects have been featured in The Huffington Post seven times.
I have a designer page at All Free Holiday Crafts and All Free Christmas Crafts where my red hydrangea wreath ranked among their Top 100 Crafts of 2015.
I was a designer for the Bowdabra blog and have worked with some really neat brands.
In 2013 writing was a hobby. Today, it has blossomed into something different and I rather like that.
It's been a wonderful ride and I have been having a ball....and it hasn't felt like work at all.
But of course, it is and this year, I am going to treat it that way. Work is my word for the year.
Boring?
Maybe. But you see, for someone who left a fulfilling career almost eighteen years ago to raise children, the idea of work is fun. My college degrees have been gathering dust while I have spent my days volunteering, vacuuming.
And cooking.
Mmmm. My favorite.
I have absolutely loved every single second of every single day that I was blessedly able to stay home and raise my children. I played on the floor, was room rep for everybody, every single year.
I have taught Sunday school, run PTA committees, chaperoned events, led beach camp activities, I was a Daisy Troop leader, made theater costumes, hosted marathon playdates and was the queen of the carpool, but after almost two decades, I am ready for something of my own.
To me, work is shiny and new. It's full of possibilities that I have been relegating to the sidelines.
This year, I would like to embrace each and every one of them that has popped up in my email or has been percolating in my brain.
Namely, I would like to:
Finish my book (Or more accurately, start it...)
Submit more pieces for print commercial publication
Expand my freelance writing client list
These are goals I have had for a long time, but since work hasn't been a priority and clean laundry has, you get the idea.
Of course writing more, means less time for pursuits other than a super clean home. Since I began blogging, I have generally posted about twice a week. That schedule just seemed right to me. It was an authentic reflection of what was going on in my home, the decorating, crafting, etc.
Well, now, if I am going to be writing more, there may not be as much of that going on and posting just for posting's sake is really not my style.
So while I fully intend to craft and decorate and ponder, I may be doing less of it and therefore posting less often than twice a week.
Or maybe not.
I haven't really decided yet. I'm still figuring all of the logistics out, one brand new day at a time.
But that's ok.
The joy is in the journey.
And the work.
i wish you the best!
ReplyDeleteit sounds like it's "your turn!" for sure.
and i agree totally about blogging...
it should be fun first and foremost. at least for me that's the desire.
here's to reaching all your goals in 2016 and beyond! xo
Thank you, Tammy! I am hoping to have fun with it all. I feel like a kid getting ready to go back to school in the fall...I'm all sharpened pencils and fresh notebooks...ready to go. ;)
Deleteapplause~!!
ReplyDeleteI wish you every happiness and great success. Stay Joyful~!
Thank you, Sonny! I am looking forward to the joy!
DeleteOh Kim, I think that this is just wonderful for you. I have never been a "It is Tuesday so i need to get a blog post out" kind of person. I blog when I have something to talk about. I am anxious to hear about your book. Novel? Poetry? How to? Memoir? E-book? Hardcover? Inquiring minds want to know... :) even if it is just a hint.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Lorri. We'll have to compare book notes! I am not writing fiction that's for sure! My own life has been crazier than anything I could dream up! I hope that's a good hint! ;)
DeleteIndeed there can be joy in work, and how awesome that you have been there for your children and family, setting aside your career and goals for them. I know this is the perfect season for you to move forward with your calling, which is indeed writing, you are so gifted and talented. Whenever you write, you speak from your heart, and it is powerful. I look forward to great and amazing things for you, and do hope that you will still blog when you can, or at least share with us things you are doing... writing... creating... whatever... I love it all :) God bless you dear friend!
ReplyDeleteYour comment has just made my night. Thank you. I definitely plan to blog. It just may only be one time a week. I enjoy it and all that comes with it (socializing with my friends!) way too much to step away! :)
DeleteGood for you!!! Do what you love and you will never feel like it is work!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Cindy and I totally agree! :)
DeleteI am so glad that you are going to focus on that book! I am putting in my request for an autographed copy!! Each new year is full of new beginnings and all of the excitement that brings. I too love the blank page and the possibilities are endless on how it should be filled! I'm so excited for you! Love and hugs to you sweet friend!!
ReplyDeleteHaha! If I ever get this thing out of my head and on paper, you will certainly have an autographed copy, Benita! Thank you for the sweet words! :)
DeleteI lov it when someone dreams come true! Always do what you love!
ReplyDeleteThanks Cathy. Not sure they will ever really come all the way to fruition, getting a book published is not easy, but I think it’s going to be fun trying! :)
DeleteI'm proud of you Kim! Moving into a different stage of life is a little scary but so much fun. It's exhilarating!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Stacey. Definitely a little scary, but you’re right, exhilarating! :)
DeleteVery exciting stuff, Kim. To have a purpose is what it is all about. I wish you the best and hope you can keep up with everything, and I have no doubt you will. I was a stay at home mom all through the years and formally didn't go to work until about 25 years ago. Even though I am glad to be retired now, I really do miss it all. I loved my job and would go back to it in a minute if all things were still the same, but people and places change so I don't think it would be as much fun now..Happy New Year..Judy
ReplyDeleteYes, I get it Judy. I would love to return to teaching, but it's not the time right now. Also, the players have changed and that is what I loved most. Looking forward to this new adventure!
DeleteAll the best . . .
ReplyDeleteFor you are . . . the best . . .
Congratulations . . .
Enjoy Work . . .
Thank you, Lynne! I'll keep you posted...
DeleteI am so very proud of you, my sweet friend!! It's absolutely time for you to take some time for YOU after all these years of looking after everyone else! I can't wait to see where you take those amazing writing skills of yours. Cheers to your future, Kim! Xo
ReplyDeleteThanks! I am looking forward to a little “just me” time. Let’s hope the troops cooperate! ;)
DeleteWow. That is awesome Kim, congratulations on "working" at something you love! Good luck my blogger friend!
ReplyDeleteThanks Rhonda! I'm excited!
DeleteIt's so exciting that you found your path Kim. I'm sure you will be able to reach all of your goals. My best to you, as always, my friend.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Kristi…new year, new direction! :)
DeleteKim, good for you!! I am sure it will be very rewarding. Best wishes to you as you start this new "work" in your lie! I am sure the best is yet to come!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Lynn. I am looking forward to seeing where the work will take me!
DeleteDust Bunnies are a sign of a creative life...you go girl ...less cleaning and more writing :)
ReplyDeleteAnd your successes are piling up on top of each other like a snowball that gets bigger as it rolls ; that is a wonderful thing; I am very happy for you !
Well, I am certainly going to have a lot of dust bunnies, Deb! Glad to hear that they are a sign of creativity and progress! And thanks! :)
DeleteFirst of all, congrats on all your accomplishments!!! You go, girl! And second, I wish you all the success in the world this year and beyond. It's so nice when our kids get a little older and we can finally have time to ourselves again. I know for me personally, I tend to get into "mom mode" and it's hard to get into a new groove. :) I agree with your idea of blogging when it feels right and not for the sake of posting just to post. I sometimes go weeks without a post because I just don't feel I have anything interesting to say. Anyway, congrats again and can't wait to see what 2016 brings for you!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Lisa. Yes, "mom mode" is a very comfortable place for me. I have been doing this a long time and I truly still enjoy every minute of being there for my kids. I am going to give it my best shot to get into a new mode for a few hours of the day and try to make it all work! We shall see!
DeleteHi Kim,
ReplyDeleteWell said!! I know just what you mean about Mom Mode as Lisa explains it. I have been needing a new outlet myself. Mom Mode is changing here at this house. I have this desire to work on something I have been dreaming of too. But...who keeps up with the laundry, housework, schedules? That is what I am struggling with. Is how do I balance this?
I do know I do not want to wake up to an Empty Nest and I forgot to chase after that dream.
Thank you for listening,
Carla
I’m right there with you, Carla. It’s a hard line to walk. Something’s gotta give and since being mom is the priority, it’s usually me time. I am trying to figure it all out myself…she said as she stares at a sink full of dishes! I left it there this morning to go and write with a friend at the library, but now it’s staring me in the face along with a bunch of other stuff that I need to do. There certainly are no easy answers are there?
DeleteI'm so glad you pushed that little orange publish button almost 3 years ago, Kim. I can't imagine how else we might have "met", and my life would be the poorer for it. Forsaking career to be a stay-at-home mom was a wise choice, and one you will never regret. I once heard a quote that "at the end of his life no executive ever said, 'I wish I had spent more time at the office'. I think that goes for anyone who puts work over family. I wish you the very best in reaching your newest goals. You've certainly achieved much in the past few years and I expect nothing less from you in the next few. Hugs and love ~ Nancy
ReplyDeleteNancy, I have heard that quote and think about it often. I know that my kids are going to be off, living their own lives away from my home, soon enough. I am so lucky to have been able to stay home with them, and you’re right, I don’t regret one single moment. It’s time for a new chapter in my book of work. I have no idea where it will go…or not go…but I am eager to try! Thank you so much for your continued support!! :)
DeleteLook at all you've accomplished already Kim !!
ReplyDeleteThe sky is the limit with you . Everytime I read one of your post's I leave feeling kindness , caring and most important of all , inspired !! You make me want to be a better me :)) Your book WILL get published when you finish it and I most definitely will purchase it !!
Thank you for the inspiration I was lacking today, I'm back on track . Tammy ❤️❤️
Tammy, you are super, super sweet and I appreciate the kind words. They make me want to go write, right now!! :)
DeleteHi Kim, Happy New Year and congrats to you in reaching your dreams and goals. It is only the beginning. Blessings and joys to you always. xo
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Celestina Marie! So many nice words…
DeleteOh, I'm so happy for you, Kim, for this new part of your journey. Isn't life grand? I love your writing and all your clever ideas and I know this is all just the beginning of something wonderful for you. And nobody deserves it more. All the best! xo
ReplyDeleteSusan, thank you so very much. I am really enjoying it all so far. :)
DeleteYou've got quite a portfolio there! You go girl!
ReplyDeleteBrenda
Thanks Brenda!! :)
DeleteI know you've heard it before, Kim, but to find work that you're passionate about is a calling and not to give it the time and effort it needs might leave you with regrets some day. There are so many good things in this wonderful life but we often have to choose among them for those of the most lasting value.
ReplyDeleteYou have a gift, as the writing in your posts show, so keep your eyes open for all the marvelous opportunities ahead! We'll be your cheering section!
Dewena
Thank you so much, Dewena for your eloquent and extremely kind comment. As I get older, I am trying to do things that are meaningful and bring me pleasure. Right now, it's my family and writing...
DeleteI love that you said work is "Shiney and New". Well I have to wholeheartedly agree with you on that one. I wish you all the best in your new endeavours and will be happy no matter how many times a week you choose to post. We are very lucky in that we get to call what we love to do "work".
ReplyDeleteI agree, Mary! Very lucky indeed! :)
DeleteThanks for your visit Kim. I am behind on visiting blogs. We love our red washer and dryer. Kudos to you for all that you have accomplished. We can do almost anything we set out to. I have been busy designing some blogs. Happy New year.
ReplyDeleteI’m behind on visiting, too, Linda. The holidays and my new commitment to work has me trying to find time to fit it all in! Thanks for the encouragement. I have seen your blog work and I think it’s great. Your blog work has actually inspired me to take this step into “work”…so thank you! Happy New Year! :)
DeleteGood for you girl! Easy to see why you have grown in popularity so much. You are so very talented and I am so happy for you! I actually like a bit of work, but happy to do it at home. :) I've never been savvy enough to submit anything, but boy do I know how to have fun! lol! Congrats!!
ReplyDeletehugs,
Jann
Thank you, Jann! I am having fun that's for sure and I have no idea where my adventure will take me, but I think I'd like to find out! :)
DeleteHow exciting to be at the beginning of a new adventure in work! I wish you the best and that your writing brings you much success and fulfillment. Happy New Year and New Adventure!
ReplyDeleteThanks AnnMarie! Now I just have to get writing! ;)
DeleteI think that is just wonderful, Kim! You have so many exceptional talents, and you definitely should claim some "me time." Your family won't suffer for it, but will probably grow in their own interests when they see Mom setting such a good example. I can't say I won't miss your weekly posts, but I have your email if I need a little "Kim-time!"
ReplyDeleteWarm hugs,
Carol
Thank you, Carol. I am really excited to jump into a little me adventure, but fear not! I fully intend to post at least once week. I love the blog too much to walk away altogether. It just may take me a little bit longer to make the rounds and answer comments…of course your emails are always a treat!!
DeleteYou go, girl! Very exciting pursuits for you ahead. I'm afraid I'm not as ambitious as you. I'm an empty nester and have a lot of free time ~ but mostly just go through my days as they come: the usual housework, laundry, errands, meeting up with friends, yoga, gardening, projects around the house, blogging. It will be fun to see where your writing leads you!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Melanie! I am only ambitious sometimes, trust me. When I was little my grandmother used to tell me that my eyes were bigger than my stomach! This may be one of those times. ;)
DeleteKim,
ReplyDeleteI have loved reading your posts, your writing style is amazing and you are so good at it!
You have accomplished a lot since 2013! You deserve a lot of credit for that!
Wishing you the best of luck this year with your 'Work'!
Hugs, Kimberley
Thank you, Kimberley. It has been an unexpected journey for sure...and all fun!!
DeleteKim ... I think 2016 is going to be an exciting year for you, looking forward to reading your posts and seeing how things progress.
ReplyDeleteWishing you ...
All the best Jan
Thank you, Jan. You are always so kind!
DeleteWhat a wonderful post, Kim. I'm so happy for you that things are going so well and look forward to following all your adventures. Have fun.
ReplyDeleteAmalia
xo
Thank you Amalia...and yes, hoping for more fun! :)
DeleteDearest Kim,
ReplyDeleteMy heart swelled and a smile crept to my face as I read your vision and word for 2016.
I enjoyed reading about your goals, accomplishments and dreams. I know the feeling you speak of when you mention those precious times you embraced with your family and also the responsibilities. But there is a time and season for all things. You are a wise woman to realize the other journey's that are waiting for you.
I too am working on embracing the season of change.
I am wishing you the very best and I am so sincerely happy and proud for and of you!
xo
Jemma
It is a season of change over here for certain, Jemma. Children growing up and I guess I am, too. You are so kind to wish me well. It really means a lot to have so many people cheering me on. I was a little afraid to post about my plans, but they say that if you have a goal, you should say it out loud. I am so glad that I did! Thank you.
DeleteHello Kim, wow I wish you all the best and I know you will do great! Good luck! You are so inspiring!! Thanks sharing for all of your ideas and projects with us. Enjoy the weekend. Julie
ReplyDeleteThank you much, Julie!! :)
DeleteYou have such inspiring goals for the new year Kim. I admire that so much. Have a fabulous weekend! I am gearing up to start another semester of school on Monday. :)
ReplyDeleteThank you Laura. I am working on them. Good luck at school...talk about an inspiring goal!! :)
DeleteIt's been fun, sharing your run nearly from "our" beginnings. Keep the motor roaring and the road clear; you're racing to those dreams!
ReplyDeleteThanks Cheryl! Now if I could just add a few more hours to each day, I might be on my way! ;-)
DeleteI love your writing and I am excited to follow along your WORK Kim!!!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Vel!!!
DeleteHappy New Year, Kim!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on all your wonderful achievements! Your writing, to me, always has heart - and energy! I wish you all the very best on your future projects. I share your desire to be paid to write, too, one day. In the meantime, as of last Monday, I am being paid to write - legal documents - at a law firm, which is not all that exciting, but it pays the rent!
Have fun, my friend...I KNOW you will!
Poppy
Thank you, Poppy, and enjoy your own new endeavor, too! I hope you do find excitement at your new job. You never know...
Delete