It's ME! Boy oh boy has A LOT changed since my last post. Not to fret, I am STILL making product and doing what I love but I have switched things up a bit.
First things first, I was able to welcome my newest baby nephew into the world in May. SQUUUEEEE!!!!! What a life changing moment! The moment my eyes feasted on baby, my whole world changed. My heart has fallen in love. He is such a sweet babes, beautiful too! I love being an Auntie and adore all of my nieces and nephews. What a blessing to be "Auntie Lee". They all hopefully know that I think each and every one of them is WONDERFUL and fantastic. I tend to spoil them all and think of them constantly.
With the new arrival, I started thinking more of family and life. I knew that I didn't have a balance, a Work/Life/Balance. I tend to Work Work Work. Having my own business means that everything is up to me. If something doesn't get done, it can be disasterous. I am the only one responsible. While most days I love it, some times it can be stressful too.
As soon as babes was born, I knew that I wanted to spend more time with him. However between being a wife and mom myself my extra time felt so restriced. So what did I do? I went on vacation! Now doesn't that sound drastic? My sister and I had been planning our getaway for over a month. Imagine working for 4 years without a true vacation? Usually when I would take a few days off, I would still be working/planning either in my mind or in real life. This was the first time that I had taken time as a business owner to just be "Me".
I had the time of my life! We flew to Hawaii and were lucky to be able to stay on the main island for 10 days..TEN whole days! Days filled with snorkeling, cruises, beach time, pool time, adventure and lots of yummy food but most importantly time spent with my sister and brother in-law. Precious time that I hadn't allowed myself to take.
While I was away, I came to the conclusion that while my business was doing well online, having a store front was just not working out. I have my own studio attached to my home complete with office. It suddenly became clear that I could still sell online and in person without having the responsibility or financial burden of operating a store front. I could also find a part time/full time job and still be able to contribute to my family AND spend more time with my loved ones.
WIN WIN in my book! This wasn't an easy decision to make but for some reason, once I decided to "close up the store front" everything fell into place.
The tears fell as I somehow felt like I was failing. Perhaps I could have tried a litle harder? Perhaps I could have done this or that...but in the end I knew that I had given it all I had but it was just time to move on.
So what did I do next? I made an iternary and got to work! Planning things out helps keep me focused while providing me with an end goal. My last day as a store front owner was June 23. With the help of my wonderful family, we were able to pack up what was left of the store product and supplies in a matter of days. My family really came to the rescue and packed up most of the shop products. They somehow knew that my heart couldn't take it. I will be forever grateful to them for all of their support.
So what does that all mean for my wonderful customers? I am still available, you can still custom order your favorite products, either online or in person. Instead of local folks coming into the shop to purchase their items I will deliver them to you. How neat is that? Here in the Alamosa area, I can pop on over or meet you somewhere that is convenient for you.
I have also opened up a 3rd Etsy shop. Off The Hook by LeeAnn-here you will find an assortment of hand knit/crochet scarves, wraps, baby afghans and more.
To purchase any of these products, hop on over here
For your convenience here are the links to see what goodies I have whipped up.
For all of your Bath & Beauty Needs:
LeeAnn's Heaven Scents
For all of your Crafty Supplies/packaging bottles/tins:
Crafting With LeeAnn
Until next time, may your days be filled with sunshine !
