And that’s a wrap! PHEW, what a year. As we cruise towards 2024, I wanted to take a sec to share an overview of my year in business in business with you. Et voila—

I started off the year trying to work during nap time.

I felt incredibly stressed all the time and got nothing done. I felt disillusioned and disappointed in myself. When I was considering starting my family and while I was pregnant, I saw moms constantly posting things like “So glad my business gives me the flexibility to work while baby sleeps!” I kept wondering why I couldn’t achieve that ‘balance’…was I doing something wrong? Over time I realized my brain needs large chunks of structured time to think creatively. I need time to ideate and ruminate, not just sit down and write. That lack of buffer time was really hampering my ability to write creatively.

Then in April, we moved from Texas to Connecticut.

In late March, my husband accepted a promotion, which meant we would need to move to Connecticut. We were thrilled because we love the North East, but also incredible overwhelmed. If you’ve ever moved cross country, you know how time-consuming it is! I basically put my work on hold and spent my entire spring packing boxes and making plans for the move.

In June, I decided to enroll my baby in daycare.

Once we got somewhat settled in Connecticut, I decided I needed support. My mantra as a mom is “Ask for help before you get desperate.” I was feeling pretty desperate trying to watch the baby full-time without family nearby, plus my husband was working longer hours to adjust to his new role. So I decided daycare was the best route. It was tough at first but now he loves it and is thriving! I was finally able to focus on my work, and completed some awesome projects like a website for the candle brand Liminal Weaver, and a sales page for designer Bethany McCamish of Bethany Works.

I had some major setbacks and challenges this year.

Technological tragedies (it’s a thing), conflicts, previous partnerships that faded, getting ghosted, having surgery, feeling directionless…

I had some major wins and breakthroughs this year.

Working with a great coach, booking awesome clients, getting back in my social media groove, watching my baby grow…

My main takeaway?

Business, like life, is not just one thing. Sometimes it’s great, sometimes it’s hard. I’m so proud of myself for everything I’ve experienced this year, and I can’t wait to see what unfolds in 2024.

Thanks for being here! Feel free to check out this post on Instagram if you want a prettier version. 🙂