changes...

Keira drew this picture this morning- I believe it to be her first truly 'representational' piece of work, and I was so excited. And then I asked her to tell me about it. 'It's my Very Grumpy Mama', she replied.

I had thought I'd been quite cheerful all morning. I had visions of Keira visiting a child psychologist and drawing pictures for them that reflected my bad mothering. And them forcing me to go on courses for 'Effective Parenting' or something similar.

But when I really think about it, I am often impatient and cross with K, rushing her from one activity to the next, and wishing that she would go and play quietly with her toys when i am busy. And that seems to be most of the time.

Sometimes children can be great catalysts for change though, and I think I'm ready to make a few. Over the past 6 months or so, I've been sending my work to varying design stores and baby clothing shops around the place, and above is the last parcel of this kind. I want to say a big thank you to all the retailers who have supported me - and those who have bought my things, too. I was so proud to have my stuff in those lovely shops.

And I'm also going to take an extended break from my weekly market stall, too. I will miss my fellow crafters, early morning coffee and chatting with the lovely mums who came and supported my work. Thank you if you were one of these!

And now, I'm feeling quite excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. I'm hoping to be able to concentrate on my online shop, making things for friends and family and trying out some new ideas I've had in mind for a while.

Oh, and tomorrow- finally that dress pattern I promised...

Comments

[Andrea]

It is good that children are able to tell it like it is. They know how to call us out on things if they need to and that makes us step back and realise we need to change something. They are like little life coaches that love us unconditionally.

[jen]

like the picture
LOL
are you grumpy???
my sister has a big family and something that works for her - she of course is a busy mama
she spends the first half an hour after breakfast and chores playing with them she reckons that by doing this she is able to do what she needs to do after that and the children are quite happy to get on and entertain themselves

[Jessicah]

Change is always a good feeling- from rearranging the lounge to the big things- job, house. Good luck with your changes- maybe K will have a picture of her smiling Mama to share with us in a wee while!

[Kate S]

keep up the great mothering and crafting. You're the queen of both.

[Linda]

I am always amazed at how much you manage to fit into each day!But I think you have made the right decisions about more time for 'home' related things. Having said that, I am looking forward to the dress pattern, and is it at all possible that you could give us a tutorial on making those cute baby shoes? I'd love to give them a try!

[Sally Anne]

Melissa , you are a wonderful Mum in every way and I thought Keira's picture was fantastic ! She has probably heard the word " grumpy " and knows where to fit it in.From all the time that I spend with you and the children, I feel that they do receive undivided attention and of course lots of love and cuddles.You are the BEST Mum and you never compromise on their care.But I certainly agree with Andrea, they are definitely one's very own life coaches, and we keep on learning !

[VictoriaE]

Good decision. I'm always making decisions about my goals/ideas/activities based on what makes me less grumpy with the kids!

[Gina]

I'm pretty sure a lot of us panicked at the thought that you might take a break from the blog too! First Rhiannon....

Good on you for taking a break, refilling the well, and ejoying your children. They only need us for such a short time, and then its the kids that want US to go away and leave them alone!

[Claudia]

Aww, your mum is the sweetest woman in the world! Although I don't have first hand experience of your parenting style, I think the way that you are able to relay the goings on of your kids to us here is priceless. One of my best 'tinyhappy' blog bits was the rainy day where A&K had a little school going for their toys, teaching them Maori numbers - I was so inspired, I got Tim to teach me when I got home! Melissa, your love and pride for your children shines through here every day.

[kim]

Good luck with your changes. Your work is lovely and from the inkling of your family play time and excursions I glean from your blog it sounds like you're doing a great job with your kids. I completely get the rushing and impatient-thing - probably too well with my kids myself. So good luck, and well done.

[janet clare]

At least she drew YOU! Henrys' first drawing was a grumpy alien - I didn't get a look in at all.
Good decision about your work I think it's good to change every once in a while.

[robiewankenobie]

ouch. but aren't you a swell mama to make such big changes? what would we do without outside barometers? i never cry, but last week? i was boo-hooing. and my husband pointed out the obvious. that i might just possibly be stressed out. even though i was crying? i hadn't figured that out...

[Plumtickled]

I know how you feel. I go to bed and think about how many times I could have stopped sewing this or that order to spend time with my girl during the day as well. It's so hard when you have orders to fill and no time to spare. I always, always feel horrible at the end of a busy day.

I think your decision is truly the best. I wish you many wonderful and un-grumpy moments for the future!

[Zelia]

He'll be an artist for sure:)

[kirsten]

really, you don't look so very grumpy in the drawing! :)

[Helen]

As a Mama who has bitten off more than she can chew this year, I applaud your decision to down-size your enterprises and do it the best way for your wee family!

Wishing you well, dear one.
xx Helen

[kimberlee]

beautiful patter, thanks for all the work you put into this tutorial! It looks really easy to follow and i will try it someday. no kids yet though :)

-kimberlee

[Kate S]

thanks for the tutorial - hey i am still a beginner so please mind my silly question? When do you get the tracing paper or do you just use like lunch paper stuff.

[Lindy]

great decision, it'll recharge your batteries and you'll be better than ever. Love the picture, I can't wait until Boo starts drawing.

[susan]

I love the picture. To me it looks like someone flying! Not grumpy at all! You should translate that as embroidery onto a bag or something. I think it's marvelous.

[Emma (Stockholm, Sweden)]

I will be great to read about your online enterprise. I foresee that it will continue to grow!

Keiras "grumpy" pic is so sweet. Most people probably look a little more sinister in their "grumpiness"... I can relate though. When asked for what they hated most at Tyras kindergarten, she said it was to be told off - by mummy. Their responses were posted where everyone could read them for what felt like forever. Nowadays I do try to be humble and to discuss bad behaviour with her instead of just telling her off, but it is always a struggle and I need to be reminded.

[charlotte]

oh - how wonderful and exciting for you. New things are always so so good. Especially now it's Spring. I'm thrilled for you!!!

xoxox

[amisha]

i am so happy for you my friend, that this decision seems to be the right one for you and will bring you peace and less stress! it is no good when work that you love becomes a stress + chore, and impacts you + those around you... so proud of you for knowing what you need to do to find good balance and going for it. sending big hugs!!
xox