teacher gifts

My daughter graduated from preschool this month. *tear* She had wonderful teachers who helped her immensely, especially in her struggle with Selective Mutism. She was able to make some friends and even (finally) speak to her peers this year. With all her newfound bravery, her teacher “predicted” that she will become a motivational speaker someday. She tells me she wants to be a mom when she grows up and being a motivational speaker is a certainly a big part of mothering. ;) She’s already practicing on her little sister. We are so proud of her and so grateful that God placed her in just the right class with just the right teachers. I made them some aprons as thank you gifts…

Naturally, I was short on time so I purchased blank canvas aprons at Walmart, designed heat transfers with their names, ironed them on and sewed “puffy” pockets on them. I’m still learning a lot about my Silhouette machine and its products. This time I learned that it requires a lot of time to iron the heat transfer material on canvas so it really sticks. For each apron I had to iron for 60 seconds at a time, 4 times. Hopefully the aprons will stand the test of time. *fingers crossed* The filigree art was from my "Dover 922 Decorative Vector Ornaments" clip art book. I LOVE this book. It's been such a time saver and has beautiful and classy designs.

back in business

Okay, I guess I’m officially back in business. I finally got some business cards printed and put my portfolio online in hopes of picking up more freelance work. We could use the extra income and, quite honestly, I could use the mental “mommy break.” I’m not sure how I will be able to juggle everything. Am I spreading myself too thin? Will my kids wish I wasn’t so busy? Will I regret this later? Can I handle this? Instead of paralyzing myself with questions, I’ve decided to press on and try. I can always stop if things get too busy. And if it’s not God’s will, I’m sure He will make that clear to me somehow. My husband has been very encouraging about it and willing to care for the kids while I work, even though it keeps me up late at night. I have some mom friends who have to work part-time outside the home to help make ends meet. That would be impossible in my situation. So I’m grateful that God has provided a way for me to work at home, even with all its domestic challenges. I have to choose daily to stop worrying and to simply trust Him.


“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7