Cassie Bustamante

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What is Your Favorite Thing About Christmas? (and stepping back a little)

November 28, 2011 by Cassie 58 Comments

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I didn’t plan to write this post today, but it’s been on my mind, and then I came across this post at Three Pixie Lane today and it just spoke to me.  Here are the words I read…

If I had my child to raise over again
I’d build self-esteem first and the house later
I’d finger paint more and point the finger less
I would do less correcting and more connecting
I’d take my eyes off my watch and watch with my eyes
I would care to know less and know to care more
I’d take more hikes and fly more kites
I’d stop playing serious and seriously play
I would run through more fields and gaze at more stars
I’d do more hugging and less tugging
I’d see the oak tree in the acorn more often
I would be firm less often and affirm much more
I’d model less about the love of power
And more about the power of love.
~Diane Loomans

Back to my question- it’s a simple question, really, but the answers aren’t always simple.  I asked my kids this question the other day as we drove home from my parents house after Thanksgiving.  The answer I got back was “PRESENTS!”  Granted my kids are still small and get so excited about Santa, the answer still disappointed me.  Not in them, but in me.  What was I teaching them if this was the answer?

I then listed all of the things I love about the holidays- baking cookies, giving gifts to all the people we care about who make a difference in our lives, picking out the tree and decorating it, decorating the house, singing Christmas songs, and just spending time with family and friends.  They thought for a moment and both told me those were some of their favorite things, too.  But clearly, I knew I wasn’t doing my job if that was only an afterthought to them.

So Saturday, while Chris was laying in bed sick, and I was decorating, I made sure to also talk about the spirit of Christmas with the kids.  They helped me make an advent calendar I will share later this week.  This year the calendar is not about getting treats each day.  I have also been making them a big part of the gift-making this year.  Sawyer said he wanted to make a tree for his teacher.  I saw the idea of making jar “snow globes” over at Sweet Something Designs and let the kids each decorate a mini tree and we put them in the jars with some fake snow.  Here are their designs…. And as you can see, I let the kids do what they wanted, so these are very colorful trees.  Sawyer loves red, so his is the one on the left. ๐Ÿ™‚

Pin

They had so much fun with this simple project and are so excited to give them as gifts, and Sawyer loved that he came up with the idea to give trees.  Now they have a long list of people they want to make more for.

I felt like that was a step in the right direction.

Along these lines, I have some thoughts to share on my own business, as I have been mulling it all over for the past month, and have been stressing myself out unnecessarily.  You all know we moved a month and a half ago into our new home.  The move was for a shop I was going to share which fell through.  And I have to be honest, I think that may have been the best thing that happened to me.  We love it here- it’s a little bit of a slower pace, and I have been reflecting on my life and my family.

Back in our old home, I could crank out the projects.  I could still be mom, but it sometimes meant I was stressed out, trying to get it all done.  And why did I want to get it all done?  So I could make money, so I could be a little more financially comfortable.

Two weeks ago, I was so stressed out.   I had been looking for pieces to refinish and coming up empty-handed.  I felt like I was shopping on craigslist and wasting time.  I told Chris I was getting stumped and burnt out and losing any desire- it was not fun anymore.  Creative jobs are fun, and when that excitement is gone, so is the creativity.   I didn’t want to lose that creativity, and I knew I needed to just step back.  I finally talked to Chris about how I was feeling, and he hugged me.  He said “It’s OK.  Jutst keep being a great mom and wife- we are fine.”  It was exactly what I needed to hear, and I just relaxed and let it go.  Next year Emmy heads off to kindergarten and at that time I will have more time to shop for pieces of furniture and work on projects and I am sure I will feel the itch again. But for now, I want to just be mom and wife, and enjoy all the little things that I was missing a little of before.

What does this mean for you?  Will there still be furniture projects?  Will there still be POWW??  Yes and yes!  The blog won’t stop, the party won’t stop- I love that party and all the inspiration you guys bring to it!  I will still be sharing projects, and still be working a little, but just at a much slower pace.  I will still be sharing all sorts of projects in the new house.  I will still have furniture projects to share as I am working on a custom order, and will be redoing pieces for my own house, too.  There is still going to be a lot going on here at this ol’ blog.  I just wanted to get all of this off my chest and let you all know how I had been feeling.

I have seen all too often over the last year how fragile life is, and how quickly it can be changed dramatically or taken away.  I only have one chance to be me, and I want to be the best possible version of myself for my kids.

So next Christmas, when I ask them “What is your favorite thing about Christmas?” the answer won’t be presents.  It will be something else that I can only teach them by example.

Thank you all for reading this post- I know it was long, wordy, and only had one picture.   As a blog post it is a failure, but the words all come from my heart.

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Comments

  1. Renee from Where the Grass is Greener says

    November 28, 2011 at 4:20 pm

    Probably one of the best posts I’ve read because it was from the heart. You are so right about stress and trying to be your best. I’m getting ready for a craft show and now feeling the stress. I had to calm myself and step back to spend time with my kids. My favorite thing about Christmas is EVERYTHING…seriously, I love decorating, baking the cookies, spending time with family and friends. May your holidays be bright (and Cassie, they may still say “presents” every year, but that doesn’t mean you’ve failed).

    Reply
  2. A Flair for Vintage Decor says

    November 28, 2011 at 4:27 pm

    Well said…and perfect time of year to reflect on these important things!! Take care, Caroline

    Reply
  3. gail says

    November 28, 2011 at 4:31 pm

    I agree with Renee-a great post from the heart.
    I don’t think I would have ever done what I do (what you do) when jamie was small. It’s a tough balance. Your family should (and will) come first.
    You are a great mom, don’t sell yourself short. Kids today are lucky to have a mom in the house (not working away from home)
    You write, or paint, or DIY your home, and we’ll be happy to share in all those accomplishments with you.
    My favorite thing about Christmas? FAMILY! togetherness!
    gail

    Reply
  4. deborah@confessions of a craigslist junkie says

    November 28, 2011 at 4:33 pm

    Even if your kids say “presents” again next year, they will always remember the time you spent with them doing special things like baking and making gifts–and these are the memories they will treasure and that will make them better parents and adults. So don’t ever think of yourself as a failure in that regard! You’re lucky you can slow down and take time to enjoy their childhoods, and they’re lucky to have you guys as parents. So relax and enjoy your life!

    Reply
  5. Sommer says

    November 28, 2011 at 4:35 pm

    Absolutely! You must do what works for your family. And if your heart speaks out you should listen. I was in this place last year, in our rental home. Trying to make it as much mine as I could, starting this business, but it was also the last year my youngest daughter would be home with me. So I had to remind myself to cherish those months and as I knew they would, they passed quickly. Now all the kids are school. I have so much free time to get creative and be passionate about my work. And then when they are home I can be okay with putting it aside, knowing I was productive that day and spending quality time with my family =) Xoxo, good for you to realize this now.

    Reply
  6. Jamie says

    November 28, 2011 at 4:35 pm

    wow, this is such a great reminder! thank you for sharing… I pray you have a blessed season and you all develop memories you can cherish for the rest of your lives!

    Reply
  7. LUISA MAY says

    November 28, 2011 at 4:36 pm

    Very Inspiring and insightful….I also feel the same about raising the kids up and knowing the true meaning of christmas….that it isnt about toys, presents & party, we do not want our children to associate happines in material things rather we want them to have a joyful heart and compassion (so when tough times come they know that happiness is not only about receiving gifts but just being together is enough)….loving, giving and serving others is the true meaning of the season (just like when Jesus Christ “gave” his life)….I truly love your post!

    Reply
  8. Rebecca says

    November 28, 2011 at 4:49 pm

    You took the words right out of my mouth Cassie! The pickin’s are slim around here for anything to redo, huh? Everything I’ve seen that looks good, is entirely too expensive and I’ve been having that same stressed out feeling. I probably won’t look again until after the first of the year, I need to slow down too. This poem is similar:

    Babies Don’t Keep

    I hope that my child, looking back on today
    Will remember a mother who had time to play;
    Because children grow up while you’re not looking,
    There are years ahead for cleaning and cooking.
    So, quiet now cobwebs, dust go to sleep.
    I’m rocking my baby, and babies don’t keep.

    Reply
  9. Jenna says

    November 28, 2011 at 4:52 pm

    What a wonderful post! The true meaning of Christmas and spending time with your family, I couldnt agree more with all you said. I believe being a wife and mother is the greatest job you can have. Don’t feel guilty about doing less work. You’ll never regret the decision to spend more time with your family! Thanks for reminding me of this. I really loved that poem too. It’s so true. I needed to read that and everything else you wrote. Thanks for sharing and reminding us what’s most important Cassie! I’ll keep reading your blog no matter what you post! ๐Ÿ™‚

    Reply
  10. Amanda says

    November 28, 2011 at 4:58 pm

    This is a great post, not a failure at all! I think its a great thing that you recognise your no longer having fun and can step back, it will make it so much better when you feel ready to get back to it!

    Anyhoo, with a new house and everything that entails, I’m not surprised, you have so much going on!

    You are in no way a failure, I’m sure most young kids would say ‘presents’ are their favourite part of Christmas (most adults probably too), they will remember fondly all the moments you took to make the holidays special, starting with those wonderful snow globes!

    Reply
  11. vintageshabbychicks says

    November 28, 2011 at 4:58 pm

    Hey Cassie…the holidays can really bring things into perspective for me. I love following you on your blog because you are so real!!! I don’t know how you do all you do with little ones. I’m in the same biz as you and my kids are grown and its still overwhelming at times :-)) Try and have a great holiday season and remember…Jesus is the reason for the season!! Julie

    Reply
  12. Artichoke Alley says

    November 28, 2011 at 5:10 pm

    Words to express what so many of us have felt…Great Job!!

    Reply
  13. Kelly at Sugar N Sparkle says

    November 28, 2011 at 5:19 pm

    Wow this post was so amazing! It really made me ask myself the question and ponder how my children would answer too..thanks for such a well written and deep post, and your kids jar trees were adorable too!

    Reply
  14. Elizabeth (Blue Clear Sky) says

    November 28, 2011 at 5:36 pm

    Not a post failure at all! The jars are adorable and you are right that the creating part of them is a great memory making time. Do what you have to do to be there for your family first.

    Reply
  15. Meredith says

    November 28, 2011 at 5:42 pm

    Thank you for taking the time to share this with us, Cassie! You are doing a wonderful job setting an example for your kids and realizing what the holiday season is all about.
    Enjoy this time and have fun with it! ๐Ÿ™‚
    Meredith

    Reply
  16. Between Blue and Yellow says

    November 28, 2011 at 6:03 pm

    I totally understand! Why do you think I went from posting everyday to now every other week ๐Ÿ˜‰ The blog has to take a back seat sometimes. The kids will remember the times you spent with them not the fact that you painted furniture and had a blog.

    Reply
  17. Anna@Directions Not Included says

    November 28, 2011 at 6:10 pm

    Beautiful post, Cassie. It is not a failure because it came from you and you meant every word. Those are the best kinds because they make your readers stop and reflect on what you spilled from your heart. I sure did.

    Reply
  18. Ali Richardson says

    November 28, 2011 at 6:36 pm

    CHEERS!!!! I love you so much friend and you said it just right! Just be relaxed and be you..the best mom, wife, and FRIEND ๐Ÿ™‚
    xoxo
    ps, those tree jars are freaking adorable ๐Ÿ™‚

    Reply
  19. Rita says

    November 28, 2011 at 6:52 pm

    I’ve read your comments and concur, however I think you forget your not just mom to your kids but kind of a mom to us blogger friends as well.
    You’re a warm embrace when we’re down and “out of work”, you’re a great reminder when our lives are falling apart that you deal with “stuff” too, and you are the super woman that we aspire to be when we’re less than energized, and you always, always welcome us into your home.
    Cassie you could never let anyone down and never do. Your family is first, this family is second and we are always here waiting to see what s up your sleeve!
    Youre forever follower and friend ๐Ÿ™‚ Rita

    Reply
  20. Lisa @ Before Meets After says

    November 28, 2011 at 6:57 pm

    Well said ๐Ÿ™‚ I think your kids will agree that spending time with them is far more important! I hope you do take a break and spend this special time of year with your family. They’re only young once!

    Reply
  21. Lisa @ Shine Your Light says

    November 28, 2011 at 7:28 pm

    Cassie, a beautiful post that I’m sure resounds with many moms. In the blink of an eye your babies will be in school full time, and your life will be busy with their interests outside the home. Enjoy this lovely time while they are small…..God gave them to YOU for a reason!!! And they are so lucky to have you for a momma!

    Reply
  22. Twice Nice says

    November 28, 2011 at 7:59 pm

    A Wonderful post I would say. We all have these seasons in our lives, and it is great that you are celebrating the season you are in now. Have a blessed Christmas with your family!
    Deb

    Reply
  23. Lisa @ Turning Tables says

    November 28, 2011 at 8:00 pm

    You have such a way with words, my friend. And the real beauty is how much you truly mean them. I am SO proud of you for honing in on what really feels important to you RIGHT NOW, and focusing on that. That is not to say that it may not change before you think it should, but right now, your heart feels that this is right, and I applaud you. You are a wonderful friend (even from afar) and I can only imagine how amazing of a mama and wife you are! They are a lucky trio!
    xo Happy Monday!

    Reply
  24. Suzy www.savedbysuzy.blogspot.com says

    November 28, 2011 at 8:02 pm

    Such a great post Cassie! I’ve reflecting on these very same issues lately. It’s so easy to get caught up in blogging and projects, that I sometimes feel like I’m neglecting my kids. They will never be 3, 6, and 9 years old again, but my hobbies will still be there when they are grown and gone. I left a law career to be a stay at home mom, but haven’t felt like I have been a very good one lately. I too am taking a step back from projects and blogging and trying to focus more on my family. Thank you for your post. It’s so reassuring to know that others feel the same way.

    Reply
  25. Restyled Vintage says

    November 28, 2011 at 9:10 pm

    You brought tears to my eyes Cassie…I read the same poem yesterday too, and felt guilty. I am always trying to get ‘my’ stuff done but it is at the expense of time with my kids. Everyone else int he comments above mine has kind of said something that I would have said too. Just know that lots of us are the same, all over the world, when it comes to our passions, our kids, and fitting it all in. The guilty feelings we have about our kids and how we could do better are hard to deal with but also reminds us that we care about being good mothers ๐Ÿ™‚ On that note, I am shutting my laptop lid!

    xx Karen

    Reply
  26. Rosemary@villabarnes says

    November 28, 2011 at 10:30 pm

    It’s okay to step back Cassie. I enjoy your furniture, but I care about you more. Enjoy your family and pace yourself. I’ve had to step back many times. My favorite thing about Christmas is getting together with family and friends. Speaking of which, I teared up a bit on family time. My youngest son hates it when I work too much. Even before he was born. I had a regular 9 to 5. The doctor thought he was coming early, and told me I had to take leave early. Well, he didn’t come early. He always tells me he just wanted me to rest. He’s a teen now, but still brings me back down when I overdo it.

    Reply
  27. Angie says

    November 28, 2011 at 10:34 pm

    this is such a great post. i have always wondered how you manage to crank out sooo many projects and keep everything afloat- and you post SO OFTEN that I am always amazed. It is nice to hear from the hearts of other moms, friends, DIY-enthusiasts, and bloggers. It is so very healthy to assess our balance- to cut back in some places and give more to others. Thanks for the honest post. And, btw, for me, it’s not really about the furniture when i read your blog. It’s just about you and watching you and seeing what you are up to. Don’t feel any pressure from my corner to crank out the projects! Keep writing and momming and sharing your amazing personality with us!

    hugs- angie @ seriouslyahomemaker

    Reply
  28. Jaime says

    November 28, 2011 at 10:53 pm

    Cassie you bring up some excellent ‘life reminders’ at a most appropriate time. I struggle with feelings of guilt and selfishness all the time. Your reflections are heartfelt and so genuine, thank you for sharing.

    Reply
  29. Laurie LW says

    November 28, 2011 at 10:56 pm

    You always need to do what is best for you and your family. You will rock at whatever you do, and however you do it. Focus on the new house and family. We will always be here.

    Reply
  30. Sarah says

    November 28, 2011 at 11:14 pm

    I love this post! Every once and awhile, a post full of meaning like this adds a lot to a blog I think. I think it’s great that you and your family are taking the time to step back and reflect on your lives and make changes you feel are important, more power to you!

    Reply
  31. Katie says

    November 29, 2011 at 12:06 am

    What a great reminder to follow your heart! Love the snow globes! Blessings to you and your family.

    Reply
  32. Tracy's Trinkets and Treasures says

    November 29, 2011 at 12:18 am

    You rock. Love this post and you. ๐Ÿ™‚

    Reply
  33. Sharon @ Elizabeth & Co. says

    November 29, 2011 at 12:23 am

    Well said Cassie! I’m glad you are taking the time to be true to yourself. Sometimes we get so caught up in being busy that we forget to step back and think about what’s really important to us. A good lesson for all of us! And even though things don’t always work out they way we expect them to, but sometimes they work out even better!

    Reply
  34. Courtney says

    November 29, 2011 at 1:26 am

    Thanks for sharing this Cassie!! Courage always pays off…look how many of us are in the same boat! I love your honesty! It makes me feel as though I’m not the only one who’s felt this way!!
    I sold my half of a hairdressing business so I could be a mum first…I lost a good freind in the process which has been hard. But definately worth it in the long run to be able to BE with my two children!
    Thanks again, Cassie!!

    Reply
  35. 17 Perth says

    November 29, 2011 at 1:48 am

    I love this post. Thank you for your honesty. Your children are lucky to have such a wonderful mom who is so introspective about how she is, wants she wants to instill in them, and in how you present yourself to them. I am excited for you in this new “place” to just be and I wish you all the best. xx

    Reply
  36. Suzanne@Meridian Road says

    November 29, 2011 at 2:24 am

    As a blog post, it was wonderful, Cassie. I read every word, and I think you’re making the exact right decision.

    Reply
  37. Nicole {Home for Hire} says

    November 29, 2011 at 3:13 am

    Cassie-thank you for your encouraging words! Although we don’t have any kiddos yet, I know it will important for us to teach our kids about more than presents! You are doing a wonderful job! I know how it can feel to get in a rut too–I just finished making all sorts of stuff for the store and now I don’t feel like doing one Christmas craft. And you know what, I’m not going to unless I want to. Enjoy the time with your kids and making all sorts of lovely traditions!

    Reply
  38. Andrea says

    November 29, 2011 at 3:17 am

    What a heartfelt, honest post. I too feel like my most important job on earth is to be a good mom and wife. It really is the most important thing. My mom said something to me this weekend,that really made me think. She said she prays everyday that her children live the life they need to in order to get to heaven. Because in the end, that’s all that really matters. I love your honesty!

    Reply
  39. DecorandtheDog says

    November 29, 2011 at 3:27 am

    Great post!

    I’ve been struggling with money/happiness lately. I picked a career that isn’t a good fit for me but I’ve become accustomed to a lifestyle based on my salary. I hope I can break myself free of this viscous spend money because my career sucks but I have to stay there because I spend money. You definitely aren’t alone in this struggle!

    Reply
  40. Korrie@RedHenHome says

    November 29, 2011 at 4:43 am

    I hope you find the balance that works best for your family. I think it’s something we all struggle with!

    Reply
  41. Kim @ A Brush of Whimsy says

    November 29, 2011 at 4:50 am

    You will never regret following your heart in this way, Cassie!

    Reply
  42. Carmel @ Our Fifth House says

    November 29, 2011 at 2:00 pm

    You have the best heart friend! Thanks so much for sharing.

    Reply
  43. Kara @ June & Bear says

    November 29, 2011 at 2:10 pm

    Balance is so important and it becomes so obvious when it’s just not working. Finding a way to reclaim it can be so challenging. I hope you find what you need and I’m sure you will. And for the record, taking June to shop for our Christmas angel kids was so painful because her little four year old brain kept going back to her own list–if we keep trying, they will eventually get it.

    Reply
  44. Mikle says

    November 29, 2011 at 2:12 pm

    One last opportunity for you to consider; a cut-price bunk bed can sometimes be discovered on display on a shop floor. Sometimes, you will find display bunks that are put up as an example model of the Adult Loft Beds and these are often greatly reduced in price, and, after a prudent safety inspection confirming that nothing is wrong, then this provides an opportune method in picking up a cheap bunk bed.

    Reply
  45. Hyphen Interiors says

    November 29, 2011 at 2:46 pm

    Aw, what a great post! I think it’s great that you have your priorities in order. No need to stress over it all – great conclusion. I liked what you said about creativity is born from excitement and passion. Without those things, there is no creativity.

    Reply
  46. Amy of The Salvage Collection says

    November 29, 2011 at 2:56 pm

    okay, you already got 45 comments so i probably could keep my mouth shut. but i can’t seem to keep my mouth shut. ever.

    my two cents….stop doing pieces for others (except the custom/paid kind) and focus on your own home. i always feel creatively limited when i finish a piece to sell b/c i tend to stay bland so that it will work w/ many styles/tastes. soon enough, i feel bland and unmotivated.

    lately, i’ve been tossing that bland safety net out the window and i’m feeling refreshed and full of (wacky) ideas. and, yes, i’ll be posting about it today…and may have to mention your name along the way!!

    deep breath.

    now go wild!

    Reply
  47. Good Time Charlie says

    November 29, 2011 at 6:11 pm

    I am so glad you shared this, I am in the same boat. I am still finding the deals on Craigslist, I committed to a space to sell my furniture, but I was amping myself up for what? Extra money, not worth the stress. I had a little bit of a BIG wake up call when I had a week of horrible insomnia, I blogged about it and how it caused me to change. My body was telling me loud and clear I needed to slow down. I am packing up all my “stuff” to take down to my store for the holidays. There was so much more I wanted to do, but not enough time. I asked my husband last night if he had noticed I wasn’t “stressing out”. He had and was very grateful. I have really adopted the attitude that I will not work myself into a frenzy, ever again. Some stuff won’t get done, and that is O.K.! It is not worth my health, the stress it puts on my family, and my general anxiety that always accompanies it.

    We have lived in our house for almost 8 years now. There are so many things that are not done, projects I want to do, things I want to change. I have made time to actually do these projects. It fills me so much more than the money in my bank account. So, I have cut back on my extras, (pedicures not regularly scheduled now, massages, special occasions only, eating out, rarely, not buying too much for myself). These all seem like small sacrifices and a huge trade for the joy and satisfaction I am getting in finally finishing things in my home I have wanted to do for years.

    So good for you that you have come to this decision. My kids are getting so busy with the activities they are involved in. I only have 3 1/2 more years with my oldest before she heads off to college. I don’t want to miss these last years of being a mommy. I am still working, still enjoying it, but have cut wayyyyyy back, and oh my, it feels so good.

    Have a great day. -K

    Reply
  48. Kate says

    November 29, 2011 at 6:44 pm

    Those trees are the cutest things. ๐Ÿ™‚

    Wonderful post. I think spending time with family, and really enjoying it and taking in that we are all so great (and grateful!) and happy is so important.

    It’s interesting to read that you’re going to slow down on the projects. I admit, I was always amazed at how you seemed to complete one project after another so quickly – it had to be exhausting!

    Reply
  49. Allison@FabRehab says

    November 29, 2011 at 9:50 pm

    I totally missed this yesterday…but I’m so glad I read it today. I am sitting in the waiting room at Children’s waiting for J to get out of surgery….there will always be furniture to find and refinish. Good for you…you are a fantastic mom!

    Reply
  50. Meg and Mum's says

    November 29, 2011 at 10:35 pm

    Beautifully said Cassie! So often when we read blog posts we are only scratching the surface of who that person really is. I felt the exact same way a couple of months ago. I had committed to having a stall in a market and had a deadline to have my stuff ready. I fell in a crumbling heap. It took all the fun and creativity out of what I was doing and why I was doing it, to the point of resenting it! I am very happy with my three jobs (being a Mum, part time legal secretary and part time furniture restorer). Why would I put this pressure on myself? Anyway, once I rang and cancelled it I felt the weight of the world lift of my shoulders. Life is too short. It’s tough to balance but when you do it can be so rewarding. Have fun getting back to your life and kids Cassie. Sounds good to me x

    Reply
  51. Allison says

    November 30, 2011 at 4:23 am

    I loved this post, Cassie. Honest and from your heart. I admire you so much and you inspire all of us on a daily basis. You are a great mom, a great wife, a great friend and a great role model. Thanks for sharing this with us! Of course you know I will always follow you!

    Reply
  52. Maury says

    November 30, 2011 at 2:04 pm

    I love your blog for so much more than furniture makeovers… you put so much of yourself into and that’s why people read. I love hearing about family, life, good stuff, bad stuff, that’s what makes you and your blog special. When the furniture makeovers are back, I think you’ll find that your blog has grown, not shrunk.

    Reply
  53. Gwen @ The Bold Abode says

    November 30, 2011 at 2:49 pm

    Your so sweet. Live your life. Love your babies. I’ll still be here, and I have a suspicion others will be too…

    Reply
  54. Junky Vagabond says

    November 30, 2011 at 4:59 pm

    Finding balance is hard enough with just family…throw in blogging and a creative business and it can get out of control so quickly! Your husband is a gem – pull back and do what makes you happy, show us some of the stuff to make us happy; we’ll stick around ๐Ÿ™‚ -Jill

    Reply
  55. Kacey says

    December 1, 2011 at 12:11 am

    Oh, Cassie – you’ve got the right idea! Clearly you’ve struck a chord with this post. I agree wholeheartedly with everything you said. A few months ago, we were swamped with custom orders and trying so hard to get it all done that it was really affecting our family. There just wasn’t time to accomplish everything! We decided to take a step back and stop accepting custom orders, allowing us to continue working on furniture, but at our own pace. I have to admit, it’s been a HUGE stress reliever. And we have so much more time now! The pressure to please everyone was just so overwhelming – and to not have that and be able to spend much more quality time with our sweet boys? Priceless!

    Good for you for listening to your heart!

    ♥ Kacey

    Reply
  56. hilary@oldhousetruelove says

    December 1, 2011 at 11:09 am

    i am sticking with you… family is most important… you are doing the right thing, i know exactly how you feel with three little ones under my wing. have fun! : )

    Reply
  57. rachel @ gilly grey says

    December 4, 2011 at 2:12 am

    Oh good, so I’m not the only one?! Didn’t it feel good to get this out. Thanks for always being so supportive. We’ll get back out track one day ๐Ÿ™‚

    Rachel
    xoxo

    Reply
  58. Chrissie says

    December 7, 2011 at 2:34 am

    Wow Cassie. This one really hits home. Thanks for the post. I know exactly how you feel :), you are doing the right thing!

    Reply

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Hi, I’m Cassie!

I believe that you don't have to spend a lot of money to live a beautiful life and be your best self.ย  Here you will find budget friendly ideas to live happily, healthily, sustainably, and most importantly authentically.ย  We all get one chance at this life,ย and this ordinary girl plans to make hers extraordinary. How about you? Read more...
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Hi! I'm Cassie.

Mother, wife, shop owner, blogger, writer, incurable diy-er, furniture painter, coffee and wine drinker, friend. Seeking happiness and passing it on. Read Moreโ€ฆ

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