I started taking my blog seriously, and sharing it, almost two years ago. The purpose was to help myself heal from post-natal depression. Revealing that vulnerability terrified me, shook up some relationships in my life and strengthened others. I fell in love with writing again and gave myself permission to do it simply for the joy it brought me.
But it did more than bring me joy- it brought peace of mind. I received countless messages of love and support from friends old and new. They shared their personal struggles with me and we all felt less alone. Then I landed in a wonderful blogging community, they are beyond supportive and contribute an endless supply of inspiration.
Then there is my personal artwork. When I was home in Buffalo I got a big 'commission' project and worked for hours and hours in the cold bliss of my Mom's basement. She would stay on Grandma duty while I lost myself down there. I ended up doing more than planned when a few of my pieces ended up on my Mother's walls. Fair enough. It made me think that- maybe I could start my own art business.
I'm proud to announce that Kangaroo Spotting is now an official Australian Business. I'm not quite sure the exact shape it will take but right now it's all about lining up the ducks.
And oh yeah, my Etsy Store, it's finally launched! There are actual items for sale in there. It's a bit time consuming, the whole Etsy set-up, I've been tinkering for a while and I'm still learning. Won’t you take a little look and let me know what you think?
It feels like all of my work, tears and hope over the last few years are starting to become this tangible thing. I'm beyond grateful for being able to follow my dream.
What would you do if you were free to be anything?
Congratulations on exploring and documenting your creativity. You are inspirational to those who feel they have no outlet.
What a lovely thing to say. I believe everyone has an outlet and sometimes life, work, family and responsibilities can bury it. For me, it was only when I stripped everything back, dug deep and faced my fears was I able to uncover mine again. It's not an easy process that's for sure- but worth it! <3
Inspiring post, Dawn! So pleased to hear you are at a happy and productive place in your life. I think if I could be anything, I'd be a children's book illustrator.
Congrats - how wonderful that you've picked up a job working in the field you love!
Your paintings are lovely 🙂 I've just recently started on Etsy too, it is soooo time consuming isn't it? There's endless tinkering that one can do, but your shop is looking gorgeous. I love the set up with the books and the little plant surrounding the paintings 🙂
Thank you so much for taking a look at the shop Catherine! And for your lovely compliments 🙂 I'm still tinkering with the shop and working on my photography but in order to start I you just have to...start! Can't wait to carve out more time for painting. I'm one of those strange people who gets better at time management when I'm busy. Go figure! Best of luck with your shop- I'd love to take a look at it, can you send me the link? xo
What an uplifting post Dawn. Congratulations on all the great things happening for you. Enjoy your time in the sun. Your art work is lovely!
Thanks so much Collette!! 🙂 I feel like it took me a mere 34 years to figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up. xoxo
I bet you would be amazing at it Carolyn! Hey- let me know if you ever want to team up heehee I'll write and you draw. xoxo
I want you for my painting teacher!
Anytime! (Clearly the logistics are difficult at the moment). 🙂