Chicago Merchandise Mart at night from water taxi

This past weekend I had an amazing opportunity to attend the Chicago Merchandise Mart.

It was so exciting and welcoming.  Although I have attended the Atlanta Merchandise Mart many times, the Chicago Mart was something very new to me.

The show was much smaller than Atlanta, but still a good snapshot of what is happening in the market.  It was comforting to see some familiar companies and the product lines that they carry.  My favorite 'new' find is Foreside Home and Garden.  Their large industrial tables, vintage inspired garden/shopping carts and reclaimed wood decor were of outstanding quality. 

As we continue to grow our family boutique business, as well as my personal licensing career, there will be many new steps taken in the next two years.

Ebb and Flow

(photo of the arrival of blanks from The Hearthside Collection)

When I do get a chance to read an artist's blog, peek at Pinterest or catch up on a Where Women Create magazine, the term "ebb and flow" keeps popping up in regards to the creative process. This is something I really struggle with.

My mind tells me that to stay successful I need to stay working....to push myself to get into the studio daily to sketch, experiment and create.

My heart tells me that I need to enjoy the summer with my kiddos, as they both will soon be in school. Trips to the zoo, hikes at a State Park, even making cardboard box 'cars' for a drive-in movie experience in the living room (....that dang Pinterest!...) win over.

Being a stay-at-home and working-from-home momma is always a balancing act. I never seem to have it 'down', but am learning to be flexible.