Happy Thursday, friends. I hope you’ve had a great week so far!

It is chilly here today. It’s been nice to spend our time indoors with twinkling holiday lights while baking bread and homeschooling my little ones.

It’s such a beautiful life.

Today, I was thinking about how grateful I am for my life. I am so blessed. I firmly believe that I have everything I need. Even when times are tight, things always seem to work out.

I thought I would share a little bit about my perspective on finances with you today. I am thankful for everything we have, and for the funds we’ve earned through the years.

This month, we had several big expenses looming. One of which, being braces. This week for the fourth time, one of our children had braces put on. They are not cheap, unfortuntately. After closing my Etsy shop for awhile, I decided to accept orders again to hopefully help us breathe a little easier.

Wouldn’t you know it, but a nearly $500 hair bow order came through just when we needed it. I was floored by the timing. But really, I shouldn’t have been. This has happened many times in my life.

Usually, when I fully surrender to whatever situation I’m in and step out in faith, everything comes together.

While affording things can feel downright hard right now, I truly think everything will work out. For all of us.

Deciding to cut back on our spending and focus on the gifts I already have in life is usually what I need to do whenever money feels tight.

Perhaps it’s what I should have done all along.

Everything is transient. Absolutely everything. The shiny new gadget I have my eye on will one day end up in a landfill. I think it probably is best to care for what I have to the best of my ability, without worrying about accumulating more than I need.

When we need a little bit more money coming in, it helps when I take actual steps to improve our situation, like opening my shop again. I should do this with a good attitude, and see the benefits of doing so. Here are a few examples: I love being creative. I’m so thankful that I can make a little bit of money without leaving my home. Customer feedback makes my heart so happy.

I also love to provide handmade goods for others to enjoy. The artisan community is amazing, and I really enjoy being a part of it.

All of these things are blessings, and keep me going.

About a decade ago, my Etsy shop was really hopping. I slowed it down a lot, thinking that my children deserved more of my attention. As adults now, my older children have said that they really liked that time of their lives. They enjoyed going to craft shows, and watching me do all of the crafty things.

This was so nice to hear. I used to feel guilty for working, but I don’t anymore.

Mom guilt is a real thing, and I think we need to kick it to the curb. It usually isn’t even accurate.

We’re all just doing the best we can. And we’re doing a good job!

Thanks for stopping by today, friends!