Hello friends. Thank you for discovering my corner of the internet. I’m Helen, a 40 something working Mum, trying to re-engage with my creative side, find a likeminded community and, like all of us women – generally trying to do it all. Please follow along if you relate!
As a kid I always enjoyed art, English and the more creative side of school. I wasn’t your girl for maths, science or languages, however much I wanted to be, my brain just doesn’t work that way. Or PE. I sooo wish it was, especially now in my forties trying to get fit, and realising the importance of physical fitness as we age (and in a very different way to how I viewed it in my 20s, with a flat stomach being the only goal – Britney you Goddess!).
This creative interest turned toward make-up artistry in my teens and early twenties, with my education at London College of Fashion (a real pinch myself moment being accepted there!) and a brief foray into tv and editorial make up.
My favourite part of that time though was working on beauty counters in department stores as a temp to pay the bills. I LOVED advising on make up and skin care and making people feel good. I would sometimes get in trouble being overheard recommending products from another brand if the one I was working for had a more effective counterpart. I can’t gate-keep to save my life, and if I’ve discovered something that I love, I will talk about it to anyone that will listen (if you knew me last March, you would have not heard me shut up about Sainsburys oranges!)
I’m a real home girl at heart though, and craved some stable hours and to work in one place. Corporate work and a steady wage called me and I was lucky enough to save enough money for a deposit for my first home. Cue my interest in affordable interiors and home décor!
I also met my husband during this time, and being a very thoughtful lad, one birthday he bought me an evening jewelry making course and unleashed a bead crazed monster! Along with a drawing course at the National Gallery another year, which made me pick up a pencil for the first time in years. I remember so clearly how proud of myself I was when passers by would stop and admire my work. I think I mentally said “You still got it” to myself at one point.
In 2019 we were blessed with our gorgeous daughter! As anyone knows, these little tykes take up your whole being, especially in those early years. As much as I loved being a mum (a dream I had always wished for), many can attest to how much you lose yourself when you are pouring everything into another being, and I’m not very good at filling my own cup!
Slowly over the last few years I’m starting to find myself again, my passions, and my creativity – in art, creative outlets, cooking, decorating our new house (which I’m obsessed with!), discovering a new found passion for DIY, and also for writing.
Jump in and join me whilst I navigate this mid-life madness and follow along for crafts, honest reviews and general wittering – the company is gratefully received! As are your tips and life experiences – please introduce yourself!
