enough?

I have a big batch of journal pages I've done in the last few months. But I'm feeling ambivalent about posting them here, or anywhere. Is it weird to post personal artwork online for others to see? I confess I love the feedback more than anything, but I also feel like I'm giving back/contributing since I love to look at other people's work, too. 

I feel like I had fairly realistic expectations for what being a full-time mom would be like. I obviously didn't picture picnics in the park and cupcakes every day. I knew I'd be challenged by the Sisyphean task of warding off domestic entropy. I'm not sure I expected to feel so completely enveloped into my new role, though. I did really want to try to have a side business, or do freelance, or basically, just protect a small portion of my time for artistic pursuits. But I'm finding it's incredibly hard to find time to accomplish all those little tasks that add up when you feel like you should be "making something of yourself" or "staying true to your artistic self" blah blah blah. You know.

I guess the question I'm asking here is, do I need an Etsy shop? (something I've been stressing out about lately.) Do I need to make and maintain a portfolio site? Do I need to blog everyday? Or is it okay for me to just be a mom and spend a lot of time folding towels and also sometimes do nothing but watch marathons of Top Chef during naptimes?

And I know that no one can answer those questions but me.

I also know that I want to keep doing arty things, just for myself. I want to keep sending out funny little postcards. I want to help my friends and family with the little design projects they request. And I want to be the best mom I can be.

So. Maybe those are the answers I'm looking for. 

Comments

[Amanda]

It is okay to just be a mom. It'll take a bit to adjust (at least I think) and the things you want to do for yourself/share with an audience will make themselves clear to you over time.

I love this journal page though, great picture :)

[kimberly]

I know when Jasper was little I had such a hard time creating and taking pictures. I had such guilt over it. Now I'm glad that I took it slow and just worked when I felt like I could. It's easier now that he's older. I think you'll find a groove especially as Norah gets older.

[emily (justem)]

I know exactly how you feel about the whole time element. I thought I'd have all this time to get my home projects, scrapbooking, etc. done when I was home in the summer and I spent all my time doing mom duties. It's hard...but rewarding! ;) I think as time goes on, you will find that time and energy to do the creative things you want. For now, just take the time to get used to your new role as full time mom! (For the record, it looks like you are doing a pretty amazing job!)