2 things

1. I have a serious crush on Cesar Millan (The Dog Whisperer). I have no idea why, but he's hot AND he speaks dog.

2. My new business venture has a new blog. It's where I spend most of my time lately. It's void of anything filthy, but if you're still interested, have a look-see.

There's more to share, but not enough time at the moment.

P.S. - This is effing hilarious.

KTHXBAI

Sometimes the good guy wins

I was going to use this post today to tell you about all of the progress going on with my business, and though there is much to tell (well…sort of), it will have to wait until another day.

For the last year and a half or so, I’ve followed a blog called Xbox4NappyRash. It is very eloquently written by a man from Holland who has been desperately trying to conceive (with his wife, ET) for nearly two years. I’m certain that I’ve mentioned him before, but can’t find the link to my post about it. Anyway…his posts have been riddled with the agony that trying – and failing – to conceive can bring, but sprinkled with his unique sense of humor and unabashed sincerity. That this man would open up and let us all see the vulnerability of his difficult situation is, to me, a gift. He’s also an unbelievable writer.

It literally made my day week YEAR to open my reader up and read that he and his lovely wife are finally expecting. Do yourself a favor…read his blog, and show him some love.

Momentum

I recently completed my first major steps to developing my business, and it's finally starting to feel official. I have a logo, a domain name, and even my very own Facebook page. Barrow Design Group even has it's very own tax ID number, so Uncle Sam can officially start raping yet another little guy. :)

No, seriously though... I feel somewhat accomplished in having completed at least a few preliminary goals, and I'm looking forward to what the future holds. I have received so much encouragement, and believe me when I tell you how grateful I am for your support and kind words.

It's slow going for me, especially with no start up capital to help me with the necessities, but I have been blessed by so many people willing to lend a hand, or just offer some advice. My major difficulty at the moment is the fact that I don't have my own computer. I know, right? Kind of important. I currently use my brother-in-law's or the one at work (which I'm obviously limited by), but I just can't afford to go out and invest in a new Macbook. I know, PC's are cheaper, but my firm will be doing a lot of custom design work, and I really need the graphic capabilities that a Mac is so good for.

So if you know of anyone who is getting rid of one for an upgrade, I'm all for receiving second hand goods!

If you're on Facebook, become a fan of Barrow Design Group here.

And if you're not, here's the new logo.

Also...if you need graphic design work, contact Stephanie at SBL CREATIVE. She's the very definition of professionalism.

A change is gonna come

I’ve written numerous times in this blog about my desire to make something better of myself. That desire is spurred on mostly out of my necessity to pay bills (and eat), but that’s only a small part of it. There is a significant part of me that yearns to create, which is a solid reason that I write this blog. I need to have some sort of creative outlet, and this blog quenches my creative thirst in small doses.

I’ve felt for a long time now that I’m surviving instead of living. I like what I do (in my current job), but I don’t do what I love, and that’s just not enough for me anymore.

So I’ve decided to take the plunge, and it’s scaring the ever-loving shit out of me. I’m starting my own event planning and design firm (I use the word ‘firm’ lightly, as my office will be my kitchen table). Today, I saw the first proofs of my logo design, and I am thrilled that that I was finally braveenough to get the ball rolling. I will be heading to the court house tomorrow to register for my tax ID number, and then the rest is up to my savvy networking skills, because folks, if I haven’t made it plain enough before…..I AM BROKE, and as networking skills don't cost money, I'm counting on that alone at first.

This, incidentally, is why I’m starting my business in the first place. Because working for the man isn’t cutting it anymore. I can only go so far where I am, and I’m afraid I’ve hit the proverbial glass ceiling. Not to mention….I’m just not passionate about being someone’s assistant. But that’s neither here nor there. I am setting out to make my dream a reality, and although I’m excited, I’m also terrified at the same time.

My biggest pitfall is that I have no website and no computer. I know, right?!?!?!?!? Kind of essential. I use my brother-in-law’s computer at the moment, but I absolutely need my own. I will also be starting a blog soon to compensate for the lack of website. This blog isn't exactly the height of style, so it might take me some time to figure out how to make it look really great, but I will link to it when it's up so you can all keep up with my progress.

The steps that I will be taking in the coming months will be baby ones, but they’ll be MINE, and they will be headed in the direction that I WANT TO GO, not ones that someone else will be directing for me.

For the first time in my professional life, I finally feel some purpose. And it feels good.

Blended, not stirred

My dearest Jackson,

Two weeks ago, I married the man of my dreams, and had the pleasure of having you there to witness it. I know life has not been easy for you, and this transition has been tough as well.

My plans for us certainly didn’t turn out like I thought they would, and we’ve travelled along a very bumpy path to get to where we are today. I don’t know what is in store for the future of this quirky little family of ours, but I know this much is true….you are loved and treasured, and I am a lucky, lucky woman to have you in my life.

Love,
Mom

I did

It was everything I dreamed it would be. More magical, in fact, because at the end of it, I was finally announced as Mrs. Timothy Barrow....a title I will bear proudly for the rest of my life. I made sure to savor every moment of the process (up until I started to cry and nearly pass out due to the state of my nerves, at which point it was all a blur until the dancing began). And now that it's over, I have the rest of my life to look forward to.

...and yes...we're as happy as we appear to be.

Anticipation

The invitations have been mailed. The registry is complete. The dress is hanging in the closet. The food has been chosen and the rings have been purchased. In nine days, I will walk down the aisle and pledge my life to the man that I love in front of all (well, most) of our loved ones. I've done almost everything there is to do to prepare, and so now I have the time and mental capacity to revel in what is to become.

Our life will begin with the anticipation of a rich and happy future, and I am elated. I'm certainly not oblivious to the reality of hard times, because we've already weathered many, but the commitment that will be read during our vows - "in good times AND IN BAD" makes all the difference in the world.

I cannot wait to proclaim my love and fidelity. I can't wait to put on that dress.

And let's face it....I CAN'T WAIT TO DANCE!!!!

And P.S. - he finally got the tattoo!!!