The past year has been rather event-filled, to say the least! At the beginning of the year, I was hoping that 2010 would be an improvement on 2009. I'm not so sure that it was an improvement, but it has definitely been action packed. Things have had quite a shake up, both figuratively and literally.
Firstly, I was diagnosed with Coeliac Disease in February. This wasn't so bad, as it provided answers to why I kept getting sick last year, and I had known for a couple of months that a positive diagnosis was highly likely. I have got into the swing of things now, and am loving the fact there are so many gluten free options available in Christchurch. I have added some great recipes to my repertoire, including anzac biscuits and bread. There is also a scone recipe still to come.
Two weeks later I was made redundant from my graphic design job. This wasn't much fun, as I had got quite attached the regular income it provided. I still miss it a lot. Within the following few weeks, I realised finding another (similar) job was going to be very difficult, as the economy had given the entire industry quite a knock. I had thought about going out on my own, and after talking to a life coach about it, decided to dive in head first.
This was quite scary, and it has had it's ups and downs. I got some regular work from Felt, doing support and administration work, as well as the odd graphic design job, and I sold a few candles. I had my first Tea Party, and attended a few markets, including A Craft Affair, and the inaugural Auckland Art and Craft Fair. It was nice to meet some of the other sellers who I felt I already knew from having regularly read their blogs.
Then, early on Saturday the 4th of September, us Cantabrians were rudely awoken by a 7.1 earthquake. I was beginning to wonder what else was going to be thrown at me this year, I had thought losing my job was enough drama for one year! We had lots and lots of aftershocks, and I almost started to get used to them. They have eased off a lot in the last few weeks now, and it feels like things are getting back to normal. We were very fortunate to suffer very little damage, when only blocks away, there was somevery severe damage. Some of these houses still have portaloos now.
In October I travelled to Palmerston North, and then on to Wellington for my debut at Craft 2.0. I had another Tea Party in November, and then some great markets in December, including the Craft Collective's A Craft Christmas Market, and a fun road trip to Hokitika with Srey to the Kiwi Christmas Market. I think I might be due for a holiday now! I will be heading to Nelson on the 23rd December, so my shop will be in holiday mode. As I will be attending the Nelson Market on the 1st January, I will have some stock with me, so may be able to fill some orders.
I would like to thank everyone for all the support and encouragement I have received this year. From the shoppers and retailers who have bought candles, businesses who have offered me work, to the market organisers, attendees and other stallholders, the blog/facebook/twitter readers/followers, all those who have shared lovely encouraging comments, and to my husband, family and friends for all their support.
Next year I hope to build on what I have achieved this year, and grow my business into a sustainable source of income for myself. I would like to wish all my readers a Merry Christmas, and a happy and prosperous New Year.
