...and I'm not just talking about world politics.
When I first started blogging, almost ten years ago I still had four sons living at home, I did a little bit of teaching in adult education and I was about to embark on a degree in stitched textiles.
All these years later and the three older sons have moved out and the youngest is here only part time as he completes his degree. My own degree course was never finished, not through any lack of enthusiasm on my part but because the school ceased to exist and as for my work... it has undergone many changes and is about to do so again.
My teaching gradually increased of the years but then started to wane again as various doors began to close and so a liitle over a year ago I took the opportunity to start my own little baking business as well. I considered myself lucky to be able to work in two different jobs, both doing what I love. But the reality is that whilst doing what I love might be wonderful in an ideal world, it is not really paying the bills.
So as from next week I will be starting something else and have a job 2 - 3 days a week in the kitchen of a brand new cafe attached to a local independent book shop. I've also added an evening class and an extra term to my local teaching commitments and I hope to continue to bake the occasional cake for people in between.
I've no idea how easy I will find it to juggle these various aspects of my week but I know I'll miss my long dog walks at lunchtime and first thing in the morning on the days that I'm working. But with the prospect of lighter evenings I'm hoping there will be plenty of evening walking to be done instead.
"Is it time for another walk yet?"
Good luck with your new ventures. A cafe attached to a book shop - what could be better? I hope Hector wont miss you too much on your work days.
ReplyDeletegood luck Gina, I'm quite sure things will all work out for you.
ReplyDeleteHow could you resist those eyes!!!
Change is good, it refreshes and keeps giving you challenges. It's just another path taken. Good luck in the new job
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your new ventures. I love the idea of a cafe attached to a local independent bookshop, sounds wonderful. I hope you enjoy working there. An evening class sounds like fun as well. Enjoy! CJ xx
ReplyDeleteYou won't know until you try. You never know what this change will lead to. I have always loved the idea of a bookstore with coffee shop attached. Just don't forget your handsome brown-eyed pal.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds promising.
ReplyDeleteGood new doors opening!
I hope you enjoy all that these new ventures bring you. Well done you for taking on new things and giving things a try. If you don't try you will not know. I am at a crossroads too, not quite ready to jump, but you have inspired me to start looking! All the very best my dear! Oh, and I was worried you were going to say you were stopping blogging, glad that wasn't the change!
ReplyDeleteI too was a little worried you were going to stop blogging. I am glad you are not and hope your new ventures go well. Love the Hector photos.
ReplyDeleteI have mentioned this before to you that my DIL has opened a coffee shop in Cambridge (CB4).They are now looking to opening a bakery and need a baker!Would this interest you.Contact me if you are interested.
ReplyDeleteGina, thank you for sharing this decision with us. You are a talented and wise woman, and I know that you must have given much thought before making this change of direction.
ReplyDeleteI'm now imagining all those lucky folks at the bookshop/cafe who will be having the opportunity to get to know you and your many talents.
Write when you can, but also do find time for relaxation and quality time with your dearest ones...and that scamp Hector, too. xo
Wishing you a happy time with your new arrangements, hope it all works out well.
ReplyDeleteHope all goes well. The job in the book shop/ cafe sounds fun. It's good to have people about as well. I'm sure you'll manage those walks. :) B x
ReplyDeleteSounds like fun to me. try not to spend all of your earnings on new books!
ReplyDeleteAll the very best Gina. It wouldn't do for me - I'd never have any wages or time working in a book shop - browsing and buying (and cakes as well) oh dear 😄😄😄😄😄😄😄
ReplyDeleteGood luck Gina. It does sound hectic but if anyone can do it, you can. Hector will be waiting for you at home with his lead in his mouth.
ReplyDeleteAdding my best wishes to everyone else's here for a rewarding future for you in your new job. It sounds like lots of fun rather than a job but can you resist all those books? I hope you have a wonderful time. xx
ReplyDeleteGood luck Gina. I think it is easier sometimes to work for someone else rather than give yourself headaches running your own business. Half and half seems like a good solution
ReplyDeleteI hope that it all goes swimmingly and that you enjoy what you do. Good luck. xx
ReplyDeleteBest wishes on the new venture Gina. A cafe attached to a bookshop sounds like heaven!
ReplyDeleteWishing you luck with your new ventures Gina, I'm sure you will make it work. A bookshop and cafe with your wonderful catering sounds blissful - is there room for a stitch, knit n natter group too? Hector is looking very grown up now.
ReplyDeleteWhat exciting times! I know how passionate you are about both books and food so this new venture sounds perfect for you. A bookshop café attracts the loveliest of customers.
ReplyDeleteWishing you all the best in your new job I hope you have fun :)
ReplyDeleteAll the best with your new adventures.
ReplyDeleteI think you will be in your element! A book shop and a tea room and lots of people to talk to. Joy. Hope it works out a treat for you. xx
ReplyDeleteThat sounds so exciting (if not fatal for your purse!). Looking forward to reading more about this change of direction. (Are you sure there isn't an opening for a part time dog in that business? I mean, there are plenty of cat cafes.....)
ReplyDeleteExiting days! No doubt you'll fit everything in with grace, and room to spare for long dog walks and crafting. You are full of energy and I look forward to reading about your adventures. x
ReplyDeleteGood luck in your new ventures, it sounds very exciting 😊
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