Sometimes life takes us down a completely different path than we planned, and that’s certainly been true for me!
For those who don’t know me, I’m Tricia, the face behind Smith’s Crafty Creations. I’m a wife, mum, dog lover and someone who has always loved being creative. 🥰
A few years ago, my health changed my life dramatically. Chronic pain and fatigue (I have M.E.) meant giving up so many things I loved, from exercising to simply enjoying everyday activities without having to think twice. My life took a full 360 degree turn!
It was tough, especially being someone who was always on the go, giving everything 110%.
I’m fortunate enough to now work part-time from home as administrator for an amazing employer. My priority in managing my illnesses is to pace accordingly so that I can manage my part-time job (with lots of rest and recharge breaks) as it’s my main income. All whilst maintaining enough energy to be able to function in my home life, and on good days, that involves crafting too!
But while my body needed to slow down, sometimes coming to a complete STOP, my creative mind certainly didn’t! ❤️ Don’t get me wrong there are more days than not where my cognitive fatigue is unmanageable.
That’s when I rediscovered papercrafting and eventually found Stampin’ Up! In October 2018, I took a chance and became a demonstrator. Now I knew that I’d only be able to build this small business on a part time basis, and it is the same today – on good days I give it my all so that on the bad days, the business runs itself.
And what a difference that decision made! ✂️
Crafting gave me something positive to focus on, a creative outlet, new friendships and a wonderful community of people who share my passion.
I still have difficult days. Some days I can achieve loads, while others I have to rest and accept my limitations. And I’m still learning that that’s okay. A lot of the time, you’re going to see me crafting in my Pajamas!! In terms of running my business, again, on good days I can work from bed on my laptop. (Now this is an Ai generated image as I don’t feel a photo of me working from my bed would be appreciated!)
🌸 If you’re living with chronic illness, fatigue, or simply going through a difficult chapter in life, please don’t give up on finding something that brings you joy.
You don’t need to be artistic, have lots of energy or even know where to start. Sometimes a little creativity can make a big difference.
I may not be able to do everything I once did, but I’ve discovered a whole new world of things I CAN do.
And that’s why I love what I do. 💕
Here at Smith’s Crafty Creations, there’s no crafting police, no pressure and absolutely no need for perfection. Just creativity, encouragement and friendship.
My team of demonstrators (my crew, my tribe, my vibe!)
I have a small team of downlines (demonstrator team mates and friends I prefer) who for some reason (you’d need to ask them!), chose me as their preferred person to join in this wonderful world of Stampin’ Up! My team means the world to me and there’s never any pressure on them to run a business, as long as they are crafting, making new friendships and enjoying our products, that’s enough for me. I can also provide help support and experience to help those who maybe do want to start a small business. You are all welcome in our team.❤️
💬 I’d love to know – has a hobby or creative activity helped you through a difficult time?
Get in touch: email – smithscraftycreations@gmail.com or WhatsApp Me – 07864 306373
🌐 www.smithscraftycreations.com
#SmithsCraftyCreations #CraftingForWellbeing #ChronicIllnessWarrior #CraftingCommunity #StampinUpUK #Papercrafting #CreativeTherapy #FindYourJoy
