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Maggie Whitley

joy in motherhood, homemaking, faith & simple living

You are here: Home / inspiration / for fun / Life around here.

Life around here.

April 25, 2014 · 16 Comments
Filed Under: for fun, inspiration, mamahood

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Over the last couple of weeks we’ve made a few changes, and the results have taken me by surprise — in the best possible way.

For years now, probably four solid years, I’ve always (always!) associated myself as a gal who works a lot of hours and somehow the rest of life falls into place. And sure it’s been mostly easy to make that happen, but as of recent I’ve noticed a strong, slow change of how exactly to redirect my focus. You see, I’ve been feeling like what was was just too much. Too much chaos. Too much last-minute scrambling. Too much trying to keep up with so-and-so. And instead of ending my workday feeling inspired, I felt exhausted. And through some wonderful conversations as of late, I know I’m not the only “handmade maker turned mama” to feel this way about daily life.

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The truth is, these changes have blessed me in big, exciting, incredible ways.

Here’s what I mean: for the month of April I’ve already read 2.5 books, taken Max to the park to swing about 3x/week, gotten plenty of rest each night (and haven’t used an alarm clock the entire month, either). I’ve baked breakfast delights a couple days a week. Our dinners are super healthy/tasty, yet even more affordable. I’ve even been creative in the most wonderful of new ways — by finally learning and practicing how to embroider. Yippee!

It’s been totally life-giving to make these changes.

What I am realizing is my family wasn’t at the top of my list. But this entire month they have been, and would you believe we’re all thriving from the changes I’ve made?

I’m so encouraged by women who do what’s right for them/their families, instead of seeking to mimic Mrs. Jones.

(Amen.)

What makes us creative women so special is we can make possible our hearts desire. But not just make possible, we make better.

And you know what else? We’re ALL creative women, made in the image of God, the ultimate creator. The misconception that only painters or musicians or architects are artists is a lie. The talent you’ve been blessed with is enough.

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My handmade story began from a desire to learn how to sew, back in the fall of 2008. Little did I know my husband and I would both lose our automotive industry-related jobs (we were living in Detroit then), and this newfound passion of sewing would become a lifesaver and creative outlet. It was my main focus for years and led our family on some wonderful adventures: quitting my day job in Minneapolis to focus on Gussy Sews, traveling to blog conferences to meet some of my dearest of friends, encouraging others (and receiving encouragement as well) through my online blog community, traveling to Tanzania and having my heart continue to be changed since returning home — it’s been almost 2 years now. YES! Handmade is so dear to me. And I love perhaps even more that I’ve been able to revive the creativity that’s inside me in a fresh, freeing way.

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What is pulling on your heart? What creative inspirations are you wanting to start? And who are you waiting for to give you approval to get started?

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My feeling is those dearest to you have already said “yes”. You didn’t hear them because you’re just too busy scrambling and trying to keep up — continuing to do the same crazy thing that really isn’t working for you — to even notice their affirmation and blessing.

It’s time to wake up.

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Today is the perfect day to make change.

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Two of my powerful questions: What would you try if you had no fear, and what adventurous change would you make if you weren’t afraid of risk?

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16 Comments
Filed Under: for fun, inspiration, mamahood

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Comments

  1. Ashley says

    April 25, 2014 at 5:45 am

    Maggie this really blessed me today. You are so right- make family the top of our list and taking care of ourselves. Bless you today!!

    Reply
    • Maggie Whitley says

      April 25, 2014 at 10:26 am

      @Ashley, xoxoxo

      Reply
  2. Minnesotamom says

    April 25, 2014 at 7:16 am

    Thank you so much for this, Maggie. I have been struggling with feelings of inadequacy lately because I am no longer contributing much to the family income for the first time. I think I’m letting too much of the world’s standards creep into my brain, because I am very fulfilled being a mother and home educator. I just have this feeling that I need to be doing “something else” that makes money, too, and it’s hard to let go of. Today I’ll start praying more fervently that God will help me see that He and my current job are enough. Thanks again!

    Reply
    • Maggie Whitley says

      April 25, 2014 at 10:25 am

      @Minnesotamom, do you want to know something I realized once I slowed down a bit? Even though our income didn’t increase, we have more money in our bank account. Keeping a better watch on it, because the time to do so is there, has made a huge difference. Maybe there’s something like that you could keep your focus on? :) And another thing I realized, sometimes our neighbors are suffering, even though they don’t seem to be or admit it, but saying “yes” over and over and over doesn’t always bring peace. It’s the comparison game… our hearts are encouraged more when we don’t do it. XO

      Reply
  3. tiffany day says

    April 25, 2014 at 9:43 am

    you are delightful and such a breathe of fresh air!!!

    if i could I would quite my office job and figure out something to do at home – so I am not driving in traffic 5 days a week. I don;t know what I would do – i am a single mom and i do need my full time job, its income and benefits!! But I love the hope in what you are saying – I can make small changes to make my days not so frustrating and difficult!!

    Thanks Maggie – have a great weekend!
    xo

    Reply
    • Maggie Whitley says

      April 25, 2014 at 10:21 am

      @tiffany day, start small — are there other areas in your life you can simplify or say “no” to during this specific season that will make your day-to-day more peaceful? I’m always encouraged when I remember what we’re doing today can change if we need it to. Next month or later this year we could find ourselves in a different schedule. Life is flexible. Don’t forget that :)

      Reply
  4. Anna French says

    April 25, 2014 at 9:54 am

    I am right there with ya. I’ve noticed since I’ve said “no” to handmade and “yes” to my family more, I am more content, more rested, and a better wife and mama. And then when I do make time to create, my work is 10x better and I enjoy it much more. Loving this new season I am in!

    Reply
    • Maggie Whitley says

      April 25, 2014 at 10:19 am

      @Anna French, HIGH FIVE! :)

      Reply
  5. Hubbs says

    April 25, 2014 at 11:11 am

    This truly is the best Maggie we’ve seen in years. Take it from the expert.

    I’m proud of you magg.

    Reply
  6. julia-tagandtibby says

    April 25, 2014 at 7:05 pm

    this resonates with me! I’m closing my shop soon (we are moving) and purposefully announced that I wouldn’t be blogging for a while. Because I really do feel the need to refocus on the family and our move. A lot of times our dinners are last-minute and random. i’d like to work on that this summer ;)

    Reply
  7. Ruth@GraceLaced says

    April 25, 2014 at 11:14 pm

    Hubbs and Maggs, you two are dear to my heart, and you know I pray with you and for you every chance I get. xox

    Reply
  8. Kristin S says

    April 26, 2014 at 5:09 pm

    I don’t even want to say this out loud but here goes; I would pursue adoption. I’m single and 43 and have always wanted to be a wife and mom. I haven’t wanted to have a job outside my home. For 31 years I’ve dreamed of having a family.
    Finances.
    Fear of people’s judgement.
    Not wanting to put a baby in daycare.
    Those are my fears.
    Not wanting to raise a child in a single-parent family.
    Without all of them, I’d pursue adoption.

    Reply
  9. B says

    April 27, 2014 at 7:01 pm

    What a sweet blessing to see such wisdom you speak at a young age (I can say this since I am older ;) ) Thank you for an inspiring post. May the Lord continue to bless your family as you seek Him and His will. Have a blessed week!

    Reply
  10. Susan Jeffries says

    April 29, 2014 at 3:28 am

    There are so many things I would try if I wasn’t full of fear. I would love to perfect my sewing and open an online shop. I would also love to open an online boutique too! I run a business with my husband and have 13 year old daughter who is a competitive dancer. So between fear and lack of time, I need extra encouragement to fulfill my own dreams(: For now, raising my daughter fills my heart(: Susan

    Reply
  11. winbest says

    January 12, 2016 at 6:13 pm

    Very great post. I simply stumbled upon your weblog and wanted to say
    that I have truly loved browsing your blog posts.
    In any case I will be subscribing for your feed and
    I’m hoping you write once more very soon!

    Reply

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ABOUT MAGGIE WHITLEY DESIGNS:
Maggie Whitley weaves her writings around joy in motherhood, homemaking, faith, and simple living. She homeschools her children, enjoys a quiet room while reading, and roars with laughter over the challenges & delights of motherhood. Maggie and her husband, along with their four young children, live in metro-Detroit. She has been writing online since 2008.
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maggiewhitley

JOY in motherhood & homemaking 🧺🌿💓✨

maggiewhitley
“We are preparing to wind down for the school ye “We are preparing to wind down for the school year with just a few more weeks of intentional table lessons. We will then transition to a lighter learning schedule during the summer months. Today I am grateful for the books and resources I’ve read that have helped keep me in my own lane. (Visit my blog to see a personal favorite.)

Even now, three years in, I appreciate the reminder to stay on the path that was designed with intentional thought just for me.”

✨ see #maggiewhitleydotcom for the full post ✨
I took off my “comparison / contemplation” gla I took off my “comparison / contemplation” glasses last month and it’s been soooooo good. See also: sooooo hard (because life is never and/or). I’ve been writing more, reading more, spending more time outside. Talking to friends faces and smelling their detergent. My heart feels lighter. I’m sharing a few updates on my blog if you’d like to read? 🌾🤓blog reading & writing is a much better pace for me. You too? Link in profile.
Reflecting on this today 💓🕊 When I reflect o Reflecting on this today 💓🕊 When I reflect on the moments I’ve felt my mind spinning, my emotions swirly, it’s almost always when I’m not feasting on the word of God. Not that reading scripture is the cure for anxiety —no! Rather, it’s hard to worry when we’re worshipping.
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#womenintheword #wearethehomemakers #scripture #dailyintheword #titus2woman #healthylifestyle #mentalhealth #anxiety #anxietyawareness
Current backyard status: stunning in wonder ❄️ Current backyard status: stunning in wonder ❄️✨
A quiet night: the furnace is running, the tea is A quiet night: the furnace is running, the tea is hot, and the whisper of a page turning. ♨️☕️📖 // We are breaking from school this week, my plan is to read a lot, walk a lot, and rest a lot. How about you?

#mothersofinstagram #tea #winterreading #hygge
I fought every internal comment I could think of a I fought every internal comment I could think of and took my kiddos for a looooong walk today before dinner. ❄️✨ There’s just so much work required to raise children! I’m feeling like a tired lady. But sunshine & fresh air are good companions to keep around. 

We came home and I made “the best dinner ever”. Max specifically announced, “it’s so great you’re launching new meals to the world”. LOL— kids! 🤣👏🏻💓
How about a little Wednesday night introduction? 😘Social media sure has changed over the years and we don’t always SEE who we’re following or remember WHY we’re following certain accounts. 

So, hello! As you can gather, my name is Maggie ;) 

I started writing online (almost 13 years ago) to share the handmade products I was sewing. My shop was called Gussy Sews. ✂️👛I love the community that has grown from sewing & sharing online.

Let’s FFW to today: Zack and I live in Michigan and have four young children (2 boys & 2 girls). I slowly left the handmade industry and walked right into homemaking, homeschooling, and encouraging women through writing. 💕📝

Motherhood has been very hard on me. (And not just because of how close in age our four children are.) It’s been hard for me because I fought for years to accept that *it’s supposed to be hard*. 

I mean, how do you effectively teach another person to know and love the Lord? Bc that’s how I think of motherhood: a calling to nurture others by studying the One who nurtures me. So I gotta make the first move: study the Bible and seek Him first. As my friend Autumn reminded me, vulnerability births transformation. 

(I’ve had to be really vulnerable!)

So, yes motherhood has fully transformed me. But even more so, Christ has fully transformed me. My list of “all that He’s done for me” is off to a beautifully long start.

Something else I want you to know about me: I stalled for years before acknowledging I have anxiety and depression. It’s hard to talk about this because of course this isn’t forever “my hardship”, but rather because acknowledging this means to heal I have to work through some really difficult things. ✨

But my friend Jesus walks alongside me. He’s already done a mighty work in my heart, including helping me process my anger in healthier ways. I’ve also adopted a heart for sisterhood, mothering, and Titus 2 mentorship.

Sometimes our greatest losses are our greatest gains? That’s what I’m clinging to!

How about you? Tell me something about yourself so I can get to know you on a deeper heart level. 🖤🖤
How do you play in the winter? // We had a really How do you play in the winter? // We had a really great time visiting family in northern Michigan. On my blog I share a few ways we played outside, plus I describe a memorable childhood game ❄️☃️. Did you play it as a kiddo?
We had gotten a bit lazy with our rhythms: screens We had gotten a bit lazy with our rhythms: screens in the morning (HGTV), playtime before lessons, and not enough quiet time after lunch. This made for a really, ummm, unenjoyable learning experience. 

But today! Today we reset the rhythm, and we have had a much happier home & time learning together. 👏🏻
Visit my stories for a quick message from ME — t Visit my stories for a quick message from ME — think outside the box in terms of how you view the definition of “motherhood” 💓😘 (also: look at my little friend, she’s sooooo snuggly)
It’s another cold, winter day. ❄️Today I hop It’s another cold, winter day. ❄️Today I hope to bundle up for another family nature walk, knowing the fresh air sweeps out any & all frustration, inviting inspiration inside. ✨That’s something we all need more of.
seriously LOL: I’ve found the secret to calming seriously LOL: I’ve found the secret to calming the Laundry Beast (as a family of 6). Who wants the inside scoop? ✔️🧺👏🏻
Another batch of “fun mail” is headed out tomo Another batch of “fun mail” is headed out tomorrow :) small celebrations like this are very life giving! PS. thinking of starting a zoom book club — I need more sisterhood in my life. 👏🏻📖
The house is quiet. The heat is on. The pages are The house is quiet. The heat is on. The pages are turning. The tea is calm. 🖤☕️🧺📖
Breakfast with Buzz! If only you could see his ful Breakfast with Buzz! If only you could see his full costume and laser blaster and of course the Buzz action figure he flys around 🌟💚💙💨someone has discovered a superhero crush! #joyinmotherhood #slowmornings #surprisedbymotherhood // Landon @ 2.5yo
Today on my blog I have a list of books I hope to Today on my blog I have a list of books I hope to read this year. Plus my reading goal for the year. And a few practicals ways I fit in reading as a mama of four young children & homeschooling them. Basically, all the good stuff ☺️💓📖 #maggiewhitleydotcom #readersofinstagram #read #readmorebooks
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