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Well, ya'll (I'm deep south now), I made it a year!
Young, Wild and Thrifty is officially celebrating the closeout of its first year in action. It's been a busy year, a stressful year, a beautiful year; just about every adjective that exists could be applied to this dang year, but I like to think of it as my prequel year. This past year was the beginning of my story: the rough stuff that prepared me for the most fulfilling moments of my life.
If anyone told me five years ago that I'd be a single mother who spends my days wearing an apron and goggles in a garage I probably would have thought you were talking about a meth maker in Reno; but I live in Florida and I've not yet succumbed to a life of crime. I love my job and I happen to love my life, too.
My kid is thriving: she speaks in full sentences that only I can understand, she loves to sing and dance, she plays dress-up every day, and she's a successful liar (hoping that she becomes a professional gambler so mommy can live out her days singing on pianos in Vegas with old-timey cocktail breath).
I have local friends. This is a big one for me, people! Don't laugh...
I've always had an incredible group of friends, but since I left Daytona and started my nomadic lifestyle I've been clinging to my life elsewhere and haven't planted roots or built a life for myself in one place. I have a network of support here and I finally feel like this place, Tampa, is my home. I love everything about this area. It's beautiful, and welcoming, and it's the perfect place to raise a human toddler Bunny.
I love my job. This was my very first year with YWT, and this winter was ROUGH. I started the business last spring when everyone was getting their tax returns back (haha, didn't realize at the time) and so I was extremely busy. I absolutely took my quick success for granted and so this winter was a bit of shock, and a bit of a struggle on top of everything else I had going on. I feel renewed right now: the future looks bright, and beautiful and I've learned so many invaluable lessons that I can apply for our second year in business. I'm so blessed to get to do what makes me happy every single day, and I need to have faith that, even if it's tough sometimes, it is worth it!
My family is so supportive. I love this group of freaks so much that it brings me to tears. They have all rallied behind me to help me through this tough time, they've supported my business and cheered me on when I've questioned what the heck I'm doing, and they've loved me and my child. I believe we can do anything if we are supported and loved, and I'm thankful I have a foundation for both to pass on to my kid.
My clients/ blog readers are incredible. I have been so lucky to meet such wonderful people. Everyone I get to work with is enthusiastic, has introduced me to new clients, and usually comes back for more custom projects. I get to form relationships with people, one project at a time, and that is a business I could enjoy for the rest of my life. My blog readers are wonderful -- you all tune in for every post, share them with your friends, and make me feel validated and listened to. I am so blessed!
Thank you, everyone, for your love and support. This first year wouldn't have been possible without you! Here are a few of my favorite posts from this year. Be sure to read them, and share your favorite with friends on Facebook!
xoxo
Alyssa
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