11/06/2021
Over the years I have felt a lot of gratitude for the opportunity to start my own business and do something that I truly love. I would go so far to saw I was damn good at it too...but that's what happens when you are passionate about something, you get really good at it.
Ive learned about what it takes to run a business, on the backside of it as well. I've figured out how to manage my books, file my HST, run a website and build relationships with suppliers, with clients, etc. I've put everything I have into making a "Create with Kate" event as fun and positive as possible. It's been very rewarding and a constant reminder to myself of how capable we are in life to keep learning new things.
🌟I've painted with Kindergarten classes and saw their eyes light up with excitement as they make special presents for their parents,
💪I've painted with older students who overcome that inner voice that says "I can't do this" to find that they truly can,
💛I've painted with seniors in retirement homes who get lost in the moment and made magical versions of my painting,
🪜I've painted with people who are building life skills to help secure permanent housing and support them in making something special to hang on their very own piece of wall.
I've painted with people in order to celebrate, to honour, to escape, to find peace, to grow, to challenge, to be with others.
I've met amazing people, I've made great friends, and I've painted with people who we now have lost.
I've laughed with painters, I've cried with painters, I've shared my live with them as they've shared pieces of themselves with me.
I've loved this job. And I've been so proud of myself for investing in my little business in a way that has allowed me to really invest in myself, and give back to others.
And I've been really honoured by the way that so many different people have embraced me and supported me. I have been really fortunate. I am grateful.
And with all of this, I am at peace with the current reality for myself and this business. I am not able to effectively run my business in the current climate, and after being mostly shut down for the past year and a half. My business model was a great one, but one that depends on access to schools and retirement homes and bars. One that depends on getting people together. And while the reopening has been promising and has allowed for me to work a bit, it also is posing some new challenges that are not supportive of this being a sustainable and positive venture for me. It's actually been stressful. So I will close this door. And move forwards with space for new opportunities.
Thanks to everyone who joined me. Thanks to everyone who supported or encouraged me in any way.
It has been an amazing experience and one I refuse to be sad is over. I will hold a special place in my heart for the memories I have with many of you. 💛
