Seriously, I really have. I've been a teeny bit shut off from the world with both Five Hearts and friends/family.
If you weren't already aware, I had a little knee surgery (ok, there's now 2 giant screws in my shin) in early December, which has somewhat put things on hold around here. Don't worry, I've still be getting everyone's orders out but as I've been keeping low key, things have been quieter - which is actually helpful when I'm still getting around on crutches.
I think it can be tough on most people when an injury or illness prevents you from carrying out your 'normal' routine and being able to get out into the world, enjoying life.
My mental health has been quite the rollercoaster.
I had big plans for all these activities I could still do while recovering. I even went on a shopping spree at Spotlight the day before surgery with big plans to do lots of sewing projects and paint a few pieces to sell.
But guess what?
I've done none of them. None.
Turns out I wasn't able to have my leg below horizontal for ages. Even now I'm progressing in my recovery, my knee is still looking like a rockmelon by the end of the day, which is insanely frustrating. But one big positive, I am starting to have friends pop around again now that the craziness of Christmas and school holidays has wrapped up. That extra human connection has definitely helped fill my cup. Don't get me wrong, my husband and boys have been insanely supportive and patient during this recovery, even when I'm not convinced I've been quite as chill when the rolls have been reversed - so I'm very grateful!
Ok, so what is the point of this whole email?
Well, this period has reminded me why I started Five Hearts. Why I started creating designs. Why I sort connection to my culture. Why I wanted to share all these things with the world.
Truthfully, initially it was about me - I wanted to feel whole again, I wanted to improve my mental health and I wanted find myself. I wanted to find moments of self-care so I could be the best version of me for me and my boys, I wanted to slow down and be present. I wanted to wake up proud of myself.
Then as I started to heal, I realised I wasn't alone with where I was at in life. All of us have these periods at some stage. Life can be a rollercoaster. I very quickly realised this wasn't just for me, I wanted this all for you too!
I want YOU to feel less alone through your mental health journey.
I want YOU to seek moments of self-care and inner peace.
I want YOU to get out and discover new places.
I want YOU to make the most incredible memories.
I want YOU to enjoy soaking up your surroundings.
I want YOU to spend quality time connecting with those you love.
I want YOU to be the best version of yourself.
And I want YOU to be proud of YOU!
That's what Five Hearts has been about from the start. It's easy to get caught up in chaos of life, in business, in social media but this time has helped strip that all back and remind me of what's important to me.
So I'm ready for a fresh start. A clean slate as such.
I'm going to clear out a lot of designs and not restock them. Those pieces have told a beautiful part of my story but I'm growing and evolving. I want share new pieces of my journey with you, which means new designs are bubbling away under the surface...
I'm excited for the year ahead and I hope you want to keep hanging out with me, because I sure as heck want to keep hanging out and sharing my heart with you.
I'm excited for the year ahead and I hope you want to keep hanging out with me, because I sure as heck want to keep hanging out and sharing my heart with you.
Big love,
Steph x
