When I posted about building my business by *possibly* taking it to the next level {ie trade shows}, a reader named Claudia suggested I familiarize myself with the Design*Sponge Biz Ladies posts. There I found out about MailChimp, so lookee here! Now I've got a form up on the ol' website for signing up for the newsletter! I won't have to keep a spreadsheet of email addresses, either. Goodness gracious, that little chimpanzee took a big ol monkey off my back.

The funny thing is, I haven't been reading Design*Sponge much these days. Not because I don't love it, but because of a couple other factors: a handful of their writers seem to lead such amazing lives. I get down on myself because they're doing what I want to do, but how can they afford to play with their chickens and can and garden all day!??

Which leads to the other reason I don't visit daily, like I used to. All the pretty stuff they feature, dangled in front of me like the elusive carrot. It's not that I'm unhappy with my life and the things we have, I am, in fact, head over heels in love with my home and family and every single moment I spend watching chickens and staring into the fish pond.

But. . .it's all so shiny and new. . . and pretty. . . and. I want. it. all. . . so I eliminated the temptation for the most part, and when I do visit I savor every bit of prettiness, like the Vogue magazine I buy every 5 years or so.

Except now I know other people get lost in the competitive entrepreneurial environment, other parents are navigating family time while pursuing their passions, and that Design*Sponge isn't just glossy, but it's packed with content. So thank you Grace and all, and thank you Claudia for the wonderful tip!

Now, go sign up for our newsletter, wontcha? Then get your weekend started--what are you getting into?