“When you take time to do what you love, you’re not losing yourself—you’re finding yourself again.”
For the longest time, I wanted to try something new — painting, cooking, baking, blogging, wood carving, drawing, knitting, and so much more. I had plenty of ideas, but never enough energy or time.
As a General Manager, my days were always filled with responsibilities — phone in hand, problems to solve, things that constantly came up. I barely had time for myself, let alone for hobbies or self-discovery. But when I became a stay-at-home mom, life slowed down just enough for me to finally explore something I had long been craving: finding my purpose through a new hobby.
I decided to start small, with something that was already a part of my family’s story — baking. It felt familiar yet exciting, something that could fit into my schedule while allowing me to create and connect.
My husband was incredibly supportive from the very beginning. He encouraged me every step of the way. When I struggled, he listened, watched patiently, and helped me figure things out. I still remember him buying me the starter tools I needed — it felt like the beginning of something special.
The first time I made icing, I struggled so much. Something that looked so easy turned out to be the hardest part! I was frustrated, overwhelmed, and yes, I even cried. But my husband was right there — motivating me, reminding me that mistakes were part of the process. That support meant the world to me.
Then came the breakthrough. The first time I got the icing just right, I jumped up, screamed with joy, and called him over. When I decorated my first batch of cupcakes, I felt so proud. My oldest daughter looked at me with those wide, proud eyes — a look I’ll never forget. In that moment, I realized I had created something beautiful and delicious with my own two hands.
That’s when I fell in love with baking.
It started as a hobby, but soon became my escape, my peace, my joy, and my dream. My husband and I began baking together — me with cupcakes and mini cakes, him with homemade bread. We even started selling our treats at our little farm stand in front of our home.
Some of my favorite memories are those late nights when, after the girls were asleep, I’d sneak back into the kitchen for my “me time.” I’d bake something special to surprise my family in the morning — though my husband always got a taste first (he’s my official taste tester, of course!).
Baking has brought us closer as a family. It’s more than a hobby now; it’s part of who we are. It taught me patience, creativity, and balance — and it reminded me that self-care isn’t always about quiet moments alone; sometimes, it’s about doing what you love with the people you love most.
So, if there’s something you’ve always wanted to try — do it. Maybe it’s painting, gardening, photography, or learning an instrument. Don’t worry if it doesn’t work out. Try the next thing. Keep exploring. Because this is your time — to unwind, to grow, to love yourself, and to rediscover what makes you happy.
You never know — your next hobby might just become your greatest passion too.
💕 Gentle Reminder for Moms:
Mama, you deserve time for you. It’s okay to step back, to rest, to try new things, and to find joy in small moments. Self-care doesn’t have to be fancy—it can be as simple as doing something that makes your heart smile. You are not “just a mom.” You’re a woman with dreams, talents, and passions waiting to bloom. So go ahead, explore, create, and let yourself shine. You deserve every bit of it. 💗
AUTHOR: NEMESIS N. ESCOBAR-CRUZ
From Where I Started to Where I Am — Still Blooming🌸
Looking back at my very first cupcakes remind me how far I’ve come — and how much I’m still learning every day. What began as a simple hobby has turned into a passion filled with love, patience, and growth. Each batch, each swirl of icing, tells a story of progress, purpose, and grace. I’m not perfect, but I’m proud — because every creation brings me one step closer to the baker, the woman, and the mom I’m becoming.
