Balancing Beads, Budgets, and Babies: My Life as a Mom of 4, Accountant, and Creator of Cowgirl Beading

Hi friends,

If someone told me ten years ago that I’d be raising four kids, working full-time as an accounting specialist, and running my own handcrafted beadwork business, I probably would’ve laughed. Not because I didn’t dream big—but because who has the time for all that? Turns out… I do. And while it’s not always tidy or easy (or even quiet), it’s absolutely worth it.

Motherhood: My Full-Time, Always-On Role

Let’s start with the most important title I hold—Mom. My four kids are my reason and my reality. They keep me grounded, inspired, and, if we’re being honest, perpetually in motion. Mornings are a whirlwind of breakfast chaos, lost shoes, last-minute homework help, and coffee. So much coffee. Motherhood teaches you time management in a way no career training ever could. It also teaches you patience, flexibility, and how to pivot when the youngest spills a full water bottle all over your freshly printed spreadsheet.

Accounting: My 9–5 (and Often 9–9)

By day, I work as an accounting specialist—juggling numbers, spreadsheets, deadlines, and audits. I actually love what I do. There’s a sense of structure and problem-solving in accounting that really complements my creative side. It gives me a solid foundation and fuels my desire to run a business with purpose and precision. The skills I use in my corporate life—like organization, budgeting, time tracking, and client management—play a huge role in the backend of Cowgirl Beading. My Etsy shop isn’t just a hobby—it’s a growing business. And the financial backbone I bring from my day job helps keep things running smoothly.

Cowgirl Beading: My Creative Outlet and Passion Project

Late at night, when the kids are asleep and my laptop is finally shut, that’s when I bead. Cowgirl Beading started as a creative escape—something just for me in the middle of everything I do for everyone else. I’ve always loved beadwork, Western design, and handmade artisan culture. What began as a few pieces for friends quickly became a shop, a brand, and a community. I handcraft every piece—from custom over-and-unders to beaded hat bands, earrings, and trucker hats—right here in Montana. Each one is a little reflection of Western spirit, rustic strength, and individuality. Beading has taught me patience. Running a business has taught me persistence. And connecting with my customers has taught me just how powerful handmade truly is.

The Real Talk: It’s Not Easy… But It’s Worth It

Some days, I feel like I’m doing three full-time jobs. Okay—most days. I’m answering Etsy messages during lunch breaks, finishing orders at midnight, and checking QuickBooks in between snack time and Volleyball and barrel practice. But I’ve learned that you don’t have to do everything perfectly to be doing something powerful. My life is beautifully messy, filled with spreadsheets and sparkles, nap-time rush orders, and dinner table brainstorming sessions. If you’re a working mom, a maker, or someone dreaming about starting something of your own—I see you. You don’t have to choose between structure and creativity, motherhood and ambition. You can have both. You deserve both.

Gratitude, Grit, and Growth