Identity Crisis Leads Mom to Discover Passion for Pie
Like that title, huh? Reads just like a news headline, doesn’t it? Well, that’s my news anyway.
One day a few weeks ago, I had a mini-breakdown during which I confessed to my husband that I wasn’t good at anything. Not one thing. I had been job hunting for about a week, looking at job postings both within my field and outside my comfort zone. I am trained as a family therapist but have many other areas of interest outside of that. So I began applying for everything from teaching positions to dog grooming assistant. And no one has called back.
Quickly I realized that I’ve been out of my field too long to be of much use to anyone. University of Phoenix, where I have a standing application, prefers instructors that have been working in their field the last 5 years. Guess what, mommyhood doesn’t count. Not even for teaching child development courses.
Fast forward to conversation with hubby. I cry telling him that there’s really nothing I can do anymore. Sweet man that he is, he talks me down and we have a good conversation about what I am interested in, if I want to pursue my therapy license and when and how. I told him I think I should have become a veterinarian instead of a therapist. Might do that one day. We also discussed how much I enjoy baking and that I’d like to make and occasionally sell pies.
I made 10 pies for relatives over the holidays and barely broke a sweat, I loved it so much! I made 4 pies for friends and relatives for Mother’s Day last weekend, have some orders for peach pies this weekend, and am planning fresh cherry and seedless blackberry pies for Memorial Day. These simple recipes are helping me to get acquainted with “pie theory,” practice some basic skills, and experiment with making the perfect pie crust. Next, I’d like to learn to be creative and think outside the pie pan to come up with some pie recipes people will love to pay for. I want to “specialize” in fruit pies made from local, organic fruit with sugar-free and gluten-free options.
I am one of those people who quickly becomes overwhelmed with hobbies that turn into jobs and then I lose interest, so I’m trying to stay relaxed about all this. Usually that means deciding on a whim when I’m ready to bake again and hoping people are also ready to buy. That’s ok though. As long as I don’t take myself too seriously, I think things will be ok. This will be fun!
Have you had an identity crisis since becoming a parent? How did you handle it?
Yes! I hear you. I have an identity crisis every few weeks, or so. Your pies looks so beautiful. I am glad to see that something so simple and purposeful can bring peace at the right time for you. Happy baking.
Thank you so much Keri! The best part is that even if I don’t sell another one, I still love doing it! I wish I was crafty like you and Devin but that’s just not me. Hopefully I will find what IS me.