What is something you want to achieve this year?
I have so many plans for 2023.
Back in late October, Dean and I made the decision to retire. In fact, Dean had already done so in July, but I had kept working while somedays he came along to help.
After just four months of operating as a sole trader, it became clear that there are more important things in life than doing what I was doing for a living. So, we discussed our finances, trimmed the fat as much as possible, and decided that, in fact, we could manage if I stopped working. Albeit it has taken me quite some time to get used to the idea that I am retired.
With no more cleaning of other people’s homes on my (our) horizon, I’ve turned my attention to perfecting the candles I’ve been making.
Late last year, both family and friends received candles to test.
How is the scent? Does it have a cold throw? Does it fill the room when the candle is lit? What about the wick? Does it light? Does it burn? Does the candle last as long as I have said it should?
There were so many questions and a lot of testing going on.
But finally, I discovered the perfect ‘recipe’ and the correct wick for the size of jar I had selected. I even designed a logo, as well as the name and warning labels.
No prizes for guessing what gifts were given out over Christmas.
I think my homemade, hand-poured, sox wax candles make a heartfelt gift and I’ll continue to give them to family and friends for all sorts of reasons.
So this year, I’ll continue my candle-making journey and if I can/could carve out a little niche market that covers the cost of supplies, that would be a lovely added bonus.
It’s ok if I can’t or don’t, because I enjoy making candles and it gives me pleasure to hand them out as gifts.
–⋅ o ♥ o ⋅–
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CLARE'S COSMOS 
Happy retirement, if that indeed is what it is. I’m facing a similar decision point.
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Thank you, Michael. If indeed retirement is what this is, I am enjoying it so far.
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Loooooove our candles, Mama! They’re much better than others we’ve had previously and they put off more scent unlit than others do when lit!
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Thanx Melissa 💜 you know how much work I’ve put into getting them ‘just right’ and I’m so please that work has paid off.
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Happy New Year! All the best in your new venture! Your candle is beautiful!
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Thank you. The containers I purchased were a limited edition. I’ll have to think hard about what I buy when my supply runs out.
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No doubt you will find the right container just when you need it 🙏🏼
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Yes. I’m sure I will.
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Happy New Year and Happy Retirement! You will love it! I sure do!
And good luck with the candles. They look fabulous!
Best wishes for a wonderful 2023!
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I am hoping it sinks in soon 🥰 it all happened so quickly, I haven’t even celebrated yet – but I intend to. And thank you re my candles. Everyone loves them (so far) 🤣
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Congratulations! Retirement takes some adjustment, but you’ve got so many interests I’m sure you’ll figure it out. Have fun with the candles!
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Thank you, Lorie.
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What a cool hobby to have 😀 😀 You will always be in the light 😀
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Thank you, Cee 💜
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Sounds like a great idea, Clare. All the very best for 2023.
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Thank you, Susan. Wishing you and yours a wonderful New Year.
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Happy New Year and Happy Retirement. And best wishes for your new trade!
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Thank you, Ganga. I’m still trying to get used to it, but I’m sure it will sink in sooner or later.
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It will soon😊!
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