The Club and The List — by Guest Mom Debra Mitchell

This week at Design Mom has been great fun. I was hooked just as soon as I heard the name of the blog — and as I've said before, "design" and "mom" are two of my favorite topics in the world!

With Summer wrapping up and kids heading back to school, I am having mixed feelings again. I love the quiet house and focus time, but I also love the action of a full house with kids coming and going, and an open schedule that could take us anywhere!

I used to look at women in "The Club" (that's what I call the group of stay-at-home mothers once all of her kids are in school) and think of the limitless possibilities the extra time gave them. I was sure I'd have the entire house organized and redecorated, and would be well on my way to a life of leisurely sitting by the pool, taking classes, and lunches with the ladies — it seemed like so much time.

A few years into "The Club" and my list is still there but with completely different content. Design has taken me somewhere totally unexpected! Design has led me into business, and economics, and web science and development, and so much more. I am loving every step. But still, the most fulfilling part of my life is the "Mom" part. I am thrilled to hear that someone loves my jewelry but at the end of the day it wouldn't mean a thing if I didn't hear "I love you" from my family.

So with that in mind, and priorities in line, my eyes open to the new "list" ahead of me. Ooooh, I wonder where it will take me next :)

Thanks for welcoming me in to this Design Mom world of yours. Gabrielle, you and your readers have been so kind as I have shared my very personal life stories. I have also thoroughly enjoyed hearing all of the fun comments about the jewelry (I wish you could all win)! I will be in withdrawals next week for sure, but will be keeping close touch. What a great place.

Image from Getty