Andover Townsman, Andover, MA

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November 25, 2009

TABB COLUMN: Lessons learned as she turns to bread and butter project

Sue Tabb

It's pretty unusual for me to write something that isn't humorous or sarcastic or at least a little irreverent but I find myself in that situation today. I've decided to take a hiatus from my column and so I feel compelled to share with my readers some of the things that I've learned over the past years.

Being a lifestyle columnist is a unique gift. I've had the opportunity to write about hundreds of topics that range from dressing your tween and turning 40 to sibling rivalries and organic woes, and all from my own - some would say twisted - perspective. Having the ability to share my thoughts publicly is part of what fuels me so I don't intend to stay silent for long, just for now.

The reason is simple: There are some other demands that are beckoning and need my attention. Our new family company, the bread and butter project, is taking on a life of its own, which is wonderful and exciting but also quite time consuming. For those of you who are unfamiliar, my daughters Katie and Emma who are now 12 and 10 respectively, decided they wanted to launch an online clothing business to help fight hunger. Of course, they needed adult guidance so it has become a labor of love for this family of four. I won't be giving up writing completely as we are blogging about our experience over the first 365 days. Not a small task!

Anyway, I wanted to first thank all of you who have been following my work for so long. It is so gratifying to know that I have made you laugh or think or just feel like you are not the only one who hasn't used their gym pass in two years, doesn't believe in allowances or is ready to flush your kid's cell phone down the toilet. Many of us live pretty parallel lives and I've been happy to open the window and let you all see in.

So as I reflect on what I've learned, I can't help but think that many of the lessons have come from you. Your reaction to my work is what it's all about. I've put together a small list of things that I can take away from this experience. It's by no means complete, but it's all I've got at the moment.

I've learned that it's not about the words you write, but the sentiment you convey.

I've learned that if someone reacts to your work - positively or negatively - they are paying attention. And if they pay attention, you've done your job.

I've learned that listening to your audience makes you a better writer.

I've learned that every column, like every story, has an underlying message. That message might be different for every reader but as long as they discover one, you've done your job.

I've learned that my husband and kids are good sports about having our lives be public fodder.

I've learned that my husband and kids are what give me a life in the first place.

I've learned that finding out someone cut your article out and taped it on their fridge is better than any award I could receive.

I've learned that I will never be a perfect mom or a perfect wife but that I am a near perfect version of me.

So there you have it in a nutshell. Of course everyday life has a tendency of clouding your vision so it's sometimes hard to remember these things. Taking the time to put words to paper does force you to dust them off every once in a while and remember what's important.

We are testing the waters with our new family venture and trying to teach our daughters how to run a sustainable business and give back. We are stepping out of our comfort zone and hoping that this will be a valuable learning experience for all of us. My writing is important but it will always be here. I hope you will too when I return to the page. In the meantime, be well and check in with us at www.breadandbutterproject.com.

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TABB COLUMN: Lessons learned as she turns to bread and butter project
by Sue Tabb , , Wed Nov 25, 2009, 05:57 AM EST
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