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by Hope

I’m still not sold on living in Texas. It’s just so, so hot! But man, there is so much to do here within just a few miles. And that has been a breathe of fresh air after living in a teeny, tiny town for the last 9-ish years.

One of the first things I did when I moved here was get a library card. I read voraciously. All the time. Daily. Multiple books per week. Constantly. You get the point.

While I much prefer a book in hand, with all the moving and traveling, not to mention late fees if you don’t return it on time, I’ve learned that digital access is much more conducive to my lifestyle. So now, I only do digital checkout.

Here’s what I discovered as I presented myself and my piece of mail to get a library card. They have a Maker Space! And it’s free to use!

What is a Maker Space?

This is what Google had to say when I asked it that question:
“A makerspace is a collaborative workspace, often found in schools, libraries, or community centers, where people can gather to share tools and resources to create, invent, and learn. These spaces provide access to a wide variety of tools, from high-tech equipment like 3D printers and laser cutters to more traditional crafts and materials, fostering a hands-on, “learning by doing” environment. They encourage creative problem-solving and the development of skills in areas like STEM, digital fabrication, and entrepreneurship. “

And they offer free classes…every single week! This just makes my arts and crafts heart so excited.

They have laser cutters, 3 D printers, sewing machines, Circuits and so much more. You can reserve time to use the space for your own projects or take one of their many classes.

I took a laser cutting class. Gymnast and I went to a class where we made shadow boxes with electric circuits and lights, and this week I’m taking a book making class.

Free, fun…good for all ages! (We did not have this at our local library in teeny, tiny town Georgia.) Check out your local library. (And yes, definitely a tool I’m using as I approach this Christmas, giving season!)

Hope

Hope is a resourceful, solutions-driven online business manager with over two decades of experience helping clients streamline operations, manage projects, and grow their businesses through digital marketing and technology.

But life has a way of rewriting your plans.

A year ago, Hope made the decision to move in with her aging parents full time – a season she wouldn’t trade, even as it came with its own financial and emotional weight. Earlier this year, she lost her mother, and is now walking the tender, disorienting path of grief while learning what “forward” looks like from here.

Hope came to the Blogging Away Debt community in 2015 as a single mom raising five foster and adoptive children. She’s written through job changes, financial setbacks, and the bittersweet transition to an empty nest. Her kids are finding their footing in the world now – and so is she.

Rooted in faith and fueled by the same perseverance she’s brought to every hard season, Hope is ready to face her finances with fresh eyes and an honest pen. She believes that clarity, courage, and community can change the trajectory of anyone’s story including her own.

She lives in Austin, TX with her dad, loves adventures with her dog Addie, and is figuring out, one step at a time, what this next chapter is meant to be.