Truth time…
You know I’m all about the real talk so here it goes…This season has been HARD. Like REAL. HARD. In full transparency, I have even spent some unexpected time this season stepping back thinking “WHY AM I DOING THIS?” I feel like 2020 has allowed us all to reflect on our daily routines. And, for me, at the end of the day I do what I do simply because I love it!

This was one of my visits to the Home Office in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
My dad was one of my biggest cheerleaders and “business coaches” from the minute I started Matilda Jane. He knew my show schedule almost better than I did and called on my drive home from every single one to ask how it went. On the spot he could calculate where that landed me in total sales for the month up to that point. The first few shows after he passed away were the hardest ones I have ever done. There was no phone call on my way home. No one who knew my sales numbers as well as me. My super hubs and mom and sister always try so hard and I am grateful for that, but I think there will just always be a pit in my stomach leaving a show wishing to hear his voice one more time.
My dad knew my I started this gig to be able to provide financially for our family while not putting Kaiser in daycare. And, why that is still a prominent reason for my WHY. There are so many more WHY’s that have branched from my original goal.
If I could talk to my dad on the phone during this crazy pandemic I’d share with him that I know that I’m still exactly where I’m supposed to be and I’d list the reasons why…
- I am passionate about empowering other women to gain confidence and feel GOOD about themselves in what they wear.
- I love helping moms and daughters make memories together.
- I live for the sense of accomplishment that comes with setting a goal and crushing it (or doing my best to crush it).
- I am proud to be showing my girls that you can do anything you set your mind to… including be a stay at home mom AND a working mom!
- I am energized to want more, do more, and be more as a leader and as a trunk keeper because of my relationship with each one of you.
- I genuinely enjoy the people I work with and am thankful to do LIFE (not just work) together.
And then, I know he’d respond back expressing that he is so proud of me for doing something I love and doing something that I love well.
So, if you’re wondering, I’m not going ANYWHERE and I hope that you share that feeling about this #dreamjob with me!
Does or will MJC always get everything right? HECK NO.
Will our technology and system ever be perfect? Likely not.
Will customers (I love yall!) get frustrated with me? I’m not Jesus, so probably.
Is there somewhere else I can go work and have as few stressful days as I have here? NOT EVEN CLOSE!
Could I get another “job” with as flexible schedule as as much endless income opportunity? Doubtful.
Is there another company whose Home Office cares as much about the people out in the field as MJC? I won’t believe it even if you tell me you know of one!
Will I retire with MJC? I don’t have a crystal ball, but I certainly would bet the house I will… and hope you will stick around with me that long too!
Naturally, stepping back has also led me down memory lane… Below are some of my fave moments.
Also, why do our kiddos have to grow up so fast?? All the momma emotions over here as I reflect on my Matilda Jane journey.

One of the first pictures I have of Kaiser in MJC.

Sweet baby James. Yes, we used to call him MATILDA JAMES.
- This is his last ever picture as real Matilda James.
- James has always loved when we have an open house or personal shopping appointment at our house- it’s an instant play date for him!

Gosh, I love these kids more than they’ll ever know!
Thanks for taking a look down memory lane with me!
XO,
Catherine Martin – Your Mix and Match Specialist who isn’t going anywhere anytime soon
Happy for you and your success. 7 years ago, I left a 15 year career to stay at home. Still trying to figure out what I want to do. I want the flexibility to be with my girls but also contribute financially to my family. Here’s hoping the lanyard business takes off. 🤣
You are one amazing person and I love your creativity… what a fabulous example you are to those sweet girls!!!
Goodness this brings tears to my eyes!!! Love these pictures and hearing about those conversations with your dad. He would be so very proud of all of your accomplishments, your work ethic, and your willingness to always help others no matter how busy you are. Thankful MJ brought us together!
I am so thankful for your leadership and friendship along this MJC journey! YOU are one of my biggest blessings friend!