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“Business mom: Nici Holt Cline has thriving multi-pronged at-home career” was the title of a Missoulian newspaper article published exactly 15 years ago in May 2010, written by Betsy Cohen. This photo by Linda Thompson. Two wonderful women.

Oh wow 2010 was such a different time online. Blogging was hopeful and sweet. Small business momentum and its brand new intersection with the internet felt boundless and generous, like fertile land ready to grow the dreams of anyone, in exchange for creative muscle and authentic grit. Back when 400 friends on Facebook was a stat to brag about. Ha.

I am including the article here. It probably goes without saying but I’ll say it: all mothers are full time mothers. Funny I don’t remember bristling at that sentence when this article came out but I did today. Although I understand the intention, I didn’t *become* a full time mom when I switched careers.

I studied this photograph today, taken in a corner of the basement in our old home. The piles of clothes on that old shelf. I’d just secured a wholesale account with American Apparel and that felt like a huge deal. My grandma’s sewing machine and that basket of fusible interfacing trials. My dark hair. Freezer paper templates and idea lists on clothespins. Margot a colorful blur of energy, as she always was. Ruby in my arms, as she always was. The wooden teething toy on the table, and the quilt top pieces on the ironing board. I started that quilt when Ruby was born, a gift for Margot. It still looks just like that. Perhaps a gift for Margot’s high school graduation next year.

I run or walk up this trail, doing the exact same 2.47 mile loop, several mornings a week. Have for many years. It starts right from my front door so it’s easy and quick but also? I just love it. Watching the seasons and weather along those switch backs that have witnessed my sadness, anger, joy, confusion, distraction, confidence, grief, pain, satisfaction. Not just witnessed, but literally comforted, cheered, supported my body. I am in love with this mountainside. It’s the most generous, empathetic slope there ever was.