My Story of Change

I knew my life would be a simple life. Be a high school math teacher, take care of husband, and enjoy life on the summer breaks. Well, there is a saying that when you make plans, God laughs. God really likes to laugh. Being a teacher, I earned a degree in mathematics, a double masters in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment AND Mathematics, and reached to teaching at the community college level.

I believe when a teacher feels they do not need to learn anymore, they need to leave. I burned out. I twisted my life and profession for superintendents, principals, parents and students. I tried so hard to be the person they wanted me to be and then I realized something big. YOU WILL NEVER BE ABLE TO SATISFY EVERYONE! It was as if I got slapped in the face with this message. God led me into a path that stretched me to my limits. My immediate family and friends recommended seeking help and change. I was worn down. Enough was enough. I needed change.

After dedicating 28+ years to teaching mathematics and statistics, I finally decided to step away from the classroom and embrace a new path in my life. With this newfound freedom, I finally got to learn a new hobby that a good friend taught me: crochet. Crochet is such a great art with its styles and creations being limitless. My husband, Jay, was such an inspiration in letting me find something new and different. But I still had this need to help others. God got that figured out for me.

Jay and I started to go craft fairs and farmers markets. He makes incredible things with his fancy laser and CNC machine (they are pretty fancy). I used my crochet skills to make Amigurumi, hats, and scarves. Around the same time my church needed help. I was asked to become treasurer for the church. They were financially in need of help. Help in getting back to being financially healthy. I received a lot of help with the church's bookkeeper and parishioners who were very knowledgeable in accounting. I learned a lot about organizing transactions, cleaning up accounts, and generating financial statements. I wanted to learn more. So, again, I went back to school.

Recognizing the need for further education in this new role, I earned my certification as a professional bookkeeper and as of this posting working on becoming a tax preparer. I merged my love for numbers with community service. I have a strong support system with my college instructors and fellow students in the bookkeeping program. A new career was made.

My family, friends and my faith led me to becoming a freelance bookkeeper. I loved being with my fellow crafters in farmers markets and craft fairs. I have had many conversations with crafters and food sellers needing a boost to make a fun hobby into a business. Finances can be complicated when you don't know what to do. It becomes more manageable when you have a helping hand. Caviness Bookkeeping was born.

As a freelance bookkeeper, I created Caviness Bookkeeping Solutions to help small business find solutions to their financial needs. I help businesses thrive in offering a financial compass and make their dreams a reality. Caviness Bookkeeping enriches my own life but also makes a meaningful impact on those around our community.