We had the good fortune of connecting with Jackie Hinton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jackie, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I worked as a nurse for 40+ years attempting to balance work , family and fun . With three kids it was definitely a challenge ! I retired 3 years ago and most definitely have balance in my life currently as I am not committed to a full time job . I knit for pleasure and it is extremely relaxing . I now knit for pleasure and if I find myself getting even mildly stressed over completing projects , I take a step back , take a break and remind myself that I do this for pleasure

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
2023 is my second year of Heart and Soul Beanies I decided to sell quality hand knit beanies because some of my daughters friends were interested in my hats which are made of 100% Merino Wool . merino is so soft and so warm , unlike wool it is not itchy . I found a whole new world of knitting on Instagram , which connected me with other knitters and designers from all over the world . Designers design the knit goods and before putting them out into the world , place a call out to testers to review the pattern , knit up the product and give input . This part of knitting is exciting and connects you to an outstanding group of people It has been a source of encouragement for me and a unique support system . What makes me happiest is that people really love my products . I love to see the joy and excitement iin their faces when they purchase a beanie to take home ….. or seeing the custom beanie I made just for them ., or the excitement of I yoga studio in receiving the branded beanies I made just for their studio This is what makes this so special to me My beanies are truly made with love
Was this any easy venture ? It wasn’t hard because I am doing something I absolutely love , I am retired so I am not dependent or in total need of the income , I am very fortunate to be in this position and to have ongoing support of friends and family .

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would and have taken family and friends who visit to Estes Park to my Sister & Brother in Law’s cabin : it is a very special place at the doorstep of Rocky Mountain National Park. When I’m not knitting or gardening I love to hike RMNP is a fantastic place to get outdoors and surround oneself with the beauty and serenity of nature . And The Cabin Is a beautiful place to stay and relax after a long day of hiking . There is nothing better then a home cooked meal at The Cabin : but some of my favorites are Bird and Jim’s for dinner , pizza from Antonio’s Real New York Pizza and a cocktail at The Stanley All of my friends and family who have visited have enjoyed this immensely

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shout out to my mom Lorraine who taught me to knit at a young age as well as to my husband for supporting me in this venture ! Understanding the need for orders upon orders of yarn , time spent knitting beanies and mittens , accompanying me to Artist and Farm markets and being a great all around support system And of course to my three kids who have encouraged, help set up my website been there as models for me made suggestions for shops to place my goods in and in countless ways supported me

Website: Heartandsoulbeanies.com

Instagram: Hearandsoulbeanies

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