Meet Elease Colcord of The Sunny Side of Something

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elease Colcord of The Sunny Side of Something — A funny little lifestyle blog about family, food, home & living simply.

Thanks for sharing your story with us. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.  How did you get to where you are today?
Where am I exactly!? (Ha!) My whole life I have aspired to be a mother… aaaaand an entertainer, a creator, a writer, a cook, a teacher. (No pressure at all!) All these things have swirled around me for as long as I can recall.

I’ve done smaller (and bigger!) versions of these things– I was a teacher. I ran a Montessori School for many years, dabbled in cooking (a lot!) and considered catering. I taught drama and directed children’s theater. I have always considered myself a writer. (You should read the scathing letters I can draft when I’m mad!) I am grateful that I’ve managed to stay true to my passions and become who I hoped I would. And now I am somehow here. (That last sentence is literary gold!)

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s not a good story if there aren’t hardships along the way. When I was released from prison in ’87– Oh! Oh, MY story..Right.

I have had plenty of struggles. It never feels good when you’re in the thick of a challenge or change, but there’s a powerful lesson in each bend and turn. (Cue soft lighting and subtly sad, yet undeniably powerful music.)

One of the most painful and challenging transitions in my life was closing my school over four years ago. It was a community that my world revolved around. It’s where my kids and I grew up. It’s where I learned how to be a leader, how to run a business, and how relationships really worked. I lead with my heart, eventually learning that isn’t the best way to run a business.

Closing the doors was the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make. I felt like a disappointment, a failure. I gave it my all and that wasn’t enough. My self-worth and sense of success were lost.

Closing the doors to my business was ultimately one of the most positive decisions I’ve made. (Plot twist!) The lessons I learned from teaching and running a business were invaluable. My students and their families were a gift. But the most powerful lessons I learned were about how I picked myself up when it was all gone. (Now that’s growth!)

The Sunny Side of Something encompasses everything I am and aspire to be. It brings all of my experiences to life, challenges included. It features creativity & love, humor & humility, entertainment & purpose. It’s honest and thoughtful and bright– if I do say so myself! It allows all of us to be all of these things.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about The Sunny Side of Something – what else should we know?
For the first time in my life, I’m doing all the things I’ve wanted to do at once– sharing my strengths, experience, humor, and love in the most authentic way I know how. I am a writer, blogger, and entertainer. (Hallelujah!)

I share personal stories to reflect upon and grow from. I love to make people laugh– it fuels me! Whether you’re looking for a wink and a smile, wanting to be moved by a story written from the heart, or hoping to make a shift in your life, there’s something for everyone here on The Sunny Side.

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Sincerity and relatability come to mind. I’m not always the hero of my stories. I write about my successes and failures or things I’m working through– hoping it offers a space for people to grow with me, rather than judge themselves for where they are. We’re all in this together. Oh! I suppose humor helps too!

Contact Info:

• Website: TheSunnySideofSomething.com
• Email: elease@thesunnysideofsomething.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/thesunnysideofsomething
• Facebook:  www.facebook.com/thesunnysideofsomething/

Image Credit:
Professional photos by Amanda Ambrose of AmandaAmbrose.com