I had mixed feelings about starting an e-business. I hoped it would be a source of extra income, but frankly, it sounded boring. I don't like the computer that much, and I tried to be dispassionate in choosing a niche. It made good business sense, but it didn't excite me. A few months down the road, my attitude has completely changed. I know many people start an e-biz and give up; they find it hard work and dull. I half expected that to happen to me, but boy was I wrong! Here are nine things I love about my e-business.

1. I love the way my life has changed in a most unexpected way. Having an e-business has given me new activities, new friends and a lot to learn about.

2. I love it because I am passionate about quilting and handmade baby quilts in particular. Before I started the business, I wasn't too enthusiastic about quilts. As I've learned more about the new techniques, the contemporary colors and designs, my view has changed. I don't just like them, I love them!

3. I love it because it allows me to work from home and be there for my family at the same time. Part of my reason for starting an e-business was to be location independent. That aspect of my life is brilliant. Where ever I am I can look after the business and there's no commute and no sitting in a windowless pod from nine to five. I knew that would happen, but the experience is still better that I expected and I can't imagine, ever, giving it up.

4. I love having a structure to my day. Often when you work for someone else you can't see the point of many of the jobs you do. Now I work for myself I have to manage my time carefully, I have to prioritize and that means there is a good reason for everything I do.

5. I love the buzz and excitement of going to craft fairs and trips to the country. E-business doesn't have to be only on the web. I've had a great time attending craft fairs and meeting interesting people.

6. I love all the help and support I have had from my friends and customers to get me to the stage I am at now. As a complete beginner at e-business I've taken workshops and joined an e-business forum. I also attend a regular e-business mastermind class. I really enjoy the people I've 'met' online, it's great to be part of a supportive community, and now I'm no longer a beginner I get to give advice to those who are just starting out.

7. I love it when a customer is pleased with our products and the service we provide and tells us so. Perhaps it's because my product is for babies, I get a feeling of achievement each time I get an email from a customer saying how delighted they are with the product. Being able to sell a product which makes people happy gives me a sense of achievement.

8. I love my inspiring customers, they have all been charming and I wish I could meet them all in person. I've been surprised at how much my customers want to interact, if I give them the chance. I enjoy answering their enquiries. E-business is not at all the solitary activity I expected it to be.

9. I love the fact that since beginning this venture I have learned many things. I had forgotten the pleasure of mastering new skills and while at first it seemed there was just too much to learn, I've taken it one thing at a time. I know I will always be learning.

An e-business is hard work, and anyone who believes it's a quick easy road to riches will find it disappointing. If you do put in the hours and spend time learning the skills, it becomes more than a business. It's a passion.