My story begins in October of 1991, when my two month old daughter was diagnosed with a brain tumor. We fell on hard times financially and even harder times trying to keep her alive while also tending to the needs of my two year old son.
Growing up with a creative family, art was in my blood. I had circled through all sorts of creative outlets. I loved to sew, paint, design, sketch. My respite was my creativity where I could leave the world of reality for a short time and attain a little relief. It was there in the hospital room that I began to design childrens clothing.
With the last $500 we had to our name, I took it and invested it in inventory and bought a space at our local mall. It was a make it or break it moment. That weekend I turned $500 into $1500 and my business was born. It was the perfect answer our prayers. I could stay at home, work, take care of our kids, be at the hospital - wherever I needed to be. The subsequent years of hospital trips, chemo visits and craft shows became our norm.
Years later, after my daughter went into remission, I attended a craft trade show and knew I wanted to become someone who would inspire others to create. I later landed guest appearances on the Carol Duvall Show on HGTV as well as other shows on DIY and PBS. I was also blessed to partner with Cico Books where I've become an accomplished author of over 15 how-to books on subjects from floral arranging, jewelry making, metalsmithing and mixed media. I've been blessed to have traveled the world, representing major companies in the craft industry and to teach hundreds of people my techniques for living a creative life.
I've come full circle with a supportive family. My husband of 12 years continues to be my biggest cheerleader. My children have grown and I'm now a Grandma, to a beautiful little girl. Would I have done all this if my situation were different? Probably not - who knows. I wouldn't change a thing (other than my child being sick) because I've met some amazing people along the way.
I'm now coming back to my roots, designing jewelry and other art for the world - for you - for me. Giving Handmade is important. It's a gift of love. Please make it your aim to support all of us who deliver handmade goods to your door with lots of love added inside.
Thanks for letting me share my story with you!
Fondly, Linda