I grew up on a small Iowa farm in the U.S. Midwest. My parents raised popcorn and were entrepreneurs before the word was invented. My first 6 grades of school were spent in a one-room country schoolhouse. For fun I rode my horse, explored the countryside, and played with my cats and dogs. I did not believe in dolls.

My grandmother was a seamstress. She made all my dresses and even clothes for my dolls (Did I mention I didn't believe in dolls? But the clothes fit some of the cats). Visiting my Grandma Rice and seeing her in her sewing room with her mannequin and all her fabrics and sewing supplies was so interesting! Some of her creative talent inspired me, for I was soon making things.

I still live in the Midwest, but in Missouri. My husband and I live on a farm a ways from town. It's just what we like! Surrounded by fields, streams, woods, and pastures keeps us grounded in God's beauty and craftsmanship.

My husband is a creative type as well. For 30 years he has been designing and building rustic furniture and accessories. It is so enjoyable to step into his workshop and smell the freshly cut wood shavings and see the wonderful patina on the finished pieces. He has given me the back room to use for my own little wood projects...candle holders, wall hooks, wine stoppers, and other items I dream up. You will see some of John's pieces in my Etsy shop, including chairs and wall scapes.

Etsy has been a dream come true. I can create and sell from my rural and isolated home; the world is at my fingertips!