soapwood's Profile

Bio

I come from a family where almost all of the females on each side are artsy in one way or another, and well, the men can hold their own too when it comes to creating! I learned how to cross-stitch at 13 and always go back to it when I don't feel like doing anything else. My grandmother was the one who taught me by letting me work on her projects-brave soul! I was fascinated by how she could sell anything she made and I have fond memories of sitting at her kitchen table with all of the girls in the family working in an assembly-line-type fashion to fill the orders (I still have the train, Grandma!)

I took many art classes during junior high and high school, but I struggled to keep up with their deadlines and assignments. It was all too restricting and I began to get blocked so badly that I fell behind and lost my love for art for awhile. Throughout school and just after, I dabbled with drawing, cross-stitch and anything that caught my fancy. Once I got out into the real world, life became so unstable that I gave it all up. Deep down inside though I knew I'd never be completely happy until I was creating and sharing my things with others. It was just something that I describe as a huge "pulling" feeling inside. The farther away I got from it, the more unhappy I became. I always wanted to be self-employed and carry on the dream my grandmother had of having her own shop.

As I got older I became drawn to things that had to do with Nature and Native Americans, as well as all things natural. I can't tell you how many herb and aromatherapy books I've read over the years. I just couldn't get enough of the knowledge! It wasn't until I was in junior high that I found out American Indian runs on that very same Grandmother's side of the family. I promised myself that I would learn how to make Dreamcatchers and beaded jewelry some day..and I have.

I describe myself as a complete yin yang personality. For as tough as I am, I am also tender. For every dark and strange thing I like, there is something soft and feminine I like just as well. Motorcycles, tattoos and rock and roll are some of my favorite things, but so are forests, sunrises, sunsets and anything that can be snuggled. I have two children and I stay home to take care of them when they are ill and be at their shool when I am needed. Creating now takes on a whole new meaning. It's "Heather". It's not "Mom", it's not "Wife" who's sitting there getting her therapy with every bead I string or stitch I make; it's "Heather" being fulfilled by doing what my spirit needs.

I believe in Heritage. I believe I am surrounded by magic every day of my life and I believe that my ancestors guide me. I know there is always hope for a better change in our lives, nothing is impossible forever.

Celebrate in all you create!

Female, Born on February 27

Favorite Materials

Beads, threads, leather, silver and stone, anything that sparkles or shimmers