"I am currently under construction. Thank you for your patience."

I found this quote and while it made me laugh, it also struck a chord because it's exactly how I feel. I grew up in a two parent household in a suburb of Chicago with five siblings. I got married when I was 30 and had two daughters quickly after that. My husband's job had us living in Singapore and Australia with me being a stay at home mom. When we moved back stateside, I felt a little lost and as if I needed something for myself. I began Frankie Lloyd slowly as a sort of hobby, more as something to keep me busy rather than a way to really make money. Then, three years ago, I was suddenly a single mom to my two amazing daughters. It was a whole new world. So much to relearn, take on and figure out. While I was up for the challenge, I was also scared, nervous, overwhelmed, sad, and yes, even a little excited. I've learned so much over the past three years ... about myself, my daughters and who I can really count on. Turns out, I am a lucky lady and feel so blessed to be living this wonderful, messy, beautiful life. It isn't always easy and I'm often still a little scared, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I know that I can count on myself and on others.

Reconstructing my life has stretched me in ways I never thought possible. It has pushed me outside my comfort zone and made me take on challenges I wasn't certain I was ready to take on. It has also put into perspective for me what is really important and where my time is best spent. Frankie Lloyd is my passion, my creative outlet. I love creating and trying new things. I enjoy working with my clients to ensure that they are completely satisfied with their items. I've also learned quite a lot about giving back to the community and on a more global level. As a single mom, you learn quickly that everyone needs help at one time or another. I've learned that "sometimes asking for and/or accepting help is the bravest move you can make. You don't have to go it alone." There are so many people locally and though out the world whose struggles are so much greater than mine. If, through giving back, we can lighten (even in a small way) someone's burden, we should.