In March of 2011, I spent most of my time staring at a blank document in Microsoft Word, desperately willing my master's thesis to write itself. I purchased a sewing machine on an impulse to fill my time with something (anything!) other than writing. The sewing machine arrived two days later, and I took it out of the box, and set it on my desk. I wanted to make a dress.

And then I realized I knew nothing about sewing, fabric, thread, garment construction or even how to put the darn thing together.

But in just a little over a year, my talent and passion for sewing have grown tremendously. (And yes, I finished the thesis!). I'm continuing to learn and challenge myself every day, and two months ago I decided to take the leap and go at this full time.

My main goal with Brass Bird Designs is to bring more creativity and beauty to the world. I am considering opening a second shop to do these things, while simultaneously raising funds for the American Cancer Society. My inspiration stems from my wonderful Aunt Mary Ann, who passed away from cancer in 2007. This disease has taken too many people from life, and I want to use my abilities to give back and find a cure.

I'm also a farmer apprentice and want to one day open my own winery/agro-tourism farm, and own alpacas galore. My master's degree is in city planning, and I love all things design, planning, architecture, sustainability, and food. I've always had a knack for creative writing as well, and since I made the decision to take some time off and redirect my life's focus, I've started working on a novel!

This is my life, my business, and my creativity all intertwined, and I work hard every day to be successful in this journey.