There's always a sliver lining
In 2009 my life drastically changed when I developed chronic health issues. I had to leave my "real job" as an educator and look for a new path. I suddenly had lots of extra time on my hands and was desperate to do something meaningful with it so I started making things. I made delicious food, a quilt for a friend's baby, tote bags, a very cute fully lined purse complete with zipper pocket (still feeling proud of myself for that one). I also planted a productive garden, learned to rock climb, and made new friends. The thing that ended up inspiring me the most and keeping me awake at night with a head full of ideas was jewelry.
I started making jewelry because there was a necklace in a store that I wanted but could not afford. When I showed it to a friend she told me we could make it. I went into this project with a goal, to make 1 necklace and save myself $ in the process. Dozens and dozens of necklaces later I realized that I had found my thing. I had finally found something creative that I was good at, that fit with my new lifestyle, that inspired me, and the icing on the cake was that people were asking to buy my designs. Finally, for the first time in my life, I felt like a creative person, dare I say an artist, and it felt good!
Fast forward to now and I've stockpiled a massive amount of jewelry in my little home studio. I am happy to share it with you here on Etsy, in local shops in and at occasional craft shows. I am still working on improving my health and am so grateful that I have found something productive and nourishing to do with my time. I am so glad to have found something that works with my lifestyle and am appreciative of every sale I receive. The income from my jewelry designs helps me to afford world-class health care and continue taking steps to become healthier and happier than I have ever been.
Sometimes the best things come when you least expect them.
