I was very inspired how the main character began making shoes in the movie PS I Love You. I told my husband I had always wanted to make jewelry. He pulled up some videos on youtube about jewelry making. The next day I purchased some supplies and began practicing. I made two necklaces for a friend's birthday. I made some necklaces for my mother using wire wrapping techniques. I started buying books. I kept practicing.

Rather quickly I developed a large bead inventory. I started selling to friends. I started selling on etsy. I had an open house. I brought my jewelry to the Woman's Bar Christmas party. I was commissioned to create 3-strand necklaces for 5 bridesmaids and the bride. I created my Gatsby collection - art deco inspired. I donated a necklace and earring set from the collection to the Winnebago County Bar Association's President's Ball. I set up my wares on a corner of booth at a Farmer's Market (Thanks Double D's B's).

By the time I took classes at the 2012 Bead & Button show, my jewelry had become more than just a hobby. I tried my own booth at a small event hosted by a woman's group to which I belong. I became brave and purchased a booth at a fundraiser. Then purchased booths at two more events in late 2012 (one of the booths didn't go so well). I had a booth for fundraiser in April and am counting down the days to the 2013 Bead & Button show.

What the future holds, I cannot say but I know there will be jewelry.