MOTHER KNEW BEST.

When I imagine the physical definition of a Southern lady, I always picture my mother. She was every bit of fine stationary, fine manners, and fine upbringing. She was the kindest and wisest woman I knew, but never was there an air about her. My mother was reserved, but had an adventurous spirit. In her own quiet way, she was a pioneer. A trailblazer. 

She was creative and always the perfect hostess. There was not a table she could not set, a bow she could not tie, or a room she could not decorate. She was easy elegance, quick wit, and always the caregiver. 

About a year before my mother died, she told me she wanted to an Archeologist. Her dream had always been to travel to Egypt, study the pyramids, and take part in archeological research inside ancient tombs. For a young woman in the late 1950's and early 1960's, this was most definitely a road less traveled! Instead, she chose to study Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After graduation, she was an Registered Nurse for nearly 30 years, and provided outstanding care for countless men, women, and children.

There is no doubt that I got my love of creating from my mother. I often imagine her in the studio with me and I wonder what she would think of this crazy beautiful adventure I decided to take. On days like today when the studio is quiet, I will no doubt find myself talking to her. I imagine her sharing my excitement when an order is received, cheering with me when a new retailer is welcomed to the studio family, or how happy I am when a shipment of new beads arrives. I love exploring the new colors, textures, shapes, and endless design possibilities! 

I know she is always with me and all that was good in her lives on in me, my sister, and our children, and I pray that we continue to live in a way that makes her proud. So this week, I will make the effort to welcome new experiences without trepidation of the unknown. Who knows? Perhaps I have an adventurous side, too!

Take care of each other, sweethearts. 

Emily