7 years..Doesn't it go by in a blink?

Seven years ago today I had brain surgery to fix a malformation of my brain called an Arnold Chiari.

Longs story short my brain is positioned in such a way that there isn't enough room for it in my head. So my brain is shoved down the hole in my spinal collumn where your spinal fluid is supposed to drain.

Seven years ago today some very talented doctors fixed that for me. And I will be grateful for them for the rest of my life.

I am also grateful because God used this opportunity (and the months of bed rest following) to change the direction my life was going in. He used this opportunity to show me His love in a way I had never experienced it. And people were brought into my life that I can't imagine the last seven years without.

So here I stand seven years later, in awe of what has happened and excited about what lies ahead...

A Family Afair

I get asked a lot where I learned to sew and the answer to that question is : Theresa Clarke. My amazing mother taught all of her girls to sew at an early age. I remember sitting on the floor of her work room, pinning together doll clothes or pillows while she worked on something else. She would come to a stopping point with her work and help me with mine. I will be forever grateful that my mom passed on this useful and fullfilling skill to me.

The good news is that my mama just opened her own Etsy store!!! Her Etsy store, At Last Wedding Designs, showcases her elegant and unqiue wedding garters. They are all made fomr vintage lace and hand-beaded. If you are soon to be married or know some one who is, these garters are a must have. They would make a perfect gift and will be something a bride can treasure forever. Check out her store at www.atlastweddingdesigns.etsy.com And while you are at it check out the other Clarke girls' stores : www.emilclarke.etsy.com and www.sewsewlovely.etsy.com

Shameless

I just have to say my sister, Emily Clarke, is an amazing artist (and yes this is a shameless plug). If you haven't ever checked out her website and blog you really should. Although I have known her my entire life and I am a little bias, Emily is really talented at taking a treasured family photograph and turning it into a priceless piece of art. Emily also loves painting timeless images from the 1940s and 50's. One of Emily's paintings would make a really special Christmas present or feel free to contact her about getting her to paint one of your favorite photos. Below are a few of my favorites of people I love. You may recognize some of them. And don't forget to visit www.emilyclarkestudio.com.