Art, paper, paints, fabric, a tin of crayons or markers, my paper cutter, ModPodge, glitter, beads, my jig saw are some of the simple things that make me want to sing with joy!

I enjoy spending time crafting and making creative things.  I appreciate other artists’ work, creativity and their skills. Spending time traveling, visiting art galleries, street festivals and museums, searching for treasures in second hand charity shops in other countries is where I have found unique pieces of art. Searching for creative and interesting pieces are ideal ways I enjoy my free time.

Having art around me is important.  I have art created by my talents friends and relatives.  Art by my friends, family and that I have made is around my home.  When I look at the art it reminds me of the artists and my memories.  I have been so fortunate to have traveled to many parts of the world from Britain and Ireland, Europe to Eastern Europe to the Middle East, islands in the Pacific Ocean and many parts of the USA.   The art in my home reminds me of the my fun adventures.  A few of my newest treasures are lovely, delicate porcelain spoon and bowl along with a print from the Oxfordshire ArtFest from the printer that used an antique press.  I love my $5.00 beautiful watercolor I bought, in the mid 1990’s, from a street festival in Kraków Poland just outside the Wawel Royal Castle. My hallway has a beautiful wool rug I carried home from Iraq.

Decorating is a passion of mine. I enjoy rearranging furniture, painting furniture or making new pillow covers or curtains. Fabric stores are like trip to DisneyWorld for a child.  I am still a novice sewer but thanks to my talented older sister, an accomplished  seamstress and sewing instructor at Open Works In Baltimore, along with some informative YouTube videos I am learning.  I love the idea of lots of throw pillows on chairs and living room, on the beds in my house and lots of curtains to change with the seasons.  I have fond memories of my grandmother changing her curtains and rugs as the seasons changed.

Changing the items my fireplace mantle is such a fun, simple way to update my living room. Add a bunting, swap a few decorations and I am set for a bit.

Developing a company name was a challenge I enjoyed.  I was raised in a Navy family.  I was born in Belle Harbor, Queens, NY.  We moved before I was old enough to remember the area.  My parents talk about their fond memories of their home and friends there.  Belle Harbor Designs was created.