Sitting on the hillside between my junior and senior years in college, I thought about how I wanted to live my life.

I knew I wouldn’t fit into the corporate world and would not allow someone else to profit from my development. I believe one should work when the work is there and then take time to enjoy the other things life offers.

I had done everything everyone else wanted me to do; now, it was my turn to take control of my life.

I wanted a shop, my product, and, most importantly, to be in control. I wanted to set my hours and dress as I liked, but most of all, I wanted to create a quality product that I was proud of.

I started making window hangings on my kitchen table with a crate of glass, glass plyers, and cutters. I made apples, pairs, cherries, and chickens that stood on one leg. I never knew if my idea would ever amount to anything, but for the first time in my life, I was self-directed and happy.

As I continued to follow my imagination and my resourcefulness, the objects I created became increasingly refined and sought after. Over the last fifty-two years, I have achieved my goal of living in this world while being myself.