My most important journey began on the most unexpected path.

I lived in NYC for many years before discovering my home in Asheville, NC. I was pregnant with my son, Max, during 9/11 and witnessed the change of the world as we in the US had known it. As I watched the horrors of that day unfold before my eyes, I knew then that my son and I would have to live in a place where we would no longer be a target...

A place where we would be safe.

Immediately after my son, Max, was born we moved to the peace and tranquility of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina. A place where we have continued to enjoy the most fulfilling experiences of our lives. Nature surrounds us and has provided the most wonderful discovery opportunities! Among those, Max has found gem mining to be one of his favorite activities. After one of Max’s “digs”, he brought home several sparkling geodes and minerals. He handed them to me and said, “Mommy, you should make your pretty jewelry with these beautiful rocks!” Then he went on to explain how our wondrous Earth has spent 240 million years creating these dazzling gifts she creates for us...

And Max, my exceptional 7 year old son, has inspired me to share with you .