A Real Love Story

Danny must have been around 11 when I started dating his older brother. I remember Christmas Day 1964 when I chased Danny with mistletoe around the pool table in the Smith's basement. I gave him his first kiss that day but didn't capture his heart. He fell in love many years after that many miles from his home in IL. He took solo adventure trips as an adult. On one trip to China he met Jennifer. He's a great storyteller and when he tells the story of when he first saw her, he draws up straight, tilts his chin and demonstrates the regal posture that drew him to her. Their courtship was long and the ordeal to get her to the states after she became his wife was also prolonged and costly. They settled in Champaign IL and have three children. I love to visit them. When he looks at her now, it's like he is seeing her that first time.

I spent time back in my hometown after my divorce. Danny's brother was also divorced at that time and we spent time again together. I was there when Danny brought Jennifer to the states and when their first child was born. Danny's family welcomed me "home" and his Aunt Geraldine was one of my favorites. This past year Danny sent me a box of her old costume jewelry to use as supplies for my designs. I haven't quite figured out how I want to incorporate the pieces, but I made this piece for Jennifer as a thank you. I hope it will suit her well.

And happy birthday, Diane!

Diane is the middle Daniels' sister. When I lived here in the early 90's fresh from my divorce, I stayed with Diane's dad, Jack (yes, Jack Daniels!) He was like a second dad to me. He and my dad had been friends and shared the same gift for storytelling. He opened his home to me and helped me get thru a really difficult time. Diane was a big help to me, too. She spent time with me. We took long walks in the rain. She was a great listener and good friend.

I found these beautiful translucent beads and made her a bracelet and matching earrings. Purple is definitely her color!

Seester Nancy

There are seven of us that we refer to as "sisters". It started when I moved here eight years ago and nudged my way into the Daniels' family. My dad and mom lived here in WWII and my mom worked with the sisters' mom, Lee Ann. Our parents stayed friends over the years. When Shel and I looked for a place to retire to we chose this beautiful area and felt we had an instant community thanks to the hospitality of the Daniels' clan. Our instant family expanded since we moved here to include friends of the Daniels' sisters. Nancy is one of those friends. We celebrate the "sisters" birthdays together about 3-4 times a year. Last nite we celebrated Nancy and Diane's birthdays, which fall in February.

Nancy is a witty, beautiful woman that I admire and enjoy. I made this necklace for her and was pleased when she showed up at last nite's party in the perfect green top to wear with the necklace. There's a story to the piece. My oldest friend, Jo Beth, sent me the pendant in December. Someone gave it to her and she never found a chain for it. She thought of me and my jewelry hobby and thought I would find a good use for it. I strung the necklace with various shades of caledonia and seed beads and then added the pendant. Thanks, Jo Beth and Happy birthday, Nancy!