The Sampler Girl

My heart belongs at home. I have two precious boys, Ben and Zack. Ben is 11. He's the one who makes me laugh with his comedy routine, makes me smile big when he plays the piano, and makes my arms wave like crazy when he's running toward home plate. Ben has a thoughtful, caring soul who knows his Mama so well and loves to write a good story. He is so imaginative and creative with big plans and ideas that I know he'll always dream the big dreams and reach them.

Then there's little Zack, 3 years old, THE energy of the house, who is the thrillseeker, the ever-chatty, daring, climbing lad who runs up for a cuddle but then dashes away for a truck in sight or a ball to throw to his big brother. His rapid sentences are precious (and hilarious at times!) and his giggles are adorable.

Both boys are the reason I'm here in this world and for them I owe my time and love. I am grateful for a husband most dear and for a family that makes a daughter feel never alone.

My mom, the ever~so crafty and beautiful Lucy Willis (La Chatelaine Designs), taught me to cross stitch when I was a young girl. Mom owned a needlework shop and there began my passion to hoard fabrics and collect all kinds of threads you can imagine! I helped out at the shop after school and when I was a little older, I worked Saturdays, and more, which was probably the most fun in retail you could experience. The 'regulars' who came in weekly to share their stitching, their life and their laughter made the ten year life of my mom's shop a haven of sweet memory. We still love to talk about those shop days.

Since those days, still bright in my mind's eye, I have gone to college ~ lived on my own ~ married a wonderful guy ~ and experienced the joy of motherhood twice! My designing career has always been present, taking turns in the backseat or frontseat of life's busy moments. In recent years, I have been able to devote more time to my business of which I am constantly tending and enjoying.

Thank you for visiting with me,

Tanya