When I discovered felting, I finally found the creative outlet for which I had been searching. As a self taught fiber artist, the versatility of fiber allows me to "play" with a wide variety of materials including wool, silk, fabrics, yarns and threads. Creating one of a kind fiber art pieces to share with the world fulfills my creative passion.

One technique that I especially enjoy is the ancient technique of felt making. Traditionally to make felt, raw or dyed wool was dampened with soapy water and agitated (usually by stomping or rolling) to "felt" the wool. I use this traditional method of wet felting as well as dry felting with needles, either by hand or machine. I then embellish the felt with free motion machine embroidery, hand stitching and other techniques to develop a unique design.

As I continue my journey into fiber art, I am learning to look at the world more clearly and closely. I am inspired by the beauty of the natural world, be it an "ordinary" piece of grass, a tiny bit of lichen or the gorgeous Montana landscapes. When you look at my work, I want you to be drawn into the layers and details of the rich, textural surface and to "feel" the joy of its creation.

A change of season is always a great time to take an inventory and assessment of our homes. As our lives and family members change our houses may well need some minor adjustments to accommodate growing children, new babies, kids off to college, visiting parents or a new puppy.

Start by taking a look at the whole house to see if it is working well for you and your family's lifestyle. Is there a natural easy flow from one space to the next? Then take a look at each room. Make notes of areas that no longer work or are frustrating to you. For instance a kitchen that worked when the children were little but is now very congested with 3 teenagers. You may be able to re-arrange the eating area or add stools to the counter area or this room may need more significant changes in the future.

You'll end up with a list of ideas to make living more functional and comfortable. Some ideas may mean major changes and you can begin to plan for these in the future. Minor changes like re-arranging furniture, de-cluttering and reorganizing storage areas like the mudroom and the laundry can make a huge difference to how a house feels and functions as can painting a room or changing accessories.

At the busy dental office where Susan worked, one patient was always late. Once when Susan called to confirm an appointment, he said, "I'll be about 15 minutes late. That won't be a problem, will it?"

"No," She told him. "We just won't have time to give you an anesthetic."

He arrived early.