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I am a late bloomer. Everything I did well in life I did later than most individuals. I graduated from college at age 42. I took my first jewelry making class at 57. I made eleven trips abroad before the realization dawned that if I wanted travel souvenirs that recalled my personal travel adventures I would have to make them.
As a travel manager for a large corporation, I traveled and I knew the airport codes for hundreds of locations around the world. I used to amuse myself in the rental car or taxi lines by reading the airport codes on other people’s luggage. When individuals next to me had codes from exotic destinations, sometimes I would ask, "How was St. Thomas last week?"
When my jewelry making class was given the assignment to create a record of a joyful event in metal I knew exactly what I would do. I wanted a tangible reminder of places where my family celebrated. I wanted a tangible reminder of locations of castles and cathedrals and cafés where I met my friends.
This is how     began. I created a necklace of airport codes of locations where I had exquisite, exuberant, exhilarating experiences. I added palm trees, camels, airplanes, and wine glasses, as these were part of my travel adventures with friends.
I love recalling my travel adventures. I love the joy of learning about and examining and exploring other cultures. I love the warm glow of sterling. I love metal and the creativity it allows. I love transforming a flat sheet of metal into a meaningful object. I love making the journey live again.
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