I have always been compelled by a need to work, but I now have a disability that prevents me. It also interferes with ALL of the FUN. Which totally sucks and many disabled folks can relate. :( So Appalachian Paper Arts is really a hobby, that I have been using to help me work out the frustration and mental gauntlet that is chronic pain. There are times when I am especially fatigued and hurt a lot, that I just simply can't be relied on as a full-time professional. I knew I had a serious problem when I realized that I was sick so much, that I wouldn't want me as an employee; even with all my hard-earned and specialty skills. So I went from being a trained professional who worked in city hall, to being home all day and thinking always of the pain I was in. This meant that I have spent many years feeling like I am unable to do what I need for my family, and physically suffering at the same time. Work is a way for me to solve problems in my head, so if I am able to do *something* I can feel better in many ways. And this is where my paper comes in.
Appalachian Paper Arts has been quietly in the works for about 4 years. I have learned so much from my sister artist, Latoma. I have learned my own process, and I have developed my skills into things that inspire me, and projects that work for me. All of my creations have 100% recycled paper as the pages, and all of my stationery is made with 100% recycled paper. Specialty journals generally start as a cereal box, and are recycled and upcycled into highly detailed journals, each one truly unique. So whatever you find from APA, it will be built with love. So, thanks for taking the time to read my blurb, and thanks for your interest in my craft.
