Born and raised in Vermont, I now reside in Mississauga, Ontario. My children are grown and off, making new roads for themselves. Thus said, we are living the life of 'empty nesters' - which translates into more time for designing and stitching!!
I attended college as an art major and eventually accepted a position teaching arts and crafts to disabled residents of the local hospital. Together we enjoyed loom weaving, leather work, basketry and painting to name a few. Bringing out their smiles and laughter in an otherwise gloomy day brought a great warmth to my heart. It was a position I treasured and a place where I learned a great deal about the human spirit! Unfortunately,seven years later, the program was closed due (funding cuts) .............. it was time for new ventures to begin...
When one door closes and another opens! I needed to take a chance and make a change. I was presented with a business opportunity and after much paperwork and business classes, Sweet Impressions was born - a chocolate shop where I molded and hand carved candy into a variety of designs as well as conjuring up the most delectable chocolates (assorted truffles and creamed liqueurs were favorites!). I kept my retail shop for three years and sold direct to the Hilton and Delta hotels for conferences and special guests (like the Prime Minister of Canada and the President of Ireland!). I put in 18 hour days, seven days a week year round and loved every moment! The long hours eventually took their toll and I closed my shop in November of 2000. Change was once again in the air!
I moved to Ontario where the love of my life resided and soon after The Cross Stitch Hatchery was born. As a long time stitcher (taught by my Mum as a child) it was only natural to unite my love for stitching with my love of art. I began sketching and charting everything in sight. My pencil and needle seldom rest as there are endless possibilities and new dreams await, a place where stitching counts!
Thus was the beginning of The Cross Stitch Hatchery in what I hope will be a life long venture!
Your thoughts and suggestions are warmly welcomed at: saf@cross-stitch-hatchery.com
Sharon A Flanagan
designer
