HOW DID IT ALL BEGIN?

I have always enjoyed practical, creative tasks.  In fact, in my earlier years being married to a builder that became the expectation as I became his labourer on the many homes we renovated.  

Our first house though was where I guess my 'upcycling'  began.  We could only afford second-hand or gifted furniture so I cleaned, repaired, reupholstered and refinished.  Painted furniture wasn't a thing back then.

After several moves and renovations we unfortunately went out separate ways and divorced.

Another stage of my life began and along came two children - now there were four of us. 

Not being one to sit still too long I started a college course - my youngest was 9 weeks old - so he was in the classroom with me and the other was in the creche.

I gained the qualifications I needed and began a four year degree to train to be a teacher of Design and Technology.   I was classed as a Mature Student - anyone who knows me would laugh at the 'mature' statement.

The time flew by and before I knew it I was beginning my first teaching position in a Secondary School.

Over the years I had a few issues with mental health but after 22 years of teaching it got the better of me, so I retired from teaching at 54 years old.