I am California born and grown. I am of Irish, English, Swedish and Cherokee heritage. My Grandfather “Cotton” wanted me to learn more about our Cherokee heritage… He lived in Oklahoma, and shared some of his Cherokee hunting skills; he was very good at throwing a rock while the squirrels were in a tree. We prepared squirrels for dinner when I was five years old. I past his test of being brave, it was interesting to learn some of his Cherokee survival skills. His mom (my Great Grandmother) walked in “The Trail of Tears.” So, he learned how to hunt when he was very young. I grew up reading every nature book I could find about plants, animals, and learning how to prepare wild plant foods of California. The Library became my best friend. I moved further north to Oregon in late 2005, and finally moved here in Washington in early 2007. I love it here in Washington.

I have been keeping the tradition of the Cherokee’s by beading jewelry for about 12 years and making bandolier bags for five years. I am an award winning bead artist, and I belong to the Cherokee Artist Association. There are only a few of us that make these historic bags, the Cherokee’s quit making them after “The Trail of Tears.” Most of these bags from the 1800’s are in Museums.

I am inspired by my experiences in Nature, and inspired by Historic- Native American Crafts. Each piece of art has a story behind it. I research each project before I start my Art. All my Native Moon Collections are original and no two alike. I am a registered tribal member of the Cherokee Nation, and all my Artwork comes with a signed Authentic Certificate.