After three inspiring years of working at BeadStyle, I’m leaving to explore a new career path. Last August I started coursework for my teaching license and Master of Arts in Education, and I’ve reached a point in my program where I need to dedicate myself fully to school.

I wish I could express how grateful I am that I had this opportunity. Not only did I learn a new craft, but I have met so many wonderful people along the way — kind, generous, creative people. I could give any number of examples: beaders who do charity work, beaders who make jewelry for people who otherwise wouldn’t receive a gift on Christmas or Mother’s Day, and the list could go on and on. But I don’t need to tell you that; you already know.

However, I don’t think everyone knows how special the BeadStyle staff members are. They like to keep a low profile, and they much prefer for their jewelry to be photographed than to sit in front of a camera themselves. But they are a very impressive group of women, and I have learned lessons from all of them. 

Most people are probably familiar with Cathy from her editorials and newsletters. She’s just as funny in person, and she never ceases to amaze me with how involved she is in the community. In addition to all of her regular organizations, she did several classes with local Brownie troops this past year, spreading her love of beading to a new generation. And on Friday mornings, I can always count on her for a discussion about the previous night’s episode of “The Office.”

Naomi is the hip diva of the group, and I’m forever jealous of her ability to wear three-inch heels and not be hobbling around by the end of the day. Not only is she a talented jewelry designer, but she puts endless effort into developing her skills as a writer. We’ve had countless conversations about writing, tennis, and relationships, and she always gives me a fresh perspective.

Jane is a laid-back earth mama, and her calm presence keeps the rest of us grounded. She’s not a chatterbox, but when she does talk, she always makes us laugh. Her creativity never ceases to astound me. Whether she sees credit cards, game pieces, or any number of other objects, she always finds a way that they could be worked into her creative endeavors. She is a true outside-of-the-box thinker, which I both admire and envy.

As you can see, the women on the BeadStyle staff each bring a unique personality and disposition to the group, and the current mix works very well.  I know that the BeadStyle staff already thinks highly of its readers, and I hope that as you read the magazine, you can catch a glimpse of the remarkable women on the other end of it.

As I go on to pursue my teaching career, I will take the lessons I learned from the beading community with me — compassion, creativity, generosity, humor. And I will take fond memories with me of the many people I met, both readers and editors alike.

Take care and happy beading!

Lindsay