you suddenly realize that you have a long road ahead of you. It is very easy to fall into a depression and push people away. My eldest daughter decided that a Boston puppy would be the best medicine for me. I wasn't really sure if it was a good idea at the time. However, my Ava gave me a reason to get up every day.
Right from the beginning she was a joy; always trying to please and through the next seven months of grueling chemo treatments and radiation, Ava remained by my side.
On my "good" days, we would take long walks on the rocky beach of the North Shore of Long Island, New York. It was then that I became intrigued with the magnificent beach glass that I started to find along the shores. Brilliant blues, warm browns, emerald greens, translucent whites, and amazing aqua pieces caught my eye! I became obsessed in finding as many pieces as I could. I was inspired by the peace and tranquility that I found every day at this safe haven, and my treatments seemed less devastating. My collection was growing rapidly and I soon found unique bottles to put my jewels in.
Eleven years have passed and fortunately, I remain cancer free. Ava is still with me, although her health has decompensated due to congested heart failure. She is on three medications that cost about $100 per month. My girl is worth a million dollars to me, however, being retired and on a fixed income, it is sometimes difficult to make ends meet. I work part-time so that I can afford Ava's medication and vet care for her and my two other senior rescues.
I often look at my beautiful glass in the fancy jars reminiscing all the seasons that I have collected these treasured pieces. Why not give these jewels a purpose? What if I could stop struggling with monthly bills? Pinterest and YouTube tutorials were available to learn how to make beautiful beach glass jewelry. With the help of my friend and my partner, Rita, who is quite skillful with making jewelry, we began to make magnificent pieces.
Hence, our new endeavor, Seaside Designs! With Rita's expertise and my beach jewels, I am able to afford my veterinary care!
Due to our love for the breed, we decided to pay it forward by donating a percentage of our proceeds to Boston Terrier Network fundraising to help Boston owners with their veterinary bills so that their beloved furbabies could remain in their homes.
Some of the possibilities: Each item is unique. Made with real Beach Glass not plastic. Custom made here in the USA. Sterling Silver. Many other options available.
NOTE FROM BOSTON TERRIER NETWORK: We are so delighted that Seaside Designs and Boston Terrier Network will launch a partnership to help fund "Help a Boston" medical fund. Please follow the links below to learn more about "Help a Boston" and Seaside Designs.
What is the Boston Terrier Network "Help a Boston" Medical Fund.
Visit Seaside Designs on Facebook.
Edited by: Jan Mitchell