1975, I'd just dropped out of Ursuline College, and started working full time at a department store, "May's on the Heights" running a small bead- stringing boutique "sticks and Stones" - heavy on Navajo-style silver beads, chunk turquoise, heishi strands, and a wide assortment of other beads, findings, cords. I was the local expert because I had my own set of jeweler pliers and knew how to use them.

Still living at home, driving a 1969 Skylark, which is still my favorite car in my life.
I was taking evening classes at Cleveland Institute of Art and learning every textile technique except sprang. Also learned I loved to teach, so spiffed up my portfolio to get me into CIA& CWRU's art Ed program. Planned a large party for my 21st birthday early the next year.

My best girlfriend was sleeping with the guy who later became my husband, when she developed bad habits and worse taste in men. My turntable was busy with CSN&Y, Jefferson Airplane/starship, Pentangle, Judy Collins, Joan Baez, Weavers, Peter, Paul & Mary.

75 & 76 was when I finally got a clue about what I'd like to do with my life. Picked up taste for a few favorite authors: U.K. LeGuin, Dick Francis, John D. Macdonald, and best of all, Edward Gorey.

Joanne in Cleveland