She was patient + kind and a truly spiritual being who was known and loved in the local community.  She embodied Love and I adored her.  When my great Aunty Mabel passed away I inherited the sewing machine she taught me to sew on.

I still have it and it still glows that beautiful warm light that reminds me of the very special relationship I have with my Aunty Mabel.

It was something she said when I was young and going through a really tough time that pushed me to take the leap and start my own business.  At a time when I was confused and struggling to cope she consoled me and simply said "You can do it. You are brave."  I remember stopping and thinking … “if she thinks I can do this, then maybe I REALLY CAN?”  I pushed on, knowing that I had her support and I DID get through that tough time.

So, years later, when I was disillusioned with yet another commercial job that I'd put everything into and (yet again) that energy was not reciprocated ... I seriously thought about starting my own business.  It was scary to leave full time employment but also exciting to think of the possibilities. All I needed was a little more self confidence or a little nudge ... someone to say "You can do it" ... and after months of deliberation I remembered my Aunty Mabel, her faith in me and that one line she said to me all those years ago … YOU ARE BRAVE.