03/24/2026
A few years ago, in 2021, while browsing a bead store I came across some flower and leaf beads that I thought would make an amazing beaded lei, so I bought them, specifically with my friend that had moved to Hawaii 4 years ago, in mind.
I met Kristie back in 2005 and we'd been friends ever since, even with the 6 hour difference we'd stay in touch at least weekly. When she decided to move to Hawaii in 2017 I was deeply saddened but after seeing how happy she was out there, I just cherished the times she could visit Ohio again.
Sadly, I never did get around to making it before she passed in 2023 from the fires. While she managed to get out, and flew back home by 2 connecting flights, she had inhaled a significant amount of smoke, and passed that night in her sleep.
So now I'm working on it. It will never be for sale. Just something that's in memory of someone that was so important to me.