Sheila was my beloved cat-child. I got her from the Santa Monica Animal Shelter in 1989, when she was six weeks old. She had actually reached out of her cage and chosen me to take her home, and we bonded immediately. She became my constant, faithful companion for the next 17 years. In 2005, Sheila was diagnosed with cancer, and after less than a year, she lost her battle. I had her privately cremated, brought her home in a little wooden box, and mourned the loss of my best friend. For a few nights I went to sleep at night hugging that cold little box, trying to find some way to fill the huge void that Sheila had left behind in my heart. I was frankly devastated. One day I was struck with the realization that there was a way for me to have Sheila next to my heart always. I went into my studio and looked for the most beautiful piece of glass that I could find, and soon I had created my very first dichroic glass cremains pendant with a small amount of Sheila's ashes encapsulated inside. I loved it. I placed it on a black leather chain, put it around my neck, and felt her presence upon my heart. All I had to do was reach up and touch her. It went a long way to helping me find peace and closure over her loss.

 
My pendant attracted a lot of attention, and I found myself retelling the story more times than I could count.  I made similar pendants for friends and relatives who wanted one, but it was all via word of mouth.  Finally, my friends (bless them!) started urging me to make some business cards and put up a web site.
 
I love these very special pendants and how they make people smile even while they grieve.  I'm happy that I can contribute in a small way toward their healing process.