Celebrating A Very Happy Anniversary

Two years ago today I opened my Etsy shop For the Love of Pete. It’s hard to believe that it has indeed been two years, because as is so often the case, it just doesn’t seem that long ago.

If I go back to before March 3, 2008, I see who I was-a frustrated artist with a passion to create something, but what? I wanted to honor my Uncle Pete, but how? I was also looking for a way to incorporate my love of history and vintage into my every day life but coming up short, plus, I had an ever growing pile of vintage and retro barkcloth, and knew my house and family could tolerate only so many pillows!

My Uncle Pete’s grave on Oahu.

It was during a moment of desperation (one of those “what am I going to do with my life?” moments) and in the midst of unloading the dishwasher, of all things, that the idea hit! Why then? I don’t know-maybe I have my Fiestaware dishes to thank (I’ve always found them to be very inspiring!) But two years later, I’m still at it and doing ok. I’ve told countless people my Uncle Pete’s story, and had them tell me what a great thing it is that I honor and remember him. I’ve sold my bags to wonderful people all around the world, and that in itself is something I’m amazed by and thankful for every day! I get to study the decades I love for new ideas, work with beautiful fabric every day, and best of all I’ve found my creative calling at last.

My For the Love of Pete logo. I was inspired by the work of Sailor Jerry, a sailor and tattoo artist stationed in Honolulu in the 1930’s, and now buried in the same cemetery as my Uncle Pete.

NOW, if only the dishwasher would unload itself…I’ve got some sewing to do!