In 2015, I was diagnosed with a chronic case of "Complex PTSD/DID" (Dissociative Identity Disorder) from childhood trauma, ironically which body memories and flashbacks started becoming most prevalent later in my life. This is the unfortunate realm with many victims of repetitive traumatization. Whether the abuse sustained is emotional, verbal, physical or sexual - when it’s safe to remember, your body lets you know. I literally had no idea of what happened to me until a few years ago. I had repressed this horrific awareness for decades. The recollections and realization hit hard – they still do although not as frequently. Gradually, these panic episodes took a toll on my health and professional career. Upon realizing what I had gone through for many years, I became so bitter and angry; for my childhood and early adult years had been ruined. As a student, I never reached my full potential, because I was so busy hiding out. As a young adult in my 20s and 30s, I was lost and miserable in the corporate world. Skipping school or missing several days of work was not uncommon. However, when the unsettling despair hit, I needed desperately to stay home where I felt safe. To teachers, I was a truant merciless mess. To employers, I was an irresponsible strumpet of a woman, without going into any further details. For the past several years, the road to recovery has been laborious and heartbreaking. My therapy is ongoing, and there is still much treatment to undergo. Yet, I’m Blessed. I have an outlet. Creating things of beauty has been truly healing to the hurt and confusion within me. Prior to founding Rustic Regal Crafts, I was a real estate appraiser for 17 years - the last 12 years in which I was self-employed. Nevertheless, due to my PTSD/DID, it was increasingly difficult to continue with the fortitude I once had. I couldn’t drive too far from my home without having this stampede of dread take over. Not to mention, there are inevitable and unexpected triggers ensuing frequently. In my case, certain neighborhoods or landmarks would often provoke extreme terror and trepidation - not practical for someone who appraises homes for a living. After much contemplation, I finally relented and officially retired from appraising on December 13, 2016.
Prior to retiring, Rustic Regal Crafts was merely a hobby, encouraged by my husband to calm and “occupy” a zealous brain with no off-switch. Now, it’s my lifeline…literally. I love Art – all kinds. It’s nurturing to one’s soul. Singing, arranging musical pieces, playing the piano, writing, photography, interior designing/decorating, and simply originating displays of essence are all on my cupboard of favor. As a young adult, oh had I only possessed the confidence and courage to “at last” be valiant enough to jump in feet first with no regret or fear. I was never meant to work within the customary group of masses and follow a leader. I now know - I’m an Artist. I’m finally home.
Much love and thanks go out to my creator, Our Lord God, and my husband David Michael Peters. Dave has encouraged me to follow my dreams with earnest abandon. I’m not sure what the future holds, as I’m simply taking one day at a time. Dave has suggested I host a small-scale annual art exhibit, where I can present and sell my miniature roosts. Well, if I do, you'll be the first to know! For now, upon completion of each ornate display, they’re carefully packaged and put away with the expectation of going to a forever home.
I hope it’s yours.
Prior to retiring, Rustic Regal Crafts was merely a hobby, encouraged by my husband to calm and “occupy” a zealous brain with no off-switch. Now, it’s my lifeline…literally. I love Art – all kinds. It’s nurturing to one’s soul. Singing, arranging musical pieces, playing the piano, writing, photography, interior designing/decorating, and simply originating displays of essence are all on my cupboard of favor. As a young adult, oh had I only possessed the confidence and courage to “at last” be valiant enough to jump in feet first with no regret or fear. I was never meant to work within the customary group of masses and follow a leader. I now know - I’m an Artist. I’m finally home.
Much love and thanks go out to my creator, Our Lord God, and my husband David Michael Peters. Dave has encouraged me to follow my dreams with earnest abandon. I’m not sure what the future holds, as I’m simply taking one day at a time. Dave has suggested I host a small-scale annual art exhibit, where I can present and sell my miniature roosts. Well, if I do, you'll be the first to know! For now, upon completion of each ornate display, they’re carefully packaged and put away with the expectation of going to a forever home.
I hope it’s yours.