I am excited to have been elected to serve as your Regional Director 6. It is a position I have entertained thoughts of for years, but life would not previously allow the commitment. I have been a member of UFDC since 1989, with experience in all club offices, especially club President for many terms. I have chaired many large doll shows, attended Regional and National Conventions, won Doll Competition ribbons, and given a forum at the National Convention.

One of my Undergrad Degrees is in Textiles and Design. As a child, I collected but never played with dolls - I rather designed and created wardrobes for them from the age of 4. I have always used "period correct" fabrics, trims, notions, and threads and have amassed quite a collection over 60 years. Most of my dolls have extensive wardrobes - many authentic. I use both hand sewing or machine, depending on the time period of the doll. My fabric constructions I recreate by sight and design, giving much attention to the drape, movement, texture, pigments and dyes used. I have won many awards on the state and national levels. Another serious interest of mine is miniature historically dressed mannequins, purses, suitcases, and trunks. I am all about tactile expression!

In 1994, I took the opportunity to study dolls and their clothing. I had a forced Medical Retirement, so I read anything and everything that I could get my hands on. I was obsessed with gaining this knowledge, and I still am. Many, many books later, the quest continues.

This background led me to Doll appraisals that I still enjoy, and have been doing these for over 20 years.

In 2004-2014 we lived in a very large old farmhouse. The whole top floor was converted into a Doll Museum, where I conducted tours for all ages. I presented each child 14 and under with their own doll to cherish at a fun tea that I would host at the close of their visit. I believe that our children and young adults can keep the History and stories of dolls alive, but they need exposure through our help, discussion, and dedicated efforts.

I now live in the city, and my current focus is French Fashion, Bluette, and Schoenhut. Most days, you will find me studying about dolls, designing clothes and playing with fabrics, evaluating dolls, and just plain appreciating the works of art that they are.

It is my hope to meet you and your club, visiting about dolls, and sharing information. I sincerely believe in the Education, Preservation, and Promotion of dolls. It is very important to keep this knowledge alive through the next generations, and with everyone's help, we will succeed!