I sorted through old pictures today from before we had digital cameras, from before we had Charlotte. For hours, on my entryway floor, I flipped through picture after picture of Elijah as a small child, then left to pick him up from school. When he opened the car door to sit next to me, I swear my peripheral vision blurred into quick streaks of bright colors and I fell forward into one of Wheeler’s ‘wormholes.’ When did my son become a young man, all angular and grouchy? When did my hair grow long? And have a full ten years really gone by since I invented Trash Ties? 
There’s a great article in this month’s Go Gilbert! magazine outlining my personal history with my children’s hat company, Noggins, the invention of my Trash Ties hair accessories, and later finding my passion for art and surface design. If you’re in the Gilbert, AZ area, pick up a free copy at a nearby salon, office, or restaurant, or click here to browse through the issue online.
Interviewing for this article really took me back to the sweetness and the struggle of my life ten years ago. To the tiny city apartment we shared in Hollywood where Elijah and I spent all of our time together and often did not get outside for days on end.
After living in that apartment for a few months, I began to feel unexplicably uneasy about it and to feel strongly that we needed to move. I loved living in Hollywood, but there was something wrong that I couldn’t pinpoint. Drumming up money for a new apartment fell to me and I had meager resources. Isaac worked till late into the night and took with him our only car. I had toddler Elijah with me at all times and the internet was pretty useless back then.
As time went on, the prompting to get out of that apartment grew steadily stronger. It was a problem I tried to fix alone, but could not. It was a difficult, dark time. One night, after sitting about in a stupor for weeks, I knelt in desperate prayer for help and within half an hour of that prayer, was handed Trash Ties. It wasn’t a literal handing-over, but spiritually, that’s what it felt like. Like a gift tied in silk ribbon, with a note saying, “You are loved. Everything will be okay.” At 23, that was my first hugely spiritual experience.
With a little experimentation, Trash Ties were invented in the late evening of January 25th, ten years ago last week. In the months following, I worked around the clock, squeezing every ounce of hope and will power into patenting Trash Ties and preparing it for market. It was a raw, tender time, but man am I grateful for the adventures we had back then and for all that we learned!
In digging through old photos today and in reading over this new Go Gilbert! article, I realized that I have yet to tell that early story. The struggles I went through and the help I received along the way are an integral part of my personal journey and I need to keep that history.
Yes, Trash Ties enabled us to move from our Hollywood apartment. It wasn’t till a year after we left that I learned why I had felt so strongly about moving. It’s a crazy story, involving one horrifically sick little boy. I’d like to continue telling that story here and there in future posts if you can go easy on me for getting emotional at times. The reflection does me well. Some old memories seem like forever ago and some seem like yesterday. I have learned a lot and I have a lot to be grateful for.
That is a beautiful story, thanks for sharing it with all of us! With all your talent and success it is inspiring to learn that you started from scratch and built this wonderfully creative empire!
I would LOVE to hear your story.
I’d love to hear the story of the path that God has led you through. It’s amazing to look back and see that sometimes crazy path, isn’t it?
thank you genuinely for sharing heather. Your emotions really come through in your writing.
You seem so grounded and genuine, I really look forward to getting to know you better.
You too, heather! And speaking of… that project I asked you about… I’m getting closer. Maybe one more month? 🙂
Wow! Thanks for sharing! I am totally a lurker, but loved reading this so much! I guess in a way I feel I can understand how you felt… I am sort of going through crazy times right now too, and I feel that my new Etsy business [shealynn.etsy.com] was something from the Lord. It’s all been a learning experience for me! Trying to get my name out there, and all that. Plus juggling 2 small children… it can be hard at times, but oh so worth it!! Thank you for letting us in on your past! You are truly an inspiration, and this story was really something I needed to read!
Thank you Heather!
Shealynn
Oh, and I can’t wait to read the rest!! 🙂
Thank you for sharing your story. I can’t wait to hear more. It is always reassuring to hear about others journeys and how they have been led through life.
Great legs!
don’t you love the Spirit?
Oh Heather, is that you (I had to look twice)??!! I seriously hope you kept those shoes!!!
Look at baby Elijah! What a doll he was (and now he is a delightful young man). Looking at this picture makes me think of my little guy and how fast time flies (too fast).
I love your story and I’m glad you’re sharing it!
i have read your blog for sometime now, but never have felt more compelled to make a comment. your story is so genuine and natural – self reflection is a divine gift. i would love to hear and read more xo pamela
Thanks for this story. Do tell more.
I loved the article in “Gilbert”. Thanks for sharing yourself by being obedient in faith!
Blessings,
tonya
PS My mom’s a quilter, I’m a scrapbooker…I might, just might, give quilting a try with your fabrics…they are truly inspiring;)
Thank you for sharing this great story. I look forward to hearing more!
It definitely is those times of struggle that lead us to greener pastures. That was my life last year, and while the economy is bringing up a few more struggles this year, my challenges last year really did give me the opportunity to get where I am today. Thanks for reminding me.
p.s. I agree with Jonah…I hope you saved those shoes and the tutu.
Heather,
I really appreciate your honesty, and I am inspired by the hope and hard work in your story. Can’t wait to hear more pieces of the puzzle.
Sweet.Soulful.Spiritual.Sentimental.Sincere.
Great article Heather and what an amazing story here too! I hope you share the rest with us – you really are such an inspiration!
Thank you for sharing such a personal story and yes please continue it if you feel you can xx
Oh Heather! This brings tears to my eyes in a way. Ironically this sounds so much like my life right now! This is such an inspiring story and truly I’m so hungry for more. You are an exceptionally talented young lady! Thank you so much for sharing such a powerful piece of your history! Everything you touch turns to gold.
I would love to hear your story! You are such an inspiration to me. Reading about how others were able to persevere through hard times always is such an encouragement to me to keep going. Your blog is a little ray of sunshine and I’m always so happy when I see that you have a new post. 🙂
Ah Heather, what a sweet and sincere post. Love it.
Sandi
Loved this post Heather. You are such an inspiration to us all!
Camille
My kids (mostly Ethan) were so excited when they saw you on the cover of the Go Gilbert I grabbed in Someburros. Ethan was more excited about seeing Elijah than his mom. lol We need to see you in real life again here soon. :o)
BTW You’ve got Brains and great legs to boot.
Funny how when I read your blog – I think of what a perfect life you must lead – not understanding at all the struggles you have had – and I believe the struggles are what make us. I’m glad you have shared part of your story with us and so happy to hear how the God played an important role in your life. Please share more.
Cheers Heather M
Isn’t it wonderful when you can see how the pieces fit together to make you what you are today! Maybe you should record it in your Wonderful Things album! Can’t wait to see you for CE!
Huh. Gilbert? I’ve been there! Two years ago, we had a church conference at the Sovereign Grace church there in Gilbert. It is such a nice area! I love Arizona.
-Laura the Texan
love that pinky pic!
Great post! Thank you!
P.S. I sure love your blog and look forward to hearing your stories emotions and all. The Lord has brought me through dark times as well, and it is so good to remember those times in reflecting back and seeing His goodness and provision. Enjoy that time for yourself.
Hi Heather, I’m Natalie. I found your blog when I needed a pattern for felt booties and yours was perfect. I love your creativity and have continued crafting with felt. I really love this story you’re starting to tell because my husband and I are on a journey, it has taken us from the city to a piece of property on a Gulf Island on the west coast of Canada. We are in the middle of this tender and trying time but it was also a gift that brought us here and away from there, and for our very sensitive little boy. Even though we haven’t built our little cottage yet, we already know that it has been so worth while for us and our little boy, despite the struggles. I’ve been trying to imagine looking back on this time, fondly, so thank you for sharing these thoughts.
That is a great article. And I feel so priviledged that you are willing to share your personal story with us. I can’t wait to hear more.
Heather thank you for that story about your blesssing from the Lord. Some times its when we are at our lowest when we will have open ears and heart to receive the Lord blessing for us. I have found mine this year. I have never felt so complet. It is food for the soul when you find your purpose here on earth isn’t it. It makes us better wifes, mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends when we share our blessing.
Hi Heather,
I find you and Isaac so inspirational. Thanks for sharing your great story, and the article is great.
I am amazed that you can browse the magazine online, and you can even turn the pages with the right sound! I feel so 1970s here in the Aussie Outback.
Please write more as it was compelling!
Great post. I love learning more about bloggers and this post helped to do that. I can’t wait for you to continue your story.
-FringeGirl
Hi Heather,
My inspiration is renewed. Things happen for a reason – this lesson I learned a long time ago but often forget. I try my best to give the ideas and gut feelings I have a fair shot b/c sometimes there’s a reason why the idea occurred in the first place. Phew, I needed your story to remind of that!
BTW, I love your work!
Cheeky Lou Lou
I can’t wait to hear more!
You are just an incredible person, and each time i read your posts it just get confirmed. Really, you are sweet, caring, so humble… and a great inspiration for everyone out there…
I would love to hear your story, i know is not easy to open your heart and your way to past memories… but you are so inspiring that I think it will help many other people.
I, myself… recently married, came to US… don’t have a work permit yet…and well like you don’t have car… Sure things are great now with internet and that. I was also wondering what to do with my life after such a big change…until i stumbled across blogs like yours that have just lifted up my spirits and making me want to do something!!
Thanks for telling us about your journey and your creations… you are just an angel for many of us ;o)
What a touching story and amazing journey. Thank you for sharing. It’s truly inspiring.
Shannon
This was such a tender post and I feel blessed to have been able to read it. I’m looking forward to hearing morea bout your story and why it is you were supposed to leave that little apartment. Thanks for writing with such passion and honesty- it makes for the best stories.
I read the article in Go Gilbert & can’t wait for the new patterns which the article says will be out in April ’09??!!! Yay!
jennifer j. s.
I loved reading the article. I feel like sewing again. Your fabrics really inspire me.
Thanks for sharing 🙂 I am enjoying the trash ties I purchased in December, and I love your fabric. Your story of your early days with you son and the invention of the trash ties is really inspiring. I appreciate your openness!!
Thank you for sharing your story. I completely see myself in what you have experienced.
Thank you for reminding us there is always light at the end of the tunnel and for being so inspiring.
Are you seriously in Gilbert? Sheesh, all this time…!! I’ll have to look for the mag and take a look. We only have one car right now too (and we’re stuck in a tiny apartment… sound familiar?) so it might be a while before I get out, but I will sure look!
Loved the post and am looking forward to hearing the rest of the story. Today I am working on your stacking rings pattern for my granddaughter Annika’s first birthday. A bit tricky but once I got the first I felt so skillful! LOL
thanks for sharing your story 🙂
This is beautiful!
Heather
Thanks for sharing, i love reading your blog…
Melissa
I would love to hear more of your story! As a business owner/designer myself it’s good to read that it wasn’t all easy and fast. I was surprised to know that you invented the trash ties 10 years ago. We seem to believe that it all happens over night for other people while we struggle along. Thanks for the inspiration and encouragement. Keep it comin!
Plenty o’ struggles, Kelley! Some may not be discussed till I’m writing a tell-all bio for my posterity. It’s human nature to assume others have it easy — we all do that. Strangely, the more struggles, the more grateful I am for the good things. Thank you everyone for your kind feedback on this very personal post!
Great article and the photos are lovely.
I really love that cover pix of you and your kids in your studio with all that wonderfully delicious fabric stacked up in the armoire.
Thanks for sharing. You are such a sweetheart and I truly admire you for following your dreams.You certainly are an inspiration to all of us.:)
~Salina
Congrats on all your success! Thanks for inspiring us to keep doing what we love to do…being creative.
Thank you for being so honest with all of us about the struggles to get where you are today. It is pretty amazing to hear of your desperate need for help and that God met you there. I look forward to hearing more of this story.
You have me on the edge of my seat waiting for the rest of the story! You are an incredibly talented artist & writer. I visit your blog a few times a week & LOVE it.
How did I not know that you live right here in Gilbert?? Knowing that you live here makes my little town that much cooler now =)
Thank you. I hope you will share more of your story. Sometimes it takes distance to appreciate that the struggles, when faced and overcome, can bring us to a better place. I feel inspired by the beautiful look of your success, but I think understanding your whole journey will give me the greatest appreciation, and courage to carry on with my own journey.
I appreciate this post a lot. Sharing this story makes me like you even more!
Heather, I enjoyed the the story in Gilbert. Being a sewer (4-H beginnings) in the height of early 1970’s icky polyester double-knit, I am so glad home sewing is back and has moved beyond quilting. You have made it glamourous and fun. Thank you! Looking forward to hearing the rest of your story.
Peggyann
Wow. That must not have been easy to share, but I’m really glad you did. It’s a reminder of the blessings we have in our lives and how good God is! What fun pictures from the photoshoot! Thanks for sharing a bit of your history with us.
I hope you don’t mind me saying, but it is refreshing to read that it hasn’t all been roses and sunshine for you. We fans can read here and buy your products and get caught up the bits of life and lifestyle you share. And somehow that makes us feel like we know you. Your honesty just shows us all a little bit more of you, warts and all. Thanks.
And thanks for giving me a bit of inspiration on my own creative adventures.
I love hearing the story behind the superstar =) I am so happy the past ten years have been so wonderful to you and you are blessed today. Thank you for sharing
I have fam in Gilbert hooray!!!
I can’t wait to hear the rest of your story. I’ve been checking in and reading you for quite a while, just never commented. I was hooked not only because of your fantastic ideas and beautiful blog, but because I’m originally from Tucson and I felt an “Arizona” connection! 🙂
What the buyer/market is looking for right now is the best deal or a tip on how to waive delivery cost. This is not about being frugal, but realistic – lot of this bubble came from inefficient added-services that inflated the price and forced marketing depts to give more and more discounts. You are doing a great job – I like your website and ideas, will feature you on our new fashion directory.
this makes for a great business story on http://www.soliber.net – thank you!
What a beautiful telling of such a pivotal time in your life. I can’t wait to read more. I’m off to read that Gilbert article.
Great post! Looking forward to hearing the rest of the story..on the edge of my seat.
Hi Heather,
I’ve been lurking your blog for the past two days. My sister in law bought me a gift certificate for your store for Christmas, so I logged on and, low and behold, I found more than the gorgeous fabric and cute patterns that I’ve been picking up at my local fabric store for quite some time now.
Like so many other women, your story inspired me.
I’ve got two young children-daughter’s eight, son is three. I’m an avid sewer, but professionally I’m a writer.
Over the past eight months, I’ve been sick. It’s gotten worse and worse. The doctor’s can’t figure it out and it’s crushing my spirit. Not to mention, the kids are having a hard time watching mama sleep… all the time.
For the first few months, I put on a brave face and kept up with them, but it’s gotten to the point where I just can’t. Or I feel I can’t.
Believe it or not, your photos– all bright and cheery– hit me in the heart.
I want the good stuff back.
Your post made me feel today that maybe, just maybe, this is just a dark and icky time and that there are many good days ahead for me, my hubby and my kids.
Yesterday I felt like giving up. Today, I’m looking around at the beauty I’ve had in my own life– little glimpses of it and I want to fight to get it back.
Thanks for the reality check and thank you for something to fight for and look forward to.
I found this informative and interesting blog so i think so its very useful and knowledgeable. Thanks for taking the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. Keep it up!!!
It is really cute. I like it so much. Thank you for sharing this. Keep blogging.