MY STORY
Why I love what I do...
Welcome and thanks for taking a minute to learn more about Gifts & Goodies from the Garage! If you are looking for trendy t-shirts, accessories, gifts and more, you are in the right place.
Without question, teaching and working in the education field is my calling. In addition to running my small business, I am employed with my local school district and hold a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership.
During the 2012-2013 school year, I taught the most amazing group of 3rd grade students. My teaching efforts were recognized at the school and county level. Things seemingly couldn’t have been better. Wrong! I was still learning to understand the importance of work life balance and self-care. After such an intense year, my body told me it was time to hit the pause button and take a break. It was during that year off that my love and passion for creating and crafting became my saving grace.
In January 2014, my dad was diagnosed with lung cancer. My concern and focus quickly shifted from myself to my dad. While receiving treatment, he was unable to work, which was hard for him to accept, but he was determined to beat cancer and I was determined to support him! To offer a distraction, help occupy his time and give him purpose, I sought his help with many of my crafting projects. On days when he felt well enough, I would meet him with all my supplies and a list of items I needed cut for door hangers or my latest project idea. He never let me down! We often worked together, either in his backyard or in my garage...which is how Gifts & Goodies from the Garage was established. A girl, working side-by-side with her dad, learning from him and doing her best to support him as he battled cancer.
This small business is a work of heart, fueled by a lot of grief and a deep love for my dad (who I lost in April 2019). This is my tribute to him. He would be so proud! Each product created reminds me of his journey and more importantly, it brings back memories of all those days spent working alongside him, creating gifts and goodies in the garage!
🖤Amanda