In the late 80s, I was on vacation in Hawaii on the island of Kauai. There was a small strip mall across the street from the Waiohai Hotel on Poipu Beach that carried the normal vacation trinkets. Among the other items, there were some handmade necklaces that were macraméd rat tail and olive shells. I had to have it!

I wore it on a regular basis until the late 90s. I think I accidentally threw it away with the newspapers on the couch. It was one of those moments that still kicks me in the gut when I think about it.

In 2006, I started thinking about the lost necklace and figured I could make a replacement as Hawaii was not on the travel calendar and with their last few hurricanes I doubt that the shop is there either. I got online, bought the rat tail on eBay, and ordered shells. I bought enough shells to furnish a beach. I started making the necklace, but needed some adhesive for the shells.

After a trip to the hobby store and $200 later, I became a threading fool. I couldn’t stop! It was all I thought about. I had to start thumb-tacking necklaces to the wall in my room because I ran out of space. It completely enveloped me.

After a lot of encouragement from my children, Sara and Brian, my friends, Leigh, Angie, Stephanie, Sherry, and numerous others, So Simply Stated opened up shop. I hope you enjoy my designs. Matching (or not) bracelets and earrings will be available soon. A “fan pull” line will follow shortly.

My family and friends don’t stand still too long or they will be decorated!

If you would like a custom piece or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me at info@sosimplystated.com.

XOK
Kay