Geraldine Dondo – Black Mitts w/White Fur (Blue Flower Motif)

“The best way to gain self-confidence is to do what you are afraid to do.” - Swati Sharma. Hi, I’m Geraldine, a proud mother and grandmother. My retirement began in September 2019, though I spent most of my career as a stay-at-home mom. I was born in Norway House, Manitoba, in 1961, daughter to my Cree/Scottish mother, and my Ukrainian father. To this day I’m learning about my ancestry, and asking many questions. My mother recently told me that my grandmother, at thirteen, was a nanny for a family in the Big House at Lower Fort Garry. My beading journey began in 2018 after attending a workshop hosted by my cousin. Immediately I thought it would be a great opportunity to learn and carry on a tradition, a tradition maintained by my mother and grandmother, something I could pass on and share. Since, I have hosted a few workshops myself and have donated items to various fundraisers, including to my church and a local school. Beading is my meditation. I enjoy it when alone and in the quietness of my thoughts. I have many projects planned, and am aware that I have to pace myself as I don’t want it to become a chore. Creativity takes time and thought. I’m eager and proud to begin this part of my journey. In general, the trick is to always be open to learning new things.