Diagnosed at 48
After I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease I was very depressed. Then I saw an ad for a Trackless Train. It really gave me a feeling of value and very pleasing to see children from babies to folks in there 90’s enjoying a ride on my train. But it was a sad day when we had to sell it as I could no longer operate it by myself. God may have closed one door but He opened another.
I began crafting metal creations out of square cut nails about 6 years ago. I also have used horseshoes, horseshoe nails, and railroad spikes.
Parkinson’s Disease has made it difficult to properly align, then weld together projects due to my tremors and weakness. This makes each piece a one of a kind! Some days are better for me than others. As the saying goes “I have Parkinson’s: It does not have me”.
The first thing I made was a square nail cross, then a horseshoe nail cross. Next I started making a 3 to 4 inch square nail cross and a stand to hang it from. A popular item has been the Nativity made from square nails. This I find very rewarding as I feel it is pleasing to God .
I have discovered how to create trees and crosses from copper wire.
Using flatware I design jewelry and creations: bud vases, wall crosses and cowboys.
As Parkinson’s Disease progresses, I am now working with wood making Palm Crosses.
Not that I am ready to end this part of my life, but I am curious about what will be behind the next door God opens for me.