Women are constantly bombarded by the media (and other external sources) about what we should think, wear or do. Even how we need to handle our lives. Often we lose sight of who we really are. This piece is about this distraction and my vision for a rebirth of character. One independent of external sources. One that is wholly me. My hope is that you can relate to this in one way or another and find your own self-worth in who you really are.

Eucalyptus, which has been used for centuries to treat everything from the common cold to bronchial infections, symbolizes healing. The rich, menthol blue of the Eucalyptus bark fibers illustrates this calming effect a mother can have to soothe her child's ailment.

Eucalyptus deglupta, is one of the more amazing species of eucalyptus. Their stringy bark is riddled with brilliant colors that mimic of the vibrance of one's inner most dreams. Being the symbol of healing, protection, and prudence, this bark reminds us to be cautious with whom we share these dreams. Or as my mother would say, "be careful to whom you give your china cup."

"Sosna" means pine tree in Russian. The pine represents longevity in many cultures, and is often a symbol of the winter solstice. Even though the wood is soft, it lives through the harshest winters.

This amber-hued pine bark, reminds me of the petrified stone that is so prevalent in Ukrainian jewelry. Jewelry that a mother might pass on to her daughter. Sosna #2 represents this legacy from mother to daughter.