My name is Judy.

If you met me in the 80s, you might have classified me as a "geek".

I was the only woman in many of my college classes - I majored in computer science. I taught database design at Mount Royal College. I worked as technical support for years.

If you met me today, not so much.

Most everything I know about computers from that time is now relegated to the history books. In fact, one of my textbooks is now on display as a museum exhibit in a computer lab at the University of Alberta. What's more - my daughter never misses an opportunity to tease when I have to ask her about how to post a picture on Instagram or Facebook.

. . .

In the late 90s, I was co-owner of a successful ISP that grew from 300 to 75,000 customers in less than 5 years... It was a hectic time to say the least - 18 hour days weren't out of the ordinary - I was exhausted and I needed a change.

Since retiring, my longest days are now spent pursuing creative and passionate pursuits. It's been an incredible stress reliever and allows me to express myself in ways I never have before. I love classes and tutorials of all kinds and take as many as I can. I started out in a metal smithing class making chains and have moved on to wire wrapping, enamel, sinking/raising, forming, metal clay ... the list goes on and on.

If you met me today, you might classify me as many things.

Proud grandma . Nature lover . World traveller . Jewellery designer

I have a love of jewellery that goes beyond just wearing it. Many of my pieces are inspired by a story, a song, or even a happy memory such as hiking a favourite trail in Kananaskis Country. My pieces often includes natural elements like bone shell, wood, quartz and horn, as well as semiprecious gemstones and intriguing found objects sourced both locally and from my travels.

I handcraft each piece of one-of-a-kind jewellery with an adventurous soul in mind.



macmillanmarie is based in Alberta, Canada.