Rainbow Playdate Party

I had been a graphic designer and Illustrator for six years when I became pregnant with our second child. There were complications during my pregnancy and I was put on complete bed rest for 8 weeks! Luckily someone was nice enough to loan me a laptop and this is when I first stumbled upon Etsy (and the addiction began...). When our daughter arrived 5 weeks early she was diagnosed with multiple brain malformations and the outlook from the doctors was bleak. It became clear that I would need to stay at home to care for her and her special needs. I needed a way to make up some of my lost income, and so I decided to put my design skills to use and Itsy Belle Event Printables on Etsy! 3 years later and my daughter is doing better than any of the doctors ever expected! She is a beautiful, smart (and a little sassy) girl. Her and her brother keep me on my toes! While she has been diagnosed with Hemiparesis and goes to physical and occupational therapy 2-3 times each week, the doctors now think otherwise she will only be mildly delayed! She is truly a miracle. I feel so blessed for everything I have. Sometimes when something "bad" happens, it can end up being the best thing that ever happened to you. I've learned so much about what is important and am now able to stay home to take care of my family and also do something I love! When I decided to start my Itsy Belle blog and open an Etsy shop dedicated to parties, I was inspired to name it for my tiny daughter Annabelle. She has taught me life is for celebrating, and I love any excuse to throw a party! Happy planning! Christy www.itsybelle.com