I am a stay at home, mother of two, currently living in Tulsa, OK. I first discovered slings five weeks after my daughter was born. I accredit all of my original exposure to slings to the La Leche League (LLL) group I was a member of in Charlotte, NC. At the time, many of my fellow nursing Mothers were using slings and demonstrating the need and advantages to me ~ a first time mom. I was amazed at how easy they made wearing a sling look and how much more they were able to function and care for their children.

Now, three and a half years later, I’m still wearing a sling ~ sometimes with my baby and sometimes with my three year old! I attribute much of my success as a Mother to the use of my slings. Completing every day chores became much easier. I could vacuum, do the dishes, pick up the house ~ all the things that I found challenging with a new baby in the house. Upon the arrival of my second baby, the uses are all still in play, but now I’m also able to chase my toddler and tend to her needs!

As I traveled and moved across the United States I found that my slings attracted attention. Many mothers, grandmothers or mothers-to-be would stop and ask me about my sling. “It looked cool” or “what a wonderful idea” was a recurring comment. This started me thinking that I may be able to help share the success of parenting I have experienced with slings ~ and prompted me to start Handmade by Heather.

I make all of the items found on my website myself. For me, it is important that your child can experience the love and closeness to their parent as nature intended. Making each of these items by hand helps afford me a place in this society to bring a family closer in all of the daily activities of life. A sling, blanket or burp cloth does not only serve a function, but can make a statement of values, beliefs and style ~ in just one small item.

I hope you enjoy and cherish the moments you have with your children. Time passes too fast, they grow-up too soon ~ but for me some of my greatest memories are how close I am with my children using a sling.