The Hobbyist

I am Florence, a passionate hobbyist with a love for creativity, adventure, and learning. I come from the heart of the Philippines, specifically from the City of Golden Friendship: Cagayan de Oro City! My roots run deep in this warm and vibrant city, where kindness and camaraderie are second nature. I grew up speaking Cebuano/Bisaya, but life had an interesting twist for me—I married an English-speaking American, and now I find myself embracing a new linguistic challenge every day!

Currently, I live in the USA with my loving husband and our little fur family: two cats and two dogs. While they bring so much joy to my daily life, my heart still longs for the six+ pets I left behind in the Philippines. They remain one of my strongest motivations, pushing me to work hard and keep striving for success.

For nearly nine years, I have been a Special Education teacher, and I can confidently say I love everything about this job. The challenges, the breakthroughs, and the ability to make a difference in a child's life fuel my passion every single day. Teaching has shaped me into a patient, compassionate, and resilient person, and I wouldn't trade this experience for anything else.

Beyond my profession, I am a huge fan of Harry Potter—the magic, the wonder, and the lessons woven into the series have captivated me since childhood. I also have an endless appreciation for fairy tales; they remind me of the beauty of storytelling and the power of imagination. Additionally, I adore The Lord of the Rings—the epic journey, deep friendships, and Tolkien's incredible world-building continue to inspire me. The themes of perseverance, courage, and hope resonate deeply with me, shaping how I approach challenges in life. As Frodo once said, “Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.” This reminds me that no effort is too small when it comes to making a difference.

I have always enjoyed crafting, but recently, crocheting has taken center stage in my creative journey. It all started as a personal hobby, but after gifting some of my creations to friends and seeing their delighted reactions, I was inspired to share my work with a wider audience. Crochet has become more than just a pastime; it is a form of self-expression and a way to bring joy to others through handmade, heartfelt pieces.

As I continue this journey, I look forward to exploring new creative possibilities, sharing my passion with the world, and making meaningful connections along the way. Every stitch, every story, and every experience adds to the tapestry of my life, and I am excited for what lies ahead!