I write documents for a computer company. I used to teach English at the university level before making a career shift rather late in life.

I am a poet. Over the years, my poems have been published in a number of literary magazines. I admire, and am inspired by, folk art - just the kind of work that can be seen by many of the artisans of Novica.

Every Christmas, my brother and his family eagerly await a package that will arrive from Novica. They know it will be one of the hand-blown vases from the artisans of Brazil or Mexico. They don't know what how it will look, what shape it will be, how tall or what color . . . but they do know it will be another precious addition to their ever-growing collection of prized handmade glassware.

It is my pleasure to send them these presents each year. I spend hours online selecting the most perfect vase or decanter for my brother, his wife, and their children. I like knowing that the artisans of Novica will be paid a fair price, and I enjoy reading their histories and watching their collections change and grow over the years - just as my brother's collection grows with each Christmas gift.

My friends and other members of my family have received presents from Novica, as well. And, of course, I have also done my fair share of shopping at Novica for myself. :-)