Hey there! We have some news. Nearly 6 years ago, I opened up an Etsy store hoping a few people would like what I was making. Turns out, they did. We Kept making, kept growing. Right along with these two girlies. Opened up a storefront. Closed storefront. Sewed thousands of shoes. Met amazing customers who turned into friends. This last year, I have been in graduate school working on my teaching certificate & master’s. Then in spring, I accepted a position teaching special education at a local high school. I’m so beyond excited. Through all of this, BATB has been put in the back burner as I focused on school, students, and family. It has been an after thought. I don’t foresee that changing come fall when I’m working full time as a teacher. So, I’m closing shop. I need to put all that creative energy into learning and lessons. We’ll be closing things out the next couple weeks. A sample sale. Probably regular sale. I’ll also be listing leather and other craft accessories if that’s your jam. Thanks for a great 6 years. I’ve been so happy to see your kids grow up (some of which are now in KINDERGARTEN!!!!) I will forever hold in my heart that you allowed me to be a small part in making memories with your babes. 💛👧🏻🐻 -Shala https://www.instagram.com/p/BzTMGgEBeXU/ via http://belleandthebear.com