One of many iconic images in the visual tapestry of American history is the covered wagon. For millions, the covered wagon allowed passage to a new freedom, a new happiness available only in the western regions of our country. This journey was often arduous. Settlers and adventurers faced challenges ranging from unpredictable weather, aggressive wild animals, disease, food and water shortages, personality conflicts, and often an existential depression brought on by the length of the trip. Today, millions more are nowon a similar path of growth, personal discovery, and ultimately survival. Thankfully we have a greater understanding today about the needs of those struggling along the path of addiction, mental illness, or simply a period of reflection, change, and recovery.

When Michelle Bellamy began designing recovery jewelry and founded Bill’s Friends she brought with her years of personal experience with her own spiritual, ethical, and emotional journeys of discovery and recovery. She also brought an amazing ability to translate the love and gratitude she feels for 12-step programs of recovery, principles of honesty, open-mindedness, willingness, love, faith, and so much more into artwork and recovery jewelry that all of us can enjoy. From recovery pendants to recovery charms, clothing to necklaces, AA medallions to earrings all of the pieces you are browsing have a special part of Michelle’s soul, her love of peace, and desire for greater acceptance imbued in them.

Interestingly enough, Michelle's own experience with a wagon began at a very young age.  Michelle's mother Judy reports that from the 2^nd grade on Michelle started a neighborhood business    custom-painting soap dishes, toothbrush holders, and many other ordinary household items for families in their small Texas home town.  Michelle saw the benefit to the customer of adding value to everyday items by using her ability to create beauty from the ether.  Michelle says "I certainly don't remember everything from that time but I'll never forget the smile of joy and pride of ownership that my customers had when I delivered to them their finished product."  Poetically, Michelle's deliveries and sales calls took place along the streets of her childhood home with her very own Radio Flyer Wagon in tow. In other words, her creative and entrepreneurial journey began just like the quest of early American settlers...with total reliance up her wagon to deliver.

As you immerse yourself in the billsfriends.com universe, think of your time here as a pilgrimage to an as yet unexplored region in your life.  Your journey can be as practical as needing to pick up a gift item or as heart-wrenching as a personal battle with the horrors of addiction and the path to recovery.  Regardless of your impetus for allowing us on your path, we hope you remember the image of the wagon delivering Americans to a future full of promise some 200 years ago and delivering joy, pride and hopefully some peace to thousands across the world through the amazing artistic and spiritual gifts of Michelle.  Her Little Red Wagon is ready and waiting to make your delivery today. Many blessings to you.