Diane Piper

Growing up, I thought that I lived in the big city. I grew up on the banks of the Susquehanna River in Pennsylvania’s capital…Harrisburg.

I remember my childhood with fond memories. My elementary school was right behind our home; the adjacent playground provided a summer filled with activity. The Saturday matinee (that was only .25 cents) was located just 2 blocks away; the lake that froze over in the wintertime for ice skating excursions was a short walking distance. They had a “hot house” with a roaring fire for all of us with cold toes and hands to gain a little warmth so that we could skate for longer periods.

I spent my entire childhood and teen years in that row house in Harrisburg. I could walk everywhere. If not on foot, I was always riding my bike or roller skating. It was a happy time in a nice town. There were friends and family to enjoy and holidays to celebrate.

I married young and I am the proud mother of two wonderful children, my daughter Chris and, my son Rich. When my children left to pursue their college careers, my marriage ended and I ventured out on my own.

My work experience was mostly administrative, some analytical. I managed an office, worked with students and their internships, and planned events. I enjoyed all of it, some more rewarding than the rest. While I was still employed, I started thinking about a protective cover for my new Italian leather handbag. I worked on my design in the evenings, and on weekends; it was always in my head. I would wake up with a thought and get up to write it down for fear I would forget about it in the morning.

I have become a designer. I have now ventured into the unknown. I have no design, marketing, or PR experience to draw from. Everything I do is brand new. The only way that I can describe this new venture is: “I feel as though I’m in a vast field of tall grass with my machete. I just whack away to find my path.” Sometimes, I find someone on my path with kind words, good suggestions, and encouragement. This is much appreciated. Sometimes, I find someone with negative comments, harsh suggestions, and this is difficult. I am trying to grow a thicker skin so that I can accept the harsh comments and learn from them.

Today, I am happily remarried; I have 4 grandchildren and 2 step grandchildren. My life is wonderful!

My BORSAbag is made here in the U.S.A. and I am very proud of that. This was ex