Over 40 years ago Erika was introduced to pine needle basketry while working as a student intern at Callaway Gardens in Georgia, where a demonstration of the craft initiated her love of basketry. While working towards a Biology degree at Augusta College she taught several classes through their Continuing Education programming. After raising two daughters in the mountains of Western North Carolina, restoring an old farmhouse, and careers in education and solar energy, she is excited to once again share this traditional craft in the land of the long-leaf pine. Along with crafting, Erika enjoys traveling, nature and gardening.