It takes a long time, and many hands to create a new business I'd like to mention here some of the very kind people who helped make my dream become a reality.

My special thanks go to Ms. Mateja Zalig, formerly of Velika Polana, who graciously loaned her talents as translator and all-round facilitator for the cornhusk workshop's creations, so many times in the last two years. Your help was essential, and greatly appreciated. Thanks also to Ms. Dragica Horvath, director of the cornhusk products division, for her patience while I finally made the decision to order and for her expertise in fulfilling this order so quickly and successfully once I did; and to the LKC, Velika Polana director, Mr. Elemir Skrlec for his faith and confidence. And a special thanks to the ladies of the cornhusk workshop, whose beautiful work I hope to offer here many, many times.

A special thanks to Mr. Renato Vindis of the Small Business Development Center in Ljubljana. His faith in this venture, and his tireless efforts in joining together handcrafters and businesses in Slovenia with my American dream have been invaluable.

Thank you to all my new friends at the Slovenia Women's Union of America for their encouragement, support, and able assistance - not to mention for answering countless questions on many topics.

I am so grateful for the support of a large and loving family, and thank them for their significant and capable contributions - in particular Jack, Sue, and Jen, and the entire Dorazio-Talian 'focus group'. To my six siblings, their spouses and children - none of whom ever asked if I was losing my mind - Thank you so very much for your unconditional love and support. I couldn't have done it without you.

Finally, to my parents and grandparents, thank you for your legacy of strength and courage. I cherish it and hope somehow you know that.

Elizabeth Talian James