Mardi Howell

Mardi introduces herself the same way, to everyone. “I’m Mardi, like Mardi Gras.” She gives full bodied hugs and always dons a bold manicure.  But her signature trait is her spirit - she exudes joy unapologetically.  This is a woman who has lived many lives, and is unafraid to squeeze happiness out of this current one. When she is not designing jewelry for Godwin Jewelers, you can find her plein air painting, sewing, mending, and generously sharing herself with others. Mardi will be teaching the Japanese art of Sashiko mending. 

On living alone: “To starfish in the bed - it’s what I live for!”

On travel: I’m taking a retirement-not retired-trip this August. My sister and I are going to Amsterdam, Stockholm, the French Riveria and Rome…all places I’ve never been. 

On ideas: I get a little obsessive when I have an idea in my head.

On her version of bliss:  If I was dying tomorrow, I’d want to be in a room with puppies and kittens crawling all over me, with a live orchestra playing, and contemporary art - big, huge canvases on the walls. Something I can see from the floor, because obviously I’d by laying down, with all the animals. 

On her version of deep sadness: Being in a room full of people and feeling lonely. 

What trait do you deplore in yourself?  

Executive dysfunction. 

What trait do you deplore in others? 

Dishonesty. 

What is one of your biggest extravagances? 

Ollipop drinks.

What m you like most about your appearance? 

My eyes.

Quality you like most in others?

Kindness.

Phrase you overuse? 

I don’t know if you know this, but I’m kind of a big deal. It's a joke. I totally do not see myself as a big deal.

Greatest happiness?

Being able to live this life, and be where I am. I am content. It’s kind of a miracle, considering where I came from, and how I was raised.

Most treasured possession? 

Oh, I have so many. Probably a piece of clothing.