We had the good fortune of connecting with Michelle Dotson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Life is about choices. If you never take risk you will never grow or learn. It allows me to go after things that I never knew where possible.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a proud Navy Veteran. During my eight amazing years in the Navy, my job title was a Quartermaster. I handled all of the navigation. I was in charge of plotting the ship’s course, following weather patterns, keeping the crew on calm seas, completing missions, and even avoiding potential threats. I had the honor and the pleasure to visit countries I would only see on TV. In 2018 my boyfriend and I got into a motorcycle accident. He pushed me off seconds before he died on impact. After physically recovering, my mental health went downhill. Depression hit me hard. Losing him devastated me. Not knowing how to grieve properly and feeling alone… I was on an emotional roller coaster.

In 2019 I managed to get myself out of my funk and I was determined to not let my mental health destroy me. I spent countless hours in my garage refurbishing furniture because I found joy in it. Taking time to myself, traveling, and finding my purpose. On a girl’s trip to Seattle, we wanted/needed matching cups. Instead of buying them, I decided I would make them! LaNay Creations was born! I have always been crafty but I never thought this would be my calling. I have always felt the need to give sentimental gifts personalized to the person. I enjoy it so much! I have an endless supply of glitter, glue, and a plethora of materials everywhere! Creating these personalized items are what makes me happy! What started as a coping mechanism turned into a revitalization of my mental health and has been nothing short of amazing!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take them to the GA AQUARIUM first. I’m so in love with water animals, mostly turtles. We would eat a Dave’s cheesesteaks because I absolutely love that place. I would also take them to Stone Mountain Park to walk up the mountain, everyone needs a break from reality. Some time to hang out with my very entertaining family of course.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mother and father

Website: Lanaycreations.com

Instagram: Lanaycreationss

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/lanaycreationss/?ref=bookmarks

Other: https://linktr.ee/Lanaycreations

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