My name is Janel, and I am a stay at home mom who has a love for all kinds of personalized stationery! I am thrilled and honored when someone picks me to make their greeting card, as I know there are so many choices out there today! Designing is my outlet and I always like to work WITH my customers. I like to give options, and I don't like to say what I think looks best because I believe only the customer can truly make the card perfect- I just help and do what they tell me! The customer plays a part in the creation of the greeting card, and I think this makes the whole experience much more personal and memorable for the customer.

I currently live in GREENVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA with my wonderful husband Fred, two sweet boys: Austin (2.5 years old, pictured right below) and Sean (arrived 8/14/08 pictured in middle below), and our beloved three cats.

The name "Belly Tickles" was originally inspired by my first born son Austin...who loves to get tickled on his belly and will laugh and laugh and laugh every time.  He brings so much joy to my life, and definitely is an inspiration! NOW, the name "Belly Tickles" has taken on new meaning since having been pregnant with my second son...he definitely moved and "tickled my belly" much more than my first son did, so I've experienced the insider version of the belly tickles! :)

I have not taken any college courses in design- it has all happened by my own discovery through trial and error. My style and design knowledge have evolved quite a bit since I first started in late 2005 --- I started to learn basic layouts in 1999 by creating personalized calendars, and in 2000, began learning simple web design for my own personal informative site. This venture was a result of my mom encouraging me to learn more about design. I have always loved creating my own stationery and cards, and have been doing that, since I was a young child. I look forward to creating many more designs! I hope my designs tickle your belly with joy, each time you view them! :o)

Silly Owl by the Sea Personal Note: Because of the current economic situation, my physical location business idea will be put on hold for at least a couple of years. I still plan to expand on all of my current operations, but will do so out of the comfort of my home! Once my husband's restaurant opens (as noted below), I will pull some hours there as a manager. My very own retail gift boutique coming soon to Washington North Carolina (not set in stone just yet but plans are in motion). Most of my items can be purchased on my retail website www.tigerangelgifts.com and I also have a new store on Etsy: www.sillyowlbythesea.etsy.com

Mayflower Seafood Restaurant web site for the upcoming Washington location. Within the next 6-8 months, my husband and I will become part owners of a brand new Mayflower, located in Washington North Carolina! Hubby is currently the General Manager of the Mayflower located in Winterville. Site will display full menu and other informative information about the restaurant!