We had the good fortune of connecting with Monica G. Moszkowicz-Simms and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Monica G., what do you want your legacy to be?
I hope that I am remembered for my humor, creativity, and passion for the things important to me. I’d also like to be remembered as someone who is outspoken and stands up for others, an ally and advocate for those in the LGBTQA+ community, an animal-lover, and a dependable friend. I hope that the things I’ve created for others – whether it be a crocheted character, a knit dog sweater, or a custom crocheted miniature version of a beloved pet – will be passed down and can continue to bring joy to others.

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.
While I do own my own small business, my full-time career is in Marketing for a major craft retailer. I have the chance to work with people from various parts of the business. I have a unique position in the company – part of my job is managing the creation and execution of promotional ad signs for our stores. It allows me the opportunity to work on something that has direct impact on our business. I have a very high level of accountability, and enjoy finding efficiencies, establishing processes and finding solutions, so I really enjoy my job. I’m proud that I’ve earned the trust of my colleagues as a “subject-matter-expert”.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Fort Worth has an amazing music scene. I would definitely want to take them to see some local bands and musicians…namely The Matthew Show, Levi Ray & The Heartworn (full disclosure – my husband is the drummer in both), Jacob Furr, Sam the Lion, Ed Rogers at the Post River East, Main At South Side (MASS), Tulips, or the Twilite Lounge.

We would stop at local restaurants Spiral Diner, King Tut, Maharaja, Mama’s Pizza, The Pizza Place (in Weatherford), for lunch and/or dinner, and Bacon’s (in Hurst) or Jay Jay Cafe (in Arlington) for breakfast. We’d get drinks at the Twilite Lounge, Tulips, and Ye Olde Bull & Bush.

Daytrips to The Perot Museum, Sixth Floor Museum, Dallas Holocaust Museum, Fort Worth Zoo, Dallas World Aquarium, Dinosaur Valley, Rangers or Cowboys Game. And shopping at the Montgomery Antique Mall.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A special shout-out to the group of women at work who taught me how to crochet years ago when I first started at Michaels. It sparked an interest in me to expand beyond the usual hats, scarves, and blankets to learn the art of amigurumi (crocheted animals and characters).

My mother – who has knit and crocheted her entire life, and who despite her best efforts, couldn’t entice a young Monica to want to learn. However, her dedication to creating handmade items for her friends and family instilled the desire in me to do the same.

And I wouldn’t be where I am without my amazing husband, Jeffry Simms, who encourages and supports m unconditionally with my small business venture. He helps me load in and set up at shows, no matter how hot it is outside and how frustrating setting up the canopy proves to be. He’s the best and I love him more than life itself.

Website: Www.13thfloordesigns.com

Instagram: @13thfloordesignscrochet

Linkedin: https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/monicagmoszkowicz

Facebook: @13thFloorDesigns

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