"I have been creative since I was a kid and have utilized my talents to express myself in so many outlets. I've tried my hand at writing, poetry, room renovations, upcycling furniture, painting, party planning, photography and cooking. When I discovered sewing, the experience gave me a feeling I had not accomplished with any other craft," Michael writes on his blog.
"I appreciate the ability to create a garment that began as an idea in my thoughts and seeing the piece walk the streets either on myself or Ava is an amazing feeling. Being a Father is my most important responsibility and what I am most proud of in life. It is a blessing to be able to combine my journey of fatherhood with my love of creativity while creating memories with my child," the dad explains on his blog.
Turns out, Michael's desire to be an active parent in Ava's life was inspired by his own childhood experiences. "I wanted to make sure she felt confident, that she loved herself, and that she could believe in her abilities, which are all the things I struggled with as a kid," Gardner told The Philadelphia Inquirer.
"I would be physically standing in front of him [my dad] saying ‘hi’ and he’d ignore me. He would cross the street to go up the block and avoid me," Michael explained to The Philadelphia Inquirer.
