I have enjoyed drawing, painting and creating things since childhood, but it was an interest that lay dormant for many years while I took a very different path, teaching high school science and then dealing with school district technology. At the end of January 2001 I retired from a long career in teaching. At my retirement party I was given a generous gift certificate for art supplies. At last I have time to paint again! 

In the summer of 2002 I discovered the West Pasco Art Guild in New Port Richey, Florida where teachers Jean Metzenthin, Marian Heinlein, Ellie Millar, and Donna Lyle gave inspiration and encouragement as they shared art theory, demonstrated watercolor techniques, and critiqued my efforts. Guild workshops with artists Ingrid Lederer and Betty Welsh FWS have also helped me develop new artistic skills. The many Art Shows at the West Pasco Art Guild gave me an opportunity to exhibit my work, and I cherish the friendships that I have made with Art Guild members. What a wonderful group of women!

In July 2003 we moved to Ocala, Florida where I enjoy opportunities provided through the Appleton Museum of Arts, and the Ocala Art Group. I am a member the Citrus Watercolor Club which meets in nearby Inverness, and I have continued to develop painting skills in workshops with masters of the watercolor medium such as Tom Jones, Pat Weaver, Paul George, and Janet Rogers. I met master calligrapher Ted Mayhall and his wife, renowned sumi-e artist Yolanda Mayhall at an East Meets West calligraphy workshop that Ted presented at the Appleton during a special exhibit of oriental art. Ted's workshop renewed my interest in the art of fine writing, and Yolanda introduced me to the Creative Calligraphers of Citrus Springs.

Special thanks go to my husband, Buck, who is the love of my life and my first "Collector". Buck offers encouragement and endless support for my endeavors. He is my first critic on every piece, and the one who says "Sign it!" when I tend to go on and on with a painting. Buck is my official framer and puts the final touches on each finished work. Thank you, Buck, for making  this possible and all the more enjoyable by being there for me.