Who am I? Well, I haven’t quite figured that out myself yet, but I do know that art, nature, and history have been three centering forces in my life. My need to express myself artistically has been present since I could hold a piece of chalk in my hands. As a child, I was never content with drawing a simple hopscotch design; instead, I felt compelled to decorate each box with different colors until it looked festive and beautiful. From coloring with chalk on the sidewalk to painting pictures and taking photographs, I have tried to follow my drive and live authentically by expressing myself through art.

Finding a place where I can slow down and center myself hasn’t always been easy, but I have found that it is essential for my well-being. Being still in the peace and quiet of a deep green forest, or sitting on a white-sand beach listening to the water wash ashore, allows me time and space to escape the hectic world. This precious time is when I am able to relax into the “now” of the moment and let the past and the future fade away. I experience such joy and happiness while spending time in nature with those I love, especially my husband, Clyde. While immersed in nature, photography becomes our form of communication.

Although I recognize the revitalizing benefits of living in the “now,” I also feel there are so many things we can learn from history. Studying our past can teach us much and help guide us toward a better future. The United States is a country filled with a wide variety of people, each with unique and wonderful stories. I am often drawn to photograph places and individuals that celebrate the idea that we can live together as a group while still being authentically ourselves. I find our democracy inspirational and love that our country continues to value an individual’s right to expression.

Yes—art, nature, and history have been the three centering forces in my life, but my family has been my greatest source of joy. My husband, Clyde, our daughter and son-in-law, Jackie and Neal, our son Ted, and our two grandkids, Kayla and Robert, have taught me the most about life. Through every adventure—thrilling and challenging alike—we have learned and grown, and I have cherished every moment.

It is my hope that you can sit back, relax, and take a moment to enjoy this beautiful, quirky, fun, and sometimes funky world that we occupy.