When I was young and would feel overwhelmed or stressed I used art as an outlet. One night, instead of studying for a test, I remember collaging and painting a bar stool. When I finished I felt like I could breathe again and my head had space to prepare for the test. It was like magic.

Then when I was in sixth grade I inherited my great-grandmother’s sewing machine. Being able to sew opened up a whole new world of possibilities. In high school, I participated in theatre and was given the opportunity to explore all aspects of theatrical design, as well as use my new found sewing skills.

In college I studied theatrical design with a focus in costuming and was able to take a few art courses as well. My favorite classes were 3D art and interior design. I wished I could have taken more classes but time did not allow. 

After college I married my best friend and we started our life together which quickly included two children. Many cities, states, careers, houses, and life lessons later we found ourselves back in my hometown of Abilene Texas. The transition allowed our family time to slow down and focus on what was really important to us. Although I had some creative outlets, I hadn’t had the space or time for a studio in over 10 years. 

So here I am, picking up my box of crayons again, and feeling more like myself than I have in a long time.