I'm an illustrator of nature and nostalgia. I love drawing things that nurture the soul, relish in the simple life and celebrate the every day.

I live in my beloved hometown on the shores of Lake Michigan in South Haven, MI. I'm inspired by the beaches, fields and forests surrounding us and enjoy the slower pace of life in our small community. 

I studied fine art at Kendall College of Art & Design where I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.  

If I'm not drawing or painting, I'm making beads and jewelry. I'm the author of three jewelry and bead books: Jewelry Designs from Nature, and Beautiful Elements published by Kalmbach Publishing and the Beadmaking Lab from Quarry Books. I organize several bead retreats and a bead cruise. I love gathering with creative women during these events and traveling to beautiful locations. 

I’m a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators and served as the Southwest Texas SCBWI advisor for several years before my move to Michigan. I’ve had the privilege of taking two master classes with Tomie dePaola during the SCBWI’s national conferences. In 2008 I was awarded the Tomie dePaola Portfolio Award.