At the age of 11, I would walk 4 blocks to oil painting lessons at Mrs. McCall's home where she taught a class of 15 students. Because I loved the class, I would arrive early to help her fill turpentine containers and set up shop. I found art expression to be a positive release and loved every minute of class. Frequently, she would take me upstairs and share her personal collecction pieces. I'll never forget her and was so grateful that she showed me the path to the art world.
After raising my two children, I began my career in home health physical therapy. During this time, I worked part=time in professional gardening for two artists. One, a Master Sand-Blaster and the other his wife, a magnificently detailed Stained Glass Artist. They offered to send me to stained glass classes and encouraged my growth. As my Mentors, they taught me my new niche.