I grew up in a military family and spent my first twelve years living throughout the United States, Japan and France. Living in France for four years brought extensive travels throughout Europe. In addition to memories from Japan, Colorado, California, Kentucky, Virginia and Florida, my life in Israel has provided me with a rich source of visual imagery and human experience.

Shortly after I turned 20, I left San Franciso to fly to Israel, seeking a separate life and identity of my own. Little did I know that I would be 35 years old before I would be able to return to the United States. During those years in Israel, I raised a large family, taught English with the Berlitz Language School, ran a horticulture program, and drew, painted, and created large textile designs while working toward a degree in English literature in an Israeli university. Returning to the United States in 2004 enabled me to rediscover the physical beauty of America, reflected in my work, and to focus on a painting degree at Herron. I continue to balance my love of writing and literature with my painting ambitions.