I grew up in a small, quiet town in Southwestern Pennsylvania, surrounded by nature’s beauty and a simplicity that defined my childhood. My earliest memories are filled with days spent outdoors, exploring, playing, and soaking in the wonders of the natural world. I was fortunate to be raised in a close-knit family that included my parents and my sister, Krista—my constant companion and source of love, strength, and protection. Often, it was just the two of us, seeking out adventure wherever we could find it. Sometimes that meant sneaking off into the woods to explore hidden corners of the countryside, while other times we were crafting “culinary masterpieces” from dirt, mud, and leaves. We were always imagining, always creating something new. Growing up in a hardworking, lower-class family, we faced challenges, and making ends meet was never easy. Life in the countryside, far removed from the hustle and energy of city life, could sometimes feel quiet and uneventful. But for me, creativity became my escape and my joy. Crayons, markers, paint—anything I could get my hands on—became tools for my imagination. I saw art everywhere and often turned everyday objects into my canvas: the walls of my bedroom, the backs of doors, even my own skin. As long as I was creating, I found happiness. As I grew older, my love for creating never faded. I cherished the process—the way it demanded my full attention and allowed me to bring something completely new to life. Over time, my passion for transformation found a new outlet: makeup. For me, makeup wasn’t just about beauty; it was another form of art, an avenue for self-expression. Life eventually took me on unexpected, transformative journeys. I got married and became a mother to two amazing children. Much of my adult life revolved around my family and supporting my husband’s career as a Marine. For 20 years, we moved up and down the East Coast, living in different places, meeting people from all walks of life, and experiencing cultures that were so different from the small town where I grew up. It was exhilarating and deeply inspiring, opening my eyes to endless possibilities. During this time, I met a truly remarkable soul who became my best friend. She encouraged me to embrace the uncomfortable, take risks, and step out of my comfort zone. Her unwavering belief in me was unlike anything I had ever experienced. She was a cheerleader for my dreams, constantly reminding me that I could achieve anything I set my mind to. With her support, along with the love and encouragement of my family and others, I finally found the courage to take the steps that once felt impossible and began pursuing my dreams. While my life revolved around my roles as a wife and mother, art was always there—quietly but persistently calling to me. Even when I explored other paths, like working in customer service, my heart always drifted back to creativity. Eventually, I made the decision to follow my passion and became a licensed esthetician. This life-changing journey was made possible in large part thanks to the guidance of an inspiring mentor, Miss Shelly. She believed in me at a time when I struggled to believe in myself. She helped me see that I was more than the roles I had defined myself by—more than “just” a wife or a mom. She encouraged me to recognize my own potential, and with her support, I finally took the leap toward working on the dreams I had carried with me for so long. Today, I feel incredibly grateful to share this chapter of my journey with you. Art, in all its forms, has always been my sanctuary—a place of joy, growth, and self-discovery. Now, I have the honor of sharing that passion and creativity with the world. Thank you for being part of my story and for allowing me to share this journey with you.