I am an artist with a specific passion for creating portraits using pencils or pastels. Additionally, I enjoy illustrating, photography, and writing. Without a lot of time to practice my hobbies, I snatch moments here and there for now.

Here's an example of a small sketch I made based on a photo:

I love nature, so hiking is something I am obsessed with and it runs in the family. I also love running. I do my best thinking and praying out on the open road.

Most of all I love people ~ being with close family and friends is something I try to make a regular habit of.

I learned piano and could play a little if given enough time with some sheet music to jog my memory, but that's where my experience with music ends. Like most everyone I love music, and I have a special affinity for Celtic music being part Irish, but I don't think there's a sound I don't like to some degree. My FAVORITE music right now is Celtic Thunder, five amazing, diverse talents from Ireland and Scotland:  http://www.celticthunder.ie/biographies.php  One of my favorite songs they perform is "The Island," sung by member Keith Harkin:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ajw3AZA_7A. I highly recommend you give it a listen. Written by Paul Brady about war in Ireland, it really is a piece that transcends time. Each of these guys (and one young boy) are so talented it is hard to believe someone (the famed Sharon Browne) found them and put them all together for the show which tours in the states this fall. No they're not paying me to say this (in fact to date they've received quite a bit of my money)...I just love them!

I am always amazed when I see raw, God-given talent in a person, and even happier when I see it honed and used. Every individual is created uniquely and given gifts by God. My sole desire is to use my gifts to delight others and bring my Lord joy.