While in 4th grade, I answered my teacher’s question of ‘what do you want to be when you grow up’ whith, “I want to become as Sister.”  In 1968, my family moved to Hustisford, Wisconsin.  Prior to graduation in 1970, I began my correspondence with the OSF Vocation Director.  In 1972, I entered the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi.

I have always loved art. I remember in grade school, my parents enrolling me in Saturday morning art classes. The former school was on a hilltop overlooking May Fair Mall. Today the school is long gone, but my love for art has only deepened over the years.  My various art interests include counted-cross stitch, natural art (Seeds-n-Stuff), and watercolor.

There were years when the artist within me was set aside. After many years of teaching, though, I had to find some activity that would keep me sane in the midst of all teaching responsibilities and attending classes for my Masters Degree during the summers. First, it was basket weaving. Then I attended two “Watercolor Painting for Beginners” classes. Those classes whetted my appetite and I was hooked. Since then, I continue to “teach” myself via books on watercolor.

My love of nature and the outdoors falls in stride with my Franciscan spirit. Being able to create on paper what God has gifted us through Mother Earth, is a humbling experience. Hours can fly by when I become engrossed in a painting. I feel a presence and power greater than myself guiding my hand and heart. For me, painting becomes prayer. It is so awesome to watch the object, mostly flowers, come to life right before my eyes! It takes my breath away! I am most grateful for this God-given gift.

After my teaching career, I have moved into archival work, and it was then I had more time for art.  So I came back to watercolor painting!  Shortly, thereafter, I tried my hand at card-making — It has been a success!!!  I keep on creating and taking photos for possible card ideas.  During the time of creating, that’s when I feel most in touch with my Creator.  That space becomes sacred as I continue to create.