Vulnerable & Real

They say life begins at 40, but at 31, I feel like I’m finally starting the chapter I’ve been writing in my head since I was five years old.

If you know me, you know that a sketchbook has been my constant companion through every stage of life. But somewhere between growing up and becoming a mom of three, the "artist" part of my identity got tucked away behind diaper changes, school runs, and the beautiful chaos of raising a family.

Lately, though, something has shifted. I’ve realized that I’m not just making art for myself anymore—I’m making it for them.

The Power of Being Seen

My children are at that magical age where they watch everything I do. They see how I handle stress, how I spend my free time, and—most importantly—how I treat my own passions.

I’ve spent years telling them they can be anything they want to be. But I realized that showing them is much more powerful than just telling them. I want my kids to grow up seeing a mother who:

 * Values her talents: Showing them that our gifts are worth nurturing.

 * Embraces the hustle: Letting them see the "boring" work behind the beautiful finished product.

 * Redefines "Success": Proving that a dream doesn’t have an expiration date.

Hard Work is the Secret Ingredient

Being a "successful artist" used to feel like a lottery win—something that just happens if you’re lucky. Now, I know better. Success is a 1:1 ratio with effort.

It’s about carving out an hour to paint when the house is finally quiet. It’s about the courage to put my work out there, even when I’m nervous. By chasing this dream now, I’m giving my children a front-row seat to what grit and determination actually look like.

      "I want them to know that dreams don't work unless you do."

What’s Next?

This journey isn't going to be perfect. There will be paint spills on the carpet (more than usual!) and days where the "mom" schedule and the "artist" schedule clash. But that’s the beauty of it.

I’m showing my three little ones that you don’t have to choose between being a devoted parent and a driven individual. You can be both. You can be messy, you can be busy, and you can be successful.

To my kids: Watch closely. I’m doing this for us.