️ , trying to hold on to the creative calling despite or just because life, and I also return to the SVS forums from time to time to recharge! The people and the classes in Svs are the best! 
Hello! I have been creating art since I was small. I'm now 38, a new mom as of 4 months ago, and art always calls me back home. For years, I'd want to draw/illustrate/paint what was in my head but couldn't always take it that step further. I'd try and get frustrated during the process.
I do a lot of portraits of faces and animals. I've often wanted to explore them further and in their environment so I can tell their story. They have so much to say!
I actually have joined SVS 2 prior times but didn't get very far. With the little time I had, I needed to express myself vs. do studies/courses, and that's ok. It's what I needed, and all art you make has a benefit I believe. Also, I guess something about having a baby gets your priorities lined up more, and so even though I don't have a lot of time, whatever time I can find, I will work at this. Sure, this is my dream, but it's for my kid as well, to show her anything is possible, and I truly believe that. I'd like to illustrate, design, and write my own stories & children's books. It is a dream I have indeed! 
I grew up in NJ, lived in upstate NY for about 6-7 years, and just moved to VA a year ago with my husband. We are very much nature fans, so that is a huge source of fuel for me as well as art and just spirituality in general!
Nice to meet you and I'll share some pictures of my work from past few years.
Also, if there is anything I have learned is that practice and showing up really does make a difference in your art. The first time I ever drew a face or animal, it was very 2D and flat. More symbolic as Jake talks about in his first course in the curriculum vs reality. As time goes on, and you draw more and more, and you compare your to let's say 5 years, you really see a difference. So there's hope yet!
I look forward to learning and improving my skills so I can create what's in my heart. I'd for this to be my career! Thanks!
