Today I am celebrating 10 years of pursuing my dream as a working artist. The road has been winding and long, and there are many miles yet to go, but it is something I truly love. Here’s a little more about my story and how art has shaped my life for many years.

I was 35 years old, when I realized that I was letting my dream of being a full time artist slip away. I was working in a very challenging position that drained all of my energy by the end of the day. I had no time for creativity. So I thought.

I love setting goals. I am one of those people who writes them down and posts them up on my wall and by the end of the year, I almost always accomplish all of my goals.

I LOVE art books. I have a collection of almost 50 of them. The joy of collecting these treasures over the years has brought me much happiness. Here are 5 books that I consider favorites.