I have been a commercial illustrator since 1981 and my illustrations can be seen on many well-known food labels. For thirty years, I focused on my art career and family. I gave up songwriting and playing guitar, which was something I had loved as a young girl.

In 1992, my five-year-old son Jason died from a severe congenital heart defect. I wanted to be buried with him and grief swallowed up my life for almost two decades.

In 2010, at age fifty, I was caring for my parents and coping with the challenges I faced with my three surviving children. During that time I became exhausted, uninspired and sad. It truly was a miracle that at the age of 50, I was able to experience a creative and emotional renaissance.

I opened my heart to write the deeply painful experience of losing Jason and my journey toward healing began. Sharing the story of his brief life transformed me, and the grief I carried was lifted.

Finding joy after 18 years of sorrow was a gift I never imagined. Music was a magic carpet that lifted me over all of my stress. I was very close to both my parents and it was hard to watch them suffer. My songs eased my pain. I am especially grateful that both my parents witnessed my joy before they died.

I am a passionate songwriter; my songs comprise a musical of my life. Many of my songs are dedicated to Jason. I rediscovered the songs I composed in my youth and wrote new songs that helped me cope with current challenges.

My blogs My Journey’s Insight and Illustrating My Life have reached people all over the world. I perform regularly where I live in Southern California.

I want to convey my optimism and belief that if I could heal, perhaps others could find hope with my story. If my words and music can bring any level of comfort to another person, then I have achieved more in my lifetime than I ever dreamed of.