Why do I want to be an artist anyway?

A little background (this could be at bit boring):  

When I was 8 yrs. old I realized I absolutely LOVED ART. I watched with amazement the artists programs on TV...(even Captain Kangaroo had an artist on his program from time to time) and at some point in my childhood I watched Bob Ross painting his "happy little clouds". At that time, the opportunity to take art classes in my hometown was very limited. I did take summer "arts and crafts" classes at the grade school across the street from where I lived in Keokuk, Iowa. There is where I was exposed to all kinds of fun hands-on activities.  

During high school the only art class I attended was a freshman class offered during my senior year (think Catholic school, limited funding). I did however attend a two week workshop at the University of Wisconsin in Green Bay that same year thanks to my art instructor Mrs. Nila Jobe.  She found the workshop and helped two of her students secure scholarships, funded by the Jaycees, to attend. Without her...I would not have had that opportunity.  Thank you Mrs. Jobe!  

Attending the Green Bay workshop was the first time I was literally surrounded by artists and art instructors. It was heaven to have such an opportunity to emerce myself in the pursuit of finding "the artist within".  So kudos to all those teachers out there who guide and inspire students young and old. You don't always know what your impact will be on someone else but to be a good teacher is an art in and of itself!

My primary goal was to have a family and perhaps be a stay at home mom, and I did just that for a time. My two daughters are the very best part of me. As my family has grown over the years...so does my love for them all.  Suffice it to say...they all mean the world to me.

I had a long career in "Corporate America" which was also rewarding. I found many life long friends there and had many opportunities to travel and develop new skills...but, it wasn't art...a corporate job didn't speak to my soul. 

Artistically, I dabbled throughout my life with a handful of paintings in acrylic and even fewer in oils. I had little time to commit to developing my expertise with either medium. After retiring I focused on developing my drawing skills and within a few years found a passion using soft pastels.

A Few Examples:

So...here I am, 58 yrs. old. I want to hopefully share what I've done to get to this point...the resources I found, materials I use, and chronicle the journey I'm on. Maybe there will be something useful to you.