I married a Mechanical Engineer, had a son, and moved to Seattle. I continued my education in computer science, statistical analysis, and the fine arts, striking a balance between the analytical and creative aspects.

 

I worked as a process engineer and quality assurance manager in high-tech avionics for years. But when life shifted in 1997, I returned to Montana to raise my son closer to family. I explored electrical engineering, lasers, optics, and web design during my time there. I even beta-tested for Adobe (and still love their tools).

 

Then came the spark that changed everything again.

In 2002, I met Bill Grout, a glassblower living on a small farm in the Bitterroot Valley. I fell in love with him, the art of blowing glass, and the valley’s magic. I left the corporate world a year later and began a new chapter as a full-time artist.

 

Today, Bill and I create glass art infused with metalwork, dragon-inspired designs, and a splash of Steampunk flair. Our creativity doesn’t stop there. Our small farm features a thriving orchard, garden, greenhouse, Steampunk shop, torchworking studio, Bill’s Man Cave (complete with an electronics wing), and a Brewhouse.

 

In 2016, I published my first illustrated book, Sea Beavers & Rattle Slugs, a whimsical, heartfelt collection inspired by my son and our adventures. It was just the beginning. My series, The Punk Shop Dragon, celebrates life’s strange, silly, and soulful stories through artwork, poetry, and humor.

 

Every experience, from laser work to glassblowing and engineering to storytelling, has been a unique and enriching journey that has brought me to where I am today.

 

I am grateful for these experiences and the lessons they taught me.

And I wouldn’t have it any other way.