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I am especially grateful for two women who helped shape my artistic journey, beginning when I was just 16 years old.

A family friend recognized my interest and talent in art and encouraged my parents to enroll me at Studio in the Woods in Wauconda, Illinois. It was my first formal art education, and what an experience it was! I found myself studying alongside artists at every level, from beginners like me to accomplished painters exhibiting their work and painting at Chicago's famous Palette & Chisel.

The school's owner and my instructor was Bonnie Anderson. She had an incredible influence on me, so much so that I still think about her when approaching my own teaching. Bonnie had a wonderful ability to adapt her instruction to each artist's skill level. Whether working individually or reviewing everyone's paintings as a group, she always left me feeling encouraged, motivated, and eager to learn more. She was also remarkably kind and patient with this rather sassy, know-it-all 16-year-old!

Another instructor at the school was Frankie Johnson, although I didn't have the opportunity to study with her very much, she had the same qualities as Bonnie. I attended Studio in the Woods once a week for about eight years before taking a long break to raise my family.

Twenty-five years later, I found my way to Main Street Art Center in Lake Zurich Illinois, and unbeknownst to me, Frankie Johnson was the owner and an instructor. Talk about coming full circle! I was home.

I was fortunate to spend another five years there, rebuilding my skills and finding my artistic footing before eventually moving to Arkansas and opening my own studio.

I am eternally grateful to both of these women. They encouraged my journey, challenged me to try new things, and, perhaps most importantly, respected that every artist is at a different place in their journey.

Their influence continues in the way I approach my own art and teaching. They reminded me that a little kindness, patience, and encouragement can make a lasting difference in someone's artistic life.

This November, I am thankful for the teachers who saw potential in me, believed in me, and helped me become the artist and teacher I am today.