I am a Mother of four – one girl and three boys – and a grandmother to three. Professional Artist, Art Teacher at California School of the Arts in Duarte, and a Monrovia Association of Fine Arts (“MAFA”) Member. I am a volunteer for Operation of Hope surgical missions to Africa and Ecuador.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have four grown children: Shannen, Jeffrey, Jr., Wyatt and Miles. I have three grandchildren.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I currently teach High School Art at CSArts in Duarte, including Mixed Media and Advanced color pencil. I love my life now because I am able to focus on art and teaching art, which is a real joy to me. I also teach adult Happy Hour Paint Classes where people can come out to the local Venue at Wingwalker brewery in Monrovia, and now “Two Dogs Pet Services,” where I teach paint and sip classes to any level of painter, even people who have never painted. We have a blast, and everyone leaves with a fun painting that they created. I love making people happy.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
My boyfriend and I love Mikomi for the excellent Sushi, and Saigon Avenue – their Pho` is delicious
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
11 years
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Lisa Barros, the original owner of Paint ‘n Play.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I volunteer on missions to Zimbabwe, Africa. I love it there, not only because the people are so kind and interesting, but I love the wildlife. I am a BIG advocate of animals and endangered species.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
I love movies that make you feel good, and I watch PBS mostly
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Every person has a story, so be KIND always and do what you love – it will bring you happiness.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Going to Egypt is a wish of mine since I was a child… I love history
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Led Zeppelin
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Paint n` Play, because that is where I started teaching art as a business. It served as a community art center for so many.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I would love to have lunch with Jane Goodall at Saigon Avenue because they have good vegetarian food
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I have painted, to date, four of the bear statues around Monrovia. I think that the bears add a unique charm to the area.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Still living here in this area and serving the community with art.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love history! I can’t get enough. When I’m not painting or teaching, I’m reading or researching. My interests include American History and the history of other countries, too.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Alaska
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
I love the Fall months, like October, and the best day on the calendar is 7/25, our Anniversary
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
My relationship with my boyfriend Rick! He’s off the charts supportive and kind.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My family
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
The forest and the ocean
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
My family
