My harsh inner critic was a pro at reminding me to be careful, make sure, try harder and do more. Most of my life I’ve felt like I’ve been waiting to exhale and let my shoulders drop. Attempting to change others or things outside of me was my main objective. The phrase, “Let it begin with me,” nudges me to remember that I’m the one I’ve been waiting for. My inner critic is still there, but is shrinking little by little. Practicing presence and permission to be messy feels so much better to my body and is way more fun!

When I’m not on my sunlit porch creating art or consulting, I am probably involved in one of these passions: ice baths, yoga, long walks, or traveling. This serious, color-inside-of-the-lines kind of girl is so grateful for her invitation to play - to be messy. Not all of life is so high stakes and it sure isn’t linear. Painting outside of the lines while embracing my humanity has helped me be at rest with my own self.