Writing has always had a grip on me. Poetry especially, is something that is deeply interwoven into my daily life. I almost feel like I cannot move forward from a feeling until I have dissected it and captured it in a poem. Writing poetry is a part of the way I experience the world and process life. It is also the way I preserve my memories and immortalize moments that I could've otherwise forgotten and lost. Most importantly, poetry is a way for me to connect with others and share the human experience. Knowing that my poetry could help someone else feel seen and less alone in their journey is a gift that keeps giving. I have always loved people and their stories; if inviting them into mine helps them process their own stories and find peace and healing, then I am grateful.

illustrator.

After getting an associate's degree in Mass Communications, I realized that I wanted to pursue a major that would allow me to bring my words to life in more creative ways. I then transferred to Middle Tennessee State University where I earned a bachelor's degree in Graphic Design with a focus of Illustration. 

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Going to school for art has opened doors for expressing myself in more than just my words. Because of this experience, I can now design my book covers, format and illustrate the interior pages, and create books that are a creative expression of myself both through writing and in art. 

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My second book, If Hearts Had Training Wheels, is the first book I've completely designed, formatted, and illustrated from the cover to the interior pages. By illustrating this book, I have been able to preserve memories I would've otherwise forgotten and bring visuals to words and experiences that are dear to my heart. I am so grateful to be able to use my hands and mind in this way.

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visual storyteller.

I like the phrase visual storyteller  because creating visuals for my words is as important to me as creating the words themselves. I love videography and making cinematic short films of my poems. I love animation and setting my poetry in motion. I love photography and capturing the essence of a moment. I love painting and seeing brush strokes make friends with the paper. I want everything I make to tell a story. I want to breathe life into my words, but I also want my art to have its own life as well. I love creating. I love trying new things. I want my to tell stories in every way I can, while I can.

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