I was born on the southern Gulf coast of Florida in Sarasota. A slow-moving beach town where many aspire to retire. A community with a history steeped in love for the arts, known for its pristine beaches with shining white sand. It is a paradise full of fond memories. I am grateful to be able to call it home. From the beginning, I had a love for nature and all of its creatures, and my mind worked creatively.

While working on my bachelor's degree at the Ringling College of Art & Design, I discovered a new love for gardening and horticulture. To participate in that productive work of nature and to aid in the growth of plants that bring forth food from the soil was fascinating. Learning about the abundance that emanates from a tiny seed gripped my imagination and curiosity.

Just before I graduated, I met my wife. After moving around chasing jobs and fulfilling our youthful desire to see America, we settled in her hometown, LaCrosse, Wisconsin. Sunflowers are my favorite plant to cultivate. It occurred to me one summer they make perfect subjects for creative expression. This world could use a little simplicity and beauty and radiance. Maybe more than a little.

We still live in LaCrosse. We got married and blessed with two beautiful daughters. As our family and garden grow, admiration fills us for the created world and the simple perfection inherent in ordinary things.