Why I Illustrate

Dally character from Dally the Distracted Cattle Dog

"God makes of you what you would have never imagined you could become." - Pastor Doug Thompson

Growing up with a fondness for writing and drawing I often got the comment "you should illustrate kids books." Never in my wildest dreams would I think that I would be on my 8th children's book project at 26 years old. I was blessed to be catapulted into the wonderful world of kids book illustration when I was only in high school. I considered turning down the request out of fear I would not be able to live up to the task at such a young and inexperienced age, but I gave it a go. I am beyond glad that I did. I have continued to grow from traditional illustration styles to digital. I am still learning as I go.

After working with writer Stephanie Jorgenson on my fifth Dally book, we appeared on the North Dakota Today Show. I was terrified to stand in front of the cameras, but I did it! Shortly after the show I was contacted by the Northwest Minnesota Service Coop to do talks about my artwork with middle schoolers from around the area. I was also terrified to take up this opportunity. Once again doubting what I was capable of, I took a leap of faith! I absolutely loved every minute of talking with those kids and continue to participate in their programs to this day.