At heart I am a naturalist in love with wild places and things. By education (and profession) an ecologist. I make a point of sketching for a few minutes most days in a notebook I keep for recording daily happenings. Whether it is a leaf, twig, stone or blossom, bird, bone - I love finding the essence of what’s captured my attention in loose pen and watercolor sketches. I reside in Iowa, which holds the fine distinction of being the most altered state in the union. It is here that I established this habit of maintaining a sketchbook journal. I find it keeps me curious and connecting in fresh new ways to the natural world. It isn’t always easy amidst the pig pens and corn, but I do enjoy the seeking and delight in finding beauty in the most unexpected places.