The
Goode family of a small town in northern Mississippi thought their family was
complete with a son and a daughter already in their upper teens. My birth in
the year of 1945 brought them a surprise.My family owned an automobile repair shop located near our home so even when working my parents were never away from me. My mother and I spent many hours together drawing, playing games, story telling, or just having fun. I also have fond memories of growing up with my nieces and nephews. Teaching and Encouragement were a part of everyday life.. My mother was always very artistic but we didn't realize it or appreciate her art at
that time. 
My husband and I married very young and after forty years we look back on lots
of hard work but much
happiness. The Vietnam War separated us for a while, but after that we settled down to work in north Mississippi where I worked for almost thirty years in an accounting department. We were able to retire in our early 50's in 1997.
I had always had a desire to paint but while working I never took the time to try. Soon after retirement, I went to the local discount store, bought a couple of brushes and a few tubes of paint, and this was the beginning of my addiction to painting.
We wintered in southwest Florida for two years before making our full time move in 1999 to be near our long time
friends The wonderful weather here allows me
to paint outside almost every day. I paint whatever I am thinking or dreaming
about when I wake up and my ideas are endless. I am a member of the Bonita
Springs Art League where I participate in many activities including monthly art
shows. My husband encourages and supports me but wishes we had more space
to store my growing collection of art supplies.IT IS A WONDERFUL LIFE !
