THE JOURNEY 

     I can't begin to say how many times I have heard the saying, 'It is not the destination, It is the journey.' I found out how true these words were when I made the decision  to become a Master Photographer through PPA. The best part about my journey was I was never alone.  In the last four years I have met so many new friends that were willing to share their knowledge and to encourage me every step of the way. 

FRIENDS AND MENTORS

1.  The first person I would have to give credit to for starting me on this journey is my grandson, Dean.  He is the whole reason I got into photography.  When I found out I was to be a grandmother I decided to take some college night classes to learn photography I could take amazing pictures of this little guy.

2.  The second person would be my son Dan.  He is the person that convinced me to join PPA.  He also located a local guild that was near our location which just happened to be Professional Photographers of North East Ohio. From the moment we walked into that first meeting we were made to feel welcome.  It was at that meeting I met Kristy Steeves.  

3.  Kristy Steeves was my very first Mentor.  The very first time I attended the meeting she took the time to tell me about the Certified Professional Photographer class she was teaching and invited me to join.  With Kristy as my mentor, I became a Certified Professional Photographer with in one year.  Once that goal was accomplished she then encouraged me to go for my Master Photographer Degree. I love that Kristy was not only my first Mentor on this journey bet she is the first life long friend that I met in this organization. Kristy is also the one that introduced me to so many of my new friends. 

4.  Kate Mitchem,  A photographer I met while attending a workshop in Italy, has been on this journey with me. She accomplished her goal of becoming a Master Photographer in 2020.  I can't even say how many times late at night I would send her a picture I was working on for competition. (Love that she stays up late every evening)  Then I would sit starring at the monitor waiting for her response.  If it came back that she LOVED IT! I would jump for joy knowing I was on the right track. If the response was it is pretty or cute than I might as well start all over again. LOL. Kate has became one of my best friends and I love that we reached this destination together.

5.  Julie Marchese, Another dear friend that I have met because of Kristy Steeves.  Julie is also traveling this journey and when she reaches her destination I will be there to help her celebrate.  Until than I will help her in any way I can.  She has always been there for me.

6.  Judy Reinford, is the first mentor I had that introduced me to painting in photoshop. I remember attending a PPA workshop at her studio and at that time I did not even know what a mixer brush was. I was there because I loved Judy's work.  I did not know there was painting involved. lol. Since that time I have taken several other workshops with Judy as well as working with her in her One on One Mentoring program.  She has an amazing talent for teaching.

7.  Sandra Pearce,  Once I learned about painting in photoshop I reached out to Sandra Pearce.  I found out she was teaching a class at GLIP School for photographers and I signed up.  The rest is history.  She is not only an outstanding Mentor but also a great friend.  I have had the chance to take a couple of classes with her as well as taking her One on One Mentor Program.

8.  Richard Sturdivant, Each year I try to select another Master Photographer to work with.  This year I reached out to Richard to sign up for his online Mentoring.  He has taught me so much about paying attention to details, lighting and perspective. He has so much knowledge about painting and is willing to share that knowledge to help me reach my goals. What I loved the most is that when it got a little discouraging he gave me the space to take a step back and catch my breath. Once I was ready to try again he was there to encourage me and push me to do my best.  He is the friend that you would always want in your corner.   

     These are only a few of the friends I have made on this journey.  I have met so many new friends at classes or workshops that are offered by PPA.  Sooo.....

     As I am walking across the stage this January I will be thinking about all of the friends and mentors that helped me get to this point. On my journey I discovered it is not just the destination it is the friends you make along the way that makes this day worth celebrating!