I was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico and started drawing when I was about eight years old. My Mom encouraged me to start painting and drawing at that time, and she offered a lot of help, being an artist herself. My Dad is an architect, so his attention to small details and perspective was also very helpful. By the time I reached high school, I was fairly skilled at painting and illustrating. In high school I was involved with the school newspaper and yearbook, which gave me enough experience to work as a paste up artist after graduation. The following year I enrolled at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma and majored in Commercial Art. I received a Bachelor's degree in 1991. In addition, I studied desktop publishing at Oklahoma State University in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. I have worked professionally in graphic design and advertising since 1992.

Currently I am employed by Master Magnetics, Inc. in Castle Rock, Colorado as graphic designer. I've learned so much since being hired in 1999. Additionally, I freelance design for several businesses, ministries and publications (Adobe Photoshop is often my best friend!).

When I recount all the blessings in my life I am quite thankful. I have a wonderful marriage, a new home, great friends and family, and a fun career...plus I live in scenic Colorado! I am a 40-year-old Christian, artist, husband and step-dad who happened to be born with Cerebral Palsy. My legs and arms have stiffened up as I've aged, and my lower back has developed some pain and limited range of movement, but I strive on. I know that there is a purpose for me being this way, and somehow God gives me strength to get through whatever comes my way.

God has brought me through many difficult times despite the disability. The worst was in January 1993, when a drunk driver shot me in the head with a sawed-off shotgun while at a traffic light in northeast Albuquerque. I was an emotional, physical and mental wreck that year, but made a complete recovery. God was with me every step, and made my life better as a result. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." The older I get, the more meaning and hope this scripture pours into my life.
One of the greatest blessings in my life is Jennifer. We met on the internet in late 1997 and were married four months later. I relocated from Albuquerque to Denver to be with her, and have never regretted the decision. Our marriage has been colored with successes, failures, and challenges to finances and health, but we strive to put each other - and God - first. The love, friendship and passion we share gets better every year, and we make a great team!

Living with a disability in the United States has to be easier than any other country, and the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks made me take inventory of what is important and what is petty. I think the public attitude towards persons like myself is improving. I offer my art here in hopes of changing that perception even more, and perhaps being a source of encouragement to other disabled persons.