Hi! I'm Mary & I live in northwestern NC. I've been married to my best friend for 35 years and we have three children (two biological and 1 foster-turned-forever son) who have left the nest and are living nearby. My mother has lived with hubby and me for the last seven years. I'm the full-time caregiver for both my mom and my hubby (he's a retired Marine who is disabled now due to injuries while on active duty). When I'm not taking care of my family, I teach the youth at our church and run the church library, garden, craft, read, and play with my two dogs--a Doberman/retriever mix and a Shiba Inu/husky mix.

Crafting is my haven- something I can do to keep myself entertained, be creative, nourish my soul, and escape when I need to get away--even if it's just down the hall in my craft room!

This is my 3rd retreat with Monique and I love everything about her retreats! The instructors are top notch and the creative ideas, techniques and inspiration they provide keep me busy for months! lol

I started out crafting with cross stitch and embroidery, then moved into knitting. Then I discovered the fun in making scrapbooks and mini albums from scratch. That led to junk journaling. From there, I've experimented with art journaling, watercolors, lettering, mixed media, resin, quilting, and so much more!

I have a YouTube channel, Mary Makes Studio, and an Etsy store, Mary Makes Studio_NC.

One of my favorite parts of the crafting world today--particularly in the junk journaling circles--is the community of crafters. The ones I have come in contact with are so generous with their methods, support, ideas and advice! I've even found an online craft store that goes above and beyond to connect with their customers personally and develop friendships with us.

I'm looking forward to another Art & Junk Journal Retreat so I can learn more techniques, meet new creators, and make new friends!