Candles, Soap, Paintings, and so much more...

My life changed in 2014 after having breast cancer.  I am grateful my cancer is gone and I am feeling well again.  However, this life event was truly a wakeup call.  It was during my recovery from my last chemotherapy that I had the thought to make candles.  Let me say that I had never made a candle in my life!  However, I researched on how to make candles and I made my first batch using soy wax and lavender essential oil.  About six months later I started to make soap via melt and pour method and lavender was my first batch of soap.  I love the peace that comes with taking in the smell of essential oils while creating my soap and candles.  In 2017 I was encouraged to give painting a try.  The first time I painted was at a local art studio and we were to paint a lavender field.  This painting is now my business logo.  For my paintings, I buy my frames from local vintage stores and I am drawn to wood frames with good 'bones' or their unique shape.  I then paint and distress them.  My paintings begin with a positive word or affirmation then I paint the flowers in the colors that speak to me.  I know a painting is done when it makes me smile! 

I have been a nurse for over 20 years, completed a clinical aromatherapy certificate program, and now  launched Simply Ann’s Lavender.  When I am not creating then I like spending time with my two dogs and fostering puppies for a local shelter.  It is an honor to be given this opportunity to follow my heart, share these gifts, and be on this journey with you.