ABOUT THE AUTHOR

This is my first venture into writing a book. I’m 64, but it’s never too late to learn to do something new!

I have owned and operated a floral shop in my hometown of New Buffalo, Michigan for the past 24 years. Prior to being a florist, I owned a bakery for 20 years in Union Pier, Michigan, and still decorate cakes and cookies for my customers.

I also enjoy gardening, crafts, crocheting, puzzles and walking on the beautiful shoreline of Lake Michigan. Spending time with my own two rescue dogs, Bubbles and her brother Teddy, brings me joy every day!

Matthew Smith is the Associate Graphic Designer at New York Festivals. Brand and design are integral to his work beyond the day job as he illustrates children’s books for authors, designs logos, and shoots photography for YCP New York. His passion extends to his small business, Myndful Mystic, an initiative where he fuses his affinity for nature with phrases, delicate imagery, and the Catholic Saints. Using collage, he seamlessly blends photography, illustration and design to evoke the beauty he sees in the world. This work was featured in a solo exhibit during his time of residency at St. Joseph’s Home for Artisans in 2022.