I was born and raised in Peoria, Illinois surrounded by farmland and small communities.  Many in my family were farmers, so being around the fields and livestock as a child, gave me a deep curiosity about all living things.  ​

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We moved to Arizona 29 years ago and I fell in love with this Sonoran Desert that is so unique.  How plants manage to grow and thrive in this harsh climate is so inspiring.  As I explore the world around me, my life continues to be one big adventure.

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