Up a steep clay drive a few miles outside of town stands the ranch home my parents built next to a little pond when I was a boy.

My family was so excited to celebrate graduation with me. Even my favorite professor, Dr. Miller (and her mother!) joined us for a photo.

The power and drama of that cascading fabric had me hooked, and the romantic whimsical air of dresses like this inspire me to this day!

A few friends from work join me for a scenic picnic in Central Park shortly after I get my start in the city. I still have the pattern for that cool ascot!