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Meet Mom on the Move Connie Avery. Connie and her husband own the amazing Monart Colorado Springs.

Tell us about your family: My husband Darrell and I will be married 16 years this
October. We have two beautiful girls, Alex-11, and Tessa-8. The most recent
addition to our family is an 8 month-old Newfoundland/Poodle puppy, Charlie.
Charlie makes us laugh at least once a day!

Tell us about your business: Monart is an academic-based drawing method
developed by artist and author Mona Brookes almost 30 years ago. I read her
book Drawing With Children a few years before and believed in her philosophy
that anyone can draw with training and practice. It is much like learning to play
an instrument, learning to dance, or learning to read or write. Monart teaches
you to "see" the world around you by recognizing elements of shape and then
learning to transfer that to paper. The method is taught in a quiet environment
that encourages focus and concentration. It naturally helps to increase attention
span, patience to complete tasks, ability to follow directions, problem solving
skills, and helps to improve handwriting and reading ability. Most of all it's fun
and the results are amazing! A great way to boost confidence.

What is the most rewarding thing about being a mom: I think the most rewarding
thing about being a mom is when you see your children treating others the way
you've taught them. It makes me feel so good when I see my girls being kind
and generous to others (and each other)!

What is the most rewarding thing about being a mom on the move? The most
rewarding thing about being a mom on the move is seeing the joy and confidence
our student's gain from their Monart classes. It is so fulfilling to watch students
improve and gain confidence through their art. And of course meeting so many
wonderful families is priceless!

What is your biggest challenge being a mom? The biggest challenge being a
mom for me is doing it all; being a wife, mom, business owner, daughter, friend,
and teacher. Sometimes I struggle with the acceptance that I am not perfect at
any of the above and remember that at the end of the day I've done my best.

What are some of your mom shortcuts or tips you could share with us? The
things that help me the most are trying to stick to a routine and being as
organized as possible. I learned a long time ago that not over-scheduling our
lives and leaving a little downtime is a lifesaver. Oh, and accepting a little dirt and
clutter always helps.

What is your favorite book for kids or teens? My favorite book for children is
Misty of Chincoteague by Marguerite Henry, an oldy but goody. Also, anything
by Cynthia Rylant, especially the Lighthouse Series, it has beautiful illustrations.

What is your favorite adult book? I'd have to say Purpose Driven Life by
Rick Warren; it has given me hope and perspective. And, of course, Drawing With Children by Mona Brooks ( Founder of the Monart Drawing Method!)