I am a single female who has always had a zest for life. I hope to still find a partner with whom to share my life. I’ve identified with being creative ever since I can remember, it’s part of my DNA. I love people, animals and nature. I love helping relieve others’ suffering, I strive to be a person of integrity, I am fiercely loyal to those I love. I’m excited to see what life has in store at this stage in my life and enjoy my businesses – Lesa Vander Bie Art and Lesa Vander Bie, MFT.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am the youngest daughter of three girls. I am a Midwestern girl with a zest for life who grew up playing in the woods of Michigan, exploring the deserts of Arizona and living along the gorgeous coastline of Southern California. I come from a long line of creatives in my family – musicians, singers, architects, interior designers, home builders, quilters and gourmet cooks. My father, who was my advocate in life, was an extraordinary man and exquisite home builder. My mother was a self-taught gourmet cook, seamstress, and pianist/organist. My sisters married early and had families.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
In my 20’s-50’s I had the privilege of having a career in the Performing Arts, performing in theatre, TV commercials, independent films, voiceover work, and as a soloist throughout California. Simultaneously, I earned a BA from UCI and a Masters in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University and opened a thriving private counseling practice. My father’s death made me realize how precious and short life is so I had a strong urge to return to my creative self. With no knowledge of the Visual Arts, I dabbled in watercolor to process my grief. Soon after I met John Eagle, who encouraged me to switch to oil painting and offered to mentor me. With his help I found my language and it breathed new wind into my sails. I presently balance a part time counseling practice with my blooming art business. What I love most is being able to create and encourage others to live their fullest life.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Tommy Bahamas, True Food, Bandera
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
Since 1992
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Marilyn Clark. She was my landlord on Larkspur in CDM in 1992 and we’ve been dear friends ever since. I’m amazed at her tenacity, wisdom, grit, sense of humor and faith.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
The Sound of Music, I auditioned for the role of Maria once. TV, The Chosen.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Keep a short list of offenses with others, lead with love, have a heart of gratitude, focus on God’s gift, grace, love and hope and everything will turn out in your life.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
To a scuba dive vacation … Fiji here I come! And then to Kenya for a visit to Sheldrick Trust wildlife preserve to love on all the rescued beasties.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where?
My friend Randy Rapetti. We always have the most insightful, heartfelt conversations about life. We could have lunch on top the mountain behind his tree farm in Northern California.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love the beauty of our area. It makes me feel alive and inspired to create beautiful art!
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Possibly retired in a non-traditional sense, most likely painting and singing, partnered with a great Christian man, living a life of giving back to others in need.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’m at my best and happiest when I feel free.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Love, being able to perform, things that make me feel alive.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
God, my 90 year old wise, humorous mother, amazing friends, myself, my cat Beasley.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Love, refreshment, joy
