After high school, and unfinished architecture, english and graphic design studies, I landed in IT as a programmer. From the moment I left home to study english, I've been designing my own invitation and Christmas cards, and the occasional poster. From 2014, I've been taking this "hobby" more seriously. I like finding a form for an inspiring text. Not always calligraphy, not always in the same style, not always on a flat surface: I like to have some leeway. I use pen, pencil, brush and paper as well as Photoshop and InDesign.
Music, art, letters, letters (yes, both kinds); combining all of those. I know a lot, but in a rather random and seemingly disorganised way. But then, everybody organises their knowledge differently, don't they?
Getting started professionally (at 65) ... am I too lazy or too uncertain? And perhaps with vectorization in Adobe Illustrator?
Strive to be the best version of yourself, not of someone else. Or, as my dear Corrie says: Don't compare yourself to others. There is always someone who does a particular thing better than you, but only YOU can do what you do. (Same back to you, sweetheart!)
My parents, for their love and their generosity to the people in their lives. Irma Boom, for her uncompromising way of sticking to design decisions (with spectacular results). I think she is lucky to get those opportunities, and I hope they continue.
Being me. (Is that allowed, at my age?)
IT (programming).
Gosh, I wouldn't know. (Can't remember.)
It's fine if you are amazed at the things other people know and do, but don't forget you have got unique talents, too, for other people to admire. Also see under: Best advice.
A smile on someone's face. Live, not in a GIF.