Hi, Dianna.
Welcome! I love the pastel and I'm not related
I too have decided that I want to be an artist when I grow up. I have had my own business for 20 years now, and though I can't say it was a wrong career move, I just think that the artist side is taking over. So now I have 2 full-time jobs, but will eventually have to give up one. Guess which one?
Take workshops and read everything you can get your hands on. One major thing I have learned is the more I learn, the more I know I don't know-very frustrating and rewarding at the same time.
Happy New Year!