I grew up in a small Texas town.   I worked hard in school, made good grades, and didn't cause too much trouble (OK, maybe just a little as a teenager).  I always had a desire to entertain others, but never thought to translate that interest into a practical career.  So, I kept working hard.  I graduated from college with an accounting degree, and like any good aspiring accountant, studied and obtained my Certified Public Accounting certification.

I entered the work force full of excitement, ready to contribute something meaningful to the world.   I guess I did that, if you consider creating audited financial statements and writing audit reports meaningful.  What I did find during that time was my wonderful husband.  I knew it was real when he wanted to date me even after the audit was over!

Still searching for professional meaning (and a larger paycheck), I landed a job at Enron.  Five years later and 8 months pregnant, that part of my corporate career came to a screeching halt, along with 4,000 of my closest friends. 

Taking a break to enjoy motherhood with our son, Ethan, I did what all good overachieving mothers do: I began reading books to him.  Lots and lots of books.  Over and over.  Two years later, we welcomed a daughter, Kathryn, into our little family.  I continued reading voraciously to them, and soon began to make up stories of my own.  Then, it struck me - I could do this.

Every author knows it's not that easy.  I dabbled with a few ideas, but didn't get very far.  We then moved to Montana.  Maybe it was the fresh air and phenomenal scenic beauty, or maybe that in the winter it's too darn cold to do much else (remember, I'm a Texas girl), but I finally got it in gear.

I now have an appropriate appreciation for the children's book industry and creative process.  I am working hard at my craft: attending conferences, participating in creative writing groups, reading my stories in elementary classrooms, and seeking agent representation.  Here's what I have accomplished:  numerous manuscripts, a cult-following of fans at my children's elementary school, and an immense respect for my fellow authors - both published and pre-published.  But ultimately what I have accomplished is a desire and commitment to continue writing great stories and see them published. 

I've added a new chapter to my book of life with a move to Reno, Nevada.  A spectacular view and a audience to entertain at my children's school has furthered my desire to write funny stories and get them published.  And so the adventure continues!

 Thanks for reading about me!