Unlike most authors, I don't have a degree from a prestigious school or a long list of writing accomplishments and accolades. I didn't start writing at age three or six or even thirty-six. I began writing about ten years ago in the quiet space that appeared after I blinked and realized my children had turned into adults. I wrote essays and short stories that I plan to share on this website. 

I grew up in the Chicago suburbs and have always been a voracious reader. I discovered the magic of reading as a young girl after checking out my first book from the school library. To this day I consider a good book one of life's greatest pleasures. I love books that completely capture me, stories that make me feel deeply and linger long after I read the last line.

Working as a labor and delivery nurse for nineteen years, I've been honored to share in countless births. I've experienced both wonderfully happy and profoundly heartbreaking moments and worked with some inspiring women. 

As you may have guessed from my photo, I'm a passionate dog lover. I rescued Abbey, the little terrier in the photo, from a shelter five years ago. The photographer who took the cover photo for my book is a friend who, thankfully, is very patient, because I detest photos of myself. She placed Abbey on my lap, hoping to put me at ease for the photo session. As you can tell from the relaxed and happy expression on my face, it worked. I also have an eight-year-old golden retriever, Kyra, who is much too big for my lap. One of my favorite stories recounts how I was blessed with Kyra, my gentle girl.

I would like to volunteer at my local animal shelter, but interacting with homeless dogs would surely cause me to bring a few home, and that could possibly end my marriage. When I approached my husband about adopting a third dog, his response was, "I'm sure you and your next husband will be very happy with your third dog." Actually, my husband is an incredibly supportive and loving man; he probably saved me from being featured on the evening news for hoarding a house full of dogs.

I love people (almost as much as dogs) and hope to interact with readers on this website. Please contact me with your thoughts and opinions, good or bad. I would love to hear from you!