My Story
I’m glad you’re here, come on in! I want to share a little bit of my story with you. I grew up in Florida, but have lived in the Pacific Northwest for the last 30 years. Because of that, I’ll always answer BOTH to the question, “Beaches or Mountains?”. I love all activities in the great outdoors, whether it’s near sunshine and turquoise waters or in the misty mountains of the beautiful Pacific Northwest. I married my high school sweetheart and we've been married for 36 years!
I became an author later in life, but it was a dream in my heart since I was a kid. I have always loved writing. I graduated from the University of Florida College of Journalism many years ago—Go Gators! I had many ideas as to what I may do with that writing and speaking degree. However, being young after graduating college and seeking financial independence, I quickly found myself working in the interior design and contract furnishings industry as that was another passion. I love helping create beautiful spaces and I really enjoyed working in that industry until I became a stay-at-home mom.
I have 3 daughters and my heart wanted me to be with them as much as I could as they were growing up. It took age and wisdom before I could proudly answer that I was a stay-at-home mom when someone asked me what I did for a living—it doesn’t always get the esteem it deserves in many crowds. However, for me, being a stay-at-home mom for our 3 daughters has been my life’s greatest job, gift, privilege, and joy!
I’d say I’ve also been a professional volunteer for many years, working in my community in many different capacities. Now that my girls are grown, full-fledged adults with careers, I guess you could say I’ve entered my second act…or maybe it counts as my third, I’m not sure. But It feels like another gift to finally have the time to write about all the things my heart wants to write about!
We spend a good part of our lives searching for “our purpose”. As I reflect on my life, I feel that God made my purpose to be a helper and a cheerleader. Whatever life’s chapter I’ve been in, I’ve loved encouraging, and helping people. I also love to intentionally grow in life and I love helping people grow right along with me!
Since I’m also a creative, I’m always itching to make something more colorful, interesting, and beautiful—whether it’s words, food, fashion, events, photographs, home, or garden. So whatever I have written or will write—books, blog, cookbook, or magazine articles—you can bet it will always be about growing ourselves or our lives more beautiful. Thank you again for being here, I hope you find something that inspires you.