“Fill your life with experiences, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show.” Unknown

All experience has value, especially for a writer.

I’ve spent a lifetime amassing experiences in my work as a cosmetologist, a flower shop designer and owner, a substitute teacher and a community outreach coordinator. The majority of my working experience, however, has been in the airline industry. I could fill volumes about the places I’ve seen and the people I’ve encountered.

I grew up during the heyday of the space program on the east coast of Florida, proud to have been raised in an area of such cultural diversity invested in the singular purpose of advancing our exploration of space. I’m the first American in my family, born to Irish immigrant parents, and the middle child of seven siblings—all experiences that have shaped me and continue to influence my writing. 

I’ve always had a strong desire to write, and invested many concurrent years earning a BA and MA in English, and a MFA in Creative Writing. A strong sense of place, family, love, loss, second chances and overcoming the odds are my themes. 

As a writer and a voracious reader, I believe that books can change lives, and it’s a passion of mine to practice “literary citizenship” by supporting and encouraging other writers on their journey, as well as promoting the love of reading.

I write from the Charlotte area where I live with my husband. When not writing or reading, I enjoy hiking, yoga, and dabbling in watercolors. I’m obsessive about getting my daily Fitbit steps, about tea, and about watching Jeopardy!