60I've never been good with writing resumes or bios. I find the whole idea of summing up mySELF and personal accomplishments in a page or two a daunting task. But here, I will make an attempt.
I was born in Dallas, Texas into a really great family. My childhood was pretty good, in fact, I try to give some of the same experiences I had to my children. Things like cooking meals from scratch just like my granny, making up songs and stories and instilling discipline like my Aunt Betty, teaching my daughter how to present herself as a proper young lady and giving good advice like my mother, playing in the sprinklers in summer and drinking Kool Aid like my sibling and I did. We also keep holiday traditions going as well as come up with some new traditions like studying during summer months, traveling and attending cultural events, reciting a morning mantra before leaving for school and reading just because (you laugh, I know). I believe family is important, and empowering the next generation is paramount.
I received a Bachelor's in broadcast journalism from Texas Woman's University back in the 80's. I loved the 80's! I remember wanting to look good to my adviser/instructor and told her that I planned to write a novel as part of my twenty-year plan. I had no desire at the time to actually do it. I was on a mission to replace Barbara Walters, but God gave her seat to someone else. Instead, I would eventually became an elementary school teacher after a short stint as a newspaper lifestyle writer and pursuing a career as a firefighter (it got too hot). I now hold a position as librarian/media specialist--who would have ever thought?!
And, yes, today I read just because.
I've lived, pretty much, a charmed life. My true challenges and tests have come from personal relationships I encountered with men. It is from these experiences that my first novel, Lonely Nights, was born. Besides answering the calling from God to help raise three beautiful children, I believe that I have been called to share my experiences to help empower and enlighten young women on their journey to self-realization.