I have actually been writing since the 1960s when I attended high school. In my junior year (11th grade), I won a county contest on the subject of "Employing the Handicap". Years later, while attending college, I still had the God-given talent and earned 'A's in English Composition. (In today's grading system, that equates to a 4.0.) My college major was Communication Arts, covering all aspects of communication: verbal, written, and visual.

My books and writings have always focused on reality - things I have personally experienced. They are meant to not only inspire others, but help them and those they have contact with find that there is always a lesson and/or blessing - even though problems may arise along life's journey.

My church has a Christian School of Discipleship. I had written a paper for graduation from the program which was placed in the church's library. I discovered, however, not many people were going there to read what the students had written. As Pearly Gates Publishing began to publish for new authors, I expanded on the paper and my first book became an instant Best Seller. Some of the proceeds of each book I have published (at the time of this interview, I have three books) have been donated to the Christian Education Ministry of my church.

My joy in writing is knowing others are being encouraged and inspired by the books. Additionally, I have been personally inspired to write original poems to add to the publications.

Those who have read the books are important because some tell me they can identify with what is written. Others have been encouraged to continue on through their problems because the lessons and/or blessings I have received will come their way as well - in God's timing. Finally, the books are written in laymen's language, but ministers of the Gospel have also commented on the depth of the messages.

Recently, I have received inspiration about how the birds are taken care of by God, as stated clearly in the Holy Scriptures. The actual formation of how to finally write the book is a work in progress.

My favorite authors over the years are many. To name a few:
Janette Oke
Joyce Myers
Maya Angelou
Walt Whitman
Thomas B. Costain

As I live in the country, I love to wake up in the early dawn hours, hearing the birds sing and chirp outside the window. Then, I thank God for another day!

As a creative woman, I enjoy quilting (I have won prizes at our county fair for the past three years), making fleece throws with crochet edgings for adults and infants, and, most recently, making inspirational throw pillows out of panels with scripture and inspiring words. I also spend time with my Yorkie-type dog, Nana.

My first story I remember the most is the one written in 11th grade (the one mentioned in question #1). The first story written in English Composition in college was about my Great Dane (dog), Lena, who had a large litter of puppies.

I write by brainstorming with myself with notes on recycled paper. I research scriptures, find graphics, and pray for inspiration for the writing - and also for a new poem. I type the rough draft and finalize after two to three rewrites before sending the manuscript to my publisher.

I started with nursery rhymes read to me by my parents, even before starting school. I memorized them and learned to read the words. My early contact with books developed into a love of reading and an appreciation for words.

My note-taking is wherever I am - sometimes at the kitchen table, others in the living room lounge chair. I often make notes while outside watching my pet. Essentially, I write wherever I am, as long as I have a piece of paper handy. My desk has recycled paper for notes, plenty of pens/pencils, folders of resources, Bible, dictionary, and hymn book - with the printer close by.

Growing up in the country on a farm offered many opportunities to see God and Mother Nature at work. Born into a Christian family greatly influenced my need for truth and appreciation for the "little" things in life. I was also influenced by my mother who sewed, crocheted, sang, played piano, and was able to write obituaries and such for church and civil organizations.

Being 'older', I enjoy print books; however, it is convenient to have many books available on a single device without taking an actual book along in hard copy.

My style is creatively sharing my life while incorporating biblical truths and principles into the stories to impact the reader's personal growth.