Q and A For the kids:

 

Do you have any pets?

​

No, but we have 2 dozen squirrels that like to tap dance on our roof then jump over to the oak tree to grab some acorns for breakfast.

 

What was your favorite subject in school?

​

I really enjoyed history when I had teachers who told good stories.

​

What was your least favorite subject in school?

​

Physical education was my least favorite class. However, I to exercise now!

​

What did you want to be when you grew up?

​

A teacher, a secretary and a mom.

​

Have you always wanted to write?

​

I have always enjoyed journaling, working on newsletters and little projects but I never thought I would write for publication.

​

What is your favorite hobby?

​

My favorite hobbies are reading, water coloring, gardening and organizing.

​

What is your favorite food?

​

I enjoy a good steak and salad but I really like great ice cream/ice cream sundaes.

​

How long does it take to write a book?

​

That depends. I had my book name Aunt Ida Clare for several years before I knew what to do with her. Eventually her story formed. Once I found my illustrator and a publisher wanted the book, it took around 6 months.

​

Q and A For the adults:

​

Why do you have a book for adults and books for children?

​

My book for adults came first, when it was suggested to me that writing my journey would benefit others. I sensed this assignment was a directive from the Lord, so I obeyed His leading. It was only after I had written Shattered, Stirred and Shaken that I began to get children's book titles in my mind. I believe my "big people book" was the catalyst for the children's books.   

 

How would you describe your writing in general to someone who hasn't read any of your books?  

 

I hope my books are characterized by wisdom and wit. I also hope all of my books convey the importance of our words. I love to learn, and I love to laugh. I hope anyone who reads any of my books learns a little and laughs along the way.

 

How much of your own life goes into your books?

 

I would say all of my life goes into my books. I have learned and practiced everything I am writing about, both in my children's books and my personal story.

 

What are some of your favorite books? 

​

I would say the current book I am reading is always my favorite! But I have recently finished and enjoyed The Midnight Dance by Joanna Davidson Politano, Let it be Me by Becky Wade, Where Hope Begins by Katherine West.

​

Name a few of your favorite children's books.

​

How do I narrow this down. So many books, so little time. Do Princesses Wear Hiking Boots by Carmela LaVigna Coyle, Chester's Way by Kevin Henkes and Twas the Night Before Jesus by Donna Wyland. 

 

What is your work schedule like when you're writing a book?

 

My work schedule when I am writing is all over the place. With our family close by and six grandchildren to spoil, I tend to write when I am inspired. I don’t keep an hourly schedule, but I am adamant about keeping deadlines.

 

What's your next project?

 

I am writing a book called If Jesus Played Basketball My hope is that the book will be a fun tool in the Dominican Republic in our church's Hoops for Hope ministry.

​

What's one thing your readers should know about you? 

 

Writing for publication was never on my bucket list. God has a sneaky way of steering us to our calling when we pursue Him. I am just an ordinary wife, mom, and Gigi (of six adorable grandchildren) serving an extraordinary God. Having lived out the lessons I am writing and teaching keeps my message honest and transparent.  

 

And then the call to write children's books...this was absolutely never a blip on my radar. Yet before I knew it, God began giving me children’s book title ideas. It took some time for the stories to form, but the books are coming to life. My hope is that my children’s books weave in a bit of wisdom and wit as well.

 

What’s one unusual fact about you?

 

As a child when I went to play at my friends' houses, I always helped them clean and organize their rooms before I went home. (Yes, I was always invited back by the parents. Hahaha.)

​

What advice would you give your younger self?

 

I would tell my younger self not to be afraid to have a voice and use my voice. I would worry less about pleasing man and only live to please God.  

 

Do you have a favorite verse? If so, what is it?

 

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. (Eph 3:20-21)

 

Believing God's words encourages me as I continue down the writing path. Realizing God’s power works within me is astounding, exciting, humbling and deserving of my full attention. For since the power works in me, I am responsible to move forward and to believe that God can and will shower over me abundantly more than I can ask or think. There is such power in this promise from God, not just for me but for each of you as well.