Stoney and I married in 1993 and have four great kids. We made our home in rural Craig County, Virginia, and I've been pretty clear that I want to be here until I die and then be buried underneath one of the trees in our yard. Yes, that's legal. The mountains in our backdrop amidst the crowing of the roosters and quacking of the ducks make me feel happy and serene. We don't really live on a farm but have a fair number of farm animals--not to mention a pot-bellied pig who hates going outside so has the run of the house.

 

My career goal was to be a college English teacher, but after working part-time for too many years, I realized that goal wasn't going to happen unless I got a doctorate. So, I veered in the direction of Workforce Development and have spent much of my career writing grants and then managing the programs, which specialize in helping disadvantaged populations.

 

I love to read, and, as a creative outlet, I write. There's only so much creativity that can go in a grant proposal, so I posted a number of fanfiction stories out there and have a decent following from all over the world. But, the characters weren't mine. So, one day I decided to take the next step and write a novel. I had a simple story I wanted to tell. These past few years have been an adventure, and I've learned so much. It's frustrating, though, because writing, like everything else in this world from religion to healthcare, is a business. And to be successful at it requires a lot of time. So now, I'm trying to find that time to do what I love while also maintaining my fulltime job. I'll get there one day. I believe it. I just have to keep my faith, be patient, and continue trudging forward.