About

Thanks so much for coming to my site!

Here’s more about me . . .

One of my personal joys has been leading numerous Bible studies for women of all ages, including middle school girls. My journey toward personal wholeness in Christ has fueled a passion to help others experience freedom. Years ago, I sought healing of the heart, which has led to involvement in Christ-centered, freedom ministries for more than 20 years—first as a participant and then as a leader. Recently, I finished a two-year certificate program from Renovare Institute, which encourages and nurtures spiritual renewal and transformation.

Growing up, my sister and I were happily indoctrinated into travel on adventurous family road trips. After graduating from Baylor University with a double major in Business and English, I landed a product management/development position at Hallmark Cards. At Hallmark, I met my husband and eventually became a home educator to our three children. A love of learning and a passion for teaching (plus long walks and chocolate!) kept me on track during 16 rewarding, and challenging, years of homeschooling.

While teaching the scriptures to our children, I realized that the middle school years are a critical window of opportunity to pass on spiritual truths that will help navigate the teen years. I’ve contributed to Focus on the Family’s Clubhouse magazine and Focus on Your Child-Tween ages. I’ve also had the privilege of contributing to several book compilations for moms, such as A Cup of Comfort Devotional for Mothers, and Healing Beyond Counseling: A Handbook to Healing. My ongoing involvement with Heart of America Christian Writers Network includes the honor of “2009 Writer of the Year.”

Writing articles for the city newspaper and a timely introduction led to my becoming a travel journalist and member of Midwest Travel Journalists Association, with more than 500 magazine features, online articles, and blog posts. I’m often asked, What’s a favorite destination? My reply: Alaska! I’ve flown in a tiny plane above dormant volcanoes and hiked into Katmai National Park & Preserve for up-close grizzly bear viewing, attended the Iditarod start as yapping sled dog teams took off on this 1000-mile race, and fished for silver salmon—even though I still can’t bring myself to bait a hook!

Currently, my husband and I live in Kansas City on a small farm. Our family includes three happily married children and two grandchildren. And when he visits, our lovable rescue grand-dog, Rory, never wearies of chasing the resident groundhog.

In addition to speaking at women’s events, ministry classes, and to homeschool parents, I’ve led workshops at writing conferences and taught creative writing skills to middle schoolers. I’m also looking forward to developing retreats to make space for soul care and to help cultivate our personal relationship with the Lord.