SO I'M FIFTY: About Me

Where readers go to find out what makes this blogger tick... I’ll do my best to shed some light on what I know. I’m still in a state of discovery...

Why? Because who I am is always changing. I was once a child and then I was an adult. What I can tell you is where I’ve been, what I’m working on now, and where I hope to go.
Where I’ve Been:

Raised six children. Owned several pets and animals.
Taught piano to children for over twenty years.
Studied communication and received a degree from the University of Washington.
Managing Editor of a Literary Magazine.
Published several articles in various publications.
Taught children of many ages, reading, writing, art, outdoor skills as well as serving as a parent liaison to a local school faculty.
Led youth groups of 12-18 year-olds in activities and service.
I’ve been divorced, single and remarried.
Served for a year as board member of a local breast cancer nonprofit raising money for mammograms for low income.
I’m part of a blended family, warts and all, but still duking it out.
Participated in leadership and active membership in the Mormon church from birth to 35 years old.
Author of two middle-grade books: IF Dogs Could Blog, It's NOT Just a Dog!
Became a Life-Cycle Celebrant.

What I’m Working On:

Being a good grandma to 7 grandkids.
Understanding and utilizing social media.
Staying relevant, intellectually and physically.
Writing every day and improving my ability to connect to readers.
Researching animal communication, mythology, language, art, authors and writing, media and culture and anything that interests me.
A middle-grade fiction series about a girl who learns to use her special gift to save animals.
A humorous look inside a blended family: articles and finally a book.
Novel about time and distance and the love that connects two very different people.
Maintaining a spiritual practice through meditation and yoga.
Pursuit of a Healthy Lifestyle: Exercise and healthy eating. (Increased fruits and vegetables= some chocolate, bacon and pizza?)
Membership in SCBWI and PNWA
Certification courses for Celebrancy: Funerals and Memorials, Healing and Sustenance Ritual, Ceremonies Across The Life-Cycle, Weddings.
Toastmaster Training

What I Hope To Achieve:

Have fun, celebrate life and enjoy the ride. (This includes an extensive bucket list!)
Significant influence for good in my family with my associates and the world.
Stay true to my heart, my hopes and my dreams.
Peace: the calmness that settles the soul when you’re in perfect balance.
Leave the world a better place than when I entered.
Write words that resonate with my readers and leave a legacy of understanding and hope for others.
Support people through important transitions in their lives through personalized ceremony and ritual.