After writing a number of children’s books that I used to teach beginning reading, and then taking a class “Drawing On the Right Side of the Brain”, I emerged with an adult novel in my head and began writing.

As an award-winning artist in Florence Oregon, I appreciate being a growing fish in a small pond.

“Thornton House” is my first published novel, but I do sell my mini books, “Pocket Poems” at Backstreet Gallery in Florence, OR.

I have written articles and feature stories for the Siuslaw News, a local Florence newspaper and for Relay For Life.

My illustrations have been used in books, on book covers and I show my fine art paintings and sculptures at Backstreet Gallery. My art pieces are executed in a variety of media-- photography, bas relief paper painting, sculptures, acrylics, oils watercolors, pencil on canvas, miniatures, and colored pencil. I also create a line of jewelry, Christmas ornaments and greeting cards. My portraits are available on commission.

I was the managing editor for Carapace Scrawler - a book of short stories and poetry written by Florence authors. I designed the logo and am a committee member on the board that presents the annual Florence Festival of books.

A ray of sunshine, a drop of rain, a rainbow, wild horses, egrets, interesting buildings, unusual characters, or a child’s smile are but a few inspirations that motivate my artistry in photography, painting, drawings, composing or writing.

With His guidance, as an artist and writer I will be inspired by the beauty around me to create visual images through my art and literary images through my writing, as I share my work, love, and assistance to those in need.