I graduated from LSU Baton Rouge, La. in 1968.  We didn't have a Veterinary Medical School then, so my B.S was in Animal Science.  I have always and will always have a special place in my heart for 'critters'. At the moment, we have 7 cats and 1 English Budgie... (inside).  Outside we harbor many homeless critters that consider our backyard and creek area their sanctuary. I'm a big believer in taking care of the feral cats in our area... the "catch and release" program where... if it's possible... to catch, vaccinate, neuter, and release... then we do.     As far as my writing background goes... I write, have always written; letters, journals, stories - fiction and non-fiction, etc.  since as far back as I can remember.  Have I ever published anything? Not really.  I was Editor for an Audubon Newsletter for a few years .  I've had some interest in some of my stories; one article was published in an online publication, one letter was published in a travel magazine, and a children's story came close to winning first prize in a fiction contest... or so I was told (and told to continue to pursue it as the story was good).  Did I?  No.  Writing is fun.  Marketing/Publishing is not.    Why do I write?  People always seem to want to know this.  And I'm not sure I know the answer.  I write because it's something I do.  I don't write to make a living.  I don't write to publish (though I wouldn't mind the money), and god knows, I don't write for validation or publicity.  I would prefer if writers could remain anonymous like in the old days.  You didn't have to appear at booksignings and talk shows... you could just write (and get a check in the mail?).    I do know that by putting things down on paper it helps me clarify.  It's psychologically beneficial... for me... whether it be feelings, ideas, or stories.  The stories are fun.  They simply pop up inside my head and take on a life of their own. I'm in a zone when I'm writing... and the world drops away.  Minutes or hours could pass without notice.     Are my writings good?  Can't say.  But the feeling I get when I'm writing is great!!  I can honestly say writing is my bliss. And I've always believed that if you really love your work, perhaps you were meant to do it??      

I guess my achievement is 65 years of living and loving... from my ancestry of England/Ireland and France to growing up on the unique streets of New Orleans to raising a family these last thirty-something years here in the wonderful state of Texas. I haven't won any writing awards except the praise of my friends who encourage me to 'think about publishing'some of my work. I do 'think' about it... I think "maybe one day".