My writing took a boost a few years ago when I attended the North Carolina Principal's Executive Program under the direction of Dr. Robert Phay . His assistant at the time was Dr. Darryll Powell, who also inspired and encouraged me in many ways. I brought their influence back to my school, and for several months, led my faculty in regular writing seminars which I hoped would carryover into their classrooms. As a result, more than one teacher was inspired to begin the journey of writing on her own. One overcame a personal fear, a phobia even, of writing she had secretly harbored most of her life. I am so proud of them all. My first novel (128,000 words), Ulice's Mansion, is based on a true story, a family tragedy that took place in Texas on April 10, 2000. It is unpublished at the present time. My second book, a non-fiction chronicle, is titled Confessions of a Reluctant Missionary (43,345 words). It is available from WordPressBooks.com (http://bit.ly/bgBimh), www.Amazon.com,, www.BarnesandNoble.com, www.Borders.com, and other outlets and is available via e-books from these outlets as well. It is currently out of print, I think.  In high school, I was the editor of my church newsletter, "The Friendship Handshake." I still remember those who encouraged me, especially a local newspaper columnist and high school teacher, Mr. Eugene Byrd, who would make comments in his weekly column regarding my newsletter, calling me "the young editor Norwood." (Thank you for planting the seeds, Mr. Byrd.) By the way, writers, I remember those who discouraged me, too. Sadly, it's gonna happen, but we mustn't let it stop us, de-rail us, or kill the voice inside that says "Write!" As an adult, I have written a few magazine articles and, of course, a bazillion memos, newsletters, and brochures in my many years of school-related work. I always did better in English than math, was no good in music, forget dancing, and my drawings limited to cartoons--primitive attempts at family humor. Those who know me, know I don't do things half-way.  To me, the writing process is an example of how the journey, the voyage itself, though the hardest part, is the true reward. Enjoy the journey! "The last voyage, the longest, the best." -Thomas Wolfe, Look Homeward Angel

Formerly licensed sea captain and ham operator; Past activities: Henderson County principal of the year; president of Hendersonville Lions Club; chairman of Henderson County Red Cross; member of state PTA Board of Managers; member of WHYC-FM and WCQS-FM board of directors; member of Henderson County Parks and Recreation advisory board; member of Henderson County Youth Services advisory board; member of Henderson County Latino Advocacy Coalition, the NAEYC advisory committee for Blue Ridge Community College and former adjunct instructor with BRCC.