I welcome you to share my journey through the arts with me. I am an author, and the former owner/artist of Clay du Soleil.- a ceramics studio in Southern California. It’s been a long journey from wanting to doing to succeeding. Along the way, I earned degrees in Computer Science and Mathematics (yes, I know you didn’t expect that), taught at Fullerton Community College, married, raised two daughters and four dogs, lived in five states, became a certified Tai Chi Instructor and was blessed with a fabulous grandchild. All great experiences from which to draw.

I wrote and illustrated my first “book” in sixth grade, An Angel on High, which is a permanent part of my library. Throughout the years, school, work, and family became paramount, and the solitude needed to craft a story was in short supply. I satisfied my creative outlet with macrame, crewel work, sewing, and writing the occasional poem. I created book lists based on recommendations from friends and family and read them all. Having seen a potter at work, I yearned to learn this skill. I started taking classes—in wheel throwing, sculpture, tile making, printmaking, and drawing. I attended writing workshops and seminars to hone my skills. I will forever be learning—to stop learning is to stop living.

My first collection of short stories, Womenscape: Selected Stories of Eclectic Women, was published in December 2022 by Unsolicited Press. I have finished my second collection, When the Unexpected Happens, which I hope to have accepted for publication. Along the way, I have had poems, and memoirs accepted for publication and continue to explore all genres of writing.

Today, my days are filled with writing, attending writing groups, teaching Tai Chi, taking walks, doing ceramics, and spending time with friends and family. I am thankful to have these supportive and loving people in my life.