Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Hello

Hello,

Here it goes--my first blog.  Well, not my first blog, but the first one dedicated to writing and the creative mojo that goes with it.  First, I thought I'd tell you a little about myself. 

I spent my formative years in Alaska on the Kenai Peninsula.  When it came time to go to college, I opted to head toward Idaho and then Utah.  I received a commission in the United States Army while in Utah.  After the military, my life's journey took me across the expanse of the United States to the southeast.  I now live along the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in a solar home with compost toilets and rainwater collection.  When I'm not writing, I spend my time running my small farm, painting and sculpting.    


After many years of wondering what to do with my manuscripts, I finally decided to put them up on Kindle.  I have to say, it was a great experience.  I had no idea the reception would be so good.  Gypsy Gold, my first book, was originally started as an adult novel.  As time went on, I realized the story needed to be told by Amanda, my protagonist, and that young adult was the better fit.  It took me a long time to write because of all the rewrites and changes from adult to young adult. 

I enjoy reading young adult novels from Philip Pullman, Nancy Farmer, Suzanne Collins and of course the infamous J.K. Rowling.  I'm intrigued by novels that introduce me to a brand new world, make me love their characters and then when I finish the book, leave me wondering how the characters are doing long after the book has ended.   

Take care, All.