I grew up in Maryland in the United States, an only child of two terrific parents. My mother was a children's librarian, so I was always surrounded by books. My father was the cook in our family, so I was always surrounded by delicious food. Even now, as long as I have a good book and good food I am very happy!I started writing stories as soon as I could hold a crayon. When I was in kindergarten I was sent to the principal's office. I thought I was in trouble, but she just wanted me to read her one of my stories! Back then I drew my own pictures, but now I leave it up to professional illustrators to bring my stories to life. In high school, creative writing took a back burner to writing papers for class. I continued writing papers as I earned my psychology degree at the College of William and Mary, where I met my wonderful husband. I went on to earn my master's degree in social work and did a variety of social work jobs at schools and hospitals. I also worked with children with autism and taught at a Montessori school, but my most unusual job was selling cinnamon buns at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Yum!While I loved my work, I missed creative writing. Eventually I was inspired by my Montessori students to begin writing stories again. I continued writing when my husband's job moved us to England, and it was there that I got my first book contract for "Pocket's Christmas Wish". After spending time in England and Germany, we are now living in Virginia. I continue to write everyday in the spare moments when I'm not walking my funny dog Arthur or playing with my amazing son Sam. It is a dream come true!