A Peek into my Life
Born in Texas, while still a toddler I was whisked away to San Diego, CA where I grew up near the ocean. I now live inland but I still love the smell and sounds of the ocean. During summer visits to family in Texas, I acquired a taste for sweet tea and played with crawdads.
Marrying a mid-west farm boy expanded my life experiences from city and beach girl to country life and snow on my in-laws farm. I had much to learn, especially how cold it can get and you can’t walk on ice. Then my husband’s career led us to many states with our five children. Again, learning so much from each experience.
Wearing a variety of hats, my family has always been my main focus. I have been a 4H leader, classroom aide, co-op pre-school participant and a children’s Religious Ed teacher— children are an important part of my life.
As a business woman I owned and operated Whalen’s Country Childcare, which led me to my new career as an author. I joined SCBWI, learning the ins and outs of writing children’s books and acquired a publisher for my debut Picture Book, LITTLE RED ROLLS AWAY, Sleeping Bear Press. My experiences fuel my passion of writing for children. I hold dear the awe and wonder seen in the eyes of a child and hope to forever be inspired by the sight.
As a child I wasn’t exposed to many books outside of school but quickly developed a love for reading when books became available. I’m often found with a book near by if not in my hand. Even though I didn’t have books as a child, I wrote down the stories wondering through my mind in the sand under my favorite Pepper tree. Now, I use paper and a keyboard.
I have appeared in newspapers, magazines, and CBS Good Day Sacramento for my debut Picture Book, Little Red Rolls Away, as well as being a guest on Bob Dunning’s syndicated talk show for my adult inspirational book, The Valley of Childhood.
I read in many genres depending on my mood and definitely need more book shelves.
Besides my family and writing I have another love. Art! I give credit to my High School Art teacher who taught me the joys of being an artist. When time allows I sneak away to my art studio to get lost in paint, paper and whatever medium calls to me.
The Child Within
I fell in love with merry-go-rounds as a child and I still ride whenever I get the chance.
I try not to pass by the amazing things around me as I wander through the day. I like to ask the question, “what’s that?” These are the moments that inspire me in my creativity.
“Not all those who wander are lost.”
— J.R.R. Tolkien