1. When you were a child, did you dream of becoming a writer someday?

When I was a little girl, I dreamed of being so many different things!
My imagination soared, largely because I was blessed with a wonderful
mother who enjoyed reading to me. She filled my world with books,
tall tales and made-up songs. She made creating things fun. Then when
I became a mom and shared those same joys of imagination with my own
daughter, I knew I wanted to help create stories for other people to share with
their families.


2. What prompted you to write Never Say Goodbye?

I wrote Never Say Goodbye because five years ago my mother died suddenly
with a heart attack. My daughter was just seven at the time. During the weeks
and months of grieving and adjusting that followed, my daughter would often
repeat, "But I didn't get to say goodbye." So, the story is a very personal one
for me and I pray that the Lord will use it to help other families dealing with
similar difficult situations.

3. What one person has most affected your life, either personally or as a writer?

If I had to choose just one person, it would have to be my mother. She was
intelligent, strong, loving and incredibly funny. She never met a stranger and
could light up a room with her smile and laughter. She introduced me to the
joys of learning, creating and giving. When people look at me now and say,
"You remind me of your mother," I take it as a tremendous compliment.


4. If you could visit any place in the whole world, where would it be and why?

Believe it or not, I haven't seen nearly enough of this wonderful country we
live in. Before I traveled anywhere else in the world, I would love to visit each
state right here in the USA. There's so much to learn and explore about our
history and heritage as a nation, I think it would be an incredible adventure!


5. What do you do when you're not teaching, writing, or spending time with family?

I love to cook! I have wonderful memories of cooking with my grandmother when
I was a little girl. We used to make these enormous cakes each Saturday for
the family Sunday lunch. Being in her kitchen was so comforting. I often try
to recreate the smells and atmosphere of her kitchen in my own. It's a joy
I want to pass on to my own little girl.