Bio

    I have written poetry ever since I can remember. I started writing for kids when my two daughters were small, continuing through their middle and teen years. When I began, I would write the poems and my girls, Katie and Kelly, would draw pictures to go along with the poems. The first audience for one of my poetry readings was a slumber party.

    Since that time, the poems and my audiences have increased. I am now the author of six poetry books for kids and one for adults. I also share my love of poetry with teachers, parents and students at around 100 schools and teacher meetings per year.

    I write about two things, mostly -- what I know and what I wonder about. Reading and writing poetry helps me understand my life, the world, and the people I care about. Whether I am writing funny or serious poems, writing poetry helps me see what's true.

    I am a performance poet, I don't think a poem really comes to life until it is read aloud.

    I have had many jobs in my life. I am a graduate of Mount Union College in Alliance, Ohio where I received a degree in English. I have done some part-time teaching, but mostly I have made my living writing. Before I became a full time poet, I worked in the area of public relations in the fields of law, drug prevention and public housing.

    I call my poems Kid Poems for the not-so-bad because I write for kids who are like I am -- maybe a little ornery, but really not-so-bad.

    Sharing my passion for poetry with audiences and student writers is the best job I've ever had.

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