I was born and raised in western New York State; in fact, my husband and I still live here and raised our family here. I earned a political science degree from the State University of New York, Empire State College, and worked in the legal profession for over twenty years before deciding to switch gears and pursue a writing career. During that time, my husband and I opened up our hearts and our home to numerous mischievous rescue cats and three loveable rescue dogs. At the same time I began my writing career my kids started families of their own, and I saw an opportunity to introduce my grandchildren and other young, emerging readers to the wonderful world of animals and encourage a love of reading by creating animal-themed stories for them to enjoy. My first picture book, There’s a Dog On The Dining Room Table, is scheduled for publication in 2014. I am currently polishing my second and third manuscripts, which describe the antics of our dog Simon, a mischievous Jack Russell Terrier/Chihuahua mix who closely resembles the Disney character Bolt — minus the bolt but with his own version of the superbark. As a firm believer in the power of continuing professional education, I hold memberships in the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, Rochester Area Children’s Writers & Illustrators, and Writers & Books (Rochester, NY).