My Author Story

Every author has one. What motivated you to become an author?-spending hours every day creating content in hopes that you and your words would be recognized? That maybe after years of grinding out material , you’ve paid your dues, perfected your craft, and happen to be at the right place at the right time until voilá! You’re published! I believe authors are optimistic folks who work hard and always have hope.

Once the Author Bug has bitten you, it’s difficult to think about doing anything else. Writing becomes as necessary as breathing or brushing your teeth.

So how did I become bitten? Dogs. Passionate if not crazy Dog Lady.

Yet I must admit, in my previous life as a teacher, I always loved the written word and encouraged my students to read and write voraciously.

Upon retirement, I devoted myself to dogs-breeding Golden Retrievers and training all breeds. It was great! I helped families and dogs. Very worthwhile-so much so that I still train whenever I can.

I loved raising puppies. Just little angels on earth, and I worked hard to be a reputable breeder who bred for health and temperament. They just happened to be gorgeous.

Well, breeding and raising puppies has many variables, especially if you refuse to lower your standards. Jazz got too old, and frankly four litters was enough. Kimmie only had one litter. It took too much out of her, so it was not in the best interest of the dog. And my sweet Rosie was not able to be bred at all even though she was everything I wanted in my lines.

I realized Rosie’s path was different. If you met her, it’s impossible to not feel this deep interspecies connection. She looks into your soul. That is when she is not using her massive brain for evil. She is bright, creative, and intelligent with more than a dash of attitude. I thought people would enjoy getting to know this human-like dog with her sass and deep love of others.

That was the beginning. Jazz and Orvie also have potential books, but Rosie is the one I seem to keep returning to as my dog protagonist. I see her in future cartoons. I have known a lot of dogs, both personally and professionally, but there is just something about Rosie even though she is the only dog I still have to crate because she has an affinity for chomping rugs. She is the only dog I have had to make vomit. I think for a smart dog, what’s the deal? But that’s part of her charm. She is multi-layered. The Girl keeps me guessing.

It seems at this point dog picture books are not in high demand, so I am branching out. Building my craft. Still I owe it all to Rosie.