I was a teacher for a while. Spent a couple of years attaining a Master’s in special education, and happily joined in the life and education of various populations that for some strange reason fell into that world.

Then I became a mama! Morgan, Erika and Alex debuted, each about two years apart, and have since become their own true humans – with undaunting voices, spectacular visions of what life should be, strength of character the likes this world has never seen, and generosity of spirit to make a mama proud. That I had some small part in them becoming, is my greatest achievement and one I will cherish forever.

Now I find myself here in this world of retirees, first floor master bedrooms, rediscovered hobbies, volunteering, and weekday lunches. Lots and lots of lunches. But instead of a home to “age-in-place,” Jeff (my life’s partner and strongest advocate) and I bought an 1890’s Queen Ann with 20 stairs to the three bedrooms, a spreading front garden, and as much upkeep as any older southern belle might demand. I do indulge the hobby of gardening, due to the whispering pleas of my flowering plants, and I do love to lunch.

I volunteer, but that habit grew roots in my second life, as I was never still while my girls wiled away their days in public education. One should always be of use. Museum educator and Director of Education, Reading Recovery teacher, homeroom mom, Arts Festival co-chair, Fitness Fair co-chair, PTA Spirit chair, Graduation chair (lots of places for people to sit in this resume…), board member and development committee member – plurals needed, Chapel Hill Fire Department community educator (I taught history and played Johnnie, who wants to join the fire department, in a puppet show. If ever you have the chance to work with firefighters, puppets or otherwise, do so – some of the best humans on the planet!), Literacy Council tutor, and Domestic Violence hotline advocate. I’m paraphrasing. I have awards, plaques – proof, I promise!

Those last two jobs have carried over into my third life. I volunteer as a tutor at the Cape Fear Literacy Council, and I am a court advocate for Open Gate, the domestic violence shelter and services in Wilmington. Mostly, my third piece of life’s pie is plated up as a writer. I started with narrative writing and have just recently dipped my quill into the well of screen writing. Two intriguingly different processes. That is where you find me now. Tangled up in the threads of yarn that weave through my mind’s eye and are sewn into my stories.