bio...

My studio at Real Tinsel on Milwaukee's south side. The wall artwork was made by my amazing former studio mates: the mobile by Becca Kacanda and the painting by Rachel Horvath.

Photo by Rachel Horvath.

After earning a degree in creative writing (and communication with a minor in journalism), the few poems I slipped into my journalistic portfolio are actually what nabbed me my first professional writing job -- as a scriptwriter. After working for many years as a journalist, public relations executive, educator, small business owner, community builder and a small-time developer (one thing led to another, I guess), I've recommitted to poetry full time. More than 50 of my poems have been published in a variety of literary journals including:  Blast Furnace, NPR’s Tell Me More blog, Sheltering with Poems, Poised In Flight: An Anthology, Lantern Journal, The New Poet, Midwest Quarterly, Midwest Prairie Review, Reed, Xanadu and Verse Wisconsin. "On Shawano Lake," won first prize at the Writers' Institute of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. My poem "American Mother" was nominated for a Pushcart Prize.  And "Barkeep's Morning" received an honorable mention from the Wisconsin Writers Association Jade Ring Contest. I'm working on several non-fiction and poetry collections.

When I need a break from writing, I stitch fiber art using words, paper, fabric and other detritus. My work has been exhibited and sold at many regional art galleries.

After living in New York City and Kansas City, I settled in Milwaukee more than 30 years ago where I write full-time, plan international adventures and obsess over the Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers.

One other thing...

I love fashion. Selecting outfits in the morning to collaborate with my mood delights me. Color. Sparkles. Chiffon. Sometimes black. As long as I can ride my bike in it.

On the left, Sequin Saturday.

On the right, Monday Beads and Bows.

My first scooter ride in Vietnam.

Reading in Canberra, Australia to celebrate publication of "Not Very Quiet."

And my first camel ride, in Morocco.