About me
I was born and raised in Austin, Texas with the beautiful Hill Country as the landscape of my childhood. The Lone Star state blessed me with fields of Bluebonnets, big Texas sky sunsets, and delicious brisket. Like any good Texan, I owned a pair of boots and a cowboy hat, although they didn’t get much use beyond the annual rodeo.
I lived with my family – mom, dad, and younger sister, in a house designed by my grandpa Hugo, who was an architect. We enjoyed our home, inside and out. My dad tinkered on his latest project in the garage, my mom prepared tasty meals in the kitchen, and my sister practiced gymnastics flips on the red velvet couch.
I, on the other hand, followed a more reserved path of picking wildflowers, putting jigsaw puzzles together, and listening to rain fall on the tin roof.
We each had our activities.
But on cold nights, we could be found all together in the living room, huddled around the fireplace. My heart was always warmed by the people surrounding that stone hearth.
When we weren’t at home, we were on the waters of Lake Travis, fishing and riding jet skis.
Out of my family, I was the most studious. With numbers as my second language and an interest in science and health, I studied biology in college and earned a PhD in Epidemiology. In 2010, I was awarded the Anoopa Sharma Award for excellence in epidemiologic research on underserved populations. I’ve taught public health courses and conducted meaningful research in nutrition and kidney disease that has been published in peer-reviewed medical and health journals.
For nearly 15 years, I have been married to my best friend and biggest supporter. Through and through, my husband is a gentleman with a kind heart, bright mind, and enterprising spirit. Together we have two wonderful boys, who we love sharing life with – from the routine to the extraordinary.
We embark on adventures, almost always with a toy car in hand.
We snuggle on the couch and watch television.
We search for bugs, cool-looking rocks, and dragons when hiking.
We race up the stairs on the way to bed.
We explore and learn when traveling to places both near and far.
We search for Orion’s belt, three stars in a row, in the dark night sky.
We love peanut butter and honey sandwiches, preferably cut into fourths.
Our kiddos have reminded us to use our imaginations and they have renewed our belief in magic. Mostly, they have showed us how greatly love can be felt and shared.
When I have free moments, I love to garden, play golf, read (usually historical non-fiction), and do handicrafts (cross-stitch and sewing).
Over the past few years, I’ve been growing my passion for writing and creating art. Ideas for stories that used to dance around in my head now find homes in leather-bound journals. I’ve explored various artistic techniques, and given myself time to arrive at my unique style. Further, I’ve joined the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), which has been incredibly informative and encouraging. I’m excited to pursue writing and illustrating children’s picture books!