A few things about me…

I am a full-time middle school counselor whose passion is writing kidlit.

I published my first picture book, EVERY LLAMA NEEDS A SCARF, with vanity press, Tandem Light in 2021. Seeing this book come to fruition sparked a fire in me to become traditionally published.

I have won various Twitter writing contests and was a finalist in the Kid’s Choice KidLit Writers Contest. I am a proud PB Rising Stars Mentee Alumna.

Prior to becoming a school counselor, I wrote professionally in the public relations and marketing field for more than 10 years. I also did some freelance writing for local magazines and newspapers. 

I am a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and one of four co-hosts for the #PBPowerHour, a free monthly virtual workshop of writing-based exercises.

I am the founder of iWrite. iInspire. iMotivate. which hosts writers retreats and other events.  

I am represented by Chelsea Hensley, Mad Woman Literary Agency.

 
TW author pic.jpg

More about me…

I was raised in Beaufort, SC. I am a descendant of the Gullah Geechee people. My maternal grandmother was born and raised on Wadmalaw Island (Charleston), SC. She was a descendant of enslaved Africans.

I love learning about Gullah history. When I am comfortable around people, you may catch me saying a few Gullah words or phrases. If I am around my family, the accent comes out more (an observation made by my husband).

I’ve won a few contests:

My short story “And the Band Played On” was among the winners of the #FallWritingFrenzy contest in 2021. “The Clever Fish” was among the winners in the #SunWriteFun contest in 2022.

I am a two-time Honorable Mention recipient in the #50PreciousWords contest for my stories “Does Santa Look Like Me?” and “Elijah’s Lit Fuse.”

In 2023, I placed 8th in the Kid’s Choice Kidlit Contest for my story “Farts Make You Smart.”

I enjoy belonging to wonderful organizations and groups:

Member of New Life Worship Center (Hephzibah, GA)

Member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI)

Member of the Georgia School Counselor Association

Member of the #PBPowerHour Planning Committee

So, I have a few degrees:

Bachelor’s degree in Communications with emphasis in public relations and marketing from Augusta State University

Master’s degree in Counselor Education with emphasis in school counseling from Augusta State University

Specialist in Education in Counseling and Supervision from Georgia Regents University