I grew up in a blue collar, central Pennsylvania coal town that was covered in black dust. My dad worked in the coal business and with my mother raised five kids.

I earned B.A. and M.A. degrees in English (Allegheny College and Gannon University). I edit and publish a literary Christian poetry journal, Time Of Singing  (www.timeofsinging.com). My poetry and nonfiction have been widely published.

I’m also a serious stained glass, beach glass jewelry, and quilting hobbyist. I lead a church worship team as a guitarist and vocalist.

I speak at a lot of arts, educator, and writing conferences on creativity and writing. I also teach writing to college students and gifted public school students. Check out my speaking/teaching gigs here.

My work as a teaching artist with the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts has inspired me to question how being a Christian makes me a better artist, and how being an artist makes me a better Christian. To that end, I’m writing a book that explores how creating helps satisfy our insatiable longing to feel God’s pleasure. I’m learning how highly God values His creative gifts.

Blue Wind Retreats for Christians in Creative Expression provides space and opportunity for creative Christians to ” get away”with like minded artists and crafters. If that event interests you, check it out here.