Storytelling is one of the oldest forms of communication. We create stories to convey a message, share life experiences, and to make sense of our place in the world. My literary storytelling adventure began after publishing my children’s book, Nature’s Angels, dedicated to my four grandchildren. The story follows a grandparent and child as they wander through nature admiring beauty and wonder in an imaginative way.  I wrote this story to inspire a new generation to connect with nature through exploration and curiosity.

Soon after writing the book, I began exploring my own connection to the natural world, so I put down my pen and picked up a hiking pole for a new adventure as a nature guide, leading folks throughout the red rock trails of Sedona,
Arizona. Meeting people from all walks of life from across the globe, I began to appreciate the connections we make when we share our stories. There’s no better way to get to know someone than to share the trail together. This experience opened a new path for me to combine my love of nature and writing, leading writing workshops to explore storytelling while deepening our connection to the natural world.

As I continued to follow the trail of curiosity, my love of storytelling led me to my next project, producing an oral history project about the historic guest ranch where I had worked for six years. This was a labor of love shining a light on stories from everyday folks who forged their own path toward new horizons out West.  This would be the impetus for launching my podcast, Souvenirs: Timeless Tales of People, Places, and the Past, to honor and share these historical accounts with the world. Souvenirs is now in its third season showcasing fascinating tales from everyday people.

You could say my thirst for story comes from missing out on so many untold stories from family members who are no longer here to share them, but that’s another story!

My storytelling journey continues to lead me to new places. In my current role as President-Elect of Women Writing the West, a wonderful organization of multi-talented women writers, I’m honored to join the effort in elevating women’s voices through the art of storytelling. 

Well, that’s this chapter of my story folks; all these adventurous trails led me here to create a space where deep listening and true connection can take place. A place to encourage you to tap into the wisdom of your life experiences, take hold of the pen and find your voice so you can share your stories. What’s your Story…I can’t wait to hear it!