My main trade is costuming and I have designed, constructed, dyed, embellished, and taught about costumes all over the country.  If you see me at an event or convention, chances are I will be participating in a costuming panel as well as reading from my newest novel. I love both arts with equal voracity.  Costuming used to pay for my writing habit, but things seem to be turning around in that department.

I have a Master’s degree in Costume History from New York University and lived in Greenwich Village for two years while studying there.  One of those years was indeed 2001, so I am sure you can understand why NYC holds such a special place in my heart.  It is also where I met my husband Matt!

My Bachelor’s degree is in Theatre Arts: Costume Design and I went to the University of California at Santa Cruz, Porter College (go Banana Slugs!) for that.  And someday, I think I shall have to write a novel about the wackiness that is Santa Cruz.  It isn’t the same now as it was then, and I would love to show you the town I loved and called home for many years as I saw it.

In my spare time, I write, a lot.  I also embroider and make necklaces out of random beads, antique keys, and escutcheons (AKA keyhole covers) and occasionally sew if the mood strikes me or someone commissions me.  I also love to read, sing, game, and hang out at fantastic little coffee shops like Sam and Zoe’s here in Nashville. 

I am easily bribed with shinies, good coffee or tea, dark chocolate, or In-N-Out Burger.