Books & Poetry
Every Story Has the Power to Change a Life
Whether writing for children or expressing life’s most personal moments through poetry, my goal has always been the same: to create meaningful connections through words.
Some stories teach.
Some stories heal.
Some simply remind us that we are not alone.
A Dream Years in the Making
Long before we became published authors, my lifelong friend Jennifer Puckett and I shared a dream of writing children’s books together.
We met while studying Education at Florida State University, where we both earned Master’s degrees in Reading and Language Arts. Our shared love of children’s literature inspired us to create stories that would educate, encourage, and spark meaningful conversations between children and the adults who care for them.
That dream became a reality with the creation of the Oliver series.
Children’s Books : The Oliver Series
Oliver at Your Service
The story encourages empathy, kindness, and awareness while helping young readers better understand the responsibilities and purpose of service animals.
Oliver’s Tale of Courage
Our second book takes Oliver on a different journey. Instead of helping someone else, Oliver must face his own fears and discover courage from within.
By “flipping the script,” the story reminds children that bravery isn’t about never being afraid. It’s about finding the courage to keep going.
Inspiring Young Readers
Our books are written for children ages 3 to 8, with many of our presentations geared toward Pre-K through Grade 1 students.
Over the years, Jennifer and I have enjoyed connecting with young readers through:
- School visits
- Library visits
- Book readings
- Author events
- Book signings
- Local bookstore appearances
We’re currently developing a companion children’s journal to accompany the Oliver series, with plans for a third book in 2027.
Interested in learning more about the Oliver series?
Visit OliverAndFriends.com
Poetry : Finding My Voice
Poetry wasn’t something I expected to become part of my life.
In fact, before writing my own, I rarely read poetry outside of children’s books.
My poetry began as personal journal entries, capturing thoughts, emotions, and experiences through different seasons of my life.
With the encouragement of my friend Jennifer and the guidance of a poetry editor, those journal entries gradually evolved into published poems.
Today, poetry has become one of the most personal ways I share my story.
Poetry
That Speaks to Women
My poems explore the real emotions and experiences many women face as they move through different stages of life.
They are written for women who have spent years caring for others and are now rediscovering themselves. Women who have been daughters, wives, mothers, caregivers, and friends. Women who are searching for their own identity again.
My work explores themes including:
- Empty nesting, Reinvention & Motherhood
- Trauma and healing
- Depression and hope
- Life not going as planned
- Personal growth & Identity
- Loss & Resilience
- Rediscovering purpose
- Pursuing dreams at every stage of life
If my words help even one woman feel seen, understood, or inspired to begin again, then they’ve served their purpose.
Published Poetry
To date, I have had 15 poems published, with several appearing in multiple publications.
One poem that holds a particularly special place in my heart is Metamorphosis, as it captures the journey of transformation and renewal that has shaped so much of my life.
(Publication List)
Publication History
2026
- Wild Child — Alchemy Literary Magazine, June 2026
- Broken Bond — Ink of Genesis Literary Journal, June 2026
- Invisible — Ink of Genesis Literary Journal, Vol. II, Issue 1: Survival Mode, March 22, 2026
- Savior — Ink of Genesis Literary Journal, Vol. II, Issue 1: Survival Mode, March 22, 2026
- Where Is It Written? — Down in the Dirt, Vol. 240: Mars and Cotton Candy Clouds, March 1, 2026
- Metamorphosis — Down in the Dirt, Vol. 240: Mars and Cotton Candy Clouds, March 1, 2026
- Where Is It Written? — Down in the Dirt Magazine, January 2026
- Metamorphosis — Down in the Dirt Magazine, January 2026
2025
- Diagnosis — The 2026 Poetry Review Date Book (Print Anthology)
- Diagnosis — Down in the Dirt, The Way of Water Collection (Print)
- Savior — Festival for Poetry, September 30, 2025
- Diagnosis — Down in the Dirt, Vol. 235: Recurring Dream (Print)
- The Illusion of Dance — Macramé Literary Journal, Summer 2025
- Act 2 — Grand Little Things, June 25, 2025
- 1968 — Grand Little Things, June 25, 2025
- Diagnosis — Down in the Dirt Magazine, June 2025
- Eternal Rest — Poetry Pacific, May 5, 2025
- Blank Slate — Academy of the Heart and Mind, January 15, 2025
2024
- Eternal Rest — Festival for Poetry, September 24, 2024
- Eternal Rest — Spillwords Press, June 28, 2024
2023
- Birth — DONA International Digital Magazine, December 2023
The Journey Continues
Whether through children’s stories that inspire young readers or poetry that encourages women to rediscover themselves, I believe every story has the power to make a difference.
I hope mine reminds others that it’s never too late to begin a new chapter.
Let’s Connect
I’m always happy to connect with others who share a passion for dance, personal growth, and lifelong learning.
I am available for, interviews, podcasts, performances and speaking engagements.
I’d love to hear from you.