I’m a children’s author and speaker who has worn many hats over the years, including magazine writer, advertising copywriter, school counselor, licensed professional counselor, and Starbucks barista. I’m the author of five picture books, including my newest, WHAT REALLY HAPPENED TO HUMPTY, which was released Feb. 1, 2009. When I’m not writing, visiting schools, or speaking at conferences, you often can find me at Starbucks, either doing what I call “cafe writing,” or helping fuel other people’s creativity with a latte or two.  My husband, Bob, an art director and photographer, and I have three sons and two rescue Shelties. We live near St. Louis, Missouri, but dream of being at a beach house on Lake Michigan.