My Story

I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, but it's not the only place that has fueled me. I've lived in London, spent some time in Europe, and received my M.A. in English from the University of Virginia. After returning to the Seattle area, I became editor of a travel magazine, and I rekindled my love for the people and places of the West. 

I've also been an English teacher and a stay-at-home dad, both of which have provided great responsibilities and pleasures that continue to pay dividends in my life and work. The same can be said about my love for music: My band, Calliope Claims the Heart, plays mostly original Americana music; I also play keyboards in Long & Strange, a Grateful Dead cover band.

writing AWARDS

• First Place, The Writer Short Story Contest

• First Place, Science and Health Reporting, Society of Professional Journalists

• First Place, Social Issues Reporting, Society of Professional Journalists

• First Place, Arts and Criticism, Society of Professional Journalists

• First Place, Business Reporting, Society of Professional Journalists

• Honorable Mention, Lorian Hemingway Short-Story Competition

• Multiple Second- and Third-place awards from the Society of Professional Journalists