How long have you been writing or when did you start?
I started writing once I received my cancer diagnosis. I wrote for about six-months and felt it was a good
stopping point. However, the story didn’t end there, but the lesson remains the same, keep the faith.
How did you come up with the title for your book?
My husband and I were listening to sermons and music on our way to MD Anderson in Houston. The
pastor spoke about keeping your peace among difficult circumstances. After listening, I wrote shoes of
peace in my phone, then I heard the song Desert Road by Casting Crowns and put the two together.
If you could be mentored by a famous author, who would it be?
Nicholas Sparks, a former coworker, shared an amazing true love story. I told her what an amazing novel
that would be or a movie. I think Nicholas Sparks would do an amazing job in writing a true love story.
What inspired the idea for your book?
My family, especially my two daughters. I didn’t think I would make it to next Christmas after learning
my stage IV diagnosis. However, it doesn’t matter what anyone says or what I think may happen, God has
the final say.
What advice would you give to a writer working on their first book?
There are many great stories to be told, fear can hold us back from many blessings. Don’t compare
yourself to others, there is enough room for everyone in the world of literature.
What books did you grow up reading?
I loved reading as a child and enjoyed many trips to the school library. I read books such as Shiloh,
Charlotte’s Web, Bunnicula, Goosebumps, The Berenstain Bears, Little Critter Stories, Miss Nelson Is
Missing, and Where the Sidewalk Ends.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing?
At the time, as a stay-at-home mother of two girls under the age of five, I would write in the evenings.
There were times when I was completely exhausted, but I knew that it was for them and a promise I
made to God. I have always tried to be a woman of my word.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
I like to travel, but it is hard now that my daughter is in school. Our last trip was to Chicago and my
husband and I loved it!
When did you write your first book and how old were you?
I didn’t plan on being a writer, but writing became a therapeutic outlet for me once I learned of my
cancer diagnosis. At age thirty-eight, I was given the chance to share my story and encourage others
through trials and tribulations of life.
If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?
Kimberly & James Dean, my daughters love Pete the Cat!