I live in a rural town in Upstate New York in an 1840’s farmhouse. Since I was a child, I’ve enjoyed writing stories and making picture books. Using imagination to pretend was so much fun when I was young, and stories are just an extension of pretending. I have the most fun when I can include some element of “magic” into my stories.
I’ve been teaching Special Education since 1996 mostly with fourth graders, but I began my teaching career with high school students. Teaching kids is great! I get to read stories every day, write with them and help them connect with their imaginations.
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Favorite Writers and Artists:
Twin: Do you tell stories?
Wendy: Yes.
Curly: Then you're perfect.
My favorite children’s book is Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie. The story is filled with the essence of all that is a child’s imagination.
Wendy: Peter. You won't forget me, will you?
Peter: Me? Forget? Never.
Wendy: Will you ever come back?
Peter: To hear stories... About me
I love the movie, Peter Pan 2003, (Director: P.J. Hogan). For me, it’s a great version of the story. The casting of Rachel Hurd-Wood as Wendy
Current Projects:
Looking at future projects, there are more adventures around the corner for Sam & Paul, the characters from Diamonds in the Snow. Also, vampires have been floating around in my mind far longer than the rise of the Twilight series, not that I don’t enjoy those too, but Christine Feehan was my first series author of vampire stories (that I fell in love with). My good friend, Jean, referred me to Feehan’s Carpathian Novels. This inspired me to write my own vampire novel, Call to Power. Hopefull
Interests:
When I have a few free moments, I love to garden – especially with flowers but I like home-grown vegetables too. My pets are a huge part of my day. The newest member of our zoo is Zane, Border Collie/Australian Cattle Dog. He’s the sweetest boy. Hiking, visiting thrift shops, writing and spending time with my kids rank right up there with my favorite things to do.
Family:
Husband: Brian
Children: Ken and Gabrielle
Grandchild: Alexis
Animal Children:
Dogs: Leo – Doberman (over-sized goofball)
Jesse – Beagle Mix (Rescued Girl)
Zane – Border Collie/Australian Cattle Dog(Future Therapy Dog)
Cats (Both Rescues): Celine & Owl
Bunny: Bastian (Gentle boy who attends school with me)
University Affiliations:
SUNY Geneseo – Special Education
Nazareth of Rochester – Reading Specialist
Contact Information:
Erica5751@msn.com
Charities/Causes:
Ontario County Humane Society
Open Door Mission of Rochester