Just over five and a half years ago I received a postcard from Art Access Gallery offering a writing series. I can’t pinpoint exactly what it was that ignited my curiosity, but I knew I wanted to take that class. I was still grieving and processing the loss of my mom to brain cancer six years earlier, and figuring out how to navigate my own life again. For four weeks we met as a group every Saturday; listening to poetry, writing, and sharing with each other. Right away I felt the difference it was making in my life. It’s not just the writing, but the sharing and connection, that make River Writing unique. Our stories may be vastly different but our points of connection are abundant. I’ve been at the writing table ever since, not missing a series in over three years and most times being a part of two groups simultaneously. The gains I’ve made at this writing table are immeasurable. Friendships, self-awareness, healing, laughter, better listening, the list goes on and on. And what I realize most is how impactful this work has been in every aspect of my life.
Over the last five years, my youngest brother passed away, as well as my dad, and a man I consider a second father. Writing through all of the loss has been the best form of healing I have ever experienced.
Other passions of mine include reading, live music, hiking, and spending time with friends and family. I’m an avid scuba diver and a solo traveler.