Nancy Parode

I have always been a writer. It took me over four decades to figure out that I could be a writer who earns money doing what she loves.

I have always loved teaching. It took a persistent husband to show me that I could teach and stay home with our children. Ten years later, we're still homeschooling.

I have always enjoyed making music. It took me two years to convince my parents to buy me my first guitar. Today, my daughter and I make music together with our guitars, voices and hearts.

I have yearned to see the world since I first discovered maps and stories about faraway people and places. One exchange program, ten Navy moves and countless trips to U. S. states, Canadian provinces and European countries later, I'm still adding to my "must-see" list, even as I cross off list items.