About Me

The Marrieds in 2008

I live in Fort Wayne with my family, my husband Sean, daughter Ainsley, son Xander, dogs Boomer (Mr. Black n Tan) and Sadie (Whitey), and kitty Sabine (Fat Blacky).

At the moment, I'm finishing up my Ph.D. coursework at Ball State University in Rhetoric and Composition. I'm very interested in writing studies and its relation to composition studies, online writing instruction, writing program administration, and students evaluations as they inform assessment.

Sadie, Boomer, and Sabine

I've greatly enjoyed going back to school. Even though it's kept me from my family (Ainsley's first steps occurred while I was in class *boo*), it's intellectually satisfying and will allow me to better support my family.  Of course, none of my work would be possible if Sean weren't an incredibly supportive and encouraging husband and stay-at-home father.  Seriously, I chose wisely.

I also currently teach Intermediate Expository Writing and Business and Administrative Writing online for IPFW. I serve on the Department of English and Linguistics Composition Committee and am Publications Coordinator.  I started my MA work at IPFW in 1997, moved to a part-time adjunct position in 1999, and moved again to the full-time, non-tenure track position I currently hold in 2002.  IPFW is a great place to work. My department is supportive and generally made of awesome.

Momma and Ainsley
are princesses.

Chillin' with Momma

I came into motherhood late in life, Ainsley was born a handful of days before my 33rd birthday, Xander followed when I was 35.  I try to chronicle their adventures with regularity on their blog.

They are so very different--Ainsley is a tiny, tightly bound ball of purpose, much like her Momma.  Xander is laid back, easy going, and all around cool, much like his Dad.  I suppose that's why Ainsley works well with Sean and Xander works well with me.  We're a family of balances.