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Personal Biography

I was born the middle of five children (three girls, two boys) to Bob and Donna Merchant, who raised their family in Clinton, Maryland, just outside of Andrews AFB. I led an uneventful life, got good grades, stayed out of trouble, and fell in love.

Like all teenagers who think they know everything, I moved out of my parents’ home shortly after graduation to conquer the world. It didn’t take long for the realities of bills and life to sink in, and my desire to go back to college became strong. Alas, I couldn’t afford tuition, so my parents allowed me to move back home so that I could enroll at the local community college.

Single parenthood changed the course of my life for many years until one day I decided to get a fresh start. I did my research, decided on Colorado, packed my belongings, and headed west. I had no family, friends, or job, and was in an unknown city. I became homesick but was determined to make this new start successful. I had a lot to prove—not just to myself, but to others who thought I would never make it.

It has now been 14 years since I arrived at the foot of Pikes Peak, and I have never looked back. My kids are doing fantastic, I have a new home, the best friends, a great church, and was recently blessed with a wonderful husband. It’s because of him that I’m able to stay home full time to pursue my writing and art goals, and I count my blessings every day!

In addition to all the hobbies you see on this Web site, I like to go for walks, listen to music (praise & worship, contemporary Christian, jazz, classical, big band, 80’s), ride my bike, go camping, and enjoy wildlife.

I notice little things such as sunbeams shining through the clouds, ripples in the water, bugs on branches, and wind whistling through pine trees. I take life one day at a time, and enjoy life to its fullest. I love to laugh and smile, volunteer, and help others.

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