• meljoykel@gmail.com

I am an outdoor enthusiast, concert junkie, chips and queso lover, avid music listener, small business owner, and chai tea drinking Jesus follower. I love to spend time with family and friends, and my cup is full when I’ve been around my people.

When I’m not writing, you might find me working on my photography, sitting on the porch, working on a jigsaw puzzle, chasing sunsets, trying out a new restaurant, exploring a National Park, or serving at my church.

I’m always on the lookout for a good hiking trail, and recently ventured onto the bunny trails with my mountain bike.

I am quiet at times, but loud when it comes to having fun.

I hate vulnerability, but love a good challenge from my counselor.

Seeing the world excites me, but the world seeing me scares me.

Oh, and I’m a firm believer that it’s never too cold for ice cream!

In 2021, I became a published author in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Be You which inspired me to write my own book.

My first book Amazing Joy: Choosing Joy Through All of Life’s Journeys was published in January 2023 and is available at Amazon.com, Walmart.com, and Barnes & Noble.