Bio:

Years ago, the publication of my short story in the University of North Dakota magazine, THE DAKOTA HARVEST, ignited a spark in me. I fell in love with the creative process of writing. As a journalist for a small town newspaper, the spark received oxygen when several of my stories and photographs won North Dakota Newspaper Association awards. Every day I met new, interesting personalities -- among them, Pastor Maurice Ngakane, who shared mesmerizing stories of escaping apahrteid in South Africa and secret communications with the Nelson Mandela family as the future president endured solitary confinement.

My inner flame grew when my humor columns served as guest editorials in the BISMARCK TRIBUNE, and a feature story, in the NORTH DAKOTA REC MAGAZINE. The words led to speaking opportunities. Emceeing agriculture banquets, entertaining civic groups, and embarrassing my kids at high school events, I thought I'd arrived.

Then, quite unnoticeably, my flame was tempered by the tide of life -- bandaids, business, and budgets.

After 15 years in the fitness industry, my late-in-life graduation from college, and the growth of our family to include six grandchildren, the spark is back! And, it has room in our empty nest to breathe. With the support of my honey-of-a-man husband, I have no excuse not to write. Luckily, the embers remain and they're not hot flashes. The October 2011 SCBWI conference in Saint Paul, MN, inspired me to join a local and metro SCBWI group. Also, I'm enjoying a LOFT memoir class that refuses to disband. The fellowship and mentorship of other writers provide the kindling I need to build a raging fire. Thanks SCBWI!

Writer
Associate
Member since 2011
Region: Minnesota

Contact Information

Email:  marlys.honeyman@comcast.net
Current Location:   Woodbury
Website:  http://www.annamarras.com

Published In Children's Market: No