Valerie’s love of writing began when her stubby little fingers learned to form letters, and those letters made words that crafted sentences. From those sentences, she wrote short stories, articles, and poems, and even two books for her grade school author showcase. Valerie later turned to journalism, editing both her high school and college newspapers. Her love of writing led to a communications career for government agencies and elected officials. Valerie discovered blogging in 2013, during a particularly challenging period, while parenting her adopted daughter with special needs and mental health issues. In 2014, Valerie was chosen as the Communicator of the Year by the California Association of Public Information Officials, and in 2017, named a Distinguished Alum by Westmont College. Valerie has three children–a biological son, an adopted daughter, and a bonus son by marriage. She lives in Santa Barbara, CA, with her husband Tom and their exuberant yellow lab, Charlie. When she isn’t writing, you will find her walking at one of their beautiful beaches. Off-Script: a mom's journey through adoption, a husband's alcoholism, and special needs parenting is Valerie's first book. Her publishing company is Recovering Perfectionist Press.