I grew up in Tennessee, but it was on a family trip to Colorado long ago, that I really came to life. All it took was one look at those big Rocky Mountains and I said aloud to all, “when I grow up, I’m gonna live in the mountains and write children's books!” I was just five then and already envisioning a dream and excited about beginning my path.

I left those Southern roots as soon as high school ended and ventured back to the mountains to attend the University of Colorado. There I indulged in nature, friends, and a dog named Violet. I simultaneously earned a degree in English and Creative Writing, nannied young children, and eventually became a certified elementary teacher.

It was while living in a valley in the mountains of Southern Oregon that Dream Creek Press was born. My dog Bella and I took advantage of trails among hills and lakes and creeks and trees. That gorgeous furry creature opened my heart in every moment and inspired my first book. Bella passed in March of 2010. My grieving was somewhat comforted by her request to come back to me as a beach dog.

And here I am now, living in the paradise of central coast California. I feel at home, blanketed by the Santa Ynez mountains and soothed by Pacific Ocean breezes. On Halloween 2010, a puppy named Finn was born. He shares the soul of Bella and has a personality all his own. Finn is madly in love with his beach jaunts and may even inspire the next book!

Obviously a dog lover, I am also a writer and an artist. I fix up houses, garden, take pictures, write songs and play guitar. Tennis is my therapy. I am an intuitive counselor and provide astrology readings. Visit www.bethdana.com for more on that.

I have always had a love for animals and a dream to create books for children. Dream Creek Press and my first book of My Oh My Sweet Potato Pie celebrate both.

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