I worked at the Seattle Post-Intelligencer newspaper until its closure in 2009. Now, I predominantly create children’s books, editorial illustrations, and "Wenderings." My first book, "Don’t Lick the Dog," was selected as a 2010 Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year, noted for Outstanding Merit, and featured in the Society of Illustrators Original Art show. Other works include “A Cat Like That” (also a Bank Street selection), “Snowboy 1,2,3,” “Rabbit Stew,” “Pony in the City,” “Nanny Paws,” and “Old Pearl.” I have also provided illustrations for middle-grade non-fiction, including "Your Body, Yourself: Q&A” and "The Teen Body Book, a Guide to Your Changing Body." My as-yet-unpublished illustrated memoir of my year in the seventh grade, “Progress,” has received two significant grants. If you're interested in reading it, please feel free to contact me.

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I am largely self-taught, which carries its own unique story.

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Awards and recognitions I have received include: American Illustration Annual, Best of the West, Society of News Design International, Bank Street Books, Society of Publication Designers, Society of Professional Journalists, and Society of Illustrators.

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I reside in Tacoma, Washington, with my husband, Joe Wahman, who is a writer and musician, and our standard poodle, Nico Sandcastle. Our home is an old house, lovingly sheltered by the grand, saber-like limbs of a majestic Monkey Puzzle tree.

 

I have a passion for yoga and movement, enjoy cycling around Point Defiance Park while forest bathing, and seeking out wildlife. I strive to meditate, draw, and read daily, firmly believing that love is the most important thing in life.

 

My favorite places in my hometown of Los Angeles include the La Brea Tar Pits, the Museum of Latin American Art, and the Watts Towers.