I'm a Northern California-based writer and photographer, and a member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA). I love learning how things work and what makes people tick. Whether it's the process of growing Kona coffee beans, the invention of the corn flake, or the geological mechanism forming Mexican cenotes, I find it rewarding to share with readers.

I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a BA in Communications (Annenberg School), later earning a certificate in managed care administration from University of San Francisco.

As the mom of two little ones (photos), my multitasking skills are stellar, and I get plenty of story ideas from my kids.

While I've freelanced since college, ten years of corporate work provided me with a business, healthcare and technology background.

This includes stints as a:

--Senior Claims Investigator for NORCAL Mutual Insurance Company (San Francisco, CA). In seven years at NORCAL, I interviewed more than 600 doctors in varying stages of malpractice litigation. I negotiated settlements and counseled doctors and staff on risk management issues. I synthesized thousands of patients' medical records, and continue to summarize records and depositions for law firms.

--Project Manager for Healthcare Technology Systems (Madison, WI). I wrote and edited scripts for telephone-based screening and monitoring systems for mental health issues (Alzheimer's Disease/Dementia, Alcohol Treatment, and Social Phobia). I also wrote marketing proposals for pharmaceutical companies and health care insurers, press materials, patient and research site materials, journal articles and web site content.

I admit to an obsession with customer service. I provide my clients with excellent work, and expect the same of the vendors I use. Fortunately I have an outlet for this!

--As an Undercover Customer Service Evaluator (AKA mystery shopper), I've test driven a Jaguar and dined in upscale restaurants, as well as ordered lattes at coffee joints and meals at Burger King. I've been paid to see movies, bowl and drink beer, visit banks, shop at grocery stores, get my oil changed and car washed, and buy dozens of Krispy Kreme doughnuts (plus milk). I've evaluated Ikea, the post office (their up-selling skills, AND the long wait in line), ordered and rated pizzas, and appraised apartment managers' skills.   

--And I'm a Focus Group Junkie - "Will Opine for Pay." I've evaluated hotel ad campaigns, product packaging, logos and web sites (photo, financial, health insurance, investment, banking, e-mail and search engines). I've taste-tested mochas, hard liquor, non-alcoholic beer, jarred peaches, fast food, and snacks for pregnant/post-natal women. I've rated Glad bags, McDonald's drinks, photo processing and corkless wine "corks."