Get to know Vanessa…

I come from a huge HUGE family and I am so grateful that God has blessed me with the best family and friends that I could have asked for. I love God and I love life-I strive to do my personal best every day and I love helping people. In the words of Hannah Montana: “Life’s what you make it, so let’s make it right.”

Let the conversation begin!

What initially drew you to writing?

I have enjoyed writing ever since I was a little girl. Writing for me is not only therapeutic, but I also enjoy the creative aspect of the field as well.

How many words do you write each day?

It usually varies. Some days, I try to aim for one page and then others it can go upwards of 10 to 20 pages. I think that at least getting one page written on the screen is important to keep up the momentum.

Are you an outliner or a seat-of-the-pants writer?

Both. Most of the time, the words and characters start popping into my head. I have to keep typing the story so that their message comes out. If I reach a roadblock, then I usually outline the rest of the story.

When are you the most productive?

This usually varies. It depends on the day and what is going on. I work during the day and go to school at night, so I am working on academic papers along with creative projects right now.

What do you do to recharge your creative batteries?

I usually step away from the computer and listen to music.

What book was the easiest to write? Hardest?

So far, I have two books. “Funny Jimmy,” which is my first children’s book was the easiest to write. I would say that “The Beauty Queen and the School Nerd” was hard, but a fun book to write. It was hard to write both stories since I am juggling other responsibilities as well.

Are your characters completely fictional?

Both. Most of the time, the characters pop into my head. I think as a writer, though, we like to observe others as far as mannerism, appearance, etc. so I have based characters off of real people, too.

Where do you get your ideas?

It is hard to say how I get my ideas—they just pop into my mind.

What advice would you give young writers?

Keep going and don’t give up on your dreams!

What is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?

To write about what you know and love.

Describe your dream vacation.

Anywhere tropical.Hawaiior the Bahamas! I’m more into going away to somewhere warm (preferably the beach) than cold getaways. I would also like to someday visit Europe, Italy, France, England, the list can go on.