Welcome to my home page!
I've been writing non-fiction since 1986, starting with features for a small newspaper, then moving to magazines with how-to articles based on my experience with making and selling jewelry. I've written about a variety of subjects since then for speciality, regional, and national magazines, as well as the Internet.
My interests now lie primarily with short general interest articles.
I hold a Master of Science in Natural Health, and am currently developing a column titled Earth Sense. In it, I feature a different herb each month, focusing on its history and medicinal uses.
I recently compiled an e-book based on my articles on
gemstone and jewelry titled Bewitched, Bedazzled, and Bejeweled: A Collection
of Facts and Folklore about Gems and Jewelry. It's available
exclusively as a Kindle
download,
ASIN: B001F0RSTK.
I've also had a several short stories published, including one in Dogwood Tales, a national publication until its demise a few years ago.
As Cassandra Barnes, I also write novels, three of which have been published.
I'm a member of various writing groups and have been active in mentoring other writers through an Internet workshop. I've also been active as a volunteer in my community, serving as a tutor for the Literacy Council as well as working with an animal welfare group.
I'll be happy to provide further information upon request.