Homeless, addicted, and helpless describes different characters who are struggling with hopelessness in Dumpsters. The eighteen short stories in this collection pinpoint a decisive moment in each person's life. The reader is introduced to a world of alcoholics and drug addiction, some who have no decision to change. For example, Pete wakes up in a snowstorm next to a dumpster, a six-pack nearby. He is homeless, as in Faye, who finds herself stuck in a small town with a bottle under her coat. Some commit crimes in order to get drug money, as in A Simple Robbery, gone bad. Some trade their bodies and in The Gift, relinquish a child. A young boy watches in fear as his parents continue to batter each other. The author also visits the challenges and controversies of rehabilitation and counseling. The reader will meet counselors who struggle with their own addictions and temptations, who dislike their work and question their own abilities. Inside a treatment facility the reader will find a clinician burned out and another who becomes sexually involved with a client. A journey to The Basement depicts the secret between a pastor and his congregation, while a therapist learns that one can push a person too far until it's too late. While the author depicts a world that often appears bleak and homeless, the book also reveals a sense of hope and endurance. Dumpsters offers a challenge to both those who struggle with addiction and those who labor in the mental health field to examine their values and strive for a successful and moral life. Unfortunately many of the character on both sides do not. I have written most of my life. While still a pre-schooler, I once got in trouble for scribbling in the back of a book. I continued writing throughout school, working on high school and college newspapers, and eventually getting a BA in journalism and creative writing. I have worked as a newspaper writer and editor, as well as a variety of other jobs, such as a substitute teacher, college instructor, and even an Avon saleslady. Currently I hold two master degrees and am a Licensed Professional Counseler and Licensed Addictions Counselor, and have worked in a private prison. Currently I work for a community health clinic as a Behavioral Health Therapist. I love to read, favorites being Tony Hillerman, Henning Mankill and Patrick Taylor, as well as Steve Barry. I love music, current favorites being Celtic Thunder and Josh Groban. My pride and joy are my four children and five grandchildren. I reside in Southeast Colorado, where I continue to write. My current burning desire is a trip to Ireland. Special thank you to my sister, Sandy, for encouraging me to follow her path to Smashwords.
