About GMarie
I write with honesty, insight, and humor, seeking to convey the meaning I’ve discovered in my life experiences. It's only after years of therapy and the study of psychology and adult learning that I’ve been able to give voice to my unique perspective. Years of therapy and my own background in psychology and adult learning give my work a unique perspective. I have a BA in English from Whittier College, an MA in Psychology from Pepperdine University, and an M.Ed. in Adult Learning from Arizona State University. In the spring and summer, I live on the Oregon coast with my husband Tim and my dog Penny. In the fall and winter, we live in Phoenix.
Why do you write?
Nearly thirty years ago, I wrote a “life plan” with 5 or so major milestones or accomplishments I wanted to achieve in my life. They included things like raising a well-adjusted and happy child, having a healthy romantic relationship, and building a business. While reflecting on the course my life had taken, during the pandemic, I realized I’d mostly succeeded with the major parts of my plan. Only two were incomplete: living at the beach and writing a book. Shortly after getting our cabin on the Oregon coast, I started writing.
Overall, my hope is that people can relate to the things I write about. Although my essays are unique to me and my experiences, I seek to show the universality of the challenges we all face, from the everyday mundane annoyances to life-changing hardships. If my books can help others see that they are not alone in what they have experienced, and that they can move ahead and rise above, that would be very meaningful to me.
What do you hope people take away from your writing?
What is the most difficult part of writing?
My writing tends to reveal aspects of my assumptions, beliefs, and personality that I am not always aware of, until well into a particular work. This can be jarring! While this can be uncomfortable, it’s also liberating, as it allows me to consider how these parts of who I am serve me…or don’t. I suspect readers will have similar experiences as they read my work.
The absolute best part of writing is not knowing the “why” behind a particular essay but just knowing it HAS TO BE written. With all my work so far, I began with clear ideas that certain stories needed to be told, but I could not have explained how I knew that or what the message of that writing would be. Through the creative process, the “why” is revealed, which is so exciting! I’ve also gained unexpected connections with family, friends, and even strangers as others have become familiar with my work. It’s very gratifying to hear others express their gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow through my observations and insights.