|
|
My name is Kristen Gentala and I am married and mother to two wonderful young children. We live in the suburbs of Denver, Colorado at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. I am very sensitive to the challenges and complexities of adolescence, and I am deeply passionate about creating this book. I have always enjoyed organizing my thoughts into writing. In college I was a renegade Finance Major who didn't much care for the math, but could manage to put a humorous spin on a written investment analysis. Later, as a manager at a large financial services corporation I was known for handling particularly sensitive or difficult written communications with empathy and skill. Along the way I have come to appreciate the immense power of well-chosen words. I have been blessed with a successful and diverse background that has given me a valuable combination of creative and practical skills. My history includes experience as a writer, an artist, a multi-department corporate director, a non-profit staff member, a youth group leader and a workshop facilitator. After a decade in the financial services industry and the birth of my second child I chose to pursue a new direction more attuned to my own "true power." I currently work part-time for a fantastic non-profit that is dedicated to stabilizing and improving the lives of children. I'm home in time to help the kids with their homework, and most days I have at least a little time to work on this project that is so close to my heart. From the moment that the vision of this book first revealed itself, it has felt absolutely right, and it is a perfect fit for my interests and abilities. I believe that I've been guided through my own challenging adolescence, my creative nature, and my professional experience to orchestrate this wonderful vision that will benefit so many young women. (Photo credit on the over the shoulder shot to my fabulous friend Jacquelynn Pleis - thanks Jacquelynn! The other picture is with my daughter Maya shortly after snorkeling together while in Mexico for my brother's wedding - thanks John!) |