About Nikki

I was born in Oakland, California on March 13, 1971.  My parents named me Nicole Rochelle Shannon, but not many people called me that.  Most people just call me Nikki. I think I was a pretty happy kid most of the time.  My childhood was uneventful. We didn't move, I only changed schools if I graduated, and I had a younger sister and various dogs.  Boring, huh?

I have always loved to read and write.  One of the first books I remember reading by myself was Never Tease a Weasel, by Jean Conder Soule. It was republished in 2011, so now you can read it, too.  The first story I remember writing was called Lizard Guts.  Yeah... I didn't get a good grade on that one.

I still live in California, but not in Oakland. I do visit the Bay Area a lot, though. I really miss it. I'll always be an Oakland girl at heart. 

I've worked at elementary schools for over 30 years! I've taught every grade, kindergarten through sixth, and was a principal for three years. (I'm back in the classroom now. I love teaching!)

 I 'm married (that's where "Smith" comes in), and I have two kids: a boy and a girl who argue more than I did with my sister. I didn't think that was even possible.  

(Update: They argue much less now.)

Even though I love animals, I don't have any pets right now... unless you count my daughter's horse. Yeah, let's count him; he's pretty awesome.

Some of my favorite things: Disneyland, long walks, music and dancing, reading, writing, laughing and being silly, sitting on the beach, watching movies, learning new things, meeting new people, traveling when I can, and having FUN! Even though it's bad writing, I'd like to repeat that Disneyland is one of my favorite places. I really love Disneyland. 

EXTRA FACTS FOR THE EXTRA CURIOUS:

I have a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, a Reading Specialist Credential, an Administrative Services Credential, 

and a Master of Arts Degree in Curriculum and Instruction: Language and Literacy. My writing is influenced by my research, my background in education, my curiosity and imagination...

and a love of words.