About the Author

Laura's educational background includes technical diplomas in Forestry and Geological Engineering. For ten years, she worked as a Timber Cruiser and Firefighter in northern Alberta and Ontario; in fact, she was one of the first women hired in 1982 by the Alberta Forest Service to serve on a Helitack crew. She likes to say, "When an outhouse became a luxury item, I knew it was time to quit!" as the reason that she left forestry and moved to Vancouver Island.

Hesse's publishing company, Running L Productions, is the fulfillment of a life long dream. She wrote "One Frosty Christmas" while recovering from major surgery in 2002. It was a welcome change from the world of technical reports, environmental impact statements and business summaries. The success of "One Frosty Christmas" prompted her to take her writing to another level, thus beginning a new career as a publisher and a professional writer.

Working as a Publicist seemed a natural extension to Hesse's chosen career in the Arts. She currently is the Publicist for the Vancouver Island Symphony, the British Columbia Boys Choir and the Vancouver Island International Children's Festival. She is the senior staff writer for Homes & Living Magazine, plus a freelance journalist. She also acts as a ghostwriter for various professionals.

Says Laura, "A good publicist knows how to check their ego at the door as it's about the client, not about the publicist or their agency. I worked on Vancouver Island in the newspaper business and have a lot of contacts in the industry which really helps with local promotions. The rest I have learned while running my publishing company. With over 18,000 books sold in three years as an independent, I knew I was in the right field and doing what I most love."

Running L Productions owes its existence to the kindness and support of many family members and friends as well as to all those who dare to dream of riding, writing, and teaching. Laura urges everyone to listen to their heart and follow their dreams!