I’m Trudy, freelance writer, content creator, and author of the Lannie Reese Mystery books set in rural Montgomery County, North Carolina, where I live. I’m a nationally syndicated writer for publications including Garden & Gun, Southern Living, Travel + Leisure, Thrillist, Okra, Good Grit, Our State, and more. But that’s only part of the story…
When I’m not writing, I travel, and spend time with my family in the country. I’ve also been a teacher for over 23 years (everything from high school English, to media, to English as a second language.) I’m married to my husband, Jeff and have one daughter, Peyton. (My traveling buddies:)
One thing that I love about being a freelance writer is the variety of stories that I get to share —the hidden gems, the untold stories, the amazing people, particularly in the South. I am blessed to be able to travel with my family, and I love to share family travel tips. We live in an amazing country (and world)! Why should kids have to wait until they’re grown to see it? (We have a goal to take our daughter to all 50 states before she turns 18.)
We love Disney parks and cruises, and fun outdoor places are great, too, particularly beaches and warm weather locations. (Did I mention that I’ve been a travel planner for over seven years?) But ask Peyton her favorite, and she’ll tell you all about glamping in Montana at Paws Up.
I also write about Southern culture —the unique food, people, and traditions — that make the South so unique. (Ask me about tomato jam, fluffy tacos, and walking in the woods with Daddy.) From picking blueberries with my family, to fishing trips in the Blue Goose my daddy, to making biscuits with my mama, there are so many authentic experiences of everyday life for us that can’t be found in other places.
I have met some amazing people, too. Have you met The Peabody Hotel duckmaster? How about NC’s Sexiest Collard Farmer? It has been my pleasure to share some unique perspective of bakers, designer, and travel experts, like Samantha Brown, but I thought it was a good time to start sharing on my website.
Our whole family loves baseball and softball! Whenever we travel, we try to take in baseball games whenever possible. (Our goal is to visit all of the major league stadium. We’ve got a ways to go!) My daughter, Peyton plays softball, my husband, Jeff, coaches, and I keep score. FYI- Jeff and I actually met at a softball game.
I’m grateful to God for the opportunities he has given me. I would love to take you along on my adventures as I travel the South, small towns, and beyond, so sign up to subscribe for updates!