Mae West once said, "I've seen places and been things!"  I understand her sentiment. At this age, i really have seen places---New York, Seattle, Chicago, Dallas, San Diego, Honolulu as well as several places in Australia, Africa and South Sea Islands. And i have been things--- factory worker, dairy farm hired hand, US Navy, Insurance desk jockey, Plumber's Helper, Pastor.... and probably some I am forgetting, or leaving out on purpose! 

My writing reflects the variety of settings and personas I have either 'been' or been around. Its all good, in one way or another. The more painful experiences have given my life and writing depth, and the joyful experiences have made the pain altogether worth it. 

Themes in my writing? Spiritual insights, recovery from abusive situations, gratitude, justice.... and more.

Influences?  Jim Butcher and his Dresden Files, Lee Child, many, many spiritual authors, and perhaps oddly, David McCullough. Read some Pulitzer Prize winners, see what they have in common with each other, and copy the good stuff!