To celebrate the release of her new book, Someone Else's Child, we asked author Alison Ragsdale to open up for readers in an exclusive piece for Female First. Here's what she had to reveal...
1. I am a Scot, through and through. Even though I left Scotland when I was a child, no matter how far I’ve traveled or how long I’ve been away, whenever the plane touches down in Edinburgh, I feel that I have come home.
2. I originally trained and worked as a professional dancer. I started ballet classes at the age of four, and then, from age twelve, I trained full-time for a career in ballet. Sadly, I injured my back early on, but I worked in modern and contemporary dance for several years before the injury became too painful for me to continue.
3. I was a bit of a nomad, living in eight countries over 30 years. As a result of my work, I moved around a lot, particularly in my twenties. I went from Scotland to England, then Belgium, Greece, Sweden, Bahrain, Dubai, and then the United States, where I have lived for nineteen years now.
4. I write sporadically. I’m not one of those disciplined authors (whom I admire) who sets a word count per day or must write for a certain amount of time daily. I write like a mad-woman at times, producing thousands of words at once, then I don’t write for a week or so. Sometimes longer.
5. I am a massive foodie. I love to cook savory, comfort-food style dishes, try new recipes, and incorporate foods I’ve encountered on my travels. However, I can’t bake to save my life.
6. My husband and I have adopted seven rescue dogs, so far. We are passionate about rescuing larger breeds and have adopted seniors, dogs with physical or behavioral challenges, and one deaf boy who stole our hearts completely.
7. I am one of three sisters. I’m the youngest, and I can’t imagine going through life without the love and support of my older sisters. I was a major pain when I was little, always wanting to tag along with them and their friends, and they were always so patient with me. I am very fortunate to have them, and I make sure to tell them that all the time.
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