Gail was inspired to bring Pearl and Burl to life by watching the squirrels and birds in her bird feeder while recuperating from breast cancer. Her husband Roger redesigned the feeder repeatedly to keep the squirrels out but regardless they devised ways to get in with many comical results. She credits their determination as motivation for her successful recovery. Searching for an illustrator, she found her cousin Sharon via social media and a collaboration began. Her artistry brings Pearl and Burl to life and Gail and Sharon's newfound family together. She resides in Portland Oregon with her husband and pups Asta and Sylvie
