Elaine Omann grew up in St. Stephen, Minnesota, a small community which was the first Slovenian community in America. Her home was located adjacent to a woods that was part of the church grounds and was called "The Priest's Woods" by locals. As a child, she often used the path through the woods to get to school. She completed her BS degree in education, became a teacher, and taught for thirty years in public schools. She continued on with her master's degree and later completed her doctoral requirements. She has continued developing skills in writing and literature through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of North Florida. Elaine developed her artistic skills with individual and group lessons from practicing artists in Colorado and at the Art Students League of Denver. Most recently, Maureen Kirschhofer at the University of North Florida has influenced her work with expertise in color and design. This is Elaine's second book based on her childhood memories, which also have influenced her art. Elaine's first book, Hepaticas: A Secret in the Woods, reflects a childhood experience in the wooded area where the wildflowers and natural environments have inspired her paintings. A third book published by Red Wagon Road is forthcoming. Learn more about Elaine and her books and art at www.RedWagonRoad.com.
