Hi there. I'm Laura, a freelance writer, blogger, editor, and Web consultant who might be better described as a freelance juggler. My clients, after all, range from magazines to public health organizations to social networking sites to book developers and publishers, and I cover topics as diverse as health, travel, education, books, lifestyle, photography, and new media.

Ultimately, though, all of my work boils down to developing and delivering a compelling story or message.

You'll find me doing just this in magazines such as Redbook, where I have reported on commonly misdiagnosed diseases, in books such as the Insiders' Guide to Houston, which I authored, and in clients' Web copy, reports, and press releases.

You'll also find me blogging about book culture over at True/Slant and gift ideas at Sweet Finds, a blog I founded.

Sometimes, I play editor and project manager, molding content for the Web and managing writers, editors, and artists. This is actually how my editorial career began: Back in 2003, I assumed the role of managing editor at InTheFray.org, where I went on to serve as editor-in-chief for four years.

Today, I use the online media know-how I gained at InTheFray to provide consulting services to companies seeking to develop and expand their Web presence. In doing so, I draw upon my experience as a teacher to walk clients through potentially foreign tasks and ideas.

I grew up in Houston and got my B.A. at the University of Texas. I later got a master's degree in social science from the University of Chicago and a master's in fine arts in creative nonfiction from Bennington College. Currently, I divide my time between Texas and Buffalo, New York, where I brave the snow to run with my beagle.