Katherine Youngblood spent her childhood traveling around the world with her mother, brothers and Air Force father, learning to treasure people from all cultures. Settling in Pensacola, FL, she has finally put down roots, raising her three children along the lovely Gulf of Mexico. Katherine is passionate about literature, animals, nature, and people. Her desire is to connect with those who have lost their way in the world. She hopes her writings express hope and forgiveness.

Her favorite quote:

“Everything matters. Because you are important, everything you do is important. Every time you forgive, the universe changes; every time you reach out and touch a heart or a life, the world changes; with every kindness and service, seen or unseen, my (God’s) purposes are accomplished and nothing will ever be the same again.” THE SHACK by William P. Young

Her favorite authors are C.S. Lewis, Thomas Merton, Agatha Christie, E.L. Doctorow, Toni Morrison, and others.

As a first-generation high school graduate, John has been fortunate enough to have been given many excellent opportunities to better himself through higher education. Having earned two bachelor’s degrees in history and philosophy and a master’s degree in history, John is an instructional designer and historian who recently became a published author with his first book, Pouring a Round of Pensacola’s Past.

Personally, John donates time and resources to various local historical organizations, as he has a passion for history. Professionally, he is a full-time instructional designer who develops education and training for adult learners. John has been developing courses for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) since October 2014.

Prior to becoming an instructional designer, he served in various roles, including small business manager, healthcare financial counselor, college history instructor, and researcher/technical writer in the oil industry. In addition to his role as an instructional designer, John is a full-time PhD student at the University of South Alabama in the Instructional Design and Development program, and he is conducting preliminary research for his next book.