Jane M. Bell

My Journey... So far... I suppose it was inevitable that I finally became a writer. Growing up, I was surrounded by the constant tap tap-tap-ding of my grandmother’s manual typewriter as she constantly worked on a myriad of writing projects. I grew up just south of Modesto, California, and graduated from Ceres High School. During my days of study at Modesto Junior College, I developed an interest in psychology when I began working in a locked mental facility.  In 1988, I began my 20 year career with the US Army Reserves where I served as an Armorer, Drill Sergeant, and Combat Medic Instructor.  After earning my AA from Modesto Junior College, I went on to study at Sonoma State University, where I earned my BA in Psychology with distinction, and did Post-Graduate studies in Neurobiology.  During my postgraduate days, I worked at the San Francisco VA Medical Center at Ft Miley in a schizophrenia research lab. Following my graduate work, I went on to work in the medical field as an Obstetrics Technician at a local hospital. Today I make my home just outside of Modesto, California with my two sons, daughter, two dogs and cat.  I still try to find time to serve as a docent at Columbia State Historic Park in the Sierra foothills east of Modesto. My Work: I find inspiration everywhere, especially in the lesser-known chapters of historical events. I feel compelled to bring these interesting, hidden historical gems back to life. Our greatest lessons in life and as a society come from the successes and failures of those who came before us.