Born on August 23, 1940 in the small town of Borodino, NY, Jean was the second-oldest child of four. She was a lifelong lover of cats, small towns, meat and potatoes, living simply, analyzing dreams, and getting by. She had a lifelong career as a secretary, most notable for Kemper Insurance of Syracuse, N.Y. from 1958-1959, The Washington Post from 1959-1966, and Lyndon State College Counseling, Career and Health Services from 1977-2000. Jean delighted visitors to her greenhouse with her homemade wreaths, crafts, bread, pickles, flowers and jelly for almost two decades.

A  prolific writer, she summed up her life and the world as she saw it in starkly beautiful prose and poetry, which was often found in local publications. She also published several books including her memoir, “Growing Up Cold — Life in the 40s and Beyond”, a compilation of poetry and prose entitled “Growing Up Loved”, a children’s book called “Vermont Cats of Country Road Farm”, and several compilations of historical family recipes. 

Jean’s raw, honest and heartfelt writing showcase the struggles, joy, experiences, and sometimes bizarreness of life. Reliving and reintroducing the world to days gone by, she leaves an indelible mark on the landscape of tomorrow as we learn how to get by and appreciate the simple things life offers.

Enter the World According to Jean

Where raw and honest poetry and prose converge with the funny and sometimes bizarre reality of life.