Jana spent her childhood picking wild blueberries and mushrooms in the ancient hills of Bohemia. She then moved to Australia, where it was really hot, then to Canada, which was a blessing for the avid naturalist and animal lover. After earning her degrees, Jana freelanced and worked at a few newspapers, eventually switching to social services and the educational system. Life in Victoria, BC, with a terrific husband and two wonderful — but uncooperative — wired-haired basset hounds, provides her with ample access to natural spaces all year round. Jana's conversion to poetry was sudden and complete. She's working on her first book manuscript.