MEET DEBRA GASKILL

What is…

Your name? Debra Gaskill

Your children’s names? Corey, University of Minnesota grad, Criminal Justice; April, St. Petersburg College grad, Mortuary Science; and Justin, just accepted into limted access Physical Therapy Program at Eastern Florida State College.

Your cats’ names? Brûlée & Louis

When did you move to Harmony? Eleven years ago.

What street do you live on? Sundrop.

What do you love most about Harmony? I have always loved that even though it’s a little bit of drive to get out here, when you’re home... you’re home. Peace, quiet, serenity. The deer in the front yard from time to time. Love the walks around the neighborhood in the evening and the Sunday markets.

What are your kids’ favorite things about Harmony? My kids are all adults, but they love to unwind on my side porch where I have an entertainment center. They like to pop in a movie and listen to the windchimes blowing in the breeze.

Where did you move from? Ohio.

What do you miss most? The leaves turning color in the fall and snow on Christmas morning. But it’s a nice trade-off to experience all of the holidays in beautiful Florida weather. What is your background? I have a degree in Mass Media and started writing for my college newspaper which turned into a life-long passion. After retiring from the insurance industry a few years ago, I’m now able to write full-time. I have been a contributor for the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, and last year I published my first non-fiction novel, Healing From Heaven. Recently, I released a part memoir, part self-help book, Single & Sublime: Healing The Past, Making Wise Choices, Living A Beautiful Life

What attracted you to live in Harmony? After going through one of life’s transitions, Harmony seemed like the perfect place to regroup, rethink and relaunch into a new season of life. Also, as an author I work from home, so I enjoy the peace and quiet that I experience most days.

Do you have a cause or business that you would like to promote? Currently, I have two full length faith-based books on Amazon: Healing From Heaven, paperback & e-book, https://amzn.to/3OLpRJR and Single & Sublime, paperback & e-book, https://amzn.to/3qtFZI4

What do you do for fun? I love visiting nearby attractions—Universal, Disney, Wild Florida, Gatorland, Sea World. Sometimes you hear about people who have lived in Central Florida for decades and have never been to the parks. Not me! I've been a season passholder for years.

What was the last movie that you have seen in the theatre? “John Wick: Chapter 4” — Keanu Reeves fan here!

What is your favorite TV Show? “Gilmore Girls”. n