About Me

Hey! Hi! You’re here!

So you want to know more about me, I suppose. That’s pretty awesome. :)

Twitter version of who-is-Rachael

Four kids, married, kickass creative entrepreneur, loves chocolate, coffee, reading, writing, naps, and adventures. Loves much and deeply.

(Ha! 138 characters, BEAT THAT.)

What’s up with the elf thing?

Funny you should ask! (I’m aware that I’m pretending you asked at all, but this is my blog, so just go with it!)

I used to go by a different nickname around these here internets, but sometime several years ago (okay, probably a decade ago or more), that name was already taken. THE HORRORS. So I had to quickly come up with something else that was a) interesting, b) quirky, and c) wouldn’t make me gag.

I became caffeinatedelf, because I like coffee and JRR Tolkien. I love them, in fact. VERY VERY MUCH.

And now, I’m lucky enough to have (accidentally on purpose) made my nickname into my personal brand. Plus, I always get to introduce myself as the caffeinated elf. There’s nothing more awesome than that.

Blogging and writing

I’ve been blogging here since 2006. I write about life, learning, homeschooling, having a blended family, and being a work-from-home mother and serious entrepreneur. I write about my spiritual journey and the things I struggle with. I write about my pain and my joy, and I do my best to be as transparent and honest as possible.

I love writing and I always have, which is why every year I participate in National Novel Writing Month (it’s in November). I love it so much that I’m a co-ML for my region, which means I get to help organize and plan and greet my fellow Nanowrimo-ers in caffeinated and crazy enthusiasm. Our region here is called the Flint Red Hot Writers, and if you’re in the area – join us!

You can also find me blogging at the Caffeinated Design Studio, where I like to write about my experiences as web designer and entrepreneur. I also write up client spotlights when I launch new designs, so you can stop by and see what I’ve been creating lately.

Social media and other places you’ll find me

Please follow me on Twitter, fan the blog on Facebook, and add me to your LinkedIn network if you like.

I’m also a volunteer for Penguicon, helping create graphics and signs and other awesome stuff that you need when you’re putting on a completely awesome scifi and open source convention. In fact, Penguicon was where I met my husband. Awww yeah.

A little backstory on my family

My oldest two kids were born during my first marriage. After having dated for a year, being engaged for a year, and being married for six years, my first husband left and never came back. This experience was the first difficult test I endured as an adult, and it helped shape me and informed a lot of my later decisions.

My third child was born during my second marriage. I wanted a father for my kids and a hero to save me, and I made a choice that created a lot of heartbreak later. My older children and my younger child were greatly affected by the outcome of this marriage and its ending, and because of that, every day I try to be a better mother than the day before.

My fourth and last child was born during this, my third marriage. Her father, my wonderful incredible husband, is the man I wish I had been able to wait for. He is my rock, my strong protector, my companion through life’s sorrows and joys. Together, we lost the baby I was pregnant with before my fourth child. We have weathered a lot so far, and I look forward to growing old with this amazing man.

What? You want more?

If you want to see some photos, you can look at my Flickrstream. I also update a posterous blog with stuff I find amusing or horrible, depending on the day.

If you really need more to read, you should start flipping through the archives. You’ll be amused for HOURS.