I trust that love is the meaning of life 

I trust that love is the meaning of life.
This mantra shapes the way I write and move through the world. 
​
I'm Kalie J, a 27-year-old writer living in the Midwest. I write mostly creative nonfiction—stories about nature, family, childhood, relationships, and love. My work often circles back to self-discovery, using the word "I" as a way to explore what it means to truly know ourselves. My writing has been published in independent presses, both online and in print. In 2022, I was honored with a Pushcart Prize nomination.

I also love nature and free play in art! I love art that has no rules and is open to everyone and anyone! I run The Paper Garden during my free time, a collage booth at events, festivals, parties, and other gatherings for the purpose of creating art within community! Collage is my favorite medium to unite people at events and I aim to have workshops be free to attendees! I provide the supplies and you create the artwork. Let's grow together!