Frances Ellen Walsh serial author of Beyond the Drawbridge and its precursor Travels with Ellyn, believes that saying “YES!” is the key that opens doors to her living a colorful life. Answering unlikely sounds of opportunity knocking, she has accepted chance invitations to work, play, and volunteer. Through service to others she has woven the rich fiber of her life. Her fanciful stories are patterned after worldwide exploits with real people in real places and real events—from temporal and commonplace to exotic and ethereal ceremonies and celebrations.