Cheryl Ann Keifer

I grew up in the northern panhandle of WV and currently live just outside of Pittsburgh, PA. I've always lived in the Ohio Valley and there's no place I'd rather be! My life has been full of joy, sadness, change, and adventure! Those who know me know that I have many good stories to tell!

I attended Sacred Heart of Mary for elementary school in Weirton, WV and then Weir High School. For college I attended Jefferson Community College in Steubenville, OH and Mountain State University, which is in Beckley, WV. I also graduated from the police academy in Ohio in 2002.

I'm a divorced mother of one beautiful little girl, who will be turning five next week. She means the world to me! It hasn't always been a smooth road because of the challenges of going through the process with family court, learning to raise a child alone, and finding balance. It can all seem overwhelming at times, but its definitely worth it!

I currently work full time as a paramedic. I've also worked as a police officer and as a church organist.

My background is quite eclectic. I went to a Baptist preschool, Catholic grade school, and regularly attended services in Nazarene churches, Church of Gods, and also at temple. I was baptized Catholic as a child, not as an infant, in a mixed family and now practice and teach my daughter Judaism. For me it's not only a heritage, but also a conscious choice based upon a solid understanding of theology and scriptural study. I've had a keen and insatiable interest in exploring theological concepts and in studying religious and philosophical texts. Comparative religion has been my passion for more nearly two decades.

I am looking forward to writing for Yahoo! and I believe this is going to be an exciting opportunity!