With roots deep in the Tar Heel State, Patricia L. Woodard has enriched her life by engaging in a love affair with Colombia, SA. Since she first traveled to Bogotá in the 1970s to the present time, she has written two memoirs about her experiences there during turbulent political times, newfound friendships, and the discovery of a proud and accomplished culture. Her latest book, Ava and Salomé - Welcome to Cali, a book for children (and adults who have a curiosity about the country), again pays tribute to an often-misunderstood country as she takes a look at diversity through the eyes of young readers. A retired Mathematics and sometimes Spanish teacher, Patricia grew up in Whiteville, North Carolina, and spent most of her teaching career in the colonial capital of New Bern, North Carolina. During the pandemic, after returning to Whiteville, she wrote stories for her local newspaper, The News Reporter. She is currently restoring a historic house, teaching Yoga, enjoying friends and family, and writing her next book.