Abish: Faith Among the Lamanites...Now Available
On February 14, 1975 a precious Valentine was born in Phoenix, Arizona to Jim and Judi Baggiore.  She was given the name of Brenda Jean Baggiore, and was taken to her nearby home to be raised with her five brothers, five sisters, some cows (to be eaten regularly), and a plethora of cars (which she steered clear of).

While growing up, Brenda developed a love for puzzles, horses, and writing.  As she entered high school, she became focused on her studies, with the goal of valedictorian in sight.  It was a heated contest between her and one other student.  In the end, Brenda rose the conquering hero, and claimed her prize.

Brenda and her horse Foolish Choyce
During this heated battle, Brenda met an ally/foe, Matt Anderson.  They began dating (on/off, off/on) her sophomore year, and continued through her graduation.  Matt then moved and Brenda headed to Provo, Utah to pursue another dream: a Brigham Young University degree.  However, instead of her sophomore year at the "Y", Brenda succumbed to a stronger force than dreams, love, and married Matt on July 7, 1994.  One year later Brenda, Matt, and their newborn son were sealed in the Mesa, Arizona Temple.

As the years passed, and the children multiplied, Brenda continued to dream of obtaining her degree from BYU.  The opportunity finally presented itself in 2002, when she enrolled in the Bachelors of General Studies program through BYU's Independent Studies Program.  She went through commencement and received her "Y" Bachelors Degree on August 15, 2008.
Brenda and Matt, in their wedding clothes, July 7, 1994
Brenda, Grad Day, August 15, 2008

Brenda currently lives in Buckeye, Arizona (no cows, but Mom and Dad Baggiore are just a few miles away with fresh meat) with Matt and their seven kids.  She still loves horses, and does puzzles (including crocheting, which is just like a puzzle to some), and naturally, she will always love to write.
The Andersons (left to right): Secada, Elvis, Samantha, Brenda, Cyrus, Matt, Travis, TG
Lucky baby number 7, Levi Benjamin, born May 11, 2009
Scriptural Journeys through Fictional Stories