Karen Secord

If Karen could figure out a way to get paid for writing a gossip column about ordinary people and their not-so-ordinary everyday lives, she would do the cha cha in front of the Parliament Buildings.

Karen's computer (The Beast) is in a tiny office in a winterized cottage on the edge of a river in rural Ottawa. She eeks out a living as a freelance writer, telling stories for magazines, newspapers, websites and pretty much anyone else that will pay her for doing what she loves.

Curious above all else, Karen questions shamelessly. She is driven to know the what's what about every topic she takes on. Recent clients include trade newspapers, a magazine for seniors, an American publication featuring the good works of children, an airport, an arts group and a real estate agent.

Karen shares her eclectic tastes as a contributing writer on Suite 101.