Melinda Newton, DVM is a veterinary practitioner and free-lance writer who lives in Northern California with her husband, daughter, and (according to her husband) too many animals. She loves a good story and lots of miles on the trail. Whether it’s on horseback or on her own two feet, Dr. Mel’s favorite distance is 100 miles. Is there anything more wonderful than running all day and night, and then spending the rest of the day napping on the couch? Her husband isn’t convinced and makes her get her own snacks when she wakes up, since any pain and soreness is self-induced. Dr. Mel been telling stories about running, riding, and veterinary medicine on her blog since 2009. Her mission is simple: Inspire and motivate readers to go out and do exciting things that make life richer, even if they seem impossible. It is the little steps and choices every day that culminate into your dreams.

Dr. Newton also writes under the pen name of Orvetta Black, and is the author of the Bar Napkin Guide books and numerous nationally published articles.