Who am I?

I was born and raised in the farming community of Salinas, California, where I attended both public and private schools. I credit my inner strength and tenacity to “sturdy roots in good soil.” At 17, I began to work and study marketing and public relations when named “California Rodeo Hostess” (now called, “Miss California Rodeo”)**, and toured the State as a goodwill ambassador for the sport of rodeo.  I grew up with horses, cattle, 4-H and FFA.  I am no stranger to the world of agriculture.

While raising my children I served my community as a 4-H leader, school board member, and was active in several national equine and bovine organizations. Our family led the operation of a 24,000 acre cattle ranch near King City, California. We later moved to the San Joaquin valley to focus on training both horses and riders.  

In 1985, I joined the California Army National Guard to become a photo-journalist and graduated with honors from the Defense Information School.  During nine years in the military, I was named Soldier of the Year, earned many awards for journalism, and was fortunate to work with a dedicated team of soldiers throughout my military career.  My duties included writing, editing, publishing a field newspaper and often working as a liaison between the military and the media.

With responsibilities to both family and country, my civilian career escalated from public relations volunteer to National Marketing Director and beyond.  It's been a phenomenol journey. 

My children are now grown with families of their own and I make time to share the stories of real people who make a real difference in our world.  My first book, Horse Whispers & Lies, was published in 1999.  Two golf course history books followed and my fourth book, Lodi on the Label was published this year.

I am happily married to Dave Ristau, my best friend and trusted partner who makes all things possible.  Together we have have four adult children and seven grandchildren. We enjoy golf, travel, playing bridge, sporting events, and time spent with family and friends.  

I was the President of the WWW Investment Group for six years; am a Past Captain of the Del Rio Women’s Golf Assn.; and a Distinguished Past District Governor for Toastmasters International. I have shared stories and addressed audiences regarding motivation and leadership in four states, including the Texas Women's Chamber of Commerce in Austin.  

We recently moved to a Del Webb retirement community in Manteca, CA. As a result, I've left a number of my responsibilities and volunteer duties in Modesto in the capable hands of others.  My husband Dave is a CPA who specializes in tax accounting.  He remains a partner at the Modesto firm of Ristau & Co., CPAs.

With regards to Horse Whispers and Lies.... **I was riding horses before I could walk. My mother rode and showed horses as a youngster with Monty and Larry Roberts. Marvin and Marguerite Roberts were my Godparents and I spent countless hours at their stables learning about horses and horsemanship. I showed horses for many years and later operated the L Bar D Training Stable with Larry Sonniksen, my husband from 1974 to 1985. 

Life is a journey. Let's relish the trip.