Barchelle ("Chelly") Bolger Wathen has always loved dogs, her family dogs, and those she has worked with at shelters. Then one day her world changed forever when Chelly and her husband George welcomed one very special dog into their family - Shayla from Ukraine. As a young puppy, this remarkable shepherd/wolfdog overcame abandonment in a harsh world. She chose to love and trust in new friends who raised her at the Christian orphanage Otchiy Dim (Father's House) in Ukraine and brought her to America to her own forever family. Chelly was very inspired by Shayla's life, the faith of friends Roman Korniyko and his family who operate Father's House, their special children, and the courage of the Ukrainian people despite the turmoil of war. She wrote Shayla and Friends to share their true story. Shayla's Adventure: What's Across the Ocean was written to inspire kids who have also experienced challenges to trust in love and friendship again. God has been at work in all of their lives and in this story.Chelly grew up and lived in San Diego, California, and worked as a government paralegal for almost 30 years. She earned her master's degree in public administration. After retirement, Chelly's family moved to Prescott, Arizona, in 2021. She now enjoys working as an advocate for seniors, volunteering with senior dogs, writing, and assisting George in their wood crafting business. But her favorite activity is enjoying God's creation with family and friends - kayaking, ziplining, and hiking mountain trails, especially with Shayla.