As the Poet Laureate for 2014-16, Elizabeth Austen traveled to all of Washington state's 39 counties, offering writing workshops and giving readings. Her collection, Every Dress a Decision (Blue Begonia Press, 2011) was a finalist for the Washington State Book Award. She produces poetry programming for NPR-affiliate KUOW 94.9, and makes her living at Seattle Children’s Hospital, where she also offers poetry and journaling workshops for the staff.