Once Upon a Time . . .

Like many parents, I’ve navigated the balance between motherhood & mental health. As my daughter began discovering emotions & language, I searched for a way to explain my own struggles in a way she could understand. When I couldn’t find a story that truly resonated, I decided to create one.

Mom’s Cloud and the Beach Adventure began as a bedtime story—using a gentle cloud metaphor to explore sadness & other big feelings, while teaching her, she wasn’t responsible for my cloudy days, but she can still love & support me.

Creating this story deepened the way my family talked about emotions. Through our nightly conversations, my daughter not only began to understand my feelings, but also started adding her own lines—many of which are now part of the book.

Ziggleoafing Books

*disclaimer: I’m not a licensed therapist- just a mom sharing a story about clouds & feelings. My hope is these pages resonate & encourage others to seek support if they need it, without guilt or shame.

I created Ziggleoafing Books, because children’s stories do so much more than “just entertain”. They help little hearts & minds explore, imagine, & feel.

I wanted to create a world of whimsical adventures, gentle lessons, & capture the magic moments that spark curiosity, empathy, & connection. While also encouraging pausing & emotional honesty.

Cloudy Day Chronicles

  • The Pitch That Wasn’t: The Story Behind My Unseen Moment

    Kendall, author of “Mom’s Cloud and the Beach Adventure,” discusses her journey in creating a picture book addressing depression for young children. The story follows siblings Alma and Max as they support their mother during tough times, emphasizing the importance of togetherness and understanding mental health, offering a vital resource for families.

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  • From Manuscript to Magic: Creating My Book, Finding My Team, and Sharing Sunshine

    The author’s journey of editing a children’s manuscript is filled with joy and anxiety, particularly regarding finding the right illustrator. They explore connections with artists, seeking authenticity and understanding around the book’s themes of depression. Along the way, they discover community resources and meet inspiring individuals that enhance their creative process.

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  • Showing Up: Real Talk on Motherhood & Mental Health Struggles

    The author reflects on their journey of self-discovery and personal growth, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and connection. They discuss the challenges of navigating motherhood, mental health struggles, and building supportive relationships. Ultimately, they embrace the complexities of their experiences, acknowledging both the tough moments and the joy found in vulnerability.

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  • “Types of Clouds”: What Depression Really Feels Like

    The author shares personal experiences of living with depression, likening it to unpredictable clouds. Despite appearing fine, depression can involve profound emptiness and various symptoms. They emphasize the importance of empathy, understanding, and regular check-ins from loved ones, highlighting the need for connection and communication in mental health struggles.

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  • Behind the Scenes: Facing Imposter Syndrome and Fighting for the Cloud

    The author grapples with imposter syndrome while preparing for a contest, feeling torn between confidence and self-doubt. Despite presenting a strong front, the shift to a popularity vote complicates their journey. Ultimately, they choose to invest in themselves and advocate for mental health, inviting readers to feel supported.

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