This holiday season, I’m sharing the story behind my book launch, including Pay-It-Forward bundles, ARC updates, and creative ways to give back. Follow along for behind-the-scenes insights, mental health reflections, and joyful reading moments.
Tag: books
“Progress & Resources Rhymes” (According to Alma): Book Updates & HelpFul Tools
If you ask me how my indie-author journey is going, I’ll answer: “Somewhere between thriving and spiraling with purpose.” From moving my launch and expanding partnerships, to prepping swag and DIY booth experiments, this process is messy, chaotic, and full of unexpected lessons.
With the right illustrator, collaborators, and a pause to grow, every hiccup is shaping how I show up—and how this book reaches the families and organizations who need it most.
I Respectfully Disagree: Why My Picture Book Highlights a Parent’s Mental Health
When a hybrid publisher told me my picture book about parental mental health “wasn’t right for kids,” I disagreed. Here’s why I believe children can understand complex emotions—and why we need more stories about parents with cloudy days.
Facing Rejection in Publishing: Why I’m Still Writing About Mental Health for Kids
’m still here. Still writing. Still querying—because I carry this stubborn hope that someone, somewhere, will see value in parenting with depression. That they’ll understand it matters to be the parent willing to talk about this, with more words, deeper emotion, and a touch of whimsical truth.
One Bad Chapter Doesn’t Mean Your Story Is Over: Turn the Page
September is Suicide Awareness Month, emphasizing open dialogue about mental health. The author shares personal experiences with depression, highlighting the importance of connection and support. Through children’s literature, they aim to teach that emotions are real and manageable, encouraging conversations that foster healing and diminish isolation. Reaching out can save lives.
“I’m Frozen”: The Line to Delete?
This picture book reflects the complexities of parenting, encapsulating moments when a parent can’t fully engage. The author uses the phrase “I’m frozen” to convey a shared understanding with her daughter about needing space. It emphasizes that it’s normal to need breaks while deeply loving one’s child, portraying the realities of parenthood.
Mischief with Max: What My Second Baby Taught Me About Motherhood
The author candidly shares her challenging experience with pregnancy and the early birth of her son, Max, who spent time in NICU. Unlike her first child, Alma, she embraced new boundaries and supported herself through a strong community. Max, now two, is his own joyful, spirited self, highlighting the uniqueness of each child.
When the Cloud Settles: Coping with Stress, Parenting, & Mental Health (One Imperfect Week at a Time)
The author reflects on the challenges of parenting amidst chaos and stress, emphasizing the struggle to maintain control and expectations. Despite feeling overwhelmed, they advocate for acknowledging difficulties and allowing oneself to grow through them. The concept of “yet” signifies hope and potential for future improvement. Embracing the metaphor of clouds, they encourage acceptance and resilience.
The Moment Everything Became Real: When Character Art Transformed My Children’s Book Dream
Discover the magical moment when character sketches transform a children’s book manuscript from words on a page to vivid, living personalities. Follow my journey working with illustrator Juliana as we bring Alma, Max, and family to life—capturing their quirks, expressions, and spirit. Learn why trusting your illustrator and sharing your characters’ essence is key to creating a heartfelt, authentic story.
From Everyday Moments to the Page: Our Family’s Story
The post reflects on a family’s character sketching meeting, emphasizing deeper connections over mere appearances. The author celebrates her children’s unique traits and personalities, highlighting their joys, fears, and values. She portrays her husband as a gentle, supportive presence, and describes her own identity as a work in progress, focusing on the journey of trying.