I am incredibly excited to announce the launch of my new children's book, which focuses on a skill that is more critical than ever: self-regulation and understanding big emotions.
It is now available on Amazon.
Why do I write books
Many of you who know me or follow my blog know that in May of 2018, I experienced a loss that reshaped my world: I said goodbye to my only child, my beautiful daughter, Meghann.
Meghann was diagnosed with cerebral palsy before her first birthday. From that day forward, I dedicated the majority of my adult life to understanding what cerebral palsy truly meant, and how I could best ensure Meghann lived her best life.
After Meghann passed away I started writing children' s books about Meggeriffic. I began very simple. I wrote a story, found some pictures to put in the book, and put it ogether by myself. And Cuz I Can was born. It has a few mistakes and that's okay. At least I accomplished and published my first book in honor of Meghann. After Cuz I Can, I published Let’s Play Ball and The Girl with Gills, both books about what Meghann enjoyed. The Special Olympics and swimming were some of her Meghann’s favorite activities.
The Magic Closet was my fourth book. It is an adventure book with Meggeriffic meeting new friends and all of them working together to return home safely.
With every book I release, I discover a deeper understanding of the publishing world. The most significant lesson I've learned is that bringing a story to life involves so much more than the initial writing. To ensure my books are the best they can be, I have spent the last few years hiring skilled formatters, editors, and illustrators. The difference in the final product has been immense, and I am incredibly grateful to the formatter (from India) and edititor (Marie Watson) who have helped shape four of my books.
There is nothing quite as magical as seeing a child's eyes light up when they connect with a story. As an author, that's what drives me every day!
Finding my new illustrator was a delightful surprise. I certainly never expected that a day of substituting would lead me to a fellow substitute who was an art major! When I asked him about collaborating on a book, he was thrilled. Today, I'm overjoyed to announce my new book, Red Yellow Blue What Color are You?, and to introduce the exceptional talent behind the visuals: illustrator Colton Blase Loeb, who did an absolutely stunning job. From the very beginning of our journey to create this book, Colton was totally in sync with my vision. I barely had to make any suggestions or changes to any of his illustrations. He knew what I wanted and he created it beautifully.
If you are a teacher I would love to visit your classroom and read my new book to the kiddos. I think this book would be great for kids up to 2nd and 3rd grade. Even 4th graders would benefit from learning about self regulation.
