Ahh, Spring!
Two Finalist Awards!
I am incredibly excited to announce that Emeline - A Journey has been recognized as a Finalist in both the Book Excellence Award and The Wishing Shelf Award in the young adult category.
Out of hundreds of books that were entered into both competitions, my book was selected for its high quality writing, design and overall market appeal. The Wishing Shelf entries are judged by students and teachers in several schools in or near London.
Emeline - A Journey was released in 2020 and is about an 1890s thirteen-year-old orphan on a cross-country adventure in honor of her pa’s dying wish.
For ages 12-16, you can get a copy for yourself HERE.
Tuf Fish Podcast Interview
In March, Jennifer Milius gave me an interview which she posted in both audio (Tuf Fish podcast) and video (YouTube). I was so honored! To hear (or see) more books reviewed, or if you are an author wanting to be interviewed, check out her website! Enjoy this video as you learn more about me and why I write.
Family & Physical Challenges
My husband of 40 years in August, Ed, has worked his whole life on old cars and HVAC-R systems. As an HVAC tech, he was required to climb ladders with his hefty “purse”, pretty much every day, to business rooftops all over the midwest. Early in March he went next door to help a neighbor remove vinyl wrap off of a tall bus and fell off the 3rd rung of the ladder when the vinyl snapped. He landed on his foot wrong and fractured his heel and ankle in several places. SO, he’s pretty immobile but is recovering slowly.
Two weeks later, I woke up and found I couldn’t walk or move much. We’re not really sure what happened, but I know I have plantar faciitus in both feet (left is worst), a bad knee, hips that get misaligned, and possible lower back issues. Well, between the doctors, Ibuprofen, and the physical therapists, I am doing MUCH better and able to keep up with Ed, my part-time job, and writing. I still need help toting water when I clean the fish tanks. Glad to have two able-bodied daughters!
Updated Website
Take a look at the new website. I’ve simplified and changed up a few things.
Designer Mode
My Bandana Acres Journal is currently being designed and should be available sometime in May! This is a companion book to the Bandana Acres series. Geared to kids from 7-12, guided questions will cause them to think about who they are and where they stand with regards to courage, thinking ahead, handling conflict, flexibility, and trust. Great for self-esteem and confidence!
Subscriber Gallery!
These two young ladies are starting to fill out their own copies of MY JOURNAL. Have fun discovering yourselves! If you like it, be sure to tell your friends about it. Thanks!
Young Champions in the Youth Wrestling World! MO Gold Youth Dual Team at Twin River Duals in Des Moines, IA. All-American medals and Undefeated rings. Congratulations, girls. You’ve worked so hard.
April Giveaway!
This month’s winner is Mary Wissinger! Mary, I’ll send you a high-resolution file for the artwork lovingly drawn and hand-painted by Claudia Gadotti. Download, and print it in whatever size you desire. Congratulations! Enjoy this original art.