Author life

I’m going to a Writers Conference!

Another author first for me!  After a push from a few writing pals that I have, I am officially signed up to attend this conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  How do I feel?  NERVOUS!  Especially since I am going to drive up there by myself.  Thank goodness for Mapquest!

But I can’t wait to learn, learn, learn, and learn some more.  The break out sessions look very helpful, and I will finally get to meet my new online friend Glenys Nellist.  She is PRESENTING at the conference which is so amazing.  I’m sure I will take a TON of notes!  Congrats, Glenys Nellist!  Your work is inspiring.

Author life, Mouse's Christmas Gift

Churches in Czech Republic…home of Mouse?

This summer my husband and I traveled to the Czech Republic.  So many adventures and cultural experiences!  For example, do you know what this is?  
What about this?

Or, what if you are in the middle of a romantic dinner for two and the waitress brings you this.  What would you do with it?
Give up?  The next thing that happens is that she pours hot water on it and it expands into this:

                                          

Of course!  A perfect towel for when you are finished peeling the prawns you ordered!!

We even rented a car and drove through the countryside to the little town of Malenovice. (Kudos to my friend Donna and my husband Doug for being willing to drive!)
Thanks to Mouse and my upcoming book, I think I’ve become a bit obsessed with little white churches! Check out these cool churches we visited along the way during our trip.  I know Mouse would love to live in this beautiful church in Malenovice.

He would also love these two churches in the little village of Ostravice.  This one was high on a hill, overlooking the village below.

                                                                    What a view!

This is the second church we found in Ostravice.
And I must include a few photos showing the charm and beauty of Prague!  

Mouse may even like to pack his bags and live in a castle or a cathedral…

But knowing Mouse, he probably would just like to visit the Czech Republic.  There is nothing like home, sweet home!

Author life, Mouse's Christmas Gift

Church in Chesapeake..home of Mouse?

Opinions, please!  What church do you think Mouse would live in?  October 2018 is still a distant date, but I’m waiting with great anticipation. In the meantime, I find myself dreaming about how the illustrator, Dow Phumiruk, is going depict the church.

This year for Spring Break, I had the opportunity to travel to Chesapeake Bay, in West Virginia.

 While I was there, I loved the churches!  On Sunday, I attended one that reminded me of my story.  I could picture Mouse living there.  Can you guess which one it is?  How does it compare to the other choices I found on Google images?  Which one is your favorite and why? Which one do you think Mouse should live in?

A.

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C.

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Author life

Big News

I’ve been waiting to make this announcement, but it is official.  My book, Mouse’s Christmas Gift, will be published in October, 2018 by HarperCollins Zonderkidz.  The illustrator will be the very talented Dow Phumiruk.  I am so excited to see this book come to life! The countdown begins!