​Just because Christmas has passed doesn’t mean winter’s magic has melted away! There’s still plenty of enchantment in the air, and what better way to celebrate than by blending the cozy wonder of the season with the joy of bringing stories to life? Hosting a winter-themed reading celebration is a fantastic way to inspire a love of books while encouraging creativity, play, and learning.
 
This guide is especially perfect for celebrating National Story Week, which begins Feb. 1. What better way to highlight the power of storytelling than with a winter wonderland of books, activities, and fun? Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or caregiver, this event will transform winter into a season of storytelling magic.

​Meet My Illustrator: Jasmine Wall
I can’t wait to launch my next children’s book, Remmy’s Sticky Situation, into the world! Not only did I enjoy writing the story, but I’ve fallen in love with this crazy little racoon. However, what is a picture book without great visuals to bring it to life? Let me introduce you to the brilliant illustrator behind Remmy and his colorful world: Jasmine Wall!

Attending Fables Books' Local Author Event on Nov. 23 was like walking into a world where stories come alive, imaginations run wild, and laughter fills the air.
 
First of all, the coziness of this little shop in downtown Goshen, Indiana, envelopes you in warm fuzzies from the moment you enter the front door. It’s not a browse, buy, and leave kind of place. Nope. You want to linger a bit, soaking up the friendly bookish atmosphere that seem to whisk you away from all of life’s stresses.

Here I am, at 60, doing something I’ve always wanted to do. Yes … it’s taken me a long time to get here. I mean, I wrote my first story about a bunny who had a wicked stepmom at the age of 8. So, my dream has been 52 years in the making.
 
Sitting at my desk earlier this week, I couldn't help but pause and soak in the scene — creating the timeline for my mid-grade novel Almost a Ghost and catching a glimpse of my storyboard for Remmy’s Sticky Situation. Is it weird to admit that I’ve always wanted to make storyboards for my own stories? Yep. I'm that kind of nerd. I am excited and humbled at the same time. God is so good.

Did I ever have doubts I would have the opportunity to do this? You bet. Because we don't always get what we want, wouldn't you agree? But, as corny as it may sound, I also believed that if I didn't get my shot at being an author here on Earth, there was always Heaven. Although I admit, I still whined to God about it at times.

On Feb. 21, 2024, I released my first picture book, The Wonder of Under. As a self-publishing author, it has been a whirlwind of learning, and I’m still navigating this exciting path. Self-publishing is a unique experience, filled with both challenges and rewards, but one of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is the power of partnership with my readers. Together, we’ve made The Wonder of Under into more than just a story—it’s become an adventure that inspires exploration and creativity for kids.

​And here's the result ...