Why do I do this?

Being an author/illustrator of children’s books is amazing. It’s also tons of hard work.

There’s a saying in the world of journalism that goes something like this …
”I didn’t have time to write a short story. So instead, I wrote a long one.”

Yes! I wholeheartedly agree. It is much easier to write a 7,500-word story than to compose a succinct 600-word (or less) picture book.

So, why do I do this?

---

WORKING

For several years, I …
wrote and erased and rewrote a manuscript,
crafted the illustrations,
collaborated with editors,
watched graphic designers do their “magic.”

And then, the day came when the publisher said,
”Your picture book has gone to press.”

Somewhere,
someone has my book and is preparing
to print it.

And now, I wait.

---

DREAMING

I don’t like the waiting part.
Actually, I abhor it. The interminable wait—
a necessary evil on this writing journey.

So, until the book arrives on my doorstep, I dream …
Of ripping open the long-awaited, heavy box,
Of enjoying that “new book” smell,
Of holding this labor of love in my hands for the first time,
Of listening to a child read my book.

Waiting is hard.

But dreaming is nice.

---

READING

Clapping,
smiling,
and sometimes, even squealing …

I hear an elated toddler shout,
“I can read! Did you hear me, Momma?
I just read a book all by myself!
Did you hear me, Momma?”

With tears in her eyes, the mother responds,
“Oh, yes! I heard you read, sweetie.
And I’m so proud of you.”

Huge milestone—
Reading your first book.

---

Kids—they are why I do this.

Being an author/illustrator of children’s books is amazing! (Did I already mention that?)

---