My time was spent with my girls and my husband, as well as writing new children’s books. One is a slightly more serious-toned picture book, written in honour of my dad. I think he would have loved the story. It was adapted from a moment in his childhood. In my research for animals in the Italian countryside, I ended up writing a funny, second story about an alpine marmot.
Hello, Alpine Marmot
During August, I won a career consult video chat with children’s author, Tara Lazar! Tara was extremely generous with her time and so supportive, and I loved every minute of our call. Tara’s wonderful children’s books and informative blogs can be found on her site at www.TaraLazar.com.
A week ago, I had a phone call with an editor provided through an SCBWI program. I never thought I’d get these experiences. She gave me wonderful feedback and I look forward to reworking the story.
Sweet Chapter Books
Also, I’m thrilled to say I wrote an 8,000 word chapter book geared to kids ages 7-9 years old. It felt daunting many times. But I really enjoyed writing this story! I love this sweet genre. I’ve watched my own girls clutch and devour chapter books’ series with such love and attention.
Oh, Sweet, Sweet Chapter Books
After uncovering a problem I created, I ending up rewriting most of the book. So, can I say that I wrote two books? Wonderful critique partners helped me during this process, and I will be forever grateful. I’m eager and nervous to start on the next book in the series.
In the book, my main character desperately wants a treehouse. And for the past couple of years, my husband has talked about building one for our girls. We don’t have a tree but we’d improvise.
Recently, my husband and I received devastating news. A young man we loved passed away, and we are stunned and heartbroken. When my husband spoke with a family member, she said something that struck him and he couldn’t let it go. She said,
“Don’t waste time. Don’t sit on things.”
We’ve all heard this, haven’t we? So often we let life get in the way. But this time, my husband said he didn’t want to put it off anymore. We would build our treehouse. The girls may only get to use it a few more weeks this year since our colder weather is coming, but it’ll still be worth it.
So, this past weekend, my husband, daughters and I
built our new treehouse!
It still needs a roof, but it has four walls and a cute window. I’m not sure how, but it was built with accommodations for a future expansion for a future dog. (Ahem, but that’s another post). This was great quality time spent together as a family.
That first night our girls, cuddled in blankets, stayed out past their bedtimes enjoying a surprise fireworks show courtesy of a neighbour. It was a perfect night. And it was our loving tribute to the beautiful young man who lost his life much too soon. We will miss you.
Hoping everyone has a safe autumn ahead, filled with fun surprises, some new experiences, and perhaps a fireworks show. I will leave you with our cousin’s wise words. Don’t waste time. Don’t sit on things.
