Taking the leap

Taking the leap to become a self-published author while also being a stay at home mom has been terrifying, rewarding, and completely chaotic.

Most of the first drafts of my books have been written in the notes section of my phone or on scrap pieces of paper on my kitchen counter, well after my kids and husband have gone to sleep. Being someone who has struggled with dyslexia her whole life (as well as not completing high school and later receiving a GED) I would never have imagined that writing would be a part of my dream job - but it is. I have my kids (2-1/2 y.o. son and 15 month old daughter) with me 24/7 and it is an absolute dream, but it comes with a lot of challenges.

They are always underfoot, wanting my full undivided attention, which can be hard when I’m doing a zoom call and trying to put my professional hat on but never fully being able to take my mom hat off. Recently I decided to take some marketing photos on my back deck and, in true fashion, my son was clinging to me, wanting to join in by taking photos himself.

Something I have learned very quickly is that there is no use fighting with a toddler who’s on a mission - it’s better to just include him.  So I did. Even as I write this email, he is standing in front of me, asking what I am doing. My family is my greatest joy, and writing children’s books that they can enjoy - along with hopefully many other families - is just a cherry on top of a life I never would have imagined for myself, but now could never imagine being without.