Do What Makes You Happy

March 10, 2026 / still a dreamer / 10 Comments

Reminder to self: Draw more. It makes you happy.

Reminder to you: Do what makes you happy.

When so many things in the world feel like they’re falling apart at the seams, do what you love, whatever it is. Every moment of love sent out into the world is a stitch in repairing the fabric so carelessly rent by those whose souls have long ago ceased to care.

The Symbol of the Butterfly

March 3, 2026March 3, 2026 / still a dreamer / 3 Comments

What is the meaning of a butterfly? Often, the butterfly symbolizes change, due to its dramatic transformation from a caterpillar to a magnificent winged creature. In Japanese, Burmese, and many other cultures the butterfly is seen as a symbol for the soul.

Was symbolism intended when I wrote my picture book, Where Do Butterflies Go at Night?

If you had asked me when I first wrote it in 2009, I would have said `no’, but I now question if I didn’t have more in mind than even I knew. I submitted “Butterflies” to agents and traditional publishers for many years. Although I often got positive feedback, it was ultimate;y rejected because it was in rhyme, and rhyme is hard to sell.

A small, independent publisher saw the beauty in my story of the magical imaginings of a child who wondered where the butterflies went at night. It was published with the lovely art of Stella Maris Mongodi, who brought the sweet simplicity of the cabbage white butterfly to life in a whole new and charming way.

When the original publisher closed its doors, I self-published this, my debut picture book, now identifying it as “2nd Edition.” In 2025, it won a first place award in the poetry category from a prestigious reviewer of children’s books. And in my most recent picture book school presentation, I decided to do something a little differently.

In emphasizing the concept of change from caterpillar to butterfly, I talked with 1st and 2nd graders about the importance of embracing change; being brave in the face of change; and understanding that all change is ultimately working in our favor. One might think little ones wouldn’t get that, but they did. Sometimes wiser than we adults, they did.

And so, the butterfly has become a symbol of transformation for me, as well. I’ve gone through many changes with these butterflies and their story. They continue to light my path, and I am still unfolding.

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Where Do Butterflies Go at Night, 2nd Edition is available on Amazon and in also my Etsy shop, if you would like your copy signed.

Photo credits:
BW butterfly: pexels/6th Era Photography; @stories_by_sixthera
Blue butterfly: pexels/aarngiri; @aarn_giri
Cabbage white butterfly: pexels/mali maeder
Butterfly illustration: Stella Maris Mongodi

World Read Aloud Day

January 29, 2026January 29, 2026 / still a dreamer / 2 Comments

It’s coming up fast!

I hadn’t been aware until fairly recently that I could participate in this wonderful opportunity to read my picture book to children anywhere in the world via Zoom on World Read Aloud Day!

There is an endless amount of information on the benefits of reading aloud to children. It literally builds neural pathways that contribute to emotional well-being and academic success. Reading celebrates our deep connections to one another and the world. It is never too early to read aloud to a child!

If you would like me to read my book, Where Do Butterflies Go at Night? 2nd Edition, to your class or library group, we can arrange a time. Sessions are 20 minutes long, from 10 am to 2 pm, EST. I will read my book, and have a short Q and A at the end.

Please contact me if interested. I would love to read to your class.

I Am Honored

January 12, 2026 / still a dreamer / 10 Comments

I am both honored and grateful to have received an award for my picture book, Where Do Butterflies Go at Night? 2nd Edition.

My book is the 2025 winner in the Poetry Category from Northern Lights Book Awards, who “Honor Children’s Literature of Exceptional Merit.” This is especially meaningful to me as a writer, as writing is something I have loved to do most of my life, and continue to do today.

They wrote, “Thank you for the enchanted time you gave our judges. It was a pleasure and an honor to read your book.” I am humbled.

I am also always grateful for Stella’s beautiful artwork, and that together, in words and images, we can take you through the rich imagination of a child who wonders where these magical butterflies go when daylight fades.