Get your kids reading this summer

Summer reading programs are a great way to keep your kids reading this Summer. When you sign up for a reading program, you offer them an incentive to read during months when they're not thinking about school. One of my children happens to be an avid reader, but not all kids are. These summer reading … Continue reading Get your kids reading this summer

Our favorite books of poetry for kids

I’ve been working on a big poetry based project, and so I was inspired to pick up some poetry books for my kids at the library last week. We have enjoyed reading them. We giggle a lot, the poems often prompt questions from my children, and they want to repeat and recite their favorite parts. … Continue reading Our favorite books of poetry for kids

Shiny Sparks: Adriana Morales

A few months back I posted a weekly article series about inspiration in which I explore what keeps us connected to our creative spark and how we maintain a lifestyle that is generative and fulfilling. This is one of my favorite topics of discussion. I love learning about how people I admire are inspired, and it is … Continue reading Shiny Sparks: Adriana Morales

Random Acts of Kindness

I don't know about any of you, but I feel like the summer season is flying by. I was taken aback when I looked up from my life this week and realized that we're already halfway through the year. This year has had it's ups and downs for my family, but overall, 2019 has been … Continue reading Random Acts of Kindness

No Takebacks

“I’ll trade you my Barbie for 2 of your My Little Ponies.” “Ok, but you can’t have Twilight Pegasus.” “Well you can’t have Barbie and The Rockers, just one of the regular ones.” “Ok.” “Ok.” “No takebacks!” My sister and I championed this phrase. It was our secret handshake. Then, when we were older: “I … Continue reading No Takebacks

Shiny Sparks: Dakotah Hale

This is the fourth installment of the new blog series, 'Shiny Sparks.' Today we hear from lifestyle blogger, Dakotah Hale. Here's her take on maintaining inspiration. _____________________ "What Keeps Me Inspired" I am surrounded by inspiration all around me. From the feather that I spot on the street to the birds flying in the sky. … Continue reading Shiny Sparks: Dakotah Hale

How I published a poetry book for $2.45

I've dreamed of writing a poetry book for a long time. When I was a kid, my favorite books were the rhyming ones. Authors like Shel Silverstein and Dr. Seuss were able to build bright and imaginative worlds in just a few stanzas. I remember giggling as I tried to read Dr. Seuss' tongue twisters out … Continue reading How I published a poetry book for $2.45

Monkey Business: My experience being part of a live storytelling show

In February of this year I had a new opportunity as a writer that really pushed me out of my comfort zone. Oral Fixations: An Obsession with True Life Tales is a live storytelling show. Each version of the show has a theme, and the producer carefully curates stories from 8 people who have a … Continue reading Monkey Business: My experience being part of a live storytelling show

Low cost ways to market your book

Low-cost ways to market your book I self-published a children’s book in July of 2017 and so far, it has been a positive experience. Learning about the process of publishing a book was priceless, and I’ve had fun meeting my readers. One of the challenges I’ve faced is in the area of marketing. I’ve learned … Continue reading Low cost ways to market your book

Our Daily Schedule for a Sane Summer

Each year as the summer season approaches, I find myself with a mix of emotions. On one hand, I’m excited to see my children grow up. I’m reflective about the changing of season and new energy. The summer season offers an easier schedule without early mornings and the obligations of the school year. On the … Continue reading Our Daily Schedule for a Sane Summer