I enjoy listening to Harry Potter much more than reading it.

If I find myself stuck on a story I may try to brainstorm my way out of it in the form of lists, free writes, or bouncing ideas around with a partner. But more often than not, the answer comes only after I’ve stopped searching. #AuthorLife

Have I ever mentioned that serendipity is my favorite word? I love the way it sounds. I love how it starts out silky smooth, yet serious, then ends with surprising, bouncy fizz. Like literary pop rocks. What's your favorite word?

I sent three important emails and recorded a short video, and now I feel like I should be allowed to be done for the day. Good thing I'm my own boss!

A highlight from my recent trip to North Central Nebraska is when my hubby capsized his kayak on the Niobrara River. It was definitely not a highlight in the moment, but it adds flavor to the story of our adventure!

My son is in Colorado right now, and I'm a little jealous.

One of these days I'm going to actually finish this round of revisions for my WIP.

When I walk through my office, there's a good chance I'll trip on a dog or a pile of books.

Some recent "art play" from the sketchbook. This was done with permanent marker with only vertical and horizontal lines.

I have six published books, yet whenever I receive a form rejection my immediate reaction is to think, "Ugh. What am I even doing?"

I’m almost done reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (the second half is much better than the first, thank goodness).

If you're in need of an exercise to stretch some unused creative muscles, just draw something. Anything. Like…that tree outside your window. Or the dog curled up on your office floor. Or a box. It doesn't have to be "good" to be good for you.

I've said it before and I'll say it again: You can enjoy picture books as an adult, with or without children.

A reminder to my fellow children's book authors: A story doesn't need to be moralizing or heavy handed in order to impart a "lesson." Tell a good story and let the reader figure out the rest. #WriteTip #WritingForKids #Kidlit

Happy Friday! Today my youngest grandson is one year old. He's the fourth of five grandkids. My oldest grandchild isn't even four yet. It's been a busy few years!

Don't visit Nebraska. It's boring and flat. buff.ly/3zbsQIu

It's Saturday, and I'm getting creative by making a birthday cake. What creative thing will you be doing this weekend?