I started my year with the new…
Books, Podcasts and Gratitude!
I started my year with something I love deeply; books, podcasts, and gratitude. It’s hard to believe we’re already nearing the end of January 2026. I hope the new year has begun with a bit of magic for you, too.
Years ago, I stopped making New Year’s resolutions. I found that I was always setting myself up for disappointment when life inevitably got in the way. Instead, I shifted my focus to something gentler and far more meaningful: being the best version of myself each day.
For me, that often shows up through small, everyday acts of kindness. Walking someone to their car after dark. Helping carry groceries. Taking a moment to truly listen. These gestures may seem simple, but to someone else, they can be a tremendous gift.
As a storyteller, I’ve always believed that kindness is one of the most powerful stories we can live out loud. It doesn’t need a grand stage or a perfect plan, just a willing heart. This year, I’m continuing to surround myself with stories that uplift, conversations that inspire, and moments that remind me why imagination and compassion matter so much.
Thank you for being part of my journey. I’m excited to share more stories, reflections, and creative adventures with you as the year unfolds.
From My Writing Desk
I’m currently editing a brand-new story in its very first phase – the stage filled with imagination, discovery and lots of revision notes in the margins. This is where characters start to find their voices and the story begins to take shape.
While there’s still a long way to go, these early moments are some of my favourites. They remind me why I love writing and how every story begins with a spark and a little faith in where it might lead.
Character Magic in Inkubator Magazine
I’m delighted to share that my article, “Tips on Finding the Perfect Character for a Story,” appears in the January 2026 edition of Inkubator Magazine. Writing this piece allowed me to reflect on how characters are born and how they grow into voices that feel real, relatable, and full of heart.
The article is filled with practical, heart-centred ideas to help writers discover characters who truly leap off the page and stay with readers long after the story ends. If you’d like to read it, you’ll find it on pages 43 and 44 of the magazine.
Finding the Magic Podcast: Let’s Talk Boomer and Rise
I recently had the pleasure of joining Tricia Copeland on the Finding the Magic podcast for a thoughtful and engaging conversation about storytelling, imagination, and the heart behind my books. We talked about the re-release of Boomer Sees the Town – Boomer the Curious Bunny and my young adult novel Rise: A Girl’s Struggle for More, two stories very close to my heart.
During our conversation, we explored themes of curiosity, courage, and growth, and how real-life moments often spark the stories we tell. Podcasts like this remind me how powerful it can be to share not just the finished book, but the journey behind it – the questions, the challenges, and the magic that brings characters to life.
Boomer’s Shout-Out in The AR Critique
I was delighted to see Boomer Sees the Town highlighted in The AR Critique as part of their lovely “Check It Out!” feature. It’s always special to watch a story find its way into new hands, and this thoughtful mention captured the heart of Boomer’s big city adventure.
The feature shines a light on Boomer’s curiosity, sense of wonder, and gentle humour – qualities that make this little bunny such a joyful companion for young readers and the grown-ups reading along with them. Seeing Boomer embraced in this way reminds me why I love creating stories that invite families to explore, imagine, and discover together.
Website Glow-Up: Thank You, CreativePocket
A heartfelt thank-you goes to Aimee Warren, aka CreativePocket, for giving my author website such a beautiful refresh. Aimee originally created my site while I was living in Dubai, and it has been a joy to collaborate with her again as she worked her creative magic to make it brighter, clearer and easier to explore.
The updated site feels far more reflective of the stories I share and the journey behind them. I’m so grateful for Aimee’s thoughtful approach, creative eye and genuine care for authors and storytellers. I encourage you to take a moment to explore the wonderful work she does through CreativePocket and support a talented creative who truly champions meaningful stories and the people who tell them.
