Interview With Winn Publications

How did your journey as an author begin?

I believe my journey as an author began at birth.  The story was playing out from the moment I entered the world.  I simply didn’t realize it until my daughter Molly was born. I loved writing but thought that I was more of a personal journal writer and songwriter.  I never intended to share until I realized that my story was unique and could encourage so many who were struggling in the trenches of life.  My husband actually planted the seeds after I wrote a song for my daughter.  He said it should be a book and so it begins. Two were planted and only one has come to fruition so far.  The children’s book is first in hopes that I can inspire and encourage parents to truly bond with those tiny humans that they are entrusted with.  

Was it something you always wanted to pursue?

I would love to have a youth program where we help at risk and homeless youth learn creative skills.  I want to provide something for those who are not athletes or highly academic to pour their gifts into!

Who or what motivated you to write?

Inside of my family, my brothers have inspired me.  Both of them have passed away.  Both of them have a terrible final earthly chapter but they are both together in heaven pushing me to tell a story of hope.  Outside motivators would be at-risk youth.  They have always been a motivating factor.  I also desire to leave a good legacy for my children.  I desperately want to tell them all that they do not have to let the hurdles of life trip them.  With practice, they can clear those obstacles and keep going!   I want families and children to be stronger.  I deeply desire for parents to develop strong positive bonds with their babies.  

Have you published your writings in a  book? If so, where can we find it/them? 

Yes!!! This year I had the amazing privilege of finishing my first children’s book called Always Forever.  It is a short bedtime story with a lullaby.  It also includes a nighttime routine and when the time is right there is also a section for the parent or caregiver to write a love letter to their child.  You can pre-order my book at www.simplyencourage.com.  

How was the publishing process?

My publisher Arilia at Winn Publications is so amazing!  The process with her was fantastic.  The incredible eye that she has for order, composition, and positive critique is a breath of fresh air.  She was quick to respond and incredibly kind. My designers and illustrators executed this project perfectly with her direction.   

Are you self-published?

No, I am with Winn Publications. 

Since becoming a published author, what challenges have you faced if any?

Once you complete the process the book is submitted to the printers there will be moments of second guessing!  Did I do this right? If changes occurred, were they the right decision? I have decided that Present over Perfect is where I want to be in life.  If there was a mistake it is not the end of the world and all together this beautiful tool is going to be a blessing to so many families!  

Have you written anything outside of fiction/nonfiction?

No

Do you have a tip that you can offer your peers (poets and writers worldwide)?

First and foremost, be grateful for your gift.  Do not be afraid to crowd fund.  Do not be afraid to ask for help.  Do not be afraid of criticism.  Do not be afraid of the process.  Do not rush.  Take your time to examine and reexamine every page carefully.  Show gratitude throughout the process every step of the way.   

Are you currently working on any new projects? If so when can we expect them to be released?

YES!  I am working on a memoir.  You can expect to see it in 2021!  

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I am and always will be a momma and wife first!  I will continue to seek ways of helping youth in my community and around the world.  I will be speaking for non-profits who work with disadvantaged children and youth.  I will continue showing children that they can rise above the circumstances that are hurting them to be amazing leaders in this world.  I also deeply desire to teach those around me that there is always something to be grateful for.   

What does being an author mean to you?

Healing! Writing is a way to heal.  Writing helps make sense of the chaos in our brains.   

What’s your favorite quote and who’s it by?

“Hope is not about moving mountains but about moving loose rocks one by one.” -Fredrike Bannink

If you could co-author with anyone – dead or alive- who would it be and why? 

Mother Teresa.  She was a courageous woman who loved many and taught the world how to love others well.