I feel as though I never had choice not to be a writer. I feel in my heart of hearts that writing chose me and this is what I must do. I have no choice but to write, and to write, and to write, because my very life depends on it. And to assume that, of course, everyone in the entire universe wants to read what I've written.

I think stories, good ones, have a universal message and appeal that connects us on a deep level. If there is a common thread, I think it is one of a search for each other and a search for self...and how that search is wrapped in a blanket of love.

I love writing picture books because they are very child-centered and family-focused. The idea of creating a story within 2-5 typewritten pages is very magical, especially what comes after that. When the words are matched with illustrations - I consider this a kind of high magic. It is amazing to witness the way the process comes together.

I think my muse is all around me...at least the opportunities for creation are all around. I especially enjoy being in my home and with my family. Families do so many things to center us. At least that is true for me. I think all my stories come from a very real, heartfelt place...a desire to connect and be connected.

I feel as though I never had choice not to be a writer. I feel in my heart of hearts that writing chose me and this is what I must do. I have no choice but to write, and to write, and to write, because my very life depends on it. And to assume that, of course, everyone in the entire universe wants to read what I've written.

I think the best and most we can do for ourselves is to find the thing we love to do, and then do it as if our very life depended upon doing it.