I love writing books for kids. The process lets me participate in my favorite activities—travel, research, writing, photography, and teaching.
Before my kids were born, I taught elementary school for twelve years. When Elizabeth and David were little, I decided to stop teaching and become a full-time mom instead. Since none of us liked being cooped up in the house all day, we began to explore the area in which we lived. We hit every park, playground, and beach in Whatcom County, Washington. From our experiences, I wound up writing Whatcom County with Kids: Places and Go and Things to Do. That was twelve years ago.
Now my kids are teens. I finished my MFA in Writing. I still stay home, but now telecommute as a writer and curriculum reviewer.
My kids and I still like to explore. Over the past few years, our family has traveled to Hawaii several times to do research for Natural Hawaii: An Inquisitive Kid’s Guide. We’ve gotten to snorkel, hike, and see dolphins and humpback whales. We’ve eaten dragon fruit, malasadas, and shave ice. And have fallen in love with Hawaii.
When we’re in Honolulu, we use our condo as a home base. Its location in Waikiki is perfect since we don’t need a car when we’re there. Beaches, parks, food, coffee and ice cream are all within a five minute walk. Our one-bedroom condo is sunny and cheerful. It has an ocean view. I rent out the unit when our family isn’t using it, so if you’re looking for a place to stay on Oahu, feel free to contact me through my listing on Vacation Rental by Owner (VRBO).
Thanks for checking in. I hope your family enjoys reading Natural Hawaii: An Inquisitive Kid’s Guide as much as I’ve enjoyed creating it.
Next book: The Olympic National Park: An Inquisitive Kid’s Guide. 2012
