Being a new author, I realized from the start, this would be a challenging experience for me. It has certainly been that, but the hurdles have not been the one I initially expected. The actual writing of my book was a true joy! I found it exhilarating to see the story evolve, and I also had a great time painting my own illustrations. I had just begun dabbling in water painting a few months before I began this project, so it was all an exiting adventure. Originally, I never expected to publish it, but when the opportunity arose, I decided to go for it since writing and publishing a children’s book had always been a dream of mine which I never really thought would happen. I had seen a great need for a book like this and was so happy I could provide one for children and parents to share during this very difficult time. Once I decided on a publisher, I felt a bit jinxed when during the first few weeks, the project manager assigned to my book changed three times. This was disconcerting since it hindered the fluidity of the process and hindered establishing a strong relationship with each new manager. Once that became stable, the process was very exciting. I had fun choosing a professional illustrator, and having my own illustrations to show to the candidates made this process much easier. Luckily one of my two favorites was available, and we collaborated very well together. Both the editors and the illustrator respected my suggestions, so I never felt out of the loop. After several months working together, I was thrilled with the final product and very excited to see the actual printed copies. Naively, I thought the hardest part was over, but in reality, I have faced much more frustration since it has been released than I did during the entire creative process. Since I am very organized and efficient, I naively expected everyone else to be the same. This has not been the case. When Barnes and Noble and Amazon both agreed to offer my book on their online sites, I was ecstatic. Little did I know that did not mean they would be transparent in their practices and efficient in their management. From day one, they have mismanaged their inventory and have fallen behind in deliveries and stock updates during the entre first month. Fortunately, I ordered copies to sign, and that has been very effective and successful. I have sold over 150 signed copies in large part as a result of my Zoom Launch Party on my release date, September 8th. The pandemic has certainly hindered my ability to meet with potential stores and classrooms, but I am working on Zoom presentations, which will hopefully be quite effective. My next focus is working to establish inroads with school districts, doctors, independent book stores, and libraries as well as contacting media networks for interviews and/or promotion. Like most things in life, it is often a matter of whom you know, so if any of you have contacts who could be helpful for me, I would greatly appreciate your help. I feel very blessed that I have had this experience and that the feedback I have received from both children and adults has been very positive. In order to provide books even while Amazon and Barnes and Noble are working out their inventory levels, I am going to maintain a good quantity of my own to ship to those who want books right away. All of this information can be found on this website under Book. Please let me know what you think and feel free to offer any suggestions you may have.