When Jenny and her family go into Honey’s, a cozy restaurant for Sunday breakfast, she does something surprising. Instead of ordering pancakes or waffles like many kids her age, Jenny looks at the menu and says with delight, “One green omelet, please!”

What unfolds is more than a simple meal. Jenny begins to imagine and appreciate every ingredient in her omelet — the eggs, vegetables, and cheese. She traces them back to the chickens, the farmers, the cows, the soil, and the sun. In doing so, she awakens a powerful lesson: food is not just something we eat quickly and forget. It is the result of nature’s abundance, people’s work, and the miracle of life itself.

This is the heart of the children’s book One Green Omelet, Please! — a story about savoring food, being mindful, and cultivating gratitude.

Why Mindfulness at the Table Matters
We live in a fast-paced world where meals are often rushed. Families grab food on the go, children snack in front of screens, and conversations at the dinner table are interrupted by phones or background noise.
But science and ancient wisdom both tell us the same thing: when we slow down and pay attention, we experience more joy, better digestion, and greater well-being.

For children, learning mindfulness at the table is especially valuable. It:

• Encourages healthier eating habits — kids notice textures, flavors, and how foods make them feel.
• Builds gratitude — they connect their food to farmers, animals, and nature.
• Promotes calm and focus — meals become an anchor in the day, not just a pit stop.
• Deepens appreciation for nature — children understand where food comes from and why caring for the earth matters.
  

Jenny’s “green omelet adventure” illustrates this beautifully.

Jenny’s Green Omelet Journey
As Jenny takes her first bite, she doesn’t just taste eggs, peas, broccoli, and cheese. She begins to imagine the chickens scratching in the yard, the green beans soaking up the sun, the cows grazing in the meadow. She marvels at how all these living things contributed to her meal.

Her mind expands:

• The eggs come from happy chickens.
• The peas grew in a farmer’s field, nourished by soil, rain, and sunlight.
• The cheese was made from milk given by cows.
• Even the farmer, the cook, and her parents played a part in bringing the omelet to her plate.
  

It’s a meditation in the form of breakfast. Jenny not only enjoys her food more, she feels connected — to the earth, to animals, to people, and to the cycle of life.

Meanwhile, she looks around the restaurant and notices the clinking plates, chattering diners, and hurried waiters. She realizes that most people are too busy or distracted to notice the wonders in their food. That astonishes her.

The Message for Children
Children naturally have curious minds. They love to ask, “Where does this come from?” Jenny’s journey encourages them to follow that curiosity all the way back to the source.
When kids eat with awareness, they:

• Develop a sense of gratitude for the many hands and natural processes involved in their food.
• Become more adventurous eaters — trying broccoli or peas isn’t so bad when you understand their story.
• Learn respect for animals, farmers, and the environment.
• Understand that food is a gift, not just something to gulp down.

This small shift can have big ripple effects. A child who appreciates their green omelet may also be kinder at school, more respectful toward animals, and more willing to try new things in life.

The Message for Parents
Parents often wish for calmer meals, healthier eating, and more gratitude in their children. One Green Omelet, Please! offers a playful way to teach all three.
Here are a few practices parents can borrow from Jenny’s story:

1. Ask Questions at Mealtime: “Where do you think these carrots came from?” “What do cows eat to make milk?”
2. Cook Together: Let children wash vegetables, stir eggs, or set the table. The more involved they are, the more connected they feel.
3. Practice Gratitude: Start meals with a simple thank you — for the farmers, the earth, or even the person who cooked.
4. Slow Down: Put away distractions and encourage everyone to chew slowly, noticing flavors.
5. Celebrate the Story in Food: Every plate has a story. Helping children uncover it makes mealtime magical.
   

A Quiet Revolution in Awareness
Jenny’s insight in One Green Omelet, Please! is profound: when we eat with awareness, we taste more than food. We taste life itself.

It’s a lesson that many adults struggle with — rushing through meals, distracted by noise, disconnected from the source of their nourishment. Yet, when a child like Jenny shows us how to pause, notice, and give thanks, it becomes clear that this quiet revolution in awareness starts at the table.

And what better way to teach mindfulness and gratitude than through a joyful storybook, where a little girl’s omelet becomes a doorway to wonder?

Why This Story Matters Now
In today’s world of fast food and fast living, children and parents alike need reminders to slow down and appreciate the present moment. Mindfulness isn’t just for meditation cushions or yoga mats — it can begin with something as simple as breakfast.

By highlighting where food comes from and why it matters, One Green Omelet, Please! nurtures values of gratitude, environmental awareness, and joyful living.

Jenny’s story reminds us that every meal can be a celebration — if we only pause long enough to notice.

Conclusion
A green omelet may seem ordinary at first glance. But in Jenny’s world, it is extraordinary. It is eggs, peas, broccoli, cheese, sunshine, farmers, animals, and love — all on one plate.

This book is an invitation for children (and adults!) to slow down, savor, and say thank you. It shows us that food is more than fuel. It is a gift.

So the next time you sit down to eat — whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner — you might hear Jenny’s voice echoing softly: “One green omelet, please… and thank you.”

This book may be found on Amazon through my website.

Have you ever sat across the table from someone, laughing over a cup of coffee, and thought, “Maybe this is the one?” Or maybe you’ve been on your own for a while, enjoying your freedom but secretly wondering if there’s a missing piece. If so, you’re not alone.

I remember my younger years, filled with exciting adventures, wonderful friends, and more than a few glamorous escapades. It was fun—sometimes dizzyingly so! But at some point, I began to crave something deeper, more lasting, and truly meaningful. A real connection. A love that wouldn’t fade when the lights went out.

That’s when my heart turned toward a higher kind of love, and with it, a new way of seeing life. I began exploring the spiritual side of things, understanding that we actually manifest the lives we want. That realization was a game-changer. Suddenly, love wasn’t just about chance encounters or blind dates. It was about intention, energy, and asking the universe for what I truly desired.

And so, I made a decision: I wanted a true love for a lifetime.

A Simple but Powerful Formula
Now, before you imagine something complicated—don’t worry! I didn’t design a mystical ritual or a complicated system. I created something simple, clear, and powerful.
It all boiled down to this:

1. Decide exactly what you want. Be specific. Tall or short? Adventurous or calm? Loves travel or loves gardening? The clearer you are, the easier it is for the universe to deliver.
2. Write a letter to the Sun. Yes, the Sun! It’s a beautiful way of sending your intention outward, upward, and beyond yourself. Address it as if you were writing to the universe or to God, and pour your heart into it.
3. Put the letter where the Sun can see it. On a windowsill, outside, or anywhere the sunlight can touch. This act is symbolic—and powerful.
4. Think about your life with your partner. Imagine walking hand-in-hand on the beach, cooking dinner together, or simply laughing at silly things. This visioning shapes the future.
5. Get ready. That’s right—prepare your life, your heart, and even your calendar. Love needs a space to land.
6. Be in love now. Here’s the magic part. Don’t wait until you meet your soulmate to feel love. Radiate it now. Live in the vibration of love and watch how it attracts the right person into your life.
   
7. 
   

It sounds simple, doesn’t it? But I promise, it works.

The Proof Is in the Love
I know because it worked for me.

With this formula, I found the man who has been my partner, friend, and love for a lifetime. And you know what’s even more delightful? When I shared the formula with friends, they found their perfect partners too. It wasn’t long before success stories started flowing in. My husband, seeing all of this, turned to me and said, “You should write this down. People need this.”

So I did. And that became my book: How to Find Your Soulmate.

A Path for Everyone
Now here’s the lovely part: this formula isn’t just about finding “the one.” It can be about finding a friend, a companion to go to dinner with, or even a partner to play tennis or pickleball with. Whatever your heart longs for, the steps are the same.

It’s really about clarity and energy. When you are clear about what you want, and when you align your energy with love, amazing things happen. The world seems to bend and shift, sending the right people your way.

Love Starts with You
One of the most important things I learned through all of this is that love doesn’t begin with another person. It begins with you. That’s why “being in love now” is such a crucial step. When you live in that feeling, you become magnetic. People are drawn to you, opportunities appear, and before you know it, life feels richer, warmer, and more joyful.

So even if you’re still waiting for your soulmate, you can begin today by embodying love in every little thing you do—smiling at strangers, caring for yourself, filling your days with joy. That love radiates outward, and soon it comes back in the form of a person who matches your heart.

A Gentle Challenge
Here’s a little challenge for you:
Take a quiet moment this week. Sit by a sunny window, grab a pen and paper, and write your letter to the Sun. Be bold. Be clear. And be joyful as you imagine the love you’re calling into your life.

Then place that letter where the sunlight can find it, and let go. Let the universe do its magic.

But don’t forget your part: live today with love in your heart. Smile more, laugh more, and open yourself to the possibility that your soulmate could be just around the corner—or one phone call, one introduction, or one chance encounter away.

Closing Thoughts
Life has a beautiful way of surprising us when we’re ready. And sometimes, the simplest gestures—like writing a letter to the Sun—can open the biggest doors.

So if you’ve been longing for love, wondering how to find it, and hoping for something real, I encourage you to try this little formula. You might just discover that your soulmate has been waiting for you, too.

After all, love is the most natural thing in the world. All we have to do is invite it in.

How to Find Your Soulmate can be found on Amazon through my website.

Eight Golden Rules for How to Play Your Best Tennis
As I sit watching the 2025 U.S. Open on television, I am struck by how little has changed in the sport I have loved all my life. Match after match, player after player, the same mental and emotional struggles are on display—fear, nerves, pressure, frustration. I know them well. I suffered from them too.

In my youth, I was fortunate to win the U.S. and Wimbledon Junior Championships and even become a Wimbledon semi-finalist in the Women’s Division. On the outside, that may have looked like success. But on the inside, I was anything but happy. I was fearful, nervous, and full of doubt. The pressure of expectations—family, coaches, and later, the world stage—made the game something to survive rather than enjoy.

Back then, tennis was played with wooden rackets and without the financial opportunities players have today. But pressure is pressure, whether it comes from a coach’s demands or today’s agents, sponsors, and media scrutiny. That kind of pressure eats away at joy.

So, I did something radical. I quit.

Dance, Zen, and the Birth of Happy Tennis
Walking away from competitive tennis gave me the gift of perspective. I turned to dance therapy, something that seemed far removed from the structured rigidity of competitive tennis. But in dance, I discovered a freedom of movement and expression that I had never felt on the court.

At the same time, I immersed myself in the study of Zen philosophy. The combination of these two practices reshaped my understanding of performance, competition, and joy. I began to realize that the real battle was not against an opponent across the net, but against fear, self-judgment, and ego within myself.

When the ego is removed from the game, something beautiful happens: you play freely. You play joyously. You play without the constant shadow of “what if I lose?” And ironically, you play better.

This was the foundation of what I came to call Happy Tennis—a way of playing that is stress-free, demand-free, relaxed, effortless, and powerful.

Returning to the Court
Fifteen years after I walked away from professional competition, I returned to the game with this new approach. The results were astonishing. In a Virginia Slims event, I defeated the world’s fourth-ranked player. Later, I competed in senior events and rose to become one of the top senior players in the world. But the real triumph was not the trophies—it was the freedom and joy I felt each time I stepped onto the court.

I also began teaching this method to others. Year after year, I watched students transform as they shifted from fear-based playing to joy-based playing. They discovered that tennis is not about taking—points, games, victories—but about giving: giving your best effort, your fullest attention, your truest self to the ball.

That philosophy eventually became the heart of my book, Eight Golden Rules for How to Play Your Best Tennis, a book endorsed by legends Billie Jean King, Mary Carillo, Dick Enberg, and others.

The Golden Rules
Without giving away the entire book, let me share the essence of what these Golden Rules represent.
They are not about technique, topspin, or perfect footwork. They are about the inner game. They show you how to:

• Focus on the ball rather than on yourself.
• Replace judgment with awareness.
• Let go of fear and allow the body to play.
• Treat your body as a trusted partner, not a slave.
• Release the pressure of the score and play in the moment.
• Approach each point as a gift, not a demand.
• Play to give, not to take.
• Rediscover joy on the court—and in life.
  

These rules are simple, but they require practice and intention. They are not only for professionals but for anyone who has ever picked up a racket—whether at your local public park or in the finals of Wimbledon.

The Ball Always Wins
One of the most powerful lessons I learned is this: the ball always wins. Whoever is in harmony with the ball—devoted to it fully, without distraction—will come out ahead. The ball knows if you are paying attention. It knows if you are with it for the love of the game or merely using it to chase a point.

When you shift your focus away from the score, the audience, the trophy, or the money, and simply give yourself to the ball, the game becomes alive. Every shot, every rally, every moment is an opportunity to play.

Tennis as a Metaphor for Life
The beauty of this approach is that it doesn’t stay on the court. Playing tennis with joy and fearlessness naturally spills over into life itself.

Life, like tennis, is full of distractions, noise, and pressure. But when you meet each moment with awareness, generosity, and focus, everything shifts. Instead of trying to take, you give. Instead of struggling, you flow. Instead of fearing outcomes, you live fully in the process.

This is the deeper gift of Eight Golden Rules for How to Play Your Best Tennis: it is a book about tennis, but it is also a book about life.

A Final Thought
As you watch today’s champions at the U.S. Open, or as you step onto the court for your weekend match, I encourage you to ask yourself: am I playing to win—or am I playing to play?

When you learn to love the ball, love the moment, love the movement, and love the game itself, the rest takes care of itself. Winning becomes secondary. Joy becomes primary.

That is Happy Tennis. And that is the way to play your best.

This book is available on Amazon through my website. Click here.

Have You Tried Everything to Lose Weight?If you’ve ever sworn off bread forever, counted calories until your head spun, or found yourself staring at a plate of “miracle” diet cookies wondering if this was really living… you’re not alone.
The diet industry thrives on fads, and history has proven that people will try almost anything in the pursuit of thinness. From swallowing tapeworm eggs (yes, that was a real thing!) to subsisting on nothing but grapefruits, cabbage soup, or shakes, desperate dieters have been sold one quick fix after another.
And yet, here we are. Millions of people are still searching for a method that works.
That’s where CHEW, BABY, CHEW! comes in.

A Fresh Look at Weight Loss
This little book is not a fad, not a gimmick, and definitely not another “miracle cure.” Instead, it takes a refreshingly lighthearted — and yet surprisingly practical — approach to the age-old problem of weight management.

Written with humor, warmth, and a touch of wit, CHEW, BABY, CHEW! shines a spotlight on the absurdity of diet crazes while offering something better: common sense.

At its heart, the book is built on one powerful principle:
Eat mindfully, enjoy real food, and let your body work the way it was designed to.

No need for expensive shots, powders, prepackaged meals, or bizarre rituals. You simply chew your food, savor your meals, and follow simple wisdom that actually makes sense.

Why It Works
Unlike diets that demand perfection or extreme restriction, the approach in CHEW, BABY, CHEW! is sustainable. Here’s why readers find it works when other methods fail:

1. It’s Simple. No complicated charts, no food scales, no eliminating entire food groups. Just straightforward guidance you can follow today.
2. It’s Enjoyable. Eating shouldn’t feel like punishment. This book encourages you to enjoy what you eat — slowly, thoughtfully, and with gratitude.
3. It’s Realistic. Life happens. Holidays, birthdays, and dinners out with friends don’t have to derail you. This book gives you the tools to navigate it all.
4. It’s Sustainable. Because the principles are based on common sense and moderation, they can last a lifetime — not just a month.
   
   

A Dose of Humor Along the Way
Let’s be honest: weight loss can feel heavy. But this book manages to keep things light — even amusing.

By poking fun at the ridiculousness of fad diets through history, CHEW, BABY, CHEW! helps readers laugh at the madness while also realizing: “Oh, I’ve fallen for some of this too.”

And laughter, as it turns out, is pretty good medicine when you’re trying to change habits.

More Than a Book — A Lifelong Companion
What makes CHEW, BABY, CHEW! stand apart is its warmth. It doesn’t scold or preach. Instead, it feels like a wise friend gently reminding you of truths you already know deep down:

• Your body is amazing when you treat it kindly.
• You don’t need extremes to achieve balance.
• The secret is in slowing down, chewing well, and enjoying the process.
  

This isn’t a “read it once and put it away” kind of book. It’s the kind you’ll return to again and again when you need encouragement or a reality check.

Who Should Read CHEW, BABY, CHEW!

• Anyone who has tried diet after diet without lasting success.
• Those tired of confusing rules and ever-changing fads.
• People who want to laugh while learning practical wisdom.
• Anyone seeking not just weight loss, but better overall health.

The Bottom Line
If you’re ready to stop chasing fads and start embracing a healthier, saner way to live, CHEW, BABY, CHEW! may be the last weight loss book you’ll ever need.

It’s funny, it’s wise, and most importantly — it works.

Because sometimes, the simplest advice really is the best:
Chew, baby, chew. This little gem of a book may be found on Amazon through my website. Click here.

The Big Step from Preschool to Kindergarten
For many children, moving from preschool to kindergarten is one of the biggest transitions of early childhood. It’s not just about a new classroom—it’s about entering a new world filled with different routines, unfamiliar teachers, and new peers. While this milestone is exciting, it can also spark fear, anxiety, and uncertainty in children.
As a children’s book author, I was asked by the Director of Head Start in Denver to create a book that would speak directly to these challenges. She explained the common fears children face when transitioning to kindergarten, and I wove them into my book, Welcome to Kindergarten. This story gently acknowledges those worries while helping children reframe them as opportunities for growth, fun, and discovery.

The response has been wonderful. Educators, parents, and children have found the book to be both comforting and empowering—especially in its multicultural version, which ensures every child feels represented and included.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the typical fears children experience when starting kindergarten and explore proven ways to ease this transition.

Common Fears Children Have When Starting Kindergarten
The Director of Head Start was right—children share many of the same worries when stepping into kindergarten. Some of the most common include:

1. Fear of the unknown: Not knowing what their classroom, teacher, or routine will be like.
2. Separation anxiety: Worry about being away from parents or caregivers for longer periods.
3. Fear of making new friends: Concerns about whether other children will like them.
4. Academic worries: Fear they won’t be able to do what is expected—like writing their name, following directions, or sitting still.
5. Bathroom and basic needs anxiety: Worrying about asking to use the bathroom, eating lunch in a cafeteria, or finding their belongings.
6. Cultural and language differences: For children from diverse backgrounds, entering a new environment may feel even more daunting if they don’t see themselves reflected or if English isn’t their first language.
   
7. 
   

These fears are real for children—but with the right preparation, reassurance, and tools, they can be transformed into feelings of excitement and readiness.

How Parents and Teachers Can Help Children Embrace the Transition
1. Talk Openly About Kindergarten
Invite your child to share what they’re excited about and what they’re worried about. Often, children just need to put their fears into words. When parents listen without judgment, it validates a child’s feelings and helps them feel safe.
2. Read Books About Kindergarten
Stories are one of the most powerful ways to help children process change. Books like Welcome to Kindergarten walk children through the transition in a relatable, gentle way. By seeing characters express and overcome the same worries they feel, children realize they are not alone.
3. Take a Kindergarten Tour
If possible, visit the school before the first day. Let your child see the classroom, playground, and cafeteria. Familiarity reduces anxiety and makes the “unknown” less scary.
4. Practice Daily Routines
Simple things—like practicing waking up earlier, packing a backpack, or lining up for “pretend school”—can make the first day feel easier.
5. Focus on Friendships
Remind your child that everyone in their class will be new, too. Encourage them to smile, say hello, and ask someone to play. Building even one friendship can give a child confidence.
6. Celebrate the Milestone
Frame kindergarten as an exciting adventure. Create positive rituals like a “first day breakfast,” taking a special photo, or packing a note in their lunchbox.

Why a Multicultural Version Matters
Children thrive when they see themselves reflected in the books they read. The multicultural edition of Welcome to Kindergarten was created for exactly this reason, along with versions in Spanish and bilingual. For children from diverse backgrounds, representation provides comfort and validation. It tells them, “You belong here. Your culture and identity matter.”

Educators have shared how meaningful this is in classrooms where children speak different languages or come from varied cultural traditions. Books that mirror real diversity help reduce fear and foster inclusion.

The Gift of a Positive Beginning
A child’s first impression of school can shape their lifelong attitude toward learning. That’s why it’s so important to address their fears with empathy, preparation, and love. When children feel supported and excited about kindergarten, they carry that confidence forward.

As parents, caregivers, and teachers, we have the power to turn what could be a scary leap into a joyful step. And sometimes, the right story—like Welcome to Kindergarten—is all it takes to spark courage in a young heart.

Closing Thought
The transition from preschool to kindergarten doesn’t have to be filled with tears and fears. With patience, preparation, and the right resources, children can see kindergarten not as something to fear, but as a grand adventure filled with new friends, fun learning, and joyful discoveries.

That’s the heart of Welcome to Kindergarten: to help children and families see that this new chapter is not just manageable—it’s something to celebrate.

This book may be found in its many versions on Amazon through my website.

When we talk about all the wonderful parts of our bodies, hands are often overlooked. Eyes are admired for their beauty, teeth for their smiles, and hearts for their love. But our hands — always working, always helping — quietly serve us in countless ways.

My children’s book, Hands Are for Helping, is part of the Learning to Appreciate Our Bodies series, which also includes Everyone Has Eyes and Who Needs Teeth?. This story was written to remind children (and parents) of how amazing our hands really are.

Why Hands Are So Important
From the moment we wake up, our hands are there for us:

• Pulling up the covers
• Rubbing the sleep from our eyes
• Pouring juice or coffee
• Buttoning up a shirt
• Brushing our teeth

Hands are our natural tools. They are both delicate and strong, precise and powerful. They help us live, create, and connect with others every single day.

The Many Things Hands Can Do
In Hands Are for Helping, children discover the joy of all the ways hands can be used:

• Waving hello or goodbye
• Planting seeds in the ground
• Picking peaches from a tree
• Mixing up a batter, baking a pie, and sharing it with friends
• Writing in a journal
• Drawing a picture
• Building something with blocks
• Brushing hair or tying shoelaces

Children quickly see that hands are not just practical — they make life fun!

Hands at Work
Many people rely on their hands for their jobs. Imagine what life would be like without them!

• Dentists use hands to care for teeth.
• Doctors and nurses use hands to heal.
• Firefighters use strong hands to hold hoses and rescue people.
• Mechanics use hands to fix engines.
• Painters and musicians use hands to create beauty.
• Athletes use hands to play, catch, and throw.

Hands are truly the world’s greatest workers.

Hands That Care
Of course, hands do more than work — they express love and kindness.

• They can comfort a friend with a pat on the shoulder.
• They can help someone up when they fall.
• They can hold another’s hand to show connection.

Children love holding the hands of parents, grandparents, or friends. That simple act reminds them they are safe and loved.

Hands are for helping — but also for holding, hugging, and caring.

The Importance of Clean Hands
Because hands are so busy, they touch everything — doorknobs, toys, pencils, pets, and playgrounds. That’s why keeping them clean is so important.
Washing hands isn’t just about personal health — it’s also about kindness to others. Clean hands protect everyone.
This simple hygiene lesson helps children see that taking care of themselves helps take care of others, too.

A Teaching Tool for Parents and Teachers
Books are bridges to conversation. Hands Are for Helping can inspire thoughtful talks with children.
Discussion prompts for kids:

• What are some ways you used your hands to help today?
• What is your favorite thing to do with your hands?
  
• How can our hands make the world a better place?

Parents can use the story at bedtime to reflect on the day’s activities. Teachers can connect it to classroom lessons about kindness, community, or hygiene.

Part of the Learning to Appreciate Our Bodies Series
This book joins others in my series that spotlight the wonderful parts of our bodies:

• Everyone Has Eyes — a reminder of how precious sight is.
• Who Needs Teeth? — celebrating smiles and dental health.

Together, these books encourage children to appreciate and care for themselves while finding gratitude for the simple gifts of their bodies.

A Final Thought
In the end, Hands Are for Helping is a joyful celebration. It teaches that hands are not only for holding things but for holding people, helping others, and creating kindness.
The next time you wave, write, paint, plant, or hug — pause to thank your hands for all they do.

Because hands truly are for helping. You may purchase this book on Amazon through my website.

Most of us wake up each morning, open our eyes, and simply begin our day. We notice the sunlight streaming through the window, the familiar faces at the breakfast table, or the bright colors of fruit on a plate. But how often do we pause to think about how extraordinary this gift of sight truly is—and how important it is to take care of it?

For children, vision is not only a sense—it’s the key to learning, discovery, creativity, and connection. Parents and teachers play a powerful role in helping kids understand just how valuable their eyes are. That is why introducing children to the topic of eye health at an early age can make a lasting impact.
My new book, Everyone Has Eyes, was written with this in mind. It helps children imagine what life would be like without sight and gently teaches them why their eyes deserve care and protection.

Helping Kids Imagine a World Without Sight
Children learn best through stories and experiences. In Everyone Has Eyes, the main character closes his eyes and is told not to blink. Suddenly, the world changes. Without sight, he misses the sunrise, the clouds drifting across the sky, the rainbow after the rain, the sailboats gliding across the sea, and even the smiles of his own family.

This simple exercise makes children pause and reflect. What if they couldn’t see their friends’ faces? Or the words in their favorite storybook? Or the bright colors of flowers, food, or art?

By asking kids to imagine life without vision, we help them appreciate the extraordinary gift of sight. That sense of gratitude then leads naturally to the conversation about how to protect and care for their eyes.

Teaching Children About Eye Health
Many parents remind their kids to brush their teeth or wash their hands—but how often do we remind them to care for their eyes? Eye health habits can start early, and children are far more likely to remember them if they understand why they matter.
Here are a few simple ways parents and teachers can encourage children to take care of their vision:

1. Eat Eye-Healthy Foods
Brightly colored fruits and vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and blueberries are packed with vitamins that help keep eyes strong. Foods rich in omega-3s, like salmon or flaxseeds, are also beneficial. In Everyone Has Eyes, children are reminded that eating nourishing foods is one of the best ways to protect their sight.

2. Take Breaks from Screens
In today’s digital age, kids spend more time than ever on tablets, phones, and computers. Teaching them the “20-20-20 rule” can help: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This reduces strain and helps their eyes rest.

3. Protect Eyes Outdoors
Sunglasses aren’t just for adults! Children’s eyes are sensitive to sunlight, and too much exposure can be harmful. A good pair of sunglasses and a hat can help protect them during playtime outside.

4. Encourage Regular Eye Exams
Even if a child doesn’t complain about their vision, they may still have trouble seeing. Routine eye exams help detect problems early and ensure children have the clear sight they need to succeed in school and daily life.

Everyone Has Eyes also introduces children to the idea that not everyone experiences vision the same way. Some children or adults wear glasses. Others may use a cane or a guide dog because they cannot see at all. By gently exploring this reality, the book teaches compassion and understanding.

Helping children recognize and respect these differences is an important part of raising empathetic, caring individuals. It reminds them to be grateful for their own vision while being kind and supportive toward others.

A Lasting Lesson in Gratitude
The closing lines of Everyone Has Eyes remind children that having sight is a gift. It’s something to be protected, cared for, and cherished. When kids understand the value of their eyes, they are more likely to take eye health seriously and to carry that awareness into adulthood.

Just as we encourage children to brush their teeth or wear a helmet while riding a bike, we can encourage them to protect their eyes—and appreciate the beauty those eyes allow them to see.

Why This Book Belongs in Every Classroom and Home
Parents and teachers are always searching for meaningful books that teach more than just letters and numbers. Everyone Has Eyes is not only engaging and beautifully illustrated, but it also provides a lasting life lesson.

• For Parents: It opens up conversations about health and gratitude with children at home.
• For Teachers: It’s a wonderful classroom read-aloud, sparking discussions about empathy, self-care, and appreciation.
• For Everyone: It’s a gentle reminder that vision is one of life’s greatest treasures.
  
  

Final Thought
Our eyes are our windows to the world. They let us see the people we love, the places we explore, and the wonders of nature all around us. Teaching children to value and care for their eyes is one of the most important gifts we can give them.

Through stories like Everyone Has Eyes, children can learn that caring for their eyes is about more than just good health—it’s about gratitude, empathy, and joy.

Give your child, your students, or even yourself the gift of this message. Open Everyone Has Eyes, and help children everywhere see just how bright and beautiful the world can be.

This book may be found on Amazon through my website.

Military families know the deep sacrifices that come with service. While deployments and separations are part of military life, they can be especially hard on children who miss the presence, love, and reassurance of a parent. Finding the right words to comfort them isn’t always easy — and that’s where stories step in.
Award-winning children’s author and artist Sally Huss has created a heartfelt book series designed especially for children experiencing the challenges of military separation. Each book offers comfort, reassurance, and a way for children to hold their parents close — even when miles apart.

Our Father’s Smile
This uplifting story reminds children that even though their father may be far away, his love and smile remain with them always. The message encourages children to stay happy, share smiles of their own, and feel connected no matter the distance.

My Mother’s Pearls
This tender tale features a mother who wears a string of pearls, each one representing a message of love, pride, and encouragement for her daughter. It’s a beautiful metaphor children can carry in their hearts — knowing that a parent’s love shines even during times apart.

My Father’s Shirt
A deeply touching story of a boy who misses his deployed father terribly. His mother helps him find comfort by wearing one of his father’s shirts, giving him a physical way to feel his father’s presence and love. A kindergarten teacher in Colorado Springs shared how powerful this book was for her class — it brought comfort to a child grieving his father’s deployment and reminded him he was not alone.

My Mother’s Wings
For children whose mothers serve, this book provides reassurance that love knows no separation. A little boy’s mother, a pilot, gives him a pair of wings like hers, symbolizing that the bond between mother and child cannot be broken by distance.

 Why These Books Matter
Military children are resilient, but they still need reassurance and tools to process their feelings. Teachers, librarians, school counselors, and parents can use these books to:

• Spark conversations about feelings of separation and love.
• Give children practical symbols of connection (a smile, pearls, a shirt, or wings).
• Normalize the emotions of missing a parent while reminding them of unshakable love.
• Provide hope, comfort, and emotional support during deployments and transitions.

Perfect for Classrooms, Libraries, and Military Families
These beautifully written and illustrated books are ideal resources for:

• Military base schools and classrooms with military-connected children.
• Public libraries wanting to support military families in their communities.
• Counselors and therapists looking for gentle tools to help children express their feelings.
• Parents and grandparents who want to ease the heartache of separation.

Children deserve comfort during times of change, and these stories offer exactly that — warmth, connection, and the reminder that love is never truly out of reach.

These books are also offered in a MULTICULTURAL version and all may be found on
Amazon through my website.

With the renewed national emphasis on improving the health of our children, educators and families are looking for practical ways to bring more movement and activity into kids’ daily lives. Health and Human Services has made children’s wellness a priority, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., now leading this charge, is reminding us of something timeless: movement matters. Exercise is not just about physical strength — it’s about joy, confidence, social connection, and lifelong well-being.

In 2020, I wrote a children’s book called LET’S PLAY! The Importance of Exercise to capture this very message. Written in rhyme, the book is both fun and educational, giving children a wide view of how movement can fit into their lives. Whether it’s running, jumping, biking, hiking, or playing sports of all kinds, kids are encouraged to explore activities that make them feel alive.
Why Movement Matters in Education
Teachers and educators play a vital role in shaping habits that last a lifetime. Countless studies show that when children engage in regular physical activity, they perform better academically, manage stress more effectively, and develop stronger social skills. Exercise builds focus, confidence, and resilience. It doesn’t have to be about competitive sports or chasing trophies. As I write in LET’S PLAY!:
“Life is so much better when you’re fit!”

That one line sums up the importance of movement. It’s not about becoming a star athlete. It’s about developing the habit of staying active every day, in ways that bring joy and energy.

The Many Possibilities of Play
One of the strongest messages in LET’S PLAY! is that there’s no single path to fitness. For some children, it might mean joining a team sport like soccer, basketball, or volleyball. For others, it could be swimming, dance, martial arts, or simply hiking outdoors with family. Even biking to a friend’s house, jumping rope, or playing tag on the playground counts as exercise.

By presenting a wide variety of options, the book reassures children that they don’t need to fit into a single mold. Everyone can find their own way to move. What matters is consistency and joy.

Encouraging Activity in the Classroom
Teachers can use books like LET’S PLAY! as conversation starters about health, movement, and fitness. Reading it aloud can lead to classroom discussions about favorite activities, and even inspire children to try new ones. Educators might encourage “brain breaks” during the school day, where students stretch, dance, or move in place for a few minutes. These short activities re-energize the mind and body, making it easier to focus and learn.

Additionally, linking reading with movement creates a deeper learning experience. After hearing rhymes about jumping or running, children can act them out. This multisensory connection reinforces both literacy and healthy habits.

A Timely Message for Parents and Schools
With so much emphasis today on screens, digital devices, and sedentary activities, children need reminders and role models to keep moving. Parents, caregivers, and schools share the responsibility of ensuring that kids grow up with the habit of activity. The national push from leaders like RFK Jr. is a welcome spotlight, but real change happens in the home and classroom.

That’s why LET’S PLAY! The Importance of Exercise is a helpful tool. It blends the joy of rhyme, colorful illustrations, and a positive message to inspire children to embrace movement as a natural, fun part of life.

Key Takeaway for Educators
As teachers, you have the unique opportunity to introduce children to the lifelong benefits of exercise. By fostering enthusiasm for movement, you’re helping them build stronger bodies, sharper minds, and happier hearts. A simple message — “Just move!” — can make all the difference.

And if children take away only one line from the book, let it be this:
“Life is so much better when you’re fit!”

Closing Thought
Movement is medicine for the body and the mind. By weaving physical activity into daily routines — in schools, at home, and in communities — we can create healthier, more joyful futures for our children. Books like LET’S PLAY! offer a playful way to begin that journey.

Let’s encourage every child to find their own way to run, jump, bike, dance, or play. Because when children move, they thrive.

This wonderful book may be found on Amazon through my website.

When my husband was in the hospital, he had me bring one of my children’s books for his nurse. She was delighted with it and told us about her father who was the mayor of Anaheim, California. She said that he ran on a platform of “kindness” and won. In 2010 he then instituted a culture of kindness in his town, involving the business owners and all the children in the elementary schools.
 
The children kept track of any gesture of kindness that they observed or performed. Eventually, they completed one million acts of kindness, setting an example for adults and children everywhere. Naturally, this kindness culture improved the lives of everyone in that town.
 
In today’s fast-paced world, teaching children kindness and empathy is more important than ever. These essential skills help kids form strong friendships, navigate challenges, and grow into compassionate adults. But how do we reach children in a way that resonates and sticks?

1. Lead by Example
Children watch the adults in their lives. By modeling kindness in your words and actions, you set a powerful example. Simple gestures like saying “thank you,” helping a neighbor, or showing patience can have a lasting impact.

2. Use Stories to Spark Understanding
Books are a wonderful tool for teaching empathy. Through stories, children see the world from another person’s perspective. My books, It’s Easy to Be Nice and The Monkeys Who Tried Kindness, are designed to show kids that even small acts of kindness make a big difference. Reading these together creates meaningful discussions about how to treat others with care.

3. Encourage Reflection
Ask children to think about how their actions affect others. Questions like, “How do you think that made your friend feel?” or “What could you do to help someone today?” guide them to practice empathy in real life.

4. Celebrate Kindness
Notice and celebrate acts of kindness, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement encourages children to repeat these behaviors and understand their value.

5. Make It Fun
Games, role-playing, and creative activities can make learning empathy engaging. Turning kindness into a fun challenge helps children internalize the lessons in a joyful way.
By combining real-life modeling, storytelling, reflection, and fun, we can teach children the invaluable gift of empathy and kindness. It’s not just about helping others—it’s about shaping thoughtful, caring individuals who will make the world a better place.

These adorable and meaningful books may be found on Amazon through my website.