2025 was an amazing year in my life. Even though I write primarily to share my love of science with children—and the adults who help read the books—I was deeply honored by the recognition my work received this year.
My journey included an incredible book tour on Guam, a fascinating island with wonderful people that is definitely worth visiting again. I was also humbled to receive awards from the Pima County Public Library (Southwest Books of the Year) and Libraries, Ltd. (the Judy Goddard Award for Children’s Literature).
Inspiration and Research
People continue to ask for books about new topics, and I am hard at work on several of them. I truly enjoy the process of researching a subject and then transforming those facts into rhyming stanzas. I continuously gain inspiration from the talented poets in the Tucson Poetry Society and the Arizona State Poetry Society (ASPS).
Festivals and New Skills
I participated in several festivals this year to sell my books. It’s always exciting to meet new people and hear their stories! I also had the opportunity to share my self-publishing journey during an OLLI talk. Along the way, I’ve learned so many new things; in this industry, there is always more to discover.
Life on the Trail
There were many wonderful, soul-refreshing rides on my boy, Poncho. Of course, there were a few pain-creating incidents as well—but that is the risk of climbing on the back of a thousand-pound prey animal with a mind of his own! We certainly have some skills to work on in the coming year.
Travel and New Muses
I visited family and friends back in my hometown of Peoria, Illinois. While these visits are strictly limited to non-snow periods, they are always refreshing. A friend took me on an amazing tour of Prairie State Park, and the “bison-tennial” was a lot of fun. I intend to make my annual pilgrimage again this year. On a bittersweet note, one of my canine muses passed away last year, but I am looking forward to meeting my new muse, Mae Lily.
Creativity and Community
I continue to sing, which is always a joy. I’m also looking forward to helping bring a professional recording of some original music to fruition. As they say, it definitely takes a village! Additionally, an old friend is moving to Tucson, and I can’t wait to help her explore our beautiful desert.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Even with festivals to attend, trips to take, and horses to ride, I’m looking forward to the new and unexpected turns life will take. I do have a few specific wishes for the new year:
- Less time impacting the ground from horse height (or slightly higher, if I’ve been launched).
- More time in my pool. I am still trying to figure out how to use my laptop while immersed!
- I hope to see science once again embraced and encouraged. I truly appreciate the people who take the time to thank me for writing about the natural world.
- I hope to see more kindness and acceptance.
The new year has already started out well with meals with good friends and, more importantly, lost friends reconnecting. 2026 is definitely off to a good start.
Happy New Year! May 2026 be filled with health, happiness, unexpected delight and adventure.
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