Cat In The Hat & Springfield, MA

When I was nineteen, I lived in La Jolla, California for two years. During that time, I worked as a floral designer. Richard (who liked to be called Dick) owned the florist and he was an interesting guy. He knew many celebrities and often had me “do up” the floral arrangements for the events he hosted or was attending.

One of his closest and dearest friends was, Ted Geisel. I met Ted several times. He had an opinion about everything! Some of which I just can’t divulge. He did think I a was talker and called me Voyce instead of Joyce after he got to know me.

I’ve been thinking about him lately because I have been to Springfield several times in the last few months as I help organize this years NESCBWI “Keeping It Real” conference taking place April 20-22.

He used to joke about Springfield and that is all I going to say about what he would say about Springfield.

Just to keep this post interesting, here are the inscriptions in the two books he signed for me.

This a 1957 printing.

My 4 year-old signature

His opinion of my love of his book.

 Shortly before I returned to the East Coast he gave me this book.

And a warning!

 I often wonder how he was able to sum up my life in these two captions? He was just amazing!

Oh yeah, Springfield is also where my husband and I lived right after we were married. So here’s to you, Dr. Suess & Springfield, MA!

Being Brave

Bravery isn’t the same for everyone. 

Sometimes, the bravest thing to do is to go about your day without worrying what others think of you. 

Sometimes, it’s walking into a classroom knowing that your bully is there, waiting for you. 

Sometimes, it’s all about facing the real truth, yours not theirs.

Sometimes, it’s about not giving in because it’s the easiest thing to do.

The brave are often the least recognized.

Courage doesn't always roar.  Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I'll try again tomorrow.  ~Mary Anne Radmacher

Who do you know that is brave and should be recognized?

Amazing - The Casting is out!

Please celebrate with me! The Casting debuts today. Thank you to everyone who has supported me through this process. I am so excited. Please if you read the book, take a moment to comment on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Goodreads, etc. It really does make a difference.

You can order the softcover book here 

and the hardcover here

and don't forget to support your local independent bookstore. BUY LOCAL. Just ask them to order The Casting for you. I'm available for author signings and school visits as well! Just drop me a line.

THANKS!