Update: Season of Patience and Progress

Hello, sweet friends! It’s been a little while since I’ve shared an update on my picture book journey, but I promise—it’s been for good reason. Publishing a children’s book is a bit like tending a garden: there are seasons of growth, and then there are seasons where you just have to wait patiently for things to bloom. (Funny enough, patience will be one of the lessons in my second book!)

That said, there’s plenty happening behind the scenes!

📸 Author Photos—Check!
I recently had my author photos taken by the incredible Brittney Cottman Photography—a talented Central Ohio photographer I’ve had the joy of working with since 2012. We took the photos at The Ohio State University, a place that holds so many memories from both my undergraduate and graduate years. It felt special to be back on campus, surrounded by familiar brick paths and Buckeye spirit, capturing a new chapter of my story.

🎨 Illustrator Magic is in Motion
I also had the loveliest video call with my illustrator! She’s already hard at work on the book cover, and I cannot wait to share her beautiful creations with you all. We decided that each book in the series will have a cohesive look—similar designs with colors that set the tone for the story’s illustrations. It’s all coming together so beautifully!

If all goes as planned, the cover will be ready before Christmas, which means I’ll have some delightful sneak peeks to share soon.

Every step of this process makes me more eager to get this story into your hands and hearts. Thank you, truly, for cheering me on through every stage of this dream.

Until next time,
Ehmsee Shane