Fall Update

SCBWI Season of Service, Creativity & Community: A Fall Update
This fall has been a busy, rewarding season of my creative life. Between conference planning, editorial work, newsletter production, and preparing for new events, I’ve been surrounded by the energy of writers, illustrators, readers, and kids’ book lovers in every direction. I’m excited to share a behind-the-scenes look at what I’ve been up to and highlight the community that makes it all worthwhile.

The Fall Harvest Writers & Illustrators Conference
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As serving co-Assistant Regional Advisor (co-ARA) for the SCBWI SoCal Chapter,  I had the joy of assisting (a little) in planning the Fall Harvest Writers & Illustrators Conference. After months of our team's preparation, teamwork, and logistics, I’m so proud to say the event was a true success.
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Throughout the day, I rotated through a whirlwind of roles: introducing speakers, assisting with lunch, setting up the photo booth, running the microphone during Q&A, and announcing contest winners. It was energetic, collaborative, and absolutely inspiring.

What made the event feel magical was the community itself—writers rekindling friendships, illustrators sharing portfolio pages, first-time attendees bravely pitching their work, and faculty offering insights that lit up the room. Helping to facilitate those connections is one of my favorite parts of serving as co-ARA.

Here are some pictures of me at the event

​Behind the Scenes as Editor of the SCBWI SoCal Newsletter

Another big part of my service is acting as Editor of the SCBWI SoCal Newsletter. This role blends artistry, organization, and community storytelling—three things I love.
As editor, I:​

• Collect, write, and assign articles
• Gather illustrations from our amazing regional artists
• Design and assemble the newsletter
• Prepare the final version for distribution

Creating each issue feels like stitching together a vibrant tapestry of our chapter’s creativity—from conference recaps to craft columns, member good news to featured art. I’m excited about how the Fall–Winter issue is shaping up and can’t wait to share it with our members.

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Helping Shape Our Third Annual Spring Art Day at LCAD

Before I jump into the upcoming events, I’m thrilled to share an update about a project close to my heart: An event called Art Day. 
Art Day—held each March at LCAD (Laguna College of Art & Design)—is a full day devoted to our Chapter Illustrators. It’s a chance for them to workshop, learn, connect, and recharge their creative spirits.

As the person who originally led and organized  Art Day, I’m especially proud to see it entering its third year. Watching it grow from an idea into a beloved annual event has been one of the highlights of my service.

This year, I’m stepping back a little and letting our talented Illustrator Coordinators (IC) take the reins, but I’m staying involved as an advisor. It feels wonderful to see the event in such capable hands and to continue supporting our illustrator community in ways that feel sustainable and joyful.

Exciting Upcoming Events

 This Saturday: OC Book Fair in Tustin

I’ll be at the OC Book Fair in Tustin this Saturday, where I’ll be selling and signing copies of my books:

• 10 MINUTE PLAYS FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES
• Rose Maidelaiden

If you're attending, please stop by and say hello! I love meeting readers, families, educators, and fellow children’s book lovers. Signed books make wonderful gifts as we head into the holiday season.

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​January: SCBWI NYC Winter Conference 

​In January, I’ll be attending the SCBWI Winter Conference in New York City—in person! I’m thrilled to reconnect with the national SCBWI community, learn from industry leaders, and bring all that inspiration back to SoCal.

Looking Ahead
​As I reflect on this season of growth and creativity, I’m deeply grateful for every opportunity to learn, serve, create, and connect. Whether through conferences, newsletters, illustrator events, or book fairs, being part of SCBWI continues to inspire me in all the best ways.
Thank you for reading—and if we cross paths at an upcoming event, I’d love to say hello in person!

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