I have immense gratitude as I look back at 2019. I could write long tomes about the many blessings, joys, and stations I’ve experienced this year, but I often think simpler is better. And so on this holiday, I’ve reflected on my own and the journeys of my loved ones, as such reflection does us good.

I haven’t posted much this year. The reasons are many, and most are very good:

*I put out my latest book this year.
*My husband and I put on another wonderfully successful, week-long illustration workshop.
*Our eldest graduated from college, while our other children carry on with their own higher education.
*Travel, international and domestic, for which I still pinch myself in disbelief because it’s such a grand thing.
*Advancement within SCBWI (the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) such that I now run the state chapter with my co-leader – and all the planning and dedication that position involves.
*Being reminded daily just how important is our health, even as health problems hit those I love.
*New work, new priorities, new goals, a clearer vision.

I’ll have more on that last line in 2020. For now, just know that I appreciate all you who read my words, check in with news of your own, and try to do good in the world. My thanks.