When did you first know you wanted to be an author? I’ve always enjoyed writing and telling stories. That’s why I went into journalism! But I never imagined I’d be a children’s book author, so it’s an exciting chapter of life! 

When you are not writing, what other hats do you wear? What do you do for fun? I’m in a very busy season of life being a mom! My kids are 7 and 5. I feel like every year goes by faster. On weekdays, my alarm goes off at 2 a.m. and I get ready for work as the morning anchor for the NBC affiliate here in Charlotte, North Carolina. I love exploring the Carolinas for fun! From the different beaches to ski resorts, we have it all. We also toured the Biltmore Estate in Asheville once the Christmas decorations were up, and it’s gorgeous! I highly recommend it to anyone traveling through the Carolinas during the holidays. 

What is your favorite genre to read? What about that genre draws you? I tend to lean toward nonfiction and biographies. But I’m having a lot of fun reading the classics with my daughter now that she’s getting into chapter books like Charlotte’s Web, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Anne of Green Gables. 

What is your favorite thing about this time of year? And why? I love the holidays! They call me the “holiday queen” at work. I think it’s all very nostalgic for me. My grandmother always made this time of year so magical. We called her Mrs. Claus. She passed away this year, but she encouraged me to write this book. I dedicated it to her, as well as my children. 

What historical figure do you admire and why? I have to say, Jesus. He changed everything! In the book, I quote John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.” He’s my strength and my hope. In Christ, I find my identity. 

Who did you have in mind as you wrote the book? I wrote this book for my children. I wanted them to have a story that told the birth of Jesus, and I also wanted them to understand that St. Nicholas was a follower of Christ as well. I wanted it as one cohesive story. I posted about this on social media, but it wasn’t until other mothers started messaging me about how to get copies of the text that I thought about turning it into an actual children’s book.  

As a former K-12 school librarian, I have to ask – what is your favorite children’s book? When my kids were really little, they loved The Napping House by Audrey Wood. If we’re talking chapter books, I love reading The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis with my daughter. 

What advice would you give to a child or teen who wants to be a writer? You can do it! One of the reasons I went into journalism is because I believe everyone has a story to tell! You just can’t be afraid of failure. Your story will make a difference. And I believe even if it helps just one person, that’s enough. It’s amazing what people can do when they push fear aside and trust God. If He’s placed something on your heart, pursue that calling!