Three Things November Means

I have so many things going on this month, it's INSANE! But three things, in particular, are so incredibly close to my heart, I thought I would share. And since writers share their hearts through writing, I guess that the sharing shall begin... Now.

First off, November has been declared Picture Book Month. Hoo-freaking-ray!!

What does that mean?

It means that Picture Books are not dead (were you unsure of this?). It means that children all around the world deserve to be read to, and have books written just for them! And because I happen to write picture books, this month is incredibly encouraging!! This month can be used to broaden your wildest dreams and share them onto paper, or read them to the most eager of audiences. You've got to love that!

That brings me to one of my favorite challenges that keeps me hanging on, all year long!

 

That's right, folks... It's Picture Book Idea Month (PiBoIdMo)!!!

 

What does that mean?

 

The almighty Tara Lazar has created a challenge: Write 30 picture book IDEAS in 30 days. Fabulous, no? I challenge you to do it... It's day 2, and I already have four ideas. It's not hard!!

Lastly (and dearest to my heart)...

 

It's Epilepsy Awareness Month.

 

 

 

 

What does that mean?

 

As many of you know, my son Renn, was diagnosed with Complex Partial Epilepsy, in March of this year. It has been a rough transition for him and for our family. We recently went eight weeks to the day without any seizures. However, he's had a few in the last two weeks, and they've been the worst we've seen. There are many trials and tribulations throughout this journey, and I'm grateful to have support groups and Facebook communities to turn to when we have questions. There are so many "Unknowns" about this condition, that is, unless you've been diagnosed or a loved one has. Renn has a form that is still not totally understood. Yes, it has a general name that covers the basis of what his seizures are like. However, the cause, the location, and the ultimate results on what his seizures are doing to his brain haven't been figured out, yet.

 

 I am hoping that many of you will spread the word about Epilepsy to at least one person, this month. Wear purple! Do some research, find someone who might be struggling with it, and buy them a milkshake. Learn, learn, learn!! The more we know, the more of an opportunity we have to love on and help others. It's important, as a society, that we care for ALL.

So, as you prepare for your Thanksgiving feast, or shake your head at how quickly Christmas decor came about in the stores, remember the FUN things and the important things that November has to offer.

Happy writing, God bless, and love on someone special, today. :)