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We had a perfect day off today, paddling down Whiskey Creek in Dania Beach, FL in our inflatable boat. This narrow waterway, lined with mangroves, is just west of the beach and east of the Intracoastal. We did not paddle far enough north to see manatees, but we saw plenty of fast-swimming fish and beautiful birds. The serenity you get from the  water is unparalleled, especially when your husband tells you to stop paddling and chill out for  while.

Expedition photo

I’ve gotta have one too

Getting ready to inflate the boat

Almost done

Graceful Egret

Mangroves

Open water down river

Incredible pelican formation (50 birds!)

Today I had an author visit at The Quest Center in Hollywood, FL.  It is part of the Broward County School system. The Quest Center has a special pre-school for HeadStart students as well as a school for exceptional students with autism and intellectual disabilities through age 22.

We had some fun dancing and signing and made a whole bunch of paper bag turkeys for Thanksgiving.

I was impressed by how dedicated and patient the teachers are here. What a wonderful public resource for parents with limited income and special needs children.

I thank Tera Ivey, After Care Director, for inviting me to come.

I showed the students the watercolor pencils I used to paint the illustrations in my book

One of the Quest Center teachers shows off the turkey she helped one of the students make

Now that’s a whle lot of turkeys!

Tera Ivey, a most friendly After Care Director

Any student who attends Liberty Park Elementary, a public school in Palm Beach County, is beyond fortunate! The teachers, librarians and administration are friendlier, more welcoming and more supportive of their school than I can possibly describe in words. You must simply experience it for yourself. Tonight I spoke to 3-5th graders and their parents about my book, and I was so impressed by the kindness and curiosity of all who attended.

The library at this school is modern, well stocked and just a happy welcoming place to be.  I love the emphasis this school places on reading in such a positive way. They make it fun, as reading should be. I felt pure joy as I watched kids getting excited about their new book purchases. And there’s nothing like listening to stories from elementary kids, resulting from my book presentation.

Special thanks to the Most Enthusiastic Language Arts Teacher, Michelina Oliva, Best Music Teacher on the Planet, Judy Christodulides and Nicest and Most Helpful Librarian, Renee Houck.