What inspired you to start writing?
I originally started writing children’s stories with values that I wanted to instill in my own children. My first book, A Beautiful Girl, was inspired by my daughter who at 5 years old loved all things beautiful. I wanted her to know what real beauty is and to encourage her to bring beauty to the world by being her own uniquely beautiful self.
Tell us about your book series – What makes them different from books or series out there?
My book series is called Created To Be as each book has been written to inspire both children and adults to be all they were created to be. There is no single main character in this series, however you will find a few little critters regularly popping up throughout the books just for fun. These books focus on themes such as making the world a better place, embracing your 
uniqueness, learning what love can look like, trusting God, making wise decisions and hearing God’s voice.
3. Why was it important to get this message out?
I believe that we are all wonderfully made, and that God has a great plan and purpose for every single person. When I was looking for positive messages along these lines to share with my children I couldn’t find much at all.
Every girl needs to hear that they are beautiful and that their beauty is not just skin deep. Every boy needs to know what a real hero looks like and that they can be a hero too. Everyone needs to know the importance of planting good things in their hearts and I could go on, the world desperately needs to hear these messages and others that these books cover.
It’s so important that we share these positive messages with our children. If we don’t, who will?
4. How long does one book take you to write?
Once I receive the inspiration for a particular topic the words tend to flow easily, and I can have a clear outline for a book within a week. The editing, perfecting, drawing illustrations, putting it all together and getting the book printed can take 6 months or more.
What has the response been like for these books?
I have received so many positive comments from people thanking me for writing these books and sharing how they have touched their hearts. Here are just a few.
“Thank you for your exquisite books. As a mum and teacher, these finds have been true highlights of my week! Such profound and life affirming messages, delivered in the simplest, relevant and most engaging way! So inexpensive and accessible to all, also! Your books should be in our national curriculum for students well being and in every children’s bedroom! Thank you” ~ Jen
“My daughter received one of your books as a Christmas gift, “The Garden in my Heart”, and I just wanted to commend you on a brilliant job! I am an early years educator, and a Christian, and you have just done so well in producing a powerful, beautiful book for children. I can’t wait to read the other titles. Fantastic!!!!” ~ Meagan
“Thank you so much for these amazing pieces of art.” ~ Katie
“These books are brilliant! That is because they are born out of the Love of God. Clearly they were created to bless children and their parents.”
6. What does success mean to you?
Being who God created me to be.
7. Who inspired you to follow your dreams?
My husband. I originally started writing these books for my own children because I couldn’t find exactly what I wanted in the library. When my husband read them he exclaimed that every child needed these books and encouraged me to share what God had given me with the world.
8. What advice do you wish you had 5 years ago?
I wish I had met someone who had experience getting a book self-published. I learned a lot of things the hard way.
9. What do you do when you feel uninspired?
I re-read the comments I have received from people who have read my books and I am reminded that what I do is important and making a difference.
10. What can you not live without?
God
11. Finish this sentence ‘Above all else…’
love
12. What’s your favourite bible verse?
That’s a tough question but I really like Colossians 3:12-14 and want to live it out.
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience… Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love.”
13. Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
Happily married with amazing teenage children, still teaching kids about God’s love and ways through my books and as a teacher.
14. Finish this sentence…’I can’t start my day until….?’
I remember how blessed I am, that I am loved, that I have a purpose and I am thankful.
15. How can our lovely mothers contact you? What’s your social media handle and website?
facebook.com/created.to.be.books/
instagram.com/createdtobebooks
16. Where can we purchase your books?
You can purchase my books online or find local stores that sell my books via our website, www.createdtobe.com.au
17. Who does your illustrations?
I do
18. Any other words you’d like to add?
18. Any other words you’d like to add?You aren’t here by chance. You are not an accident. You were created in the image of God and He is for you. He has amazing plans for you. Go and be all that you were created to be!
