I did a thing…

I’m finally doing it. For the last few years, I’ve been telling myself (and others, because I’m an over-sharer) that I’m going to write and illustrate a children’s book. You know how it goes - for one reason or another, something always got in the way. Between working a full-time office job, being a wife, and a mom to two young children, I’m stretched thin. Because of the immense amount of time, money, and energy such a project would require, it always felt too daunting (still does at times, to be honest) to begin. As a certified self-critic, I kept thinking - who in the world do I think I am?

Next year, I’d tell myself. Then the next year would happen. And the next.

Until recently, when my sister and niece threw out the idea of a collaboration. My stunning niece, Katie, has epilepsy and a dapper medical alert service dog named Bones. They wanted to publish a book about her journey navigating epilepsy and wanted me to illustrate it. Yeah right, I thought. Except if you knew my sister, you’d know if she wants to do something, she’s going to find a way to make it work. And she’s going to do it big.

And so, a couple months ago we booked a trip to the California desert and wrote The Weather Inside: The Story of Katie & Bones. It’s a beautiful story inspired by my niece and her path to finding Bones; they’ve gone through so much together. It’s geared towards elementary-aged children, but I think it’ll be timeless and loved by all. The book will be filled with beautiful watercolor illustrations that will be a massive labor of love (look mom, I’m finally putting my college art degree to use!), and something we can be proud of.

I’m doing this for Katie, who is a shining example of resiliency. I’m doing this for every child with a disability who will hopefully feel a little less lonely after reading her story. I’m doing it for my boys, who deserve to know they can pursue whatever they set their minds to. I can hardly wait to share it with you!

The Weather Inside: The Story of Katie & Bones
Coming Early 2026

Follow our journey:
www.katieandbones.com
Instagram: @katieandbonesbooks