My life-long dream of publishing a children’s book came true at the end of 2023. Yes, the “year of rehabs” had a very happy ending. Frank the Frenchie and The Christmas Tree Hunt is an adorable, charming tale based on my furbaby, Frank, who always thinks he knows best and learns a valuable lesson. Shortly after, I published my second book in the series, Frank the Frenchie and the Firework Frenzy. The support I received was purely overwhelming and incredible. These books are part of a 12-book series I wrote, so keep your pretty eyes peeled for many more Frank adventures in the Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda series.
That little lover right there is my baby, Callum—“Cal.” Everyone always told me the out-of-this-world love that comes with motherhood. Thanks to my gorgeous son, I am lucky enough to feel that every day. He is the sweetest, kindest, most fun-loving little human, and he just fuels me with love and life.
And last—but in no way least—is the rock of our little family, my husband, Brandon. Picking him up in a bar one drunken night in Chicago nine years ago was the best laser-vision (blurred and all) I’ve ever had. Man, was my radar crisp that night.
I am certain no other man could put up with me like he does. Whenever times get tough, and we’ve been through trenches, he responds, “This is what I signed up for. I’m not going anywhere.” When you are going through personal hell with addiction and have zero self-worth, to hear that from your spouse is heaven-sent. Knowing the person you love most isn’t giving up on you even though you’ve given up on yourself.
B is outrageously weird like I am, hilarious, sarcastic, so loving, brilliant, and the most generous man I’ve ever met. As a Firefighter/Paramedic, not only is he constantly saving lives and helping others, but he’s always there for my friends as well. He told me something once that stuck with me— “Anyone that means anything to you means something to me.”
He is romantic, patient, and the best father to Cal (and Frank). He is also my very best friend and my biggest cheerleader.
