Finishing 75 Hard and my novel showed me we’re more capable than we think when we stop quitting and start choosing positive thoughts.

Quitting the Dittos in the Back podcast wasn’t failure—it was growth. A reflection on learning, letting go, and focusing on goals that matter most.

In this installment of My Writing Corner, I share a heart-warming story from an Ella Bella storytime that perfectly illustrates the power of kindness. From a little girl dressed as Ella Bella to a full-circle moment of generosity between families, this reflection highlights how children’s books, community, and small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect that lasts far beyond the holidays.

Join us for our final storytime of 2025 on December 20 at 11am at The Story Collective in St. Joseph, MO. This special holiday blog post features cozy children’s books, a homemade ornament craft, and a brown sugar cinnamon Pop-Tart recipe—plus a gentle reminder to slow down, release control, and savor the season in our “Let It Go” storytime.

BookFest Omaha is one of the Midwest’s most exciting literary events, bringing together local authors, book lovers, and families for a full day of reading, creativity, and community. Whether you’re looking for new children’s books, want to meet your favorite local writers, or hope to find unique holiday gifts, BookFest Omaha offers something for every reader.

Growing up, I longed for the picture-perfect holiday movie family. This week, a simple moment in a parking lot reminded me how far I’ve come—and how grateful I am for the family we’re building every day. ❤️✨

Feeling sentimental this Thanksgiving? Read about slowing down with kids, savoring the season, and grabbing next week’s massive Black Friday book box deal.

Author Katie Marie shares reflections from her birthday week, including cozy family moments, early holiday decorating, and her family’s favorite Christmas book basket tradition. Discover her latest reads and upcoming storytime events.

Join children’s author Katie Marie for heartwarming parenting stories, creative crafts, and family reading inspiration. This week, learn from a touching moment with Ella Bella, download a free Halloween coloring sheet, and discover fun ways to make storytime magical at home.

Author Katie Marie shares her reflections on parenting in the digital age — from navigating social media to helping kids find joy in creativity beyond the screen.

Author Katie Marie reflects on the special bond she shares with her grandma and the lasting impact of family traditions. A heartfelt reminder to slow down, cherish each moment, and revisit the chapters that mean the most.

Thank you to everyone who showed up and supported local at the OctoberFest. New launches are coming in the next couple of weeks—including pre-sale for the newest Ella Bella Adventure.

Celebrate the power of lifelong friendships with a girls weekend in Omaha. From laughter and crafts to deep conversations, discover fun ideas to reconnect with friends and create lasting memories.

In a world full of noise and negativity, choosing to unplug can help us focus on love, hope, and family. Author Katie Marie shares a heartfelt reflection on stepping away from social media and cherishing the small, meaningful moments that matter most.

Busy schedules, kids’ activities, and endless to-do lists can leave moms feeling overwhelmed. This blog shares simple routines to stay organized, why self-care matters, and how family storytime builds lasting connections. Discover favorite children’s books for your home library!

The first day of school didn’t go as planned—muddy shoes, sick kids, and all. But sometimes life’s chaos teaches the best lessons. Discover how we learned to pivot, laugh through the chaos, and why The Adventures of Ella Bella and the New School is the perfect back-to-school read.