I have been around kids as long as I can remember. From playing with my big brothers and little cousins every day growing up, to volunteering in classrooms, to becoming a 4th grade teacher, to gaining 12 wonderful nieces and nephews, to working with a multitude of elementary students as an instructional coach, and of course, to becoming a mom to my two beautiful daughters. I love to look through the perspective of a child's eyes. My stories embody the pure mind of a child who has a big heart, open dreams, and endless imagination. This is a lesson I am still learning every day - to put down my phone, my to-do list, the perception of others... and be present. Like a child. To truly see things, find the joy of play, build connection, and experience the everyday stories that are right in front of us.
The Story
Behind the Author
The Story
Behind the Story
'Twas the Day After Christmas started from years of anxiety that began just then - the day after Christmas. All the excitement and build up and joy leading to December 25th... to me, the holiday season is pure magic. Then, it's over.
Growing up in upstate New York with cold winters and very little sunshine, that seasonal depression hit me hard some years. I felt it as a kid, and I even felt it as an adult up until my 30s. I knew I always wanted to write this book - and make this day more than the dreadful "day after Christmas." It now has meaning and purpose for me. And I hope to share that message with all of you... whether you're the big one propped up in bed, arms full with books, bodies, and bottles, reading out loud... or you're the little one listening closely, snuggled up on a lap, scanning every detail of every illustration before the page turns again.
The children still sleeping
warm in their beds,
Dreaming of wrapping paper
crumpled in shreds;
Mommy in her robe
and Dad in new socks,
Both trudged downstairs
and saw box after box.
Illustrations by Amanda Measer
Kind Words from Little Readers
Levi, age 10
'Twas the Day After Christmas
"My family always stays home all day and plays after Christmas, too. It's my favorite."
Emmy, age 5
'Twas the Day After Christmas
"Awww best Christmas book ever!"
Ellie, age 8
'Twas the Day After Christmas
"I want to make that tradition in our house for the day after Christmas. "
Kind Words from Big Readers
'Twas the Day After Christmas
Sarah, age 41
"I have chills! So good. And I love how the kids are teaching the parents a lesson, versus the other way around."
'Twas the Day After Christmas
Nick, age 36
"Very relatable. This story feels warm and cozy and fun, but also holds great meaning. We all need to put down our phones more and play!"
'Twas the Day After Christmas
Amy, age 58
"I think I enjoyed this book as much, if not more, than my kids. This gave us a good perspective on how to create your own joy in life. What a fun take on the post-holiday season."
