Going Back to the Basics

When I started this blog in 2010, it was a way for me to get myself back into writing after having my daughter and closing Stories for Children Magazine after a successful run. I did a lot of different type of blog posts and then I got busy with other things and didn't keep up with blogging the way I had when I first started out.

Fast forward to six years later and I'm coming back to the basics of what this blog is about with a few new twists. Frist, I'm a mom. I love being a mom and I love doing things (even crazy things) with my kids. My two girls are starting to get into YouTube and are making videos, which I produce for them. So you may catch one of their videos on my blog from time to time.

Second, I'm an author. I love to write books for kids and teens. I may one day try my hand at adult novels, but for now, I'm writing what makes me happy. I'm working on a few different stories and it is tough to find the time to write, but I'm making that time. Because writing takes time and a lot of hard work and tears, I plan on sharing those trials right here with all of you through posts like this one or through a Vlog post. (For those wondering what a Vlog post is, it's a YouTube video of me talking instead of writing my thoughts.)

Third, I love to read and I love helping other authors reach their dreams, too. So I will from time to time share a review, interview or post about another author and their book. After all, if it wasn't for all those awesome authors out there, I woudn't be writing myself.

Fourth, I'm a World of Ink Radio Personality. So yeah, I'm gonna share about the shows I'm hosting and other hosts are doing at BTR's World of Ink Network.

Lastly, I love sharing about life and things I love outside of my awesome hubby, kids and writing life. So don't be surprised when I share something totally unrelated to all that. Hey, it's my blog, I can do what I like with it, and hopefully, you'll take something away with you, too.

Until next time!
VS Grenier

My honey bunny, Justin and I enjoying a movie at the park.

World of Ink Interview with author Judy Snider and Illustrator Cady B. Driver

Judy Snider , Joan’s sister lives in Virginia Beach, Virginia with her husband, Gil, and two silly cats. She is the author of the CWA award-winning children’s picture book, Goldy’s Baby Socks , and on a team of authors of The Scared Purse . The Writing Mama Interview with author Judy Snider VS: What do you do to help balance your writing life with your family life? Judy: It is easier now that my kids are in their 20’s and out of the home. I get up very early, and some of the best writing I do is in a sunny place with a glass of water or coffee and my silly cats nearby. When my oldest was a baby, I took a write-away-course, and would write when he took his naps. Some of my best writing was at a table while I waited in those days for them at parties, video arcades, etc. I work out of my home on projects, so working with my sister on our latest book, and the phone usually did Cady Driver, our illustrator. VS: How long have you been writing? Judy: I wrote my...

Stories That Awaken the Soul: A Journey with Evan McDermott

What if the stories we tell — and the ones we choose to listen to — could change not just our perspective, but our very path in life? In a world where noise often drowns out meaning, returning to the simplicity and depth of authentic storytelling can reconnect us with what truly matters. This week on Language of the Soul , we sit down with Evan McDermott, poet, tarot reader, and host of the Fifth Dimension podcast, for a conversation that feels like sitting by the fire and remembering what it means to be human. Evan’s life and work remind us that the ancient practice of weaving narrative — through myth, poetry, or spiritual exploration — is more than art. It’s a vital act of self-remembering, of reclaiming our agency in a world that often tries to define us by labels, roles, or distractions. Our discussion with Evan touches on many layers: from the dualities of love and tyranny, to how compassion becomes a compass when the outer world feels divided or uncertain. We reflect on how st...

Redefining Purpose Through Life's Trials

Facing the myriad of challenges that life presents, individuals often find themselves searching for meaning and purpose in the eye of the storm. Our latest podcast episode delves into the heart of this human experience, exploring how adversity does not just challenge but also shapes and molds our sense of purpose. The stories shared in this episode are not just narratives of survival; they are testaments to the power of transformation through trials. The episode begins with a deeply personal account of loss and grief from co-hosts Virginia Grenier and myself. The discussion moves beyond mere catharsis, revealing the podcast's role as a beacon of therapy and connection. This connection is further solidified by the importance of community and listener support, which serves as a lifeline for sustaining the platform. The beauty of shared experiences lies in their universality, and our candid conversation sets the stage for the narratives that follow. Our guest's story is a moving...

VS Grenier ~ Award-Winning Author, Speaker & Podcaster

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