Q. When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? 

Cindy: My vision of writing goes back thirty-four years. I wrote my Master’s thesis on “ How to Publish a Children’s Book.” I thought I’d write a children’s book called “Oodles and Oodles of Noodles.” I knew it would be about a little kid who loved noodles. It was set aside as I taught Kindergarten, raised our four sons, and had a daycare home for teacher’s kids. One day, one of my sons asked me if I ever thought about finally writing my book. So, here I am.

Q. What does your family think of your writing? 

Cindy: My husband and sons are as excited as I am. I know they couldn’t be prouder. They have been on this writing journey right along with me, from the first manuscript to all the edits, and the sketches and the final illustrations. Their feedback and participation means the world to me.

Q. What was the most surprising thing you learned about creating books? 

Cindy: That not only was I now a writer and a published author, but part of a wonderful writing community. I have made new friends who support and root me on. This has become my new tribe.

Q. What does your creative process look like? 

Cindy: My writing process is old fashioned. I write ideas and thoughts down in notebooks. I wrote my first manuscript with a pen and paper. When it’s time for editing, I transfer it to the computer so the editor and I can exchange information. Technology and I don’t see eye-to-eye.

Q. What advice do you have for new writers?

Cindy: I would tell a new writer to read everything they can find about the industry, to take notes, take classes, and watch podcasts. Building a tribe of fellow writers who will offer support and guidance as you work through the writing process is important. But, most of all, I would tell a new writer to have fun, keep going, and never give up.

Q. What do you love most about the writing process? 

Cindy: I love the creativity! How the littlest thing, like a noodle, can become a story full of imagination that children enjoy. I find myself looking at everything differently now. Ideas pop into my head all the time. Magic is everywhere! Life is full of pastabilities!

Q. What inspires you as a writer?

Cindy: Kids inspire me to write. I love how they find joy in the simplest things and how they use their imagination to enter into fantasy worlds and adventures. I want to continue to enrich children through reading books that become a treasured part of their day.

Q. What do you love most about being an author? 

Cindy: I love watching children laugh, learn, and grow from reading my book. I love watching their feelings as they react to the story. It makes me happy that I wrote something that brings them joy and that they want to read it over and over again.

Q. Tell us about your plans for the future. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 

Cindy: My vision is to continue writing Charli books that are fun, diverse, and educational for children around the world to enjoy. I’ve always loved reading fun, silly, rhyming books to young children. These are what I want to continue to write for years to come.

Q. What do you do when you’re not writing? 

Cindy: Seven months out of the year, I live in a marina on a 30 -year- old boat with my hubby. That’s where I write. I love the water! It’s good for the soul! And, the perpetual lullaby of the boat’s rocking is super relaxing. I also love riding my bike and visiting with friends and family.