Dragonfly Arts

03/19/2026

I had planned to update this page over a month ago, but I was grabbed by a virus that didn’t let go until recently. I slept a lot and couldn’t focus enough to read, much less write. I’m guessing some of you experienced similar illness this winter, so you understand what I’m talking about.

I’ve recovered now and am once again working on my new book based on my experience with my current miniature schnauzer, who proved to be a very challenging puppy. The text is written and has been edited once, and I’ll likely tweak the test again. Currently, I’m working on the illustrations, which I’m liking a lot.

This book will have some new and unusual elements. I’m excited about this but want you to be surprised. So be patient, and I’ll keep you posted on the book’s progress.

Although it certainly doesn’t appear that way here, spring is on its way. Enjoy the transition!

01/01/2026

Happy New Year to all who have followed this page, spoken with me at a book fair or signing, purchased Bailey’s Big Spirit, or cheered me on. Here’s to a creative 2026! I wish you the best year ever!

12/09/2025

Ripple River Gallery is now carrying my books! I am very pleased as this is one of my favorite galleries.
It has been around for 25 years and is located a short way off Tame Fish Road, a few miles east of Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort. Hours vary by season, so check before you go: (218) 678-2575 or use the link below

Selected work by more than 60 regional artisans in clay, fiber, wood, painting, photography and printmaking. Monthly exhibits showcase individual artists, April-October.

12/07/2025

Fun day at the Sons of Norway annual bake sale. I had a table there, sold some books, and had a chance to meet new people and reconnect with folks. I hadn’t seen in a while.

11/19/2025

When the Thanksgiving meal is eaten and the dishes are done...relax by reading a great book with the kids. If you don't already have a copy, you can pick one up at Mixed Company in Crosby, MN or Oooh Shiny Things in Ivanhoe, MN. Or you can order one through BookBaby Bookshop using the link on this page.

Have a warm and wonder Thanksgiving!

11/19/2025

I recently participated in a poetry reading, my first ever. The reading was designed to showcase the poems entered into a contest sponsored by a regional magazine. I sent in a poem at the last minute, encouraged by people in my writer's group, some of whom also submitted poems. I haven't written poetry for many years and don't claim to be a poet. But a casual remark during a conversation planted a seed that grew into a poem.
What I didn't realize when I submitted the poem was that the writing and reading of it would be more important than the poem itself. It was a short poem, and I realized later how much the brevity and forthrightness had been influenced by writing children's books. The genre has forced me to distill ideas and express them clearly. This is an unexpected, but appreciated, consequence of my focus the last few years. The poem also brought the intended chuckles, and several people told me they could relate to the content. So the poem brought laughter and connection. What could be better?

11/14/2025

"Bailey's Big Spirit " is branching out! Oooh Shiny Gifts (www.ooohshinygifts.com) in Ivanhoe, MN, is now stocking the book. (Coincidentally, the Sir Walter Scott novel after which the town is named was required reading in one of my high school English classes.) The store has lots of unique and fun gits in addition to books, so stop in if you're traveling or live in the southwest corner of the state. Find cool things and support a small business.

11/10/2025

On Friday, I spent the better part of the day reading "Bailey's Big Spirit" to attentive K-3 students at Harrison Elementary School in Brainerd, MN. Thanks to all the students and staff for making this a wonderful experience!
I had almost forgotten how eager and excited kids that age can be. I had so much fun, and the kids seemed to enjoy the story. I am planning to do more of this!

10/09/2025

It's taken awhile, but Bailey's Big Spirit is now available through BookBaby

Your session has expired.We're sorry, but your online session has expired. Please log back into your account to continue.

10/09/2025

What could be a better Halloween treat for young kids than Bailey's Big Spirit? Fun story, and it doesn't promote tooth decay!

09/29/2025

I'm very pleased to announce that Mixed Company: A Kava House in Crosby, MN is the first local store to carry Bailey's Big Spirit! If you're shopping in Crosby or biking on the area trails, you can stop in Mixed Company on Main Street, order a coffee, pastry, or sandwich and purchase a copy of the book

I'm currently working to add to the retail outlets that carry the book, so check back. I'll announce the locations as soon as they have the book..