Hi everyone, my name is Monica. I live in Chattanooga, Tennessee, though I was born and raised just across the line in Ringgold, Georgia. My debut children’s book, What’s The Prettiest Thing in the World?, is set to launch in mid-October. I’ll be receiving my final illustrations in just a few days, and then it’s off to the printer! With each new illustration, my heart beats a little faster as I watch this lifelong dream take shape. Originally, I only planned to print a few copies for my family, but after some friends read the manuscript, they told me, “You have to share this with everyone.” That encouragement is what brought me here today. I’ve spent over 38 years in the childcare industry, reading thousands of books to little ones. Along the way, I’ve often asked myself what makes a story truly memorable. For me, it isn’t just the words or the pictures—it’s how a book makes you feel, and the gentle lessons that linger long after the story ends. That’s the kind of book I’ve always dreamed of writing, and I’m so excited to finally be bringing it into the world. I’m thrilled to be part of this group. I look forward to learning from all of you, and I hope I can also share something useful from my own journey along the way.