In Time

The Amaryllis flower is a throwback to my youth. A reminder that patience and watching something grow, experiencing the outcome, is a quality life lesson. This past December 2025, my mom and I observed daily the slightest changes in the growth of her Amaryllis. Starting with caring for the rock-like bulb resting in dirt in a pot almost too small for its size. Every day, even the slightest change, we talked about the plant. How impressive the strength of the hollow scape (stalk) was as it began holding up buds. It appeared stoic, keeping its focus, doing its intended job. Thinking back to my childhood and how enamored I was by this plant, it still had that same power over me. The excitement when the buds grew to the point when we thought surely they were ready to open. My mom and I started saying to each other, ‘okay one more day’. Whatever we thought or hoped, the plant reminded us that the flower will bloom when it’s ready. Working on my second picture book, Tap Tap Tappity Tap, I wanted it to be released in December 2025. I held off until January 2026. I wasn’t ready; I had to grow through a few things. Finding patience within myself and the strength to admit I needed time was difficult but necessary. The Amaryllis, a symbol of strength, determination, pride, love, and beauty. The strength to keep moving forward with perseverance to conquer obstacles. To let go of pride and allow patience to guide me, and find satisfaction in what I've accomplished. Above all, to continue to find peace and love in whatever I do.☮️&💜