What’s a quote that perfectly describes your outlook on life? ——————————-
”Light is not something you chase. It’s something you carry. My life is a slow, steady unfolding — and the light grows as I go.”
Here’s how I see my inner light, given to me as a gift from my Heavenly parents: It isn’t a spotlight demanding attention. It’s a lantern — quiet, steady, and deeply personal. It doesn’t shout. It doesn’t rush. It simply glows, even on the days when I feel dim or uncertain. And the more I honor it, the brighter it becomes.
Some people think inner light is something you earn. But I know better.
It’s something I carry — through fog‑days, best‑days, ancestry, creativity, faith, and the soft unfolding of this life of mine.
🌟 What Inner Light Really Is
Inner light is the part of you that stays steady even when everything else shifts. It’s not confidence. It’s not perfection. It’s not productivity. It’s presence.
Quiet strength — the ability to keep moving gently, even when life feels heavy.
Soul clarity — the sense that something inside you knows the way, even when your mind doesn’t.
Creative truth — the spark that guides your writing, your journals, your heritage work.
Faithful resilience — the belief that God meets you in the soft places, not just the strong ones.
Ancestral glow — the way your roots, in my case, my Acadian roots, feel like a lantern handed down through generations.
Inner light is not loud. It’s loyal.
🌙 How Inner Light Shows Up in Real Life
It shows up when you write one honest sentence on a fibro fog‑day. It shows up when you choose gentleness over pressure. It shows up when you create something small but sincere. It shows up when you trust your own rhythm instead of forcing someone else’s.
My inner light is woven into my Pages Alight brand — the soft watercolor motifs, the candles, the feathers, the glowing edges of the planner spreads. It’s in my voice, my heritage projects, my night‑owl creativity, my faith‑friendly tone.
It’s the thread that ties everything together.
🕊️ Inner Light as a Spiritual Companion
Your inner light is not just emotional or creative — it’s spiritual. It’s the quiet assurance that you are guided, held, and seen. It’s the whisper that says:
You don’t have to shine for the world. You only have to shine from the truth inside you.
This is why my work resonates with overwhelmed readers. I don’t teach them to chase clarity. I try to teach them to trust the glow they already carry.
✨ A Gentle Invitation
If you’ve been doubting your brightness lately, let this settle softly in your heart:
Your inner light is not fragile. It’s faithful.
It stays with you through every season. It grows with every act of creativity. It strengthens with every moment of honesty. It brightens every time you choose presence over perfection.
You don’t have to force it. You only have to honor it.
Your inner light is already shining — quietly, beautifully, and right on time.
I’ve had this little book out on Amazon for a while now. Hope you’ve all had a chance to check it out. It’s really sweet; there’s a double story about the dangers that these beautiful ocean turtles experience – many lose their limbs to nets, fishermen’s nets that get caught up in their flippers.
Anyway, I just wanted to share my new video for book # 2 of Discovering Misty.
Please check it out! There’s some great reviews in Goodreads too.
A man slaughters a big cow, starts the grill, and says to his daughter, “Daughter, go call our relatives, friends, and neighbors to join us… We’re having a celebration!”
The daughter goes out to the street and shouts, “Please help! My father’s house is on fire!”
After some time, only a few people come out to help, while many others act like they didn’t hear anything. The ones who came stay, eat, and enjoy the food until late.
The father, confused, looks around and says to his daughter, “I don’t know most of these people. Some I’ve never seen before. Where are our friends, family, and neighbors?”
The daughter calmly replies, “The people who came didn’t come for a party. They came because they thought we were in trouble. These are the people who care about us. These are the ones who deserve to celebrate with us.”
Lesson:The ones who don’t show up when you’re struggling don’t deserve to be with you when you succeed.
What do you think? I think it all depends on the intent of a person, really. Some people may WANT to help, but don’t know how. There are times in everyone’s lives when it’s just too hard to stretch and serve another, even though we want to help.
If someone came to our door right now, my husband would do everything he can, but he can’t give money or can’t be gone from the house very long, as people need him here. Those circumstances must be taken into consideration, and not punish those with good intent.
As an author weaving tales of survival and mysticism, I’ve fallen in love with runes, those enigmatic symbols from our ancestors. Today, let’s explore how these ancient marks breathe new life into modern stories, drawing from their historical roots to inspire today’s readers and writers.
Imagine a world shattered by catastrophe, where survivors cling to fragments of ancient wisdom to forge their path forward. In my Zion series, a mysterious rune etched on a weathered stone whispers prophecies of hope amid the ruins. It’s not just a plot device—it’s a bridge to the past, pulsing with magic that feels alive on the page.
Runes aren’t mere letters; they’re portals to a bygone era. The Elder Futhark, the oldest known runic alphabet, emerged around 150-800 AD among Germanic tribes in Scandinavia and beyond.
Carved into wood, stone, or bone, these 24 symbols served practical purposes—like labeling possessions or commemorating the dead—but they also carried deeper, mystical connotations.
Derived from the word “rún” meaning “secret” or “mystery” in Old Norse, runes were believed to hold divinatory power. Warriors might consult them before battle, or shamans use them in rituals to glimpse the future.
Historians draw much of what we know from sources like the Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem and the Norwegian Rune Poem, which assign poetic meanings to each symbol.
Take Fehu, the first rune, shaped like a cattle horn: It represents wealth, prosperity, and the rewards of hard work.
Uruz, resembling an aurochs (a wild ox), embodies raw strength and endurance—perfect for tales of overcoming adversity.
Then there’s Ansuz, linked to Odin, the Allfather, symbolizing wisdom, communication, and divine inspiration.
These aren’t static definitions; they’re fluid, open to interpretation, which is why they fascinate storytellers like me.
In my Zion series—starting with Zion: The Beginning and continuing through the chronicles—I’ve adapted these runes to fit a post-apocalyptic landscape. Here, they’re more than historical nods; they’re survival tools.
Characters decipher rune-inscribed artifacts to unlock hidden bunkers or predict environmental threats, blending ancient lore with futuristic grit.
For instance, a protagonist might trace Uruz during a brutal storm, drawing on its energy to push through exhaustion.
This isn’t arbitrary—I researched authentic meanings to ensure they resonate authentically, then twisted them to serve the narrative. It’s like Tolkien did with his Elvish scripts or runes in The Hobbit, where they add layers of world-building that make Middle-earth feel timeless.
What draws me to runes in storytelling is their versatility. They’re visual poetry: Simple lines that evoke complex ideas, making them ideal for visual media like book covers or fan art.
In Zion, they symbolize resilience in chaos, mirroring real-world themes of adaptation in uncertain times. And honestly, incorporating them sparks my creativity—it’s like unlocking a secret code in my own writing process.
Speaking of process, let’s get practical. If you’re an aspiring writer eyeing mystical elements, runes are a goldmine. I start with research:
Books like The Rune Primer by Sweyn Plowright or online archives from museums provide solid foundations without overwhelming you. Then, I sketch them out—drawing Fehu or Ansuz helps internalize their shapes and energies.
One tip I had fun with: Try “rune journaling.” Each morning, pull a rune (you can use apps or make your own deck) and let it inspire a scene. Stuck on a character’s motivation? Draw Ansuz for a wisdom breakthrough. It’s a low-pressure way to infuse some Nordic or Celtic magic into your drafts.
In Zion, this method led to some of my favorite twists—like a rune that shifts meaning based on context, forcing heroes to question fate. It’s empowering: Runes remind us that stories, like real life, are woven from choices and interpretations. If you’re curious, grab a notebook and experiment— who knows what secrets you’ll uncover?
As we step into 2026, runes feel more relevant than ever. In a world buzzing with AI and rapid change, they ground us in human heritage while fueling imagination. Whether you’re devouring fantasy epics or crafting your own, these symbols endure because they tap into universal truths: Strength in struggle, wisdom in whispers.
From Book 1: Zion: The Beginning Of the 6-part Series “America’s Great Perfect Storm”
If runes have sparked your interest, let me know and when it’s ready, I will let you know.. You’ll dive into the Zion series on Amazon—start with Zion: The Beginning and see how these ancient marks shape a new world.
Share your thoughts in the comments: Have you used runes in your stories, or do they appear in your favorite books?
I’d love to hear! And stay tuned for more chronicles woven in runes—next up, perhaps a rune-deep dive on my upcoming podcast.
Thanks for reading, fellow adventurers. Until next time, may your paths be marked with prosperous runes.
Hello, readers! I’m Shirley Ulbrich, writing under the pen name S.M. Ulbrich, and today I’m diving into the prompt: “In what ways do you communicate online?” As an author of fantasy, sci-fi, dystopian, and children’s stories, online communication is my lifeline for connecting with readers, sharing my work, and building a community.
Hard at Work – MakingPlans
From promoting my books like the Discovering Misty series, George and the Eagle, The Covenant Fire (a standalone book), and the Zion series—America’s Great Terrible Storm, a 6-book series exploring themes of prophecy, survival, and faith with elements like Obama-era events, New Jerusalem visions, survival vaults, and culminating in a Survival review in the last book—to preparing to host my Pages Alight Podcast,
Misty the Mermaid of the Emerald Coast
I use a mix of platforms to engage, inspire, and interact. In this post, I’ll break down my methods, sprinkle in insights from key books on digital communication, and highlight how these tools help me spread the word about my projects. Let’s explore!
My Go-To Online Communication Methods
Online communication for me is all about blending creativity with connection. It’s not just about broadcasting—it’s about fostering conversations, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, and turning solitary writing into a shared adventure. Here’s how I do it:
My website is the foundation of my online presence. It’s where I post detailed blog entries, book descriptions, and updates. For instance, I recently shared “Got a New Story in the Works for Misty,” teasing expansions to the Discovering Misty series about a young mermaid’s adventures in self-discovery and friendship. I also use it to announce wins, like taking 1st prize in a writing contest, and to promote my standalone book The Covenant Fire, a Christian/LDS YA apocalyptic novel full of adventure, as well as the Zion series, America’s Great Terrible Storm. This 6-book series weaves Latter-day Saint prophecy with dystopian survival stories, incorporating elements like Obama-era collapses, visions of New Jerusalem, and survival vaults in a saga of faith and resilience. The series includes books like Collapse (focusing on early chaos), Runners, Shadows of Zion, Rebuilding, Legacy, and ends with a Survival review in the sixth book, providing a comprehensive look back at survival strategies and themes. The site links everything together, from buy buttons on Amazon to podcast trailers, making it easy for visitors to explore my world.
2. Social Media Platforms: Engaging and Promoting
Social media is where the magic happens in real-time. I use it to share snippets, visuals, and calls to action for my books and podcast.
• Facebook (fb.com/smulbrich): On FB, I post about my multi-genre tales, from the whimsical Discovering Misty to the intense Zion series, America’s Great Terrible Storm, which follows characters navigating faith, chaos, and prophetic storms across six books, ending with a Survival review. I share trailers, reader reviews, and community discussions to build buzz.
• Instagram (@s.m.ulbrich): IG is perfect for visuals. I post book covers, AI-generated art inspired by my stories—like a podcast banner with a glowing antique book for Pages Alight—and reels teasing scenes from George and the Eagle, where young George Washington and his eagle companion face storms and adventures. It’s great for hashtagging #multigenre and connecting with visual storytellers.
• X (formerly Twitter, @SMUlbrich): On X, I share quick updates, blog links, and engage with trends. For example, I posted about my YouTube milestone for Pages Alight Podcast, which lights up discussions on my books and storytelling. I promote entries like “Narrative Nook Monday” series, tying into my Zion books such as America’s Great Terrible Storm, and even chime in on fun polls to keep interactions lively.
• TikTok and YouTube: These are video-heavy for my Pages Alight Podcast, where I will dive into book themes, read excerpts from the Zion series, and share trailers for The Covenant Fire. Short clips build excitement for upcoming releases.
These platforms help me reach different audiences—FB for in-depth shares, IG for aesthetics, X for quick chats—but they can get noisy, so I focus on authentic engagement to avoid burnout.
3. Email and Newsletters: Direct and Personal
I use email lists via my website to send exclusive updates, like sneak peeks at the Zion series’ Survival review or podcast episode drops. It’s asynchronous, allowing thoughtful responses without the pressure of live chats.
4. Podcasts and Video: Bringing Stories to Life
My Pages Alight Podcast on YouTube is a passion project. I communicate through audio-visual storytelling, discussing themes from my books, interviewing fellow creators, and reading passages. It’s ideal for conveying tone and emotion that text alone misses.
To refine my approach, I’ve drawn from several insightful books:
Lessons from Books on Online Communication
• Alone Together: Why We Expect More from Technology and Less from Each Other by Sherry Turkle: This reminds me that while social media expands my reach for promoting Discovering Misty, it can lead to superficial ties. I counter this by encouraging genuine comments and DMs.
• Online Communication: Linking Technology, Identity, & Culture by Andrew F. Wood and Matthew J. Smith: It explores how platforms shape identity, which helps me craft my author persona across FB, IG, and X.
• Smart Online Communication: Protecting Your Digital Footprint by Mary Lindeen: Essential for safe promotion, especially when sharing personal wins like my newsletter awards.
• Future Crimes by Marc Goodman: A warning about digital risks, guiding me to protect my content while sharing Zion series details.
These books emphasize balance—using tech to enhance, not replace, human connection.
The Impact and Future of My Online Efforts
Communicating online has grown my audience, from 25 followers on X to YouTube subscribers celebrating milestones. It’s helped sell books, launch the podcast, and connect over shared loves like fantasy and faith. Challenges? Time management and algorithm changes. But the rewards—reader feedback on George and the Eagle or Zion discussions—make it worthwhile.
How do you communicate online? Drop a comment below, or find me on socials to chat. Check out smulbrichauthor.com for more, and stay tuned for Pages Alight episodes!
Thanks for reading—let’s keep the conversation going!
Expanding Misty’s Backstory: From Real-Life Legend to Enchanted Mermaid
As S.M. Ulbrich, the author of Discovering Misty: The Mermaid of the Emerald Coast and its sequel Discovering Misty: Friends Forever, I’ve always drawn inspiration from the world around me to craft stories that spark joy and hope in young hearts. Misty, my beloved mermaid character, isn’t just a figment of imagination—she’s rooted in the real-life magic of Misty Joy, a legendary performer along Florida’s Emerald Coast.
Today, on the blog, I’m excited to expand Misty’s backstory, weaving in elements from Misty Joy’s vibrant career as a mermaid, fire breather, stilt walker, and aerialist. This deeper dive adds layers of adventure, resilience, and wonder to Misty’s world, perfect for parents and kids alike.
If you’re new here, my blog just hit 500 visitors—thank you for being part of this journey! Let’s dive in, one word at a time.
The Origins: A Spark from the Surface World
Long before Misty became the brave mermaid we know, her story began in the shimmering shallows where the ocean meets the sandy shores of the Emerald Coast.
In my books, Misty is a young mermaid with an emerald-green tail that sparkles like sunlight on waves, curious about the world above. But her expanded backstory reveals she wasn’t always so confident.
Born in a hidden coral cove, Misty was the daughter of a wise sea guardian named Marina and a wandering ocean explorer called Triton.
Marina, with her flowing silver hair, taught Misty the secrets of the deep: how to read the currents, befriend sea creatures, and harness the ocean’s gentle magic.
Triton, however, shared tales of the surface world—stories of humans who danced on land, breathed fire like dragons, and walked on stilts taller than kelp forests.
These tales ignited Misty’s imagination, but they also filled her with doubt. As a little merling, Misty was shy, her tail often hiding behind coral reefs when bigger fish swam by.
“The world above is full of wonders,” Triton would say, “but it takes courage to bridge the two realms.” Little did Misty know, her destiny was tied to a real human legend: Misty Joy, the Emerald Coast’s own mermaid performer, whose daring acts blurred the line between myth and reality.
The Inspiration: Echoes of Misty Joy
Drawing from the real Misty Joy—whose performances at places like The Island Resort’s Grotto Pool have enchanted families for years—Misty’s backstory now includes a pivotal “awakening” moment. One fateful day, as Misty ventured closer to the surface than ever before, she glimpsed a human woman gliding through the water with grace and flair.
This was Misty Joy, donning her mermaid tail, flipping and twirling in a pool that mirrored the ocean’s turquoise hues. But Misty Joy wasn’t just swimming; she was performing feats that seemed impossible—breathing fire underwater (or so it appeared to young Misty through the waves), balancing on stilts along the shore, and soaring through the air like an aerialist.
In my expanded lore, this sighting wasn’t coincidence. Misty Joy, a multifaceted artist known for her stilt-walking parades, fire-breathing spectacles, and mermaid shows across Florida, unknowingly cast a spell on the underwater world. Her energy rippled through the waves, awakening ancient mermaid magic.
For Misty, it was a turning point. “If a human can embrace the sea with such bravery,” Misty thought, “then I can explore beyond my cove.” This encounter infused Misty with a spark of human spirit—resilience in the face of challenges, the joy of performance, and the power of bringing smiles to others.
Misty Joy’s real-life legend adds depth here: As a performer who’s popped up in community events, from Gulf-side gatherings to resort meet-and-greets, she’s all about creating magical moments.
In the story, Misty begins to mimic these acts in her own way—practicing flips with dolphin friends like Finn, “breathing” bubbles like fire, and balancing on seaweed “stilts.”
This phase of her backstory highlights themes of self-discovery, showing young readers that inspiration can come from unexpected places, much like how my own experiences as a foster mom to over 200 medically fragile children taught me about quiet strength.
The Trials: Building Courage in the Depths
As Misty grew, her backstory unfolds with trials that test her newfound spark. One stormy night, a fierce hurricane—echoing the wild weather of Florida’s coast—stirred the ocean into chaos.
Waves crashed, scattering Misty’s family and friends. Triton was swept away on a quest to calm the storm spirits, leaving Misty to protect her cove.
Drawing from Misty Joy’s aerialist poise, Misty learned to “fly” through turbulent currents, twisting and turning like an acrobat to rescue trapped sea creatures.
But doubt crept in, much like the shadows in my earlier Misty tales. Misty faced a “Whirlpool of Fears,” a swirling vortex that whispered failures: “You’re too small, too shy.”
Here, her backstory ties into real-world resilience—Misty Joy’s journey as a performer likely involved overcoming stage fright or physical challenges, performing as a mermaid in pools or on stilts at events.
In the story, Misty overcomes this by remembering the human’s fearless smile, emerging stronger and ready to lead.
This period also introduces Misty’s signature emerald tail. In the expanded lore, it wasn’t always so vibrant; it started as a dull green, symbolizing her hidden potential.
Through acts of kindness—like helping a lost clownfish find its anemone home—Misty’s tail began to glow, a metaphor for how inner courage shines outward.
This mirrors my advocacy for hope and suicide prevention: Even in dark times, small steps can light the way.
The Legacy: From Backstory to Adventure
With her backstory now richer, Misty emerges as a bridge between worlds. She forms alliances with surface dwellers (subtly nodding to Misty Joy’s fan interactions at resorts), sharing ocean secrets in exchange for tales of land adventures.
This sets the stage for the books: In Discovering Misty, she embarks on quests with friends like Shelly the seahorse and Bubbles the clownfish, facing challenges that echo her past trials.
As a parent and Scout leader who’s hosted 600-800 Boy Scouts on our 25-acre LDS church park, I see Misty’s story as a lesson in leadership—stepping up not despite fears, but because of them.
Her expanded backstory emphasizes that heroes aren’t born brave; they grow through inspiration, trials, and community.
If this peek into Misty’s world sparks your imagination, grab Discovering Misty: The Mermaid of the Emerald Coast on Amazon for the full tale, or support George and the Brave Eagle via GoFundMe.
My YouTube channel for story readings is still in the works—I’m taking my time to make it magical!
What’s one element you’d add to Misty’s backstory? Comment below—I’d love to hear and maybe incorporate it into future tales. Spreading hope one heart at a time!
As S.M. Ulbrich, author of Discovering Misty: The Mermaid of the Emerald Coast and George and the Brave Eagle, I love diving into new storytelling adventures. Tale Time Tuesday is my way of sharing fresh tales right here on the blog, inspired by the magic of Misty’s world.
This week’s challenge? Drafting a brand-new Misty story between 2400-2500 words. Use the 4 prompts from the Storyteller cards the kids choose for me to use.
It’s a fun stretch for me, weaving in themes of courage, friendship, and hope—one word at a time.
Oh, and a quick update: I’m still working on my YouTube channel for story readings and behind-the-scenes peeks. It’s not quite ready yet—I’m taking so long to finish it because I want it to sparkle just right for you all!
In the meantime, enjoy this extended Misty adventure below. If you love it, check out Discovering Misty on Amazon or support George and the Brave Eagle via GoFundMe. Let’s spread hope one heart at a time!
Underwater Cave
Misty’s Deep Sea Challenge
Once upon a time, in the shimmering waters of the Emerald Coast, lived a brave little mermaid named Misty. Her tail sparkled like emeralds under the sun, and her long, flowing hair danced with the ocean currents. Misty loved exploring the coral reefs, making friends with colorful fish, and discovering hidden treasures. But today was different. Today, Misty faced her biggest challenge yet.
It all started on a sunny morning when Misty woke up in her cozy seashell bed. The water was warm, and beams of light pierced through the surface like golden arrows. “What a perfect day for an adventure!” Misty exclaimed, twirling in a circle. Her best friend, Finn the dolphin, swam by with a playful flip.
“Misty! Have you heard about the Deep Sea Challenge?” Finn asked, his eyes wide with excitement. “The wise old sea turtle, Grandpa Tortuga, is hosting it. It’s a quest to find the Lost Pearl of Courage, hidden in the deepest part of the ocean. Whoever finds it will bring bravery to all the sea creatures!”
Misty’s heart fluttered. She had always dreamed of proving her courage. As a mermaid inspired by the legendary performer Misty Joy from the human world above, she knew that true bravery came from within. But the deep sea? It was dark, mysterious, and full of unknown dangers like swirling whirlpools and shadowy creatures. “I want to try, Finn,” Misty said, her voice a mix of nerves and determination. “But I’ll need help. Will you come with me?”
“Of course!” Finn replied. “We’re a team, remember? Let’s gather some friends first.”
Together, they swam to the Coral Playground, where all the young sea creatures playedj. There was Shelly the shy seahorse, who could camouflage herself in a blink; Bubbles the bubbly clownfish, always ready for a laugh; and Spike the spiky pufferfish, who puffed up when scared but had a heart of gold.
“Friends!” Misty called out. “Grandpa Tortuga’s Deep Sea Challenge is on! We need to find the Lost Pearl of Courage. Who’s with us?”
Shelly peeked out from behind a coral branch. “Me? But I’m too small. What if I get lost?”
Bubbles giggled. “And what if we meet a grumpy shark? I’ll tell jokes to make him smile!”
Spike puffed up a little. “I’ll join, but only if we stick together. Safety in numbers!”
Misty smiled warmly. “That’s the spirit! We’ll face whatever comes our way, one fin at a time. Remember, courage isn’t about being fearless—it’s about swimming forward even when you’re scared.”
With their team assembled, they set off toward the edge of the reef, where the water grew cooler and the light dimmer. Grandpa Tortuga waited there, his ancient shell etched with maps of old adventures.
“Ah, young ones,” he rumbled. “The Lost Pearl lies in the Abyss Cave, guarded by trials of the heart. You must pass three challenges: the Whirlpool of Doubt, the Shadow Maze, and the Guardian’s Riddle. Only a true team can succeed.”
Misty nodded bravely. “We’re ready, Grandpa. Lead the way!”
The group dove deeper, the ocean floor dropping away like a vast blue canyon. Fish darted around them, whispering warnings. “Turn back! It’s too dangerous!” But Misty led on, her emerald tail glowing faintly in the fading light.
First came the Whirlpool of Doubt. It swirled like a giant funnel, pulling everything toward its center. “Hold on tight!” Misty shouted as the current tugged at them. Shelly clung to Finn’s fin, Bubbles spun in circles laughing nervously, and Spike inflated to twice his size.
“I can’t do this!” Shelly cried. “I’m not strong enough!”
Misty’s Home
Misty reached out a hand. “Yes, you are! Think of all the times you’ve hidden from danger—that’s your strength. We’re stronger together!”
Encouraged, Shelly used her camouflage to blend with the water, guiding the others through a hidden calm spot in the whirlpool. One by one, they slipped through, emerging breathless but triumphant.
“Woo-hoo! We did it!” Bubbles cheered. “That was like a wild water ride!”
Deeper they went, until the light vanished completely. Now they entered the Shadow Maze—a labyrinth of dark seaweed walls and echoing tunnels. Strange shadows lurked, whispering fears. “You’ll never find your way,” one hissed. “You’re lost forever.”
Finn shivered. “Misty, it’s so dark. How do we navigate?”
Misty thought of the stories she’d heard from the surface world, where humans like Misty Joy performed daring feats under bright lights. “We use our senses! Bubbles, your stripes glow a little—lead with that. Spike, puff up and feel the walls. Shelly, listen for echoes.”
Working as a team, they mapped the maze. Bubbles’ faint glow lit narrow paths, Spike’s spikes brushed against turns, and Shelly’s keen ears detected dead ends.
When a shadow monster—a tricky illusion—lunged at them, Misty sang a brave song: “Shadows fade when friends unite, courage shines in darkest night!” The illusion dissolved, and they found the exit.
“Two down, one to go!” Finn exclaimed. “You’re amazing, Misty!”
Finally, they reached the Abyss Cave, a glowing cavern filled with bioluminescent jellyfish. In the center sat the Guardian—a massive, wise octopus named Octavia, her tentacles swirling like living vines.
“Welcome, seekers,” Octavia boomed. “To claim the Lost Pearl, solve my riddle: I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but I come alive with the wind. What am I?”
The friends puzzled. Shelly whispered, “An echo? It speaks without a mouth…”
“Yes!” Misty cried. “An echo!”
Octavia nodded approvingly. “Well done. But the true test is why you seek the pearl.”
Misty looked at her friends. “Not for glory, but to share courage with everyone. We’ve learned that challenges make us grow, and friends make us strong.”
Satisfied, Octavia revealed the pearl—a radiant orb pulsing with light. As Misty touched it, a wave of bravery spread through the ocean, lighting up the deep sea.
Back at the reef, Grandpa Tortuga praised them. “You’ve proven that courage is in every heart.”
From that day on, Misty and her friends shared tales of their adventure, inspiring all. And Misty knew: every challenge was a chance to shine.
(The End – Word count: 2487)
Word Prompts: bravery, whispering, surface, and camouflage
Undersea World
Whew, that was a fun dive into Misty’s world! Drafting this story reminded me of the resilience I’ve seen in my own life—as a foster mom to over 200 medically fragile children, a Scout leader hosting massive campouts, and a patriot coordinating Overpassers for USA rallies.
Stories like this one echo those experiences, showing how we can overcome doubts and fears together.
If this tale sparked joy for you or your little ones, grab Discovering Misty on Amazon for more mermaid magic, or support my next book via GoFundMe for George and the Brave Eagle. My blog just hit 500 visitors—thanks to you!
What’s your favorite part of Misty’s challenge? Comment below, and stay tuned for that YouTube channel—it’s coming soon, I promise. Spreading hope one heart at a time!
Below is my Creation Listing for 2025. As you can see, I haven’t been using this tool very long, but I’m certainly enjoying it. The entries in the piece shows some of my books and yet-to-be published books of this year.
You can see Misty, the mermaid of the Emerald Coast, from my 2 children’s books of the same name. She’s chatting with 6-year-old George Washington and his buddy, the brave eagle.
Under that section, you’ll find the book cover for my Washington’s Fantastical Crossing, where he’s being watched by merfolk – I really hadn’t planned to write so many stories about merfolk!
The one at the bottom middle is part of my America’s Great Perfect Storm. The leopard and night-watchers are suggestive of Obama’s dream — more on that later.
The bottom left is from my YA speculative fiction, “The Covenant Fire”, a story about a team asked to locate and activate an ancient artifact, while avoiding the evil cabal chasing them to recover the artifact to use for their purposes. This artifact is meant to bring about the 2nd Resurrection and gather the Lost Ten Tribes.
“Pages Alight” is my forthcoming podcast on YouTube! Coming very soon.
Contest: Write 150 words about your life in full; don’t give just parts of your life.
I was born in a small town. Story was my first language. I learned to read the rules in school and to rebel in books. Now they’re arrows pointing injustice and wonder.
I was married young and divorced younger but I learned motherhood would be an anchor in all storms of love. Then I was married for keeps.
Mother and foster motherhood came. Six boys, two girls, two angels, brave and funny. I learned to read my heart in their handwriting and put children’s books in print.
Misty a mermaid swam in my thoughts and cried for a tiara! Faith grew where my eyes met a portrait of Christ saying, “You are enough.”
I am a writer today scheduling social media posts, recreating like fireflies; still I believe stories can cross ice floes.
My life? Untidy, hope-full, windy, full of notes of beauty, sometimes heartbreaking and often rewriting manuscripts.
Some stories weave themselves into our hearts, becoming more than words on a page—they become part of our lives. Robert Munsch’sLove You Foreveris one such tale, a children’s book that captures the eternal bond between parent and child with a tenderness that transcends generations. Its iconic refrain, “I’ll love you forever, I’ll like you for always, as long as I’m living, my baby you’ll be,” resonates deeply, reflecting a love that evolves yet never fades. For me, this book holds special meaning, as I gifted it to my mother and mother-in-law for Mother’s Day, a gesture to honor the unbreakable ties of family. Its emotional depth inspired my own children’s book, Discovering Misty: The Mermaid of the Emerald Coast, where love and connection shine through adventures along Florida’s shores.
InLove You Forever, Munsch crafts a narrative that mirrors life’s cycles. A mother rocks her baby, singing her lullaby of devotion, and as time passes, the roles reverse—her grown son cradles her in return. This poignant shift hit me profoundly when reading to my sons, now grown, in our East Texas home. The story’s simplicity—its gentle rhythm and heartfelt illustrations—belies its power to evoke tears and gratitude. It reminds us that love is a constant, even as life changes. I felt this when I wroteDiscovering Misty, where Misty the mermaid and Moriah the loggerhead turtle forge a friendship that weathers challenges, like Moriah’s entrapment in a fisherman’s net inFriends Forever. Their bond, set against the vibrant Emerald Coast, echoes the steadfast love in Munsch’s tale, showing young readers that care and loyalty endure.
What makes both stories timeless is their ability to speak to all ages. Love You Foreverisn’t just for children; it’s for anyone who’s loved or been loved. Its message of eternal devotion connected me to my Acadian roots, where family and heritage are sacred. Similarly,Discovering Mistyuses the magic of mermaids and coastal adventures to teach trust and friendship, inspired by the real-life Misty Joy, a Florida performer whose warmth infuses the series. When Misty helps Moriah or teaches a lesson about kindness inThe Missing Tiara, it’s my way of bottling that same universal love for young readers, encouraging them to carry it forward.
As a writer, I’ve learned from Munsch to keep stories simple yet profound, letting emotions breathe through small moments—like a mermaid’s smile or a mother’s lullaby. For thisThoughtful Thursday, I invite you to revisit a book that shaped your heart. Share it with someone you love, just as I did withLove You Forever. And if you’re looking for a new adventure, dive intoDiscovering Mistyon Amazon or Audible, where love and friendship sparkle like the Gulf waves.
Narrative Nook Monday: Echoes of the Forgotten Shore
Welcome back to Narrative Nook Monday, dear readers—a cozy corner ofFamily Circle 14 and S.M.Ulbrich Blog where stories unfold like whispers from the bayou, blending our Acadian and Cajun roots with threads of wonder and heart. Today, let’s dive into a tale inspired by the resilient spirits of the Gulf Coast, where the sea holds secrets and second chances. I call this one “The Lantern’s Promise”, a short story of loss, light, and the unbreakable pull of home. Pull up a chair, brew some chicory coffee, and let the words carry you away.
In the salt-kissed hamlet of Petit Rivière, where the Mississippi’s lazy fingers tangled with the Gulf’s restless waves, lived an old fisherman named Étienne. His days blurred into a rhythm of nets and knots, his nights into the hush of a widow’s solitude. Twenty years had passed since the great storm of ‘05 stole his Marie—not her body, mind you, but her spark—leaving him adrift in a world that felt as empty as the bay after a nor’easter.
Étienne’s boat, L’Étoile Filante (Shooting Star, though it hadn’t shot anywhere in a decade), bobbed forgotten at the rickety dock. He mended nets by lantern light now, not for the sea, but for the ghosts that gathered in the gloaming. Folks in town said he talked to shadows, but Étienne knew better: they were echoes. Marie’s laugh in the wind, her callused hands braiding his hair with tales of her Acadian grandmère, who fled the British expulsion in 1755, carrying only a locket and a song.
One fog-shrouded dawn, as the herons cried their mournful reveille, a stranger washed up on the shore. Not a man, exactly, but a silhouette stitched from mist and memory—a figure cloaked in seaweed, eyes like polished abalone shells. “Étienne LeBlanc,” it rasped, voice like gravel under keel, “you’ve kept my light too long.”
He froze, net half-mended in his lap. The lantern at his feet flickered, its flame dancing defiant against the damp. “Who are you to claim what’s mine?” he growled, though his heart hammered like a gator’s tail on tin.
The figure knelt, close enough for him to smell the brine and something sweeter—jasmine from Marie’s garden. “I am the Keeper of Lost Promises. Your Marie made one the night the storm came: to light your way home, no matter how far the tide pulls.” It extended a hand, palm up, revealing a tiny glass orb etched with Acadian fleur-de-lis. Inside swirled a miniature tempest, frozen mid-roar.
Étienne’s breath caught. That night replayed in his mind’s eye: Marie pressing the orb into his fist as winds howled, her lips fierce against his. “Keep this, mon cœur. It’ll guide you when I’m gone. Promise me you’ll live, not just survive.” He’d nodded, numb, and tucked it away. But grief is a sly thief; it had hoarded the promise like a miser with coins.
“Why now?” he whispered, the words cracking like driftwood.
The Keeper’s eyes softened, reflecting the lantern’s glow. “Because the shore forgets no one, but it tires of waiting. Sail out at dusk, Étienne. Follow the light to where her echo lingers.”
Dusk painted the sky in bruised purples and golds. Against the mutters of neighbors (“Old Étienne’s finally lost it”), he shoved off in L’Étoile Filante, the boat groaning like an old friend roused from slumber. The orb nestled in the lantern, its inner storm now a steady pulse of blue fire. He steered into the gathering dark, the Gulf a vast inkwell swallowing stars.
Hours bled into the velvet night. Waves slapped the hull like impatient lovers, and doubt gnawed at him—had grief conjured this madness? Then, a glimmer: not from the orb, but ahead, where sea met sky in a hazy seam. A chorus of lights bobbed there, faint as fireflies, weaving patterns that tugged at his soul. He leaned into the tiller, heart thundering.
As L’Étoile cut through the swell, the lights resolved into lanterns—dozens, hundreds—drifting on a hidden atoll, a crescent of sand veiled by perpetual mist. Figures moved among them, translucent as moonlit lace: souls unmoored by storms past, Acadian exiles and Cajun kin, waiting for their lights to be claimed. And at the heart, Marie—her hair wild as the waves that took her, her smile a beacon.
“Étienne,” she called, voice clear as a fiddle’s reel. She stepped forward, solidifying in the lantern’s warmth, her hand cool but real against his weathered cheek. “You kept your promise. Now let me keep mine.”
They talked till the stars wheeled overhead— of lost years, of the boys they’d never had, of the songs her grandmère sang to summon courage. The other lanterns brightened with each word, promises reignited, pulling their keepers home across the water. Dawn crept in, gilding the mist, and Marie pressed the orb back into his palm. “This isn’t goodbye, mon amour. It’s the light we carry together. Go build that garden again. Plant jasmine for me.”
He sailed back as the sun crested, the Gulf now a mirror of gold. L’Étoile Filante kissed the dock with a sigh of relief. The town stirred, eyes wide at the old man grinning like a fool, his nets abandoned for a shovel and seeds. That night, as jasmine bloomed improbably under his window, Étienne lit his lantern—not for ghosts, but for the living promise within.
And on fogged dawns thereafter, when strangers washed ashore, he’d share the tale: “The sea don’t steal; it lends. Just follow the light.”
What do you think, friends? DoesThe Lantern’s Promisestir echoes in your own heart—memories of loved ones, or the quiet strength of heritage that lights our way? Share in the comments below, or drop a line on Goodreads or Amazon. If this nook warmed you, curl up with one of myZion Chroniclesfor more tales of trials turned triumphs, or revisit Discovering Mistyfor seaside magic that lingers. Until next Monday, may your own lanterns burn bright. Au revoir!
*~ S. M. Ulbrich*
(Word count: ~750. Inspired by Gulf Coast folklore and the enduring love in stories like Love You Forever.)
Mastering Storytelling Techniques: Tips from a Children’s Author
Hello, fellow storytellers and book lovers! Welcome back to Narrative Nook, where we dive into the art of crafting tales that captivate hearts and minds. As a children’s author with theDiscovering Mistyseries under my belt (available on Amazon) and my upcoming picture bookGeorge and the Brave Eagle(set to release soon—stay tuned!), I’ve spent years honing my storytelling craft. Today, I’m excited to share some practical tips on key storytelling methods: character development, plot structure, and theme exploration. I’ll break them down with examples from my own work and timeless classics, so you can apply these techniques to your writing. Whether you’re penning your first story or refining your next manuscript, these insights can elevate your narratives.
Character Development: Breathing Life into Your Heroes and Villains
Character development is the heartbeat of any story—it’s what makes readers care, laugh, cry, or cheer. The key is to create multi-dimensional characters who evolve over time, revealing layers through actions, dialogue, and backstory. Start by giving your characters clear motivations, flaws, and arcs. Avoid flat archetypes; instead, show growth through challenges.
Tip 1: Use “Show, Don’t Tell” for Depth
Rather than stating “Misty is curious,” demonstrate it through her actions. This builds empathy and immersion.
From myDiscovering Mistyseries, Misty, a young explorer, starts as a timid girl afraid of the unknown. In the first book, she hesitates to enter a mysterious forest, but by facing small obstacles—like solving a riddle from a talking animal— she gains confidence. This arc mirrors Harry Potter’s journey in J.K. Rowling’s series, where Harry’s initial insecurity as an orphan evolves into brave leadership through trials at Hogwarts. To make this stick in your writing, jot down a “character bible” with traits, backstories, and pivotal moments before drafting.
Tip 2: Incorporate Internal Conflict
Give characters inner struggles that clash with external events. This adds realism and tension.
InGeorge and the Brave Eagle, George is a boy who dreams of adventure but fears heights. His internal battle—wanting to soar with the eagle but doubting himself—drives the story. Think of Elizabeth Bennet in Jane Austen’sPride and Prejudice, whose prejudice against Mr. Darcy creates delicious internal (and external) conflict, leading to profound growth. Pro tip: Use journal entries or monologues in your drafts to explore a character’s thoughts, then weave them subtly into the narrative.
Plot Structure: Building a Solid Framework for Your Tale
A strong plot structure keeps readers hooked from start to finish. I like to think of it as a rollercoaster: setup the climb, deliver thrilling drops, and end with a satisfying resolution. Classic structures like Freytag’s Pyramid (exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, denouement) provide a reliable blueprint, but feel free to twist it for surprise.
Tip 1: Balance Pacing with Stakes
Ramp up tension gradually, raising the stakes to maintain momentum. Too slow, and readers disengage; too fast, and it feels rushed.
In the Discovering Mistybooks, the plot builds from Misty’s everyday life (exposition) to discovering a hidden world (rising action), culminating in a showdown with a mythical guardian (climax). This echoes the structure in C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, where the Pevensie children’s ordinary world gives way to Narnia’s escalating battles, peaking at the Stone Table confrontation. To apply this, outline your plot points on index cards and rearrange them to ensure escalating conflict—aim for each scene to advance the story or reveal character.
Tip 2: Incorporate Twists and Subplots
Weave in subplots that support the main arc, and add unexpected twists to keep things fresh.
ForGeorge and the Brave Eagle, a subplot involves George’s friendship with a wise old birdwatcher, which provides clues for the main quest and leads to a twist about the eagle’s true identity. A famous example is the revelation in Charlotte Brontë’sJane Eyreabout Mr. Rochester’s secret wife—a twist that reshapes the plot while deepening themes of love and morality. Tip: Plant subtle foreshadowing early to make twists feel earned, not contrived. Read your draft aloud to spot pacing issues.
Theme Exploration: Weaving Deeper Meaning into Your Narrative
Themes are the soul of your story—the underlying messages that linger with readers. Explore them through symbols, motifs, and character choices, but avoid preaching; let themes emerge organically.
Tip 1: Choose Universal Themes with Personal Twists
Pick relatable ideas like courage, friendship, or self-discovery, then infuse them with your unique voice.
MyDiscovering Mistyseries explores themes of curiosity and environmental stewardship—Misty’s adventures highlight how exploring nature fosters respect for it. Similarly, in George and the Brave Eagle, the theme of overcoming fear is central, symbolized by the eagle’s flight. Draw from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince, where themes of love and loss are explored through whimsical encounters, leaving readers pondering human connections. To develop this, brainstorm themes during outlining, then track how they appear in key scenes.
Tip 2: Use Symbolism and Repetition
Repeat motifs to reinforce themes without overt explanation.
InGeorge and the Brave Eagle, feathers symbolize growth, appearing first as a found token and later as a badge of bravery. This technique shines in F. Scott Fitzgerald’sThe Great Gatsby, where the green light represents unattainable dreams, recurring to underscore themes of aspiration and disillusionment. Pro tip: After drafting, highlight thematic elements in different colors to ensure balance—too subtle, and they fade; too heavy, and they overwhelm.
Storytelling is both an art and a craft, and these techniques have been game-changers for me as I bring stories like Discovering MistyandGeorge and the Brave Eagleto life. Experiment with them in your own work, and remember: the best stories come from passion and persistence. What’s your favorite storytelling technique? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you and maybe feature your tips in a future post!
If you’re inspired, check out the Discovering Mistyseries on Amazon for more adventure-filled tales, and keep an eye out for George and the Brave Eagle. Happy writing!
Thoughtful Thursday #1: Five Endings Later: How I’m Learning to Let Go of Perfectionism
Picture this: it’s 2 a.m., my desk is littered with empty cups, and I’m staring at the fifth version of my novel’s ending. Each draft felt closer to ‘perfect,’ but never quite there. I’d change a character’s final line, then scrap the whole scene, convinced it wasn’t good enough.Hours turned into days, and I was stuck—paralyzed by the need for every word to be flawless. If this sounds like your writing life, you’re not alone. Perfectionism is the silent enemy of every writer, whispering that our work isn’t ready. But here’s what I learned after those five endings: chasing perfection can keep you from ever finishing.
The turning point came when I shared my latest draft with a trusted beta reader. I braced for criticism, but instead, she said, “This works—why are you still tweaking it?” Her words hit hard. I’d been so obsessed with crafting the “perfect” ending—a poignant, unforgettable close to my coming-of-age story—that I’d lost sight of the bigger picture. The ending didn’t need to be flawless; it needed to feel true to the story. That feedback snapped me out of my perfectionism spiral. I chose the fourth draft, polished it one last time, and considered it “done”. It wasn’t perfect, but it was done, and that felt like a victory.
Looking back, I realized perfectionism wasn’t just about the ending—it was a pattern. I’d agonize over every chapter, every sentence, afraid my work wouldn’t measure up. But rewriting that ending five times taught me a crucial lesson: progress trumps perfection. Writing is messy, repetitive, and deeply personal. Waiting for every word to sparkle risks stalling your momentum and silencing your voice. As Anne Lamott wisely said, “Perfectionism is the voice of the oppressor.” Letting go of that need for flawlessness freed me to trust my instincts and actually finish my novel.
Frustration!
So, how can you break free from the perfectionism trap? Here are a few strategies that is helping me:
• Embrace the “crummy first draft”: Write without editing, even if it’s rough. Get the words out, then refine later. I set a timer for 20-minute sprints to keep myself from overthinking. (Learned that from the Pomodoro method; helps to alleviate fibro symptoms, as well.)
• Set a revision limit: Cap yourself at three rounds of edits per scene. After that, move on. This forced me to prioritize what mattered most.
• Get feedback early: Share your work with a critique partner or writing group. A fresh perspective can stop you from endlessly tweaking. (I surely miss mine in California; shoutout to Timespinners!)
• Celebrate “done”: Finishing a draft, even an imperfect one, is worth celebrating. Treat yourself to something small—a soda, a walk, or just a moment of pride.
Overcoming perfectionism didn’t just help me finish my novel; it made writing feel lighter, more joyful. I’m still learning to quiet that inner critic – and sometimes, it’s a real battle – but each step forward reminds me that imperfection is part of the creative process. Your story doesn’t need to be perfect—it needs to be told.
What about you? How has perfectionism shown up in your writing, and what’s one trick you’ve used to push past it? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your story and keep this conversation going!
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