The Pen & Paint I art exhibit is up at my local Cultural Arts Center.

This is an annual partnership between writers and artists.

Each year my writers guild hosts a contest to have authors submit their most visually stimulating poetry and artwork for a chance to have local artists illustrate their words and have both displayed in an art show.

This is my first year entering and both, one of my stories and a poem were selected!

I’m incredibly humbled to see the images that were created based on my writing.

My poem, “Forgotten Home,” is about my love of old dilapidated buildings. I always feel like they have a spirit that is crying out for some love and care — kind of how I feel when my mom doesn’t call to check up on me.

My story “A Capella Memories” is drawn from my experiences as a singer, and the fun of astounding people with my voice on the rare occasions that I still go out and perform. (I mean who doesn’t love karaoke every once in a while?)

I need to come into some money so I can buy this picture.

Even though this is my first go round in the Pen & Paint competition, I’ve had children’s books published as well as imagery added to my novels and I’m always amazed at the visuals that compliment my work.

I’ve never been disappointed by any of the artists I have partnered with.

It’s a true gift to have the opportunity to create and support the creativity of others!