Celebrating One Year of Ivy Blue’s Greatest Pumpkin Playhouse

It’s hard to believe that Ivy Blue’s Greatest Pumpkin Playhouse officially launched one year ago—on October 30th, 2024. What a year it’s been! This anniversary feels like the perfect time to reflect on the whirlwind of “firsts” that have come my way since releasing my very first children’s book.

From the beginning, this journey has stretched me far beyond my comfort zone. I still remember the nervous excitement of announcing to my friends and family that I was publishing a book—and then asking them to share the news. For someone who finds it hard to ask for help, that was a big step! But I quickly learned how kind and supportive people can be when you let them in on your dreams.

Then came the next challenge: stepping into the world of marketing and social media. I had to learn how to promote my book, create posts, and share behind-the-scenes moments that captured the heart of Ivy Blue’s story. It was a little intimidating at first, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding to connect with so many readers, parents, and educators who’ve embraced Ivy Blue, Liam, and Autumn.

Over the past year, I’ve had eight wonderful school visits—each one filled with curious questions, contagious laughter, and bright-eyed students searching for the hidden butterfly on every page. And this fall brought another first: my very first podcast interview! Every experience has reminded me how storytelling connects us in the most unexpected and heartwarming ways.

As I celebrate this one-year milestone, I’m filled with gratitude—for everyone who believed in this story, shared it with others, or invited me into their classrooms. 

And to celebrate, my grandkids (who inspired the characters in the story) and I decided to throw a little birthday party for the book! It was the perfect way to mark one magical year of Ivy Blue’s journey—from imagination to bookshelf—and to remember that every dream, no matter how small it begins, can blossom into something beautiful. 

Wishing you a cozy, joy-filled fall—may your hearts stay warm, your pumpkins bright, and your dreams within reach. 

Warmly,

~Wendy