Why do you write?

Plush toys from the Pout-Pout Fish book

Recently the characters from my friend and author, Deborah L. Diesen's book were made into plush toys that are now available at Kohls. I am so overcome with joy at her success because I remember the day I met her. She had in her hands the first copy from the publisher. And now the book has a sequel, a huge following and plush toys. I expect to hear any day that a kid's t.v. series is in production(fingers crossed, Debbie).

The reason I bring this up is to ask a question. Why do you write?

If asked this question about 10 years ago, I would have answered publication. Although I wrote in my journal, tinkered with some poetry, I decided to write children's books because I loved children's literature, it was what I was reading to my first child and I thought it'd be easy. I know, I know.

What soon followed was a reality check called my first SCWBI conference. I learned quickly that if my heart, soul and everything else wasn't in it then I better make a swift exit. I did however find mentors, muses and friends. They all encouraged me and still encourage me.

And today I can honestly say that my writing is no longer for the purpose of publishing or plush toys. Of course that'd be great but why I really write these days is to breathe.

So why do you write?