Be Yourself.

I worked at a pharmacy years ago and everyday a guy came by to buy the newspaper. It was winter and he wore a wool hat and never ever smiled. He was cute although much older than I was at the time. I hated to see him so sad every morning. So… one morning I gathered my courage and spoke out. “I’m sure you’d look good with a smile.” Guess what? He had a wonderful smile on his face and he was even cuter. As an afterthought, would my boss fire me? No he didn’t, and the same guy always had a smile on his face when he walked into the pharmacy after that episode. It takes so little effort to smile and make people feel better. Stop frowning. You’ll get more wrinkles! Did you know that?

Discover more from

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Author: eleanorannpeterson

I’m a nature-loving adventurer and children’s book author/illustrator whose life has been an exhilarating journey. Originally hailing from Ottawa, Canada, I developed a deep fascination for wildlife while chasing after wild animals in the swamps. Although I initially aspired to become a veterinarian, my path took an unexpected turn when I relocated to Italy. In Italy, I pursued my passion for nature by earning a BS in Environmental Sciences and Territorial Management. This educational experience further ignited my love of writing about the natural world and its diverse wildlife. I’m an active member of several professional organizations, including SCBWI, 12x12PB Challenge, ICWA, and the Children’s Book Academy. Constantly seeking growth and connection within the industry, I engage with fellow writers and storytellers. Despite my affinity for all creatures, I humorously admit that my nine cats can be the most challenging animals to handle. When I’m not wrangling my feline friends, I spend my time writing, doodling, playing with clay, gardening, and exploring the enchanting Italian countryside with my husband. I also love preparing homemade pasta, showcasing my culinary skills. View all posts by eleanorannpeterson