The Origin of "Skye Takes Flight!

Many years ago in Pittsburgh, I walked into a small repair shop to get my worn suitcase fixed. What I didn’t expect was to meet a man who would forever change the way I looked at luggage. The gentleman repairing airline suitcases also ran a barber shop, and as soon as I walked in, he started scolding me for the condition of mine—loudly!

The barbershop clients laughed and reassured me that I wasn’t the only flight attendant or pilot he fussed at. Apparently, he scolded all of us! Then he said something that stayed with me for years:

“Your suitcase is with you more than your family. It goes everywhere you go. Treat it better—it’s your best friend!”

And honestly? He was right.

From that day on, I started calling my suitcase “Little Girl.” Together we traveled the world, from long flights to unexpected layovers. She kept up with me on every adventure—no complaints, no fuss—just reliability and memories.

That suitcase became a symbol of travel, adventure, and comfort in unfamiliar places. To me, she was more than luggage. She was home on the road.

On October 12, 2024, the idea for my children’s book Skye Takes Flight! arrived—suddenly and all at once.

The very first draft was titled “Ellie the Suitcase” and looked nothing like the final story. But after six hours of nonstop writing (and a little encouragement from my husband, Chris!), the heart of Skye’s journey was born.

A few days later, after refining her personality and story, Ellie officially became Skye—the adventurous, brave little suitcase who can’t wait to meet young readers.

If you love heartwarming travel stories, aviation life, or whimsical children’s books with meaningful messages, you’ll love joining Skye on her very first adventure.

👉 Pre-order Skye Takes Flight! today and be one of the first to meet Skye when she takes off!