Meet Connie Tate.  Connie is a wonderful author of Children’s Books.

Q:  Please give us a little background on what you used to do, what you do now, and why you’re doing what you do now?

A: I started out teaching pre-school a few decades ago. From there, I taught Kindergarten and First Grade. During that time, we had another child – three altogether. I got my Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. I taught at California State University, where I oversaw the California Reading and Literature Project. I pursued a doctorate and finished when I was 60. I then decided to follow my bliss and write stories of pets, mischief, and everyday experiences of young children who brighten the days of adults. My first book, “Roll On,” was inspired by my granddaughter Wren and a large spaghetti squash. My second book was “Scooter Boy,” and then “Sylvester’s CAT-astrophic Tale.”

Q: How long have you been living in Sedona?

A: We bought our condo in June of 2018 and traveled back and forth between Turlock, California, and Sedona. In June of 2019, we purchased a site and moved in March of 2020.

Q: What do you attribute to your success?

A: I would say that the one trait that I inherited from my mother is perseverance. Things might not be going along as you think they should, but it usually works out. You have to keep moving forward.

Q: What keeps you motivated?

A: My family. I have three adult daughters, 11 grandchildren, and I am still with the love of my life – we will celebrate our 50th Anniversary this August.

Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in Sedona?

A: The first person I met was Jonelle Klein, and I think she’s amazing. And Chuck Spence. He’s a retired college professor. We just engaged in a fun conversation, and he was so welcoming. He is more than a friend; he’s family.

Q: What advice do you share?

A: It’s the same advice that I’ve taught my children – “Whatever your circumstance, embrace it.” We live in an incredible time. There is beauty all around us. If you’re feeling down, take a walk and enjoy your surroundings. We live in such a beautiful world.

Q: What is on your bucket list?

A: To go up in a hot air balloon.

Q:  What is your favorite restaurant in Sedona?

A: We love Mariposa. We usually save that for special occasions. I also love Hudson and El Rincon.

Q:  What is your favorite music or band?

A: I love country music and little bluegrass. We enjoy going to Open Mic Night at Vino Di Sedona and listen to the locals.

Q:  If you could choose anyone with whom would you have lunch and why? 

A: I would like to have a glass of wine and talk to Marilyn Monroe because I think she was far more intelligent and had more business savvy than acknowledged.

Q: What is your favorite thing about Sedona?

A: It’s such a spiritual place. I have yet to meet an unhappy person. I think that has a lot to do with the energy here.

Q: Where do you see yourself in five or ten years?

A: I hope I am still standing, ha-ha. Traveling more, enjoying life, and having my family come and visit.

Q: Is there anything that I haven’t asked you that you would like people to know?

A: I love visiting classrooms, and I am always available to do that. One of my happiest places is being in a school with children, sharing stories, and helping them to write their own stories.

From the interview with Jonelle Klein.