The Story Behind Alpha Academy
Life has a funny way of leading us exactly where we’re meant to be.
Three years ago, on March 31, 2022, we closed the doors to House Of Playful Soul (HOPS). It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. HOPS was more than just a business—it was a space built on love, connection, and community. But as much as I wanted to keep it going, the demands of running it alongside my full-time job and family became too much. Walking away felt like the end of something I had poured my heart into, and honestly, I wasn’t sure what came next.
I tried pivoting with new projects—A Tot’s Life Box, The KidsGiving Project—but each time, I found myself stretched too thin. It felt like I was chasing different paths, searching for something that fit. But what I’ve learned is that sometimes, the path chooses you.
The Moment Everything Clicked
Last fall, while unpacking boxes from our move, I stumbled upon something I had nearly forgotten about—a children’s book I had written years ago prior to opening HOPS. I didn’t think much of it because while I had been excited when I first wrote it, I never promoted it because, truthfully, I wasn’t proud of it. The illustrations didn’t match my vision, and I felt like I had missed the mark. So, I tucked it away and moved on.
But then, my kids found it.
They were obsessed. Hudsen was rediscovering it while Emmrett and Sawyer were discovering it for the first time. They wanted to read it over and over. And before I knew it, they were brainstorming ideas on how to make it better—new characters, different designs, fresh perspectives. Their excitement was contagious so we decided to rewrite and redesign it. What started as a simple family project turned into something far more meaningful. My kids began dreaming up new stories, and before long, KidsGiving Press was born—not through a meticulously planned business strategy, but through an organic process rooted in love, collaboration, and purpose. Through KidsGiving Press, we’ll develop and distribute our children’s book series Alpha Academy.
KidsGiving Press represents everything I hoped to create with HOPS: a space to foster community, connection, and giving back. Through our books, we aim to tell stories that inspire kindness and empathy while setting aside 20% of net sales to fund scholarships in underserved communities like partnering with local schools in need to provide direct support for their educational journeys. We also plan to collaborate with libraries and community centers to host storytelling events, creating opportunities for engagement and connection at a grassroots level. This time, though, I get to share the journey with my children as co-owners, making it even more special. Together, we’re crafting children’s stories that not only entertain but also make a difference.
The Magic of Three
Maybe it was always meant to happen this way, because three has always been my magic number.
Three was my jersey number when I played sports. My mom was sister #3. I have three brothers. Three kids. Somehow, three has always been my center. Somehow, 3 is my center, and now, releasing Alpha Academy exactly three years from the day we closed HOPS feels like more than just timing. It is meant to be.
With the release of Alpha Academy on March 31, 2025, a brand new chapter begins. This journey reminds me that life’s pivots aren’t failures; they’re redirections. And sometimes, they lead us exactly where we’re meant to be.
Be Part of the Story
Alpha Academy is officially available for pre-order, and all pre-orders get 10% off! If you’d like to support us, grab your copy today—it’s the perfect addition to any home library or a thoughtful gift for a teacher, friend, or young reader.
We have so many people to thank—for believing, supporting, and growing with us. The best stories come full circle, and we’re so grateful to share this one with you. 💙
