Peenie Wallie

The joy of light.
It Illuminates our spirit as we are drawn to its source.
This is the beauty of nature, of the Peenie Wallie.
It pulls you in and takes you on its journey. Come travel with me as I wander into the mystical space of the
Peenie Wallie where joy, laughter, and surprises await us.

A proud native of Jamaica and an active mother of two, Tessa Marie Haiden received her Master's degree in Social Work at the prestigious Howard University in Washington, DC. She has over 15 years of experience working with children in special education and individuals with disabilities. Tessa's books support early learning and promote skills that lead to independence. Early learning exploration is a passion that Tessa adamantly displays in her writings. Her books are not only written to teach and support early learning but are a joy to read again and again from cover to cover!  Tessa is also the author of "Peenie Wallie" and "Quiet Please, Grandma Is Sleeping." Tessa's mantra, "Let your imagination soar!" Born and raised in Edison, NJ, Makena Hampstead is a senior in high school and a multimedia artist. When not doing schoolwork, she enjoys creating art, trying new cuisines, and spending time with friends and family. Makena, however, spends a great deal of her time serving as an Ambassador with Girls Right of Way (GROW  - www.girlsrightofway.org) working globally with youth, educating them on STD, HIV, and teen pregnancy prevention.  As a GROW Ambassador, she holds the position of the Vice-President of the GROW Sole Project.  In this position, she oversees the day-to-day operation of collecting and distributing shoes to thousands of children in need in impoverished areas of developing countries.
As the youngest of three daughters, Makena's creative inspiration stems from the love and support she has from her sisters, and the beauty she finds in the nuances of everyday life. Art has brought her so much joy in life and she hopes that her art can do that for others.