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HEART & RESILIENCENOTEWORTHY NEWS

Charissa Stastny

3/26/20261 min read

willow tree graphic
willow tree graphic

Hello, and welcome!

You’ve found your way Under the Willow, the blog for Tangled Willow Press inspiration, updates and news.

The Meaning Behind the Tangled Willow

Many people ask about the name. Why "Tangled Willow"?

To me, a willow is a beautiful paradox. It's incredibly graceful, but also resilient and hardy. It bends and often breaks in windstorms. One storm in my Idaho backyard broke half my tree off! But with time, it grew back to match the other tree, stronger than before that setback. Life can get "tangled"—full of complexities, prickly choices, and unexpected challenges. But in that tangling, we often find greater opportunities for growth, sacrifice, and, ultimately, redemption.

This is the central philosophy behind everything I write, whether the audience is five or fifty. It's also why I chose this career after teaching and raising my own children. Stories have the unique power to change and nurture hearts. I love that!

This blog will be where I share the heartbeat behind my words, the inspiration behind the ink, and the journeys that shape my characters...and me.

I want this space to be your sanctuary, too. A place where you can find encouragement, escape into adventure, and remember that even in the harshest soils, grace can find a way to grow.

Thanks for pulling up a chair and starting this journey with me.

Charissa