An Important Week: Book Release and a Special Birthday

As many of you know, I released my first novel this past weekend. Barnes and Noble finally joined the party today-- making it completely official in my head. It is hard to describe how it feels to be published. On one hand it is utterly terrifying to know that people are out there, in places I don't know about, reading my book. On the other hand, I woke up this morning to 2 five star reviews on Amazon. TWO! And it was quickly joined by another! I also have reviews on Goodreads.com and Smashwords. How lucky am I? Yes, people are out there reading my book... and some of them apparently really enjoyed it! That makes my heart soar. Not much could compare to that... except...

Tomorrow is my daughters 2nd Birthday. Really, in less than one short hour, my little baby will be a little girl. That is just as gobsmacking as selling books. I mean, sure, it is what we expect for our children. That they grow up to be happy, intelligent, well adjusted adults. But to watch it happen? To know that a short while ago she could barely speak words, yet now she forms sentences, puts puzzles together, and plays make believe... that is the most astounding thing in the world.

Yes, I am proud of the book I have published. It was a long road, that required a lot of hard work and perseverance. But my single greatest achievement is by far my daughter. There is nothing to describe the pride I feel when I look at her dance around the house or chatter at her father about her day. Honestly? The only word I can think of is: joy.

Happy Birthday Baby. May all of your dreams come true. Xoxo