Writing and illustrating a novel for kids has been a wonderful experience this year. Completing the novel and putting it out into the world was even better, but the best experience of all has been this past week. Nothing beats the outpouring of love and support that I’ve seen in the days since my book was released.

The absolute highlight of the week took place on Saturday, when friends, family, and local community members gathered with me to celebrate the launch of Maggie and Darlene’s new adventure.

It’s been awhile since I’ve read aloud to a group this large. It was so fun and brought back memories of reading aloud to my classes each year. It helped to look out and see a few former elementary students of mine, all in high school now. Their sweet smiles and eager faces looked just the same to me.

One young lady I hadn’t seen since she was in my third grade class came to the door during my speech, and I recognized her immediately. It was all I could do to not run right over for a hug, but I waited until after I was done reading. As I hugged her neck, she told me she was proud of me, and it brought tears to my eyes. We’ve really come full circle.

Another student was there with his mom, and it warmed my heart to see him following along in his copy of the book as I read aloud. As we spoke later, he asked me to inscribe not only his book, but three other books as well- all going to former students of mine.

A few days later, I discovered this young man had left me a glowing review on Goodreads. It was my first review, as a matter of fact, and I was so thrilled. It was like getting a really awesome gift. Barely able to contain my excitement I ran to the next room, laptop in hand, to show my husband.

I’ve gotten two more so far for a total of three 5-star reviews. I know that isn’t a lot for some, but I’m over the moon with happiness. Reviews aren’t always easy to get, and the fact that people took the time to sit down and write kind words for me about my books means so much!

Another awesome thing that happened this week was completing the educator guide for my book. As a former teacher, I knew that I wanted to make something like this to share with all my teacher friends. I put it in the Teacher Corner section on the website, but you can also access it HERE.

I also got the opportunity to meet with someone from the local school system about my book, and I’ve reached out to other school systems about it as well. My dream is to have my book on school library shelves and visit the students to do an author talk and signing. What a way to combine my loves of writing, teaching and working with kids!

The excitement continued this week with making my first retail sales! Brews & Blessings in downtown Hickory, NC has stocked my books in their store! They’ve already sold several copies. I was lucky enough to be visiting the store yesterday when two customers walked up with my books in their hands to purchase. It was nice to be there just in time to sign the books for them and hear how they are giving them as gifts to children in their lives.

Over the last several days, I’ve had so many wonderful things to celebrate. This has been the best week ever! My goal when I started out writing a children’s book was to get the story into the hands of at least one kid that needed it. At least one kid that felt out of place or lonely. At least one kid that needed to know that with imagination and perseverance, you really can make the best out of a tough situation.

There’s joy to be had in the little things, and dreams can come true in lots of small steps, one day at a time.