WE DID IT! This past weekend reminded me exactly why I love being in my author bag. There’s nothing like stepping into a room full of people who share the same love for books, stories, and human connection. I enjoyed being back in that space……signing books, shaking hands, taking pictures, and having those heart-to-heart conversations with new readers who were genuinely excited to meet me.

One of the most powerful moments for me was realizing how far some people had traveled just to be there. To know that someone picked up my book, not only with interest but with intention, left me speechless. It’s humbling when strangers see the value in your words enough to carry them home, and it’s even more powerful when those books sell out. Yes, you read that right, I completely sold out of books at the event. That feeling is one I’ll never forget.

Inspired by Kennedy Ryan

Another highlight of the weekend was witnessing the energy surrounding best-selling author Kennedy Ryan. The line to meet her wrapped around the room, and I watched in awe as readers waited patiently, excitedly, lovingly to connect with her. That type of devotion, that type of anticipation, lit something inside of me.

It didn’t spark jealousy or comparison, but rather inspiration. It gave me a vision of what’s to come for me as I continue on this journey. I could see myself standing on the other side of that line, greeting readers who have connected deeply with my work, who are eager to meet the woman behind the words. That vision fuels me. It keeps me grounded but also hungry for growth.

A Lesson in Support

If I’m being honest, this weekend also taught me a valuable lesson. I saw firsthand that people support who they want, how they want, and when they want. And that’s not a bad thing, it’s just the reality of life.

Sometimes we expect certain people to show up for us, only to realize they don’t. Other times, strangers come out of nowhere and support us more than those closest to us. That experience sat heavy with me at first, but it also gave me clarity. It inspired me to pen this week’s Mindful Monday blog post, which flips the script. Instead of always being mindful of how we treat others, I wrote about being mindful of how we allow people to treat us. Because energy doesn’t lie whether it’s presence, effort, or acknowledgment, people show us how they feel through their actions.

This weekend was a reminder that my job is not to force support but to continue showing up authentically, doing the work, and letting the right people gravitate toward it.

What’s Next

As I reflect on this past weekend, I’m filled with gratitude and excitement. Gratitude for every single person who purchased a book, took a picture, or offered words of encouragement. Excitement because this is just the beginning.

With two books already out in the world, I’m thrilled to share that my third book is coming soon. Every event, every conversation, every lesson learned is shaping not only me as an author but also the stories I’m preparing to tell next.

So, keep your eyes open and your calendars marked. More events are on the horizon, and I can’t wait to see familiar faces while meeting new ones along the way.

This weekend showed me the power of presence, the beauty of connection, and the importance of honoring the people who show up. And to each of you who did, you made this author’s heart full.