I seem to be on a role here. I’ve published two posts back-to-back before, but never four!
Besides writing, I have a photography hobby, which some of you who follow me on Instagram might know, and I’ve taken several over the years. Author and blogger Robbie Cheadle has been hosting a photography blog series, which I’ve had the opportunity to participate in more than once.
Check out some of the photographs I’ve shared, together with many others.
Having signed books at an event at my old middle school once before, I was invited to do so again! People recognized me from my previous signing as well as from the craft fair, and I even got to see some friends and fellow writers!
I sold four books. I didn’t expect to sell too many, but I did, at least, get some more exposure as an author, and that was worth it. One sweet girl even gave me a positive affirmation sticky note, which was truly touching.
Yesterday, I gave this sermon at church, whose message was about staying positive. I used examples from my life, including my writing, where I’ve learned to look for the bright side. Even if you are not a Christian, I hope you will be inspired to look for and remember all the positives in your life.
And I have one little announcement. Last month, I mentioned some stats about my site. Well, this year has now become the most popular, in terms of site views, and so has this month. Never has any month’s site views reached four figures.
I had a good time at my old high school yesterday. I sold some books, and I got to see several familiar faces from different spheres of my life. It was a learning experience for me, too. For one, I know I’ll need to jazz up my display some more at future events. My mom came along for emotional support, and I’m grateful for the help she gave. And yes, some people did notice my shirt.
Just like when I was signing books at my old middle school, I found myself thinking back to all the memories at Arundel High. Though I resisted, I did, over time, join quite a few clubs. Drama club was the most important to me. I enjoyed acting, and it helped me to come out of my shell.
I starred in six plays, including A Christmas Carol (as a Cratchit kid, which was my first theatrical role), Our Town (as the professor) and a Robin Hood play (as King John). I had minor roles the musicals, as I don’t have a good singing voice and didn’t have the patience for dance lessons.
Somehow, and it still amazes me, I was on my senior year’s prom and homecoming courts (but I went to both alone), and I was also nominated Most Likely to Succeed (though there have been times when I felt I haven’t lived up to that).
And, of course, it was during my time at Arundel High that I learned I was autistic as well as when I got even more serious about my writing. I received great encouragement from two of my teachers, who are among the three Mystical Greenwood is dedicated to. The songs in Mystical Greenwood, by the way, are available in an album courtesy of their composer, Lee Chapman! See my lyrics page for more information.
On a final note, I would like to thank Sandra Lopez for promoting Beneath the Deep Wave on her book club website and for helping bring both my books to new readers who’ve left some nice reviews.