This past year has been filled with so many blessings. Finally publishing my book in 2023, has been crazy-amazing! I knew I would feel relieved and happy to get the publishing process behind me, but I wasn’t expecting the plethora of emotions that came along with this journey.

At first, I wondered who would be interested in reading this story I had spent four years writing and preparing for print. I felt excited, nervous and anxious all at the same time—a bit like being naked in public. On a good day I thought, “I can do this…I’ve been doing those awesome Yoga moves.” And then on other days, “What the hell? Who put that giant spot light on my butt?” Definitely a roller coaster of feelings as I pushed my story out into the world.

I realized it was the worst possible time to be doing a book launch. It was Christmastime and people were so busy with travel, shopping and getting ready for guests. I felt stressed that my announcement might fall on deaf ears. I worried that my book would be just another holiday annoyance.

Then I started hearing from some of the people who bought my book. Book reviews, Text messages, emails and calls lit up my phone. And then lit up my face with pure joy knowing that my story was actually reaching people. Not only reaching them, but truly touching their souls.

Not just friends in my daily life, but people I had not heard from in literally decades crawled out of the woodwork! Coworkers from another lifetime. Distant friends…cousins that I had not spoken to in forever! Loved ones who were transported back in time to memories we had shared together; reminded of things long forgotten. Four hour phone calls with characters that are strewn throughout the story. Laughs, love and recollection cycled around like I had hopped on the warmest most amazing time machine.

They told me that my book made them think about their lives in a totally different way. Some reflected on how they might have handled my life’s circumstances. They questioned how it’s possible that I’m still alive and sane. (Let’s not rule out luck here.)

Others said I reminded them of the little things in life that matter the most, like unconditional love and loyalty. Many said they couldn’t wait to see how it all ended. A few didn’t want it to end at all. Several folks had wished they had met my father—he was a trip! Most people were shocked by the backstory that became the foundation for who I am today. Everyone was glad that I had shared it—concerns averted.

That little decision I made four years ago on Christmas Eve to write my story was more than just a roller coaster of emotions. It has not only changed my life’s trajectory—it’s reached into the hearts and minds of readers and it’s changing theirs, too.

I hope that 2024, and my memoir, All But Six inspires you to do something that might change your life, too. As my father’s last birthday card to me read: “Make your life story a book you’d want to read.”

Thank you to everyone who wrote me reviews, gave my book to friends, shared my social media posts, signed-up for my blog, sent me gifts and cards, and helped me pass my father’s legacy on. I love you all for the amazing support. I am truly blessed!

Happy New Year!

Love,

Terrina

PS—Look out 2024! I’ve got my spurs on! ; )