Once Upon A Book Author Signing 2019

The high of an event, there’s nothing like it. The laughs with friends and readers. The discovery of new books. The connections made and the advice given. It gives a writer hope and inspiration to keep going. It gives us reality of what we are doing and brings us together to enjoy these feats as one. They make us a stronger community.

That is what OUAB restored inside of me this past weekend.

​After taking a year and a half off, working on a secret project, and gearing up for an ‘amazing 2019 fall/2020 spring’, I decided I needed to attend an event. I needed to see my people. I was late to the party, having missed the voting and costume designing, but I didn’t care. I was going to the event and that’s all that mattered to me. It wasn’t until I was sitting in a conference room at the Bavarian Inn in Frankenmuth, MI did I realize how much I needed this connection. I was drained with solitude and doubt. My imaginative juices were low. But seeing the familiar faces, experiencing the buzz of excitement, my spirit meter started to rise. Crazy considering I thought I was doing “okay”. Words were flowing, marketing was okay, reading was getting done, and overall it was looking on the up and up… on the outside. My spirit knew what it needed. It needed a reboot and we had found it.  

The atmosphere, the people, the knowledge, the FUN, it all brightened the hope bulb once again. Along with the perks! I love getting to learn something new every time I attend one of these conferences, and I’ve been to a few: Roanoke, Penned Con, UtopYA, as well as many smaller signings and retreats. This time was no different and at no surprise. The amount of talent that was there, I came to panel day with my pen in hand and ready to take notes. I’m so grateful for authors like A.M. Hargrove, Stacey Rourke, Rue Volley, Eric Asher, and oh so many more! Just being able to talk to people, hear their stories, and share ideas is the best part of these conferences. They really rejuvenate a writer’s soul.

The best, best part… Readers. You guys amaze me with your energy and excitement at these events. And without you guys, hello, we wouldn’t even be there. I loved getting to talk with fans and new readers. And the ideas you guys have for your favorite characters is indescribable. Never ever forget your worth in this community and in this world.  
​
Love book people. Book people are my people. 

If you haven’t heard of or been to OUAB in Frankenmuth, MI, don’t let another event pass you by. Stacey Rourke and her amazing team put together quite an event that will leave you running on fumes, your brain in overdrive, and a lifetime of fond memories.
​
http://www.onceuponabookauthorsigning.com/