The Book Takes a Trip

October 2023

 My little books took a trip with me to the West Coast Christian Writers conference in my hometown of Sacramento. A few got into the hands of some attendees and it’s always fun to think about Ben’s story touching a life I’ll never know.

 Afterwards, my hometown friends gathered and surprised me by bringing their books for me to sign, celebrating my official author-hood and loving on me with such kindness. Then, as we always do, we laughed our heads off for hours.

 It was a good week.

 My memoir was literally birthed in Sacramento. I drove by the hospital where Ben was delivered, where I was told he wouldn’t survive. I stayed with my friends who were with me that first day, who bore witness to the devastation of my heart not only on that day, but have surrounded me with their love and support since.

 I am a different person from the carefree California girl that grew up there. But I remember her when I’m there. I remember the innocence of thinking life would be as shiny and easy as summer vacation.

 Life didn’t turn out that sunny. But I am grateful for the innocence of that expectation. I’m grateful for upbringing that laid a foundation of faith that got me through the very unshiny times of Ben’s life. And I’m grateful for these lasting friendships that have seen me broken and made me feel loved and courageous and strong though all the years.

 I took the Californian warmth back to the rainy Pacific Northwest. My heart still felt sunny.