When I think of summer, I think of days at the lake, creek, or ocean. I remember the hot evenings in the Willamette Valley as a teenager and eating popcorn under the stars. I smell bacon sizzling and hear the slice of fresh tomatoes as I fix BLTs with my grandpa. Summer is a time to relax, to regroup and to get ready for another year of school. It’s vacation time, camping time, and time for summer camps.

This summer though was different. I was busy editing and promoting my first book release. I spent time on the computer connecting via social media, email, and the internet with my team and future readers. I made friends that I have never met face-to-face but I would not trade knowing them for anything in this world. I have entered the world of a published author. It feels strange to stay, and I still blush when people I know stop me and say, “Did I hear right? You have a book that was published?”

Through it all, I did take the time to go to the lake, the ocean, drive kids up to summer camp, spent a weekend at an SCA event, and took some art classes to relax. It made for a fun but full summer. Now it is time to prepare for the fall leaves and school. I’m looking forward to seeing what the students have in store for me this year. They always teach me something. Last year, they gave me the title and series name of Dragon’s Future: book 1 of the Dragon Courage series. I also was inspired to write another book or two. This new idea has some of my students as the template for the main characters. Maybe, just maybe, it will inspire them to read.

Hanging out with the family at Cape Blanco Country Music Festival.

“Dance with Me” My daughter and son at Cape Blanco Country Music Festival.