Naturally Lefty

If you read my last blog, you know that stepping into the spotlight hasn’t always been easy for me. Photos, microphones, being front and center—it’s all been outside my comfort zone.

But something beautiful has been unfolding through this journey. After my first book festival experience, I had another opportunity—this time at a local bookstore, Mockingbird Books. 🤩

This experience felt… different. Maybe it was the cozy setting, or it was the smaller, more intimate group, or maybe it was the children?? 🤔 

🤩 Story Time for toddlers and preschool-aged kids… !! Instead of focusing on my nerves, I found myself completely drawn into them—their curiosity, their energy, their sweet, unfiltered reactions. 🥰

They weren’t judging or analyzing me or the way I read, they were simply present and excited about the prospect of”kitty cat” ☺️ (aka Honeywhiskers)! 

As I read my story, I paused to interact with them—asking questions about the characters, their feelings, and what they thought was happening. Their little voices chimed in with excitement, their faces lit up as they connected with the story.

We talked about emotions, friendship, and kindness – and they got it. 

In those moments, it didn’t feel like I was “performing” or “presenting.” It felt like I was sharing something meaningful—and they were receiving it in the most genuine way possible.

I loved every single moment of it.

There’s something incredibly special about watching young children engage with a story. They remind you why stories matter in the first place. It’s not about perfection. It’s about connection.

Just when I thought that experience couldn’t get any better… I went back. A week later, I returned to Mockingbird Books for a book signing event. This time, I met families who were excited—not just to listen—but to take a piece of the story home with them. Seeing parents and children eager to read my book together was something I don’t think I’ll ever get used to… in the best way. 🤗

One moment that truly stood out to me was meeting a speech pathologist who purchased my book to read to her clients and students. That meant so much to me! 

To know that my book could be used as a tool—to help children learn, grow, communicate, and connect—was beyond anything I had imagined when I first started writing.

It made everything feel bigger than just a book. It became about the impact I’m making in our world. 😍🙌🏼🫶🏼

These experiences have taught me something I didn’t expect: sometimes, the things we shy away from are the very things that lead us to the most meaningful moments.

I may still feel a little nervous before stepping into these spaces and I may still not love being highlighted in photos, but when I see children smiling, engaging, and connecting with my story… all of that fades away into the background.

Because at the heart of it all is something simple and powerful:

Friendship.  

Kindness.  

Connection.

And if I can help even a few children understand and feel those things through my story… then every step outside my comfort zone is absolutely worth it. 💖