This is 44

Gentle friends, I have circled the sun another year. It has been an interesting journey, and it is only going to get wilder as my 44th year progresses.

I can feel the electricity of change. It is buzzing through my body, tickling me, begging me to move. I did not just survive Year 43, though there were some dark paths I am glad I kept marching through. In truth, I actually feel like I thrived.

Careerwise, I came out of my shell and felt the wind hiss and howl in my ears a bit.

I attended two author talks! Me! The scaredy cat who gets the shakes at the mention of a speech!

I had my first author signing, too. That was an absolute delight! So was the Local Author Fair hosted by SEEDs for Autism that I attended as an autistic author.

I published my first book of poetry and prose based on my experience with autism. I published my first illustrated historical fantasy.

As a mom, I found more strength to advocate for my children. I pushed myself to the limits for their sakes and did not back down when others wanted to cause harm or chaos in their lives. I hope they can channel that strength into this year and advocate for themselves as well. There have been many changes, but I think they are all for the better. Oh, to be a child again with a plethora of possibilities knocking at your door!

I suppose, given all of that, last year’s theme was courage. I think I am going to try to carry that theme forward this year into adventure.

We are a family that takes to exploration well. This year’s birthday celebration was up in Williams, Arizona at Lake Kaibab. It was not as cool as we had hoped for, but it was definitely as green and vibrant.

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Here is to more green and vibrant and to more sticking my head out to get a better look at life. Bring it on 44!