October, 2023. My husband Mikael and I were on a date, which was sporadic and haphazardly planned between work, the kids' activities, and the general demands of day-to-day life. As he inflated the camping mattress that would fit into the bed of his massive truck and I juggled the small snack picnic we packed, I wondered how I would tell him about an idea that had been rattling around in my mind for a while and that had finally taken root within my heart.
As we settled into the truck bed, waiting to watch the splendor of the southern sky set along the lake water, we talked about our day, the kids' plans for the upcoming weekend, and the usual small talk. Somewhere in the middle, the words I had been preparing to speak took on their own life and sprang forth from my mouth, unhindered by any form of etiquette or social convention.
“I think I’m supposed to write a book,” I blurted out, surprising myself.
“Okay, then write a book,” Mikael replied in his usual smirky yet supportive way. “You’ve been talking about it for a while; do it.”
“All right then,” I remember thinking, “maybe I will!”
As we sat there, he asked me what I would write about, and I found myself encouraged by his questions and gentle prompting. I now know that this would kickstart a barrage of “Are you sure it's good, or are you just saying that because you have to?” questions aimed at him.
Too soon, the sun had set, our snacks were finished, our warm drinks were drunk, and the encroaching shadows and sounds of nocturnal animals heralded the ending of our date.
As the days passed, the story that had rattled around my mind and heart began to take shape, written on scraps of paper and napkins. Eventually, something beautiful emerged as I started carrying around a small notebook, constantly scribbling character names, plot lines, possible twists, and secret betrayals.
Between dinner plans and piano lessons, the first book of the Parable Saga Series, The Black Gate, was penned.
Looking Ahead
As I look to the future, I’m filled with an exhilarating sense of possibility. Writing this book isn’t just a personal journey; it’s a gateway to a world I can’t wait to share. With each word I write, I envision a vibrant community of readers who will join me on this adventure and immerse themselves in the tales I create.
I’m excited to see how the characters will evolve, how the plot will twist and turn, and how the themes will resonate with others. The thought of The Black Gate inspiring conversations, igniting imaginations, and perhaps even sparking a love for storytelling in others fills me with joy.
As I continue to weave this story together amidst the chaos of life, I’m reminded that this is just the beginning. There are more stories waiting to be told, more adventures on the horizon, and more connections to be made.
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