The Power of Showing Up for Local - and Being Welcomed In

Long before I embarked on my #AuthorJourney, I was inspired by those who dared to carve their own path – not because it was easy, but because they believed in themselves – in their dreams – so fiercely, it became reality.

That type of conviction is beautiful.

Maybe it’s because my dad is an entrepreneur, and I grew up with a deep appreciation for hard work and hustle, but supporting local businesses has always been important to me.

So when I learned about an event featuring Michigan authors at my local Barnes & Noble, I immediately added it to my calendar – wedged between my son’s home hockey game and my daughter’s Homecoming photos.

A wonderful event benefiting the Friends of the Hackley Public Library.

It was shaping up to be a hectic day, and I honestly didn’t know if I could pull it all off. But I was going to do my best.

My plan was to rush out of the hockey arena the moment the buzzer sounded, but my son did so well, I couldn’t leave without congratulating him. After waiting for what felt like forever for him to emerge from the locker room, I gave him a proud hug – stench and all – and headed out. 

I was completely geeked out about The Trail of Michigan Authors, which featured more than 30 authors from around the state. I couldn’t wait to chat with them about their journeys, purchase signed copies of their books, and learn how I might join the lineup next year.

When I walked in, I was stunned – and honestly overjoyed – by the event’s turnout. The store was buzzing with excited energy: author display tables lined all the walkways, representing multiple genres; authors spoke proudly about their work and signed books happily, and shoppers carried baskets full of books to take to checkout.

It was a sight to see – and I took a moment to soak it in and appreciate the fact that I could very well be among them at an author table of my own next year.

I loved wandering from table to table, hearing from the various writers about their books and the paths that brought them here.

My purchases -- four fantastic books written by Michigan authors!

Some went the traditional publishing route – relinquishing control of the final product, holding their breath through the process, and ultimately being really pleased with the outcome. Other authors chose a hybrid version, blending both traditional and self-publishing elements to retain more creative control. Still others went 100% independent, embracing the self-publishing route from start to finish.

And they were all happy and excited to share their experience with me.

When I mentioned my big news about releasing my debut children’s book next spring, they were genuinely excited. They asked thoughtful questions, offered encouragement, and even stated they were excited for me to sign copies for them.

While I’m not quite ready to divulge the full plot yet, it was very cool and rewarding to share the gist and talk about my journey so far.  

They signed copies of their books for me and shared their emails, encouraging me to reach out if I ever have any questions. One woman – dressed in her flight attendant uniform to promote her self-published book aimed at first-time fliers – even asked if she could take a photo with me because she could see me as a children's author.

That moment right there … well, it made my day!

I was really excited to meet author Barbara Lynn Freedman at the Trail of Michigan Authors event at my local Barnes & Noble.

Afterwards, I gathered my new signed copies from these incredible authors and went to the checkout counter – where a portion of the proceeds benefited the Friends of the Hackley Public Library.

In my humble opinion, it was money well spent!