"Someone else's opinion of you is none of your business." I've heard this quote from a few different places so I don't know where it originates from, but it doesn't matter. I have been leaning on it for several years and specifically, the past few weeks. I'm well aware how the Internet brings out the worst in people. I've been on Twitter far longer than most people -- hello 2008. And I've been writing online for years, but never paid much attention to the comments section of articles (mostly trolls!). Save for a few brutal gut punches over the years, I've dealt very little with criticism of my writing or myself in general. Amazon and Goodreads reviews of my first book are another ball game. People who leave these reviews are not … [Read more...]

It's high time I did a new book review post, friends! I've been blessed with the ability to read fast and amid distraction, which is why somehow I'm still getting a lot of books done despite having a new baby, a book release and a full-time job. What can I say? I love books! I've done a ton of book reviews, many of which can be found in this link if you need more! And also...I wrote a book! So check it out if you are looking for an inspiring memoir :) Here is a new list I've read recently and hope it will help you make your next selection! 1. Lilac Girls There is an endless supply of World War II novels and for good reason. So many of them are based on incredible, true stories that need to be written. Lilac Girls is no exception! … [Read more...]

One of the biggest questions I've gotten since I announced that my first was being published is how I was able to get a book deal. It's a a far-off dream that many people have but the process is daunting to think about. I'd have been saying for nearly my entire life that I wanted to write a book "someday." So how did my book go from pipe dream to reality? How long did the book take? About 5 years. I would start it and stop, put it away for months at a time. Then I got inspired to finish writing, which you can read about here. How long from getting a book deal to getting published? My book agent took me on as a client in like May of 2017, the book deal came through in August of that year and the book was published in June of … [Read more...]

Age: Almost 13 weeks Weight: 13 pounds Sleep: Um, I hate to say this for the poor mommas out there that don't have good sleepers, but I have been handsomely blessed with an incredible sleeper. She has never gotten up more than twice a night and usually sleeps the majority of the night. Each night is a little different but last night she slept from 7:30pm-5:30am. I mean, I thought Jacob was a good sleeper and even he wasn't doing this well until he hit about 4 months. I honestly feel like I didn't even have to experience newborn sleep deprivation at all. Trust me, ya'll, that is what my BIGGEST fear was because I hate it so so so much. Whether it was answered prayers or pure luck, I'll take it. Oh -- and she was in the Rock n' Play … [Read more...]