There were times, more often than not, when I wondered if I’d ever say those words.

It is a most thrilling experience for a writer to finally see all their hard work come to fruition. To hold a book they created in their hands. To be able to call themselves a published author.

Today I am enjoying that experience for the first time. My debut novel, The Fool’s Truth, was released on Amazon last week. It came a bit earlier than I was expecting, so there was much scurrying around to finalize my website and get the word out. And there is still much to do.

But for tonight, I am taking a breath to savor the moment.

I have had wonderful support on this journey, and I was smiling all day as a cascade of texts and emails came in with photos of the book as it arrived. I’ve been overwhelmed by how vigorously friends and family, even newer acquaintances, have rallied behind me to spread the word.

So although I can now say I’m a published author, even more important is knowing how fortunate I am to have such cherished friends and family in my life.