It's with much excitement and exuberance I write this blog post.

I'm a published author. 

What does that mean? It's hard to put into words if you haven't been there but let me give it a go. Imagine that you've just won the lottery, found out you got that promotion you wanted, and met your favorite movie star all at once. There's just this energy that fills you when you realize and accept that you've created this work with your own two hands.

 
I'm a sometimes artist as well and I've had my work utilized for book covers and other things over my life. It was great seeing my work out there. It really was, but the feeling pales in comparison to having this book, this paper child, held in your hands. The rush of holding this thing that you've labored to bring into existence is something that I really hope persists over the long term.

 
My only advice is that if you're thinking of, in the process of, or even musing that you could be, writing a book then do so. Even if it goes nowhere, or makes no money, you will still have a sense of accomplishment that will invigorate you. Don't pass it up.

Before I run off to bask in this accomplishment I want to take a moment to thank the people that helped me get to this point.

My wife Heather first. She's been incredible and supportive and never doubted that I could do this. When I had concerns about what I was writing she was there to give me critical feedback as well as encouraging me to keep working. Heather passed on her own experiences to me as well as made sure I had time to write by taking on some of my household responsibilities. She's also an author and is working on her third book amongst several other projects so I appreciate her taking the time for mine.

Second I would like to thank fellow author and someone who's essentially part of my family Ren Cummins. He and I talk nearly every day and he functioned as a great sounding board for my ideas. He too offered a lot of support both professionally and emotionally. His insights and experiences helped me avoid some of the pitfalls he has run into.

Next my friend and editor Quiana. She's tough, she's relentless and she's unfailingly honest. The quality of my finished work is much higher thanks to her feedback and suggestions. I tend to think my friends are biased but I know that Quiana will tell it like it is. Any author or creator needs that. It anchored me and kept me going in the right direction even when I plan to keep working with her in the future and hopefully she'll decide to write something herself!

Last but not least my friends John and James. If I got to pick my family they, and Ren, would be my brothers. John and James aren't writers, they aren't artists, but they are good hard working people. They stand by their friends day in and day out no matter what. They've supported me through the writing/creative process and have been understanding when I've had to spend less time hanging out so that I could focus on my writing.

To say that all of these people have been a blessing in my life is an understatement. If everyone had these sorts of people, quality people, in their lives the world would be a much better place.

Now, off to spend quality time with my book ;)