Hello friends.

May and Millie momentarily listening to “stay on the porch”

I like to refer to myself as a storyteller rather than a “writer.” When I say I’m a writer, I think more of journalism, I guess. I don’t do that- I tell stories. And actually what I really am is a daydreamer who writes stuff down for others to read. It’s not always easy for me, and I often wonder why anyone would want to hear what I have to say. But I am learning (slowly) that there is audience for my voice and to walk in faith.

But thank you for the support and encouragement along the way.

Also, thank you for bearing with me as I navigate marketing myself and building my following. A writer friend of mine recently reminded me that if I were traditionally published, I would still be expected to market myself. Years ago when I tried to take that route of finding an agent or publisher, I remember becoming overwhelmed and discouraged by that specific thing. They would ask for my “marketing plan,” my current SM following, etc.

If I had been picked up by an agent or a publishing company, I still would’ve been required to market myself but would’ve lost some control over my work.

Two amazing things happened at that point:

The Lord opened the door for me to keep complete control over my work and my time by putting good people in my life who showed me how.Mike agreed (kind of an important piece). And really it was his idea all along. I was the one thinking the traditional way was the only way.

You may have noticed some changes that I’ve made as I ramp up for a new book release.

My author Facebook page and Instagram are easier for me to navigate. If you want regular life updates (and dog pictures), daily encouragement, and important (maybe silly and random ) Pacific Northwest facts, follow me there. You won’t be disappointed.

I’ll save the newsletter updates for BIG things!

So here we go…

My new book is in the hands of my beta readers! I am starting to hear back from them and am excited about their suggestions for improvement. I’m so thankful for these gals. It’s not easy to read a book before it’s been edited, they are a gift to me.

Not my new cover, but a very cool AI generated image of Pauel and his wolf friend 

We are still on track to release Pauel’s story (title to be revealed SOON) in mid-December!

And btw, this story broke my heart over and over again. It’s not a sad story, but it is. It’s really just a story about life. Life is hard, a daily struggle to fight for what we love and for what’s right. And in 1885, especially for immigrants, life was even harder. I’m in awe of what our relatives sacrificed to come to America. It’s good we talk about it . . . and remember them.

Someday I’ll explain who Johanna and her family are to me. That would be a fun post!

An AI generated image of maybe what Johanna would look like. Although I don’t like the dress, she never would’ve worn anything that fancy. 

A little life update!

Mike and I have our own business now. I am very proud of him and what he does to make Washington State a better place. My job in our lobbying business is also very important, I am CEO and HR manager, also manager of the cafeteria and some event planning. Keeps me busy as well.

Just look at those kids! August 30, 1997

We celebrated our 28th wedding anniversary last month. We had lunch at Duke’s Seafood on Ruston Way, that’s our favorite fancy place to eat. And we went to the Museum of Glass in Tacoma. The museum itself wasn’t all that interesting, but the hot shop . . . wowee, I could’ve sat in there watching them create art for hours. What an amazing experience and worth the trip if you’ve never been.

Also, I have been Swedish Death Cleaning. I’m not kidding. If you don’t know what it is, here’s a great book to get you started.

Usch

The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning

Hugs and love,

Heidi xoxo