My Gala experience - becoming an Award Winning Author

Recently I traveled to Phoenix, Arizona to participate in an an author convention and award ceremony gala. Two of my books "Encouragement for the Dyslexic" (in the category Motivational- Resilience and Overcoming Adversity) and "Finding the Dancer Within" 2nd book (in the category Children's Inspirational/Motivational-Positive Growth) were awarded through International Impact Book Awards - founder Nim Stant.

Overall the experience was delightful! I think what stood out most was that through the course of the event I felt more like family than a stranger. And that says A LOT coming from an introvert. The room was filled with 125 authors plus IIBA staff. The way they prepped before the event and carried on throughout the event was warm and endearing. They made everyone feel seen and heard. The gala felt like a once in a lift time type experience.

Throwing yourself in and putting yourself out there as an author can be rewarding but it is a trying journey as well. There are so many scrutinous details that a reader may not realize that go into writing and publishing a book. Dare I say there are 1000s upon 1000s of tiny steps up this mountain. The view is spectacular. But not everyone is willing to join on the mountain top to see the horizon full of possibilities.

I am extremely thankful for IIBA, Nim Stand and her team. They are truly lovely people with big hearts. I was privileged to be asked to join them for this experience and am thankful for my books and they way they displayed the character and esteem they were looking for.

I also thank my Lord and Savior and God of heaven above. Glory be to His name for any good that comes from my life. Life is full of little and big moments. And I do hope to make the best of them that I can.

My heart really is to step along side of people, where they're at. Everyone deserves to be encouraged, seen, heard, and given steps toward their inspirational futures. The possibilities are GRAND! For any reader that picks up my book, I am blessed and joy filled for the small way that I may be able to connect and be influential in a positive and warming to you - kind of like Nim Stant and her team. :)