There is Light at the End of the Tunnel

As the saying goes, “April showers, bring May flowers.” This has never been as true as it is this spring. With a ‘Shelter in Place’ order implemented around most of the world and the social distancing mandate due to the Coronavirus/Covid-19 pandemic, March and April may have been pretty dark months for some. Let’s hope for the flowers in May!

I am hopeful that the worst is over, although it will never bring back the hundreds of thousands of people who perished during this pandemic. We truly have witnessed and come through what is likely the most historical disaster in our lifetime. May 1^st, marks a milestone for me for so many reasons.

First, May 1^st, marks forty-five days of sheltering in place at home. Since March 17^th, I’ve been quarantined here for fear that I would contract the virus and pass it on to my mother, who lives with us. At eighty-four years old, she has several underlying medical conditions that would make it difficult for her immune system to fight such a potent infection.

During this time of sheltering in place, although I couldn’t really concentrate on the creative writing part of being an author, I did manage to plow through a lot of the administrative crap that I’ve been putting off for months. I’ve also spent a lot of time in my backyard tending to my flower garden. Over in a corner of the yard that was rarely used, I’ve started to create a new ‘Peace Garden’ using existing materials from all around my yard.

I am not sure how I would have weathered the last month and a half without being able to tinker in the backyard, keeping my mind busy, and soaking up some vitamin D, all in one shot.

Secondly, May 1^st, is the release of my 6^th book, Far Away, and I can’t be more excited and nervous than I am right now. I often wonder if this nervousness will ever go away, or will I still have it for book ten, or book twenty?

I know for some people, this is certainly not a good time to be spending money on books as money is tight, if not completely absent. I also know reading is a huge part of many of our lives, and it gives us a break from the everyday stresses, especially in these difficult times. But without the extra discretionary money that we may have once had, it’s hard to justify buying books when you’re juggling money for food, utilities, or rent.

So, to help to alleviate the stress we are all feeling, I am giving away three $15. Amazon gift cards to help you buy your next read. During the month of May 2020, I would love to hear your stories! In the comment section below, share how this pandemic has impacted you personally, either physically or emotionally. We all have a story to tell, and I would love to hear yours. I’ll choose three winners by a random drawing, and announce them in my June blog.

Lastly, May 1^st, marks the end of our one-year partnership with Larkin Street Youth Services, the organization that I pledged to donate the first year’s royalties from my fifth novel, Escaping Camp Roosevelt, to help in the fight to end teenage LGBTQ+ homelessness. I am pleased to announce that we will be sending them a check for over one thousand dollars!

In closing, I want to remind you all just how grateful I am to have your loyal and continued support. In the days, weeks, and months to come, please stay safe and stay healthy, and may we all see the light at the end of this very dark tunnel.

Warmly,

Warmly,

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