Ah, September, you were over days ago, but it’s still the first week of October, so I’m proceeding with Things I Learned in September.
The fact I’m just getting around to writing and publishing this post goes to show you just how chaotic my September, especially the last couple weeks, was. But we survived and had fun in the process. In the last two weeks of the month, I hosted two parties in one weekend, released my book, went to my grandpa’s visitation and funeral services and then my cousin’s rehearsal dinner and wedding in the same week … all in the midst of everyday life still happening.
October started with Fall Break for my oldest kids so we’ve been playing catch up around the house and taking some deep breaths. Obviously, the kids were also thrilled I dragged them all the grocery because our fridge was bare. But we all have enjoyed some slower mornings.
1. Free bagels daily from Panera is a good reward.
Y’all, somehow I got this reward from Panera, which, honestly, I hadn’t been to in a while. Some days I went through the drive-thru just to get a free cinnamon crunch or asiago cheese bagel. Other days I got a Diet Pepsi or other food too.
Well played, Panera.
2. “Jane the Virgin” is a good show.
Typically, I choose drama over comedy, but this has both. It’s quirky, funny, and keeps me wanting to know what’s going to happen. I just finished Season 3 so I’ll be ready when Season 4 starts up soon.
3. I have mutual friends with someone on “Survivor.”
Greg and I have been long-time fans of “Survivor,” so it’s especially fun to have some insight from our friends on one of this season’s players. Plus, even though we don’t personally know her, we have some rooting interest. Jessica is on the Healers tribe, which is my initial favorite anyway.
4. Self-publishing a book is hard but exciting work.
Like so many things in life, it truly takes a village to self-publish a book. Some close friends and my husband read rough drafts. Mary Carver edited it. FistBump Media helped with the interior formatting and has a great e-course on self-publishing. Makenize Shrewcraft took the cover photo. Angie Wyatt with Farmhouse 31 Designs designed the cover and social media images. Authors Holley Gerth, Jennifer Dukes Lee, and Mary Carver along with singer/songwriter Randall Goodgame endorsed the book.
I know I still have much to learn in this area, but this first-time self-published author is enjoying herself!
Thank you to everyone who has texted, emailed, and told me in person how much they’ve enjoyed “Peace in the Process.” I really appreciate the kind words and encouragement. If you’ve read my book, I’d really appreciate you leaving a review on Amazon because doing so is a gift to authors.
5. Poppy’s legacy is a valuable one.
My grandpa passed away on Sept. 20, 2017, at 92 years old. I shared in a post earlier this week that I gave the eulogy. Being with my family for his visitation and funeral was good. Despite our loss, we were reminded of his legacy that’s certainly worth honoring and remembering.
6. Somehow I have a two-year-old girl.
I know, they grow up. And I even like that they grow up. We just got here – to the full-blown, into-everything toddler years – much quicker than I expected. Rachel is full of joy and life, and I blogged about her on her birthday.
7. Comedy books may be best suited as audio books.
While we’ve been in the car so much the last couple of weeks, Greg started listening to “Food: A Love Story” by Jim Gaffigan and I was quickly drawn in. I’m not sure the book would be as funny if I was reading it silently in my head, but I was laughing out loud listening to him read his own observations on food.
How was your September? Is your October off to a good start?
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The other thing from September is all the good books that I read, thanks to launch teams I got to be one. I compiled a list of all the excellent books, if you need recommendations.
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