I can NOT believe that today is October 27^th. One year ago today my first book, the contemporary novella, Flirting with the Competition, was published, thrusting me into unchartered territory as a newly published author. Naturally, everything else fell into place as soon as my book hit the e-shelves of Amazon and Barnes & Noble. I dropped ten pounds, paid off my mortgage, convinced Prince Harry to marry me, and discovered fat-free peanut butter M&Ms.

Okay, maybe not….

But lots of amazing things did happen over the last year. So I give you my top five (plus one bonus) list of awesomesauce adventures that have happened while I’ve been a published author.

The Best Kind of Love

My second book, and first full-length contemporary, The Best Kind of Love, was published in December. This book is very special to me and I’m so happy I was able to share it with the world.

Kissing Mr. Wrong

More book news. I published another contemporary novella, Kissing Mr. Wrong, in May. Even better? Kissing Mr. Wrong is the first in a three-book series. Look for book 2 in 2016. Can’t wait!

White House

There is something magical about the White House. No matter what party is living at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, being able to visit the White House is just cool. And I got to go there twice. First, we celebrated my birthday with a little bowling and then we got to return for a West Wing tour. I feel both patriotic and awesomesauce. (Thanks, L!)

Sedona

Not many people know this, but Sedona, Arizona is one of my most favorite places on the planet. I can’t really describe it in words. There’s a feeling you get when you visit the Red Rocks. Maybe it’s all those vortexes. Who knows. But this past August, I was able to go back with my friend T. Here we are being silly on the Red Rocks.

Winning

I AM AN AWARD WINNING AUTHOR!!! Okay, I’ll stop being so obnoxious now. But I will never get tired of saying that. At the beginning of this month, I learned that my first book – the reason for this whole post – won first place in the Aspen Gold Contest for Best Romantic Novella. I still can’t believe it! What a great way to cap off this year. Hey – if I can’t marry Prince Harry, this is a close second.

Bonus

Speaking of Prince Harry… I celebrated two years with my fur-baby, Harry. Who rescued who? I’m pretty sure I’m the lucky one. Even when he eats my pens, hides under my bed, and sits on my laptop so I cannot write, I still love him the most in the whole world. And I get the impression that the feeling is mutual.

Here’s to another fabulous year as a published author, patriot, friend, and fur-baby mommy!