The Unexpected Moments That Made Writing My Book Worth It

Becoming a published author has been full of surprises, laughter, and lessons I never saw

coming. Each event has been different, full of vulnerability, humor, and moments of insight that I

could never have anticipated. They have reminded me that no matter how much you prepare,

the experience will always unfold in its own way.

My first book signing was at Brewery Vivant, combining three of my favorite things: books, beer,

and beloveds. Next came Signing Day Saturday at Schuler Books, my favorite local

independent bookstore, where I met store patrons and friends who came to cheer me on. At

both events, I was deeply touched by how many people made the time to be there.

The third event, the Women Who Write and Create Expo, was hosted by Hook A Sista Up.

Before this expo, I had the privilege of being interviewed on a local PBS radio show and on TV,

sharing the story of my book and the upcoming expo. The radio interview was live, and I felt at

ease, enjoying the conversation with the energetic host and two other authors. The TV interview

was a very different experience, with me and one other author, leaving me feeling more

vulnerable and self-conscious, but it was a valuable and memorable part of the process. The

event itself was a whirlwind of networking, panel discussions, and new ideas for reaching

readers. I also officially launched my new author website, www.stephflood.com, giving my

platform depth, reliability, and legitimacy.

At the expo, the women authors took turns introducing ourselves and sharing why we wrote our

books. I spoke about my professional nursing background and emphasized the importance of

acknowledging race, culture, education, and socioeconomic status when caring for each person,

approaching every patient with a clean slate. Afterward, a tearful woman came to my table,

moved by this perspective, and shared a heartbreaking story about her dear friend, an African

American woman who had twins, was sent home despite appearing very pale, and tragically

passed away seven days later. The conversation was a stark reminder of why this work matters.

Later, another woman approached me with a question about swinging in my community. I was

completely stunned and had to admit I knew nothing about it. It was a reminder that you never

really know what is going to happen at these events.

The next day, at church, I was in line to receive communion by intinction. An elderly woman from

the row behind me grabbed my hand, stood to give me a hug, and said, “I just read your

mother’s book and thought it was wonderful.” My husband and I laughed, and my daughter

rolled her eyes. Afterward, during coffee hour, I explained to her that I had actually written the

book. She smiled, noting it made sense why I looked like the woman on the back cover. We

laughed and hugged.

Becoming a published author has been full of surprises, vulnerable moments, and unexpected

connections. Like birth, you can prepare all you want, but you never truly know how it will unfold.

And that is part of the thrill, the growth, the laughter, and the chance to touch lives in ways I

never imagined.