Halloween 2022

 As we are entering our empty nesting phase of life, Halloween is a different occasion without kids to carve pumpkins with, buy expensive costumes for, go trick-or-treating with, or even argue with! We did purchase a pumpkin and Dainis graciously posed for me. We set up in our driveway with our popcorn machine on Halloween night and passed out fresh popcorn and candy. It was the first time we have done this since Covid, and it was good to see the neighbors. The dogs, although not terribly excited, did participate in the costumes.

Book Signing Events

I am so thankful for all the opportunities I have had since my book published in March to share our story. I have found great success in using book signing events as a marketing tool to meet new people and connect with others. At every event, I have a raffle drawing for a free gift card for those who sign up for my website and monthly newsletter. This way, I am making connections and gathering emails, even if they don't purchase my book. I had the opportunity to do some events in May for Stroke Awareness Month but then also did additional book signings at the end of October for World Stroke Day (October 29th). I also pass out postcards that tell my story and information on signs of a stroke. I want people to be aware because I was not when I had mine at age 29.  I am always looking for new opportunities to share my story and look forward to future events.

Women's Retreat

I was so blessed with the opportunity to be able to attend our women's retreat again this year and see our guest speaker in person once again, Carol Kent. Carol is an amazing woman, author, speaker, and founder of the "Speak Up" writers and speakers conference. I have been able to attend Speak Up twice now virtually and Carol graciously endorsed my first book. I met her in person for the first time at my speaker conference in TX in July and was so excited to see her again. I had the opportunity to ride to camp with two dear friends, Nancy from church and Onjalai from CTCA. We had a great weekend together, and I even tried archery with Nancy's help!