Five years ago today, I said goodbye to my mother-in-law. I made her many promises that day, not the least of which was fulfilling her dream for The Denim Jungle.
I have enough self awareness to know that this journey has been about much more than just the book. It’s be a way for me to direct the many emotions of grief into positive action. It’s been a way for me to provide a positive example (especially to my kids) of the power of commitment and legacy. It’s been a way for me to stay connected to Sue’s joy, optimism, and tenacity.
For those of you who’ve followed this journey, THANK YOU. You were my life line. You were my reason to write, to hope, to learn, and to grow.
For those of you who simply like The Denim Jungle and happened to stumble here: WELCOME! As you might have noticed by now, this is not your traditional publishing house. This is a place where books (dreams really) are infused with meaning and crafted with purpose.
I don’t know what the next five years will hold, but I do know I’m not done creating and sharing stories that need to be told. I hope you love The Denim Jungle for all that it is, and I hope you’ll continue to share this journey with me.
As a thank you, here’s the video of me opening the first copy of my first book. I hope my joy spills over and fuels whatever dream lies waiting inside of you.
My Castle Heart Publications 
Best. Feeling. Ever. Did you cry after you turned the camera off? 😉
Oh, you know I did! I actually did another video after I read through it and started thanking everyone and crying. It’s Grammy acceptance speech material, I tell ya. 😉
I love, love, love this! My personal excitement was high when we received and opened our copy, I can’t even imagine the flood of emotion that must have come over you. I absolutely understand your need to put the camera down. Congratulations! What an amazing accomplishment. I know Sue is very proud of you – not just for accomplishing this dream, but for how you did it and how above and beyond spectacular the book is – it is truly exceptional. As a side note, you found an amazing illustrator -she captured your story brilliantly.