A Time For Thanks

Like many I have been blessed this year.

I’m thankful for…

…my families constant support. For my husband who always sees my potential and tells me all the time how proud he is of me. To my children who inspire me. There have been so many times lately when they do without me. They understand when I cannot be there because of my weekend book signings and events. For their unconditional love I am thankful.

…my critique group who have been in my life for almost a decade. They are my weekly support system when I am in doubt of my work. I can count on them for encouragement, to listen and make me a better writer. They are like my extended family. I don’t know what I’d do without them. For their dedication I am thankful.

….my social media connections and friends. It’s my forum to vent, laugh and share. When I’m having a horrible day there is a word of encouragement. When I have something terrific to share someone is adding an emoji or a word of kudos. I don’t know 34,000 people and yet they still connect at one time or another. For my friends on these sites. You are consistent supporters of my work. I know some days you must hate seeing me once again in your feed. For their friendship and tolerance I am thankful.

…for my publisher who took a chance on me. Who believed my stories needed to be published. Who takes the time to answer my million and one emails. With that I hope to make Clear Fork Publishing rich someday! For their patience and open-mindedness I am thankful.

…for my illustrators who brought life to my characters. Andreea who made the characters of Step One, Step Two, Step Three and Four memorable. Bailey’s darling drawings in My Big Tree delights me every time I read the book. She even made a snakes lovable. Sunny’s adorable penguin. Iggy Loo warms my heart every time I look at him. He’s going to be on my Christmas card this year! For their wonderful talent I am thankful.

…for my faith that gives me the strength to overcome my struggles and help me see my worth. For this I am thankful.

Happy Thanksgiving!

 

“Road To Reviews,” Iggy Loo, Day 3

I made it to Virginia. They say it’s the state for lovers. Maybe I’ll meet my girlfriend here. You know I had to make my first stop at the Virginia Aquarium. They have hands on exhibits, a nature path and marshlands. I had to have a little fun and ride the Anaconda coaster at Kings Dominion. Whew, what a
ride!

Did you know Virginia has produced more U.S. presidents than any other sate in the United States. The first peanuts grown in the United States were grown in Virginia. And the first Thanksgiving in North America was held in Virginia in 1619.

Before going for a nap I checked in with my next reviewer Jody, @jodycalkins. Check out what she had to say on my new book, Iggy Loo.

Jody writes: Iggy Loo by Maria Ashworth is a heartwarming holiday tale of a little snow globe penguin longing to experience the wonders of life on the other side of the glass. This children’s picture book is wonderfully written and illustrated to capture the heart and longing of this sweet penguin. Children will fall in love with Iggy Loo as they join him on his new journey. Iggy Loo is sure to be a holiday favorite for young children everywhere.

Jody Calkins
Freelance Writer & Editor
Emery Road Writing Services, LLC

Available: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Clear Fork Publishing. Ask for it at your local book store and library.
Hard Cover $16.99
Soft Cover $10.99