Whether it’s opening a new book, stepping into a new season of life, or walking through the doors of a new workplace for the first time, every beginning carries with it a mixture of excitement, uncertainty, and hope. This summer has reminded me of that truth over and over again.
After spending years serving in public libraries, I recently began a new chapter in academic librarianship. It has been both exciting and humbling. My public library has always felt like home. Every patron interaction, book club, and storytime has done my heart well.
As a Director of Engagement for an academic library, I will be challenged with working with an audience that is, or should be, pretty defined. The pace is different; college students tend to have tunnel vision. Focusing on their scholastic achievements and future lives. I am looking forward to being a part of their journey.
I’ve already started over once. And as I meet new people, I find myself explaining that story. Check out my blog post from last year, The Life You Ask For, to learn about that journey. I think this new chapter can be called pushing towards propose.
As if beginning a new career chapter wasn’t enough, this summer has also been filled with writing.
I’m currently (like today) wrapping up my fifth novel. The first draft is always the hardest, but my editor, Kristen Hamilton of Kristen Corrects, knows how to bring my voice forward and let my creativity shine. And trust me, balancing creativity with learning a new job has certainly stretched me. Every night after a day filled with meetings and learning new responsibilities, I sit down with my laptop and return to the fictional world I’ve been building. Some days it feels impossible. But through it all, I remember that God called me to create. He called me to share my stories, so that is what I have to do.
I am looking forward to sharing the next story in the Cherrywood Inn series. From page one, Cherrywood Inn Feels Like Love is going to grab, shake, and stop you, but when you finish, you will find love.
After all, every great story starts with a new page.