Pushing Towards Purpose

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.

A writer’s heart has many strings that can be pulled, twisted, and strained. When pulled at the same time, it can have a ton of negative effects. Daily stress, issues with fulfillment, and bad feelings about the level of achievement. More importantly, the stress of …

Welcome to the New Year, friends! I’m so excited that 2026 is here because I really feel like this is going to be my year. My year of expansion, my year of growth, and my year of trying new things. I cannot share every step …

Christmas time is my favorite time of year. The lights, the food, and the friends all bring me so much joy. This year has been filled with rough times, but somehow the reflection of bright lights only illuminates the many blessings that my family has experienced over this year. Christmas reminds me of the miracle of small deeds and acts that make a big impact.

I understand this is not everyone’s reality. If I allow it, even my own reality of grief and sadness can quietly slip in between the cake and the cookies. For those carrying unseen battles, especially mental ones, I always whisper a small prayer. It could have been me, truthfully, just two years ago, it was me.

To all the friends, family, and souls who are struggling right now: it’s okay. Take the time you need. Take a breath. Let yourself cry. You are not weak for feeling. You are human. And most of all, you are not alone. 💛

For some people, retail therapy, or even a holiday day trip make Christmas fun. Spending the holidays relaxing with family and refreshing my heart and mind is where I find solace. But mostly I love the downtime. Watching holiday classic films like Scrooge, The Family Man, The Santa Clause, or Die Hard. And before you even think it, argue with someone else over Die Hard being a Christmas movie. It is and will always be!

I love having the space to dream and ideate about holiday love stories waiting to be brought to life. I love the free time to read books that make my heart pump. Cozy mysteries, interesting fictional environments, and, of course, love stories that remind me of magic. The crisp scent of snow and the sight of joyful faces spark a kind of inspiration I don’t feel at any other time of year.

So, from the desk of TanelaWrites, here is my Christmas wish for you.

I pray you have a Merry Christmas. I want everyone in my circle and beyond to feel the love and joy of the holidays and the joy of life. Christmas time should have moments of happiness mixed with nostalgic love for things that really matter. I am hopeful that everyone has the opportunity to live, laugh, and love with people who make a difference in their lives.

Merry Christmas to you all.

Book Cover- Cherrywood Inn Let Me Love You

Introducing My New Book: Cherrywood Inn – Let Me Love You

There’s a special kind of magic in stories that blend healing, hope, and unexpected romance—and I’m thrilled to share that my newest book, Cherrywood Inn: Let Me Love You, is officially here.

This story follows Sara Whitmore, a once-renowned New Orleans chef who’s traded the chaos of her past for the quiet refuge of Cherrywood Inn. She’s determined to rebuild her life on her own terms, until Randy Duncan walks back into her world and stirs up feelings she isn’t sure she’s ready to face.

What begins as a gentle reconnection soon becomes a journey of trust, courage, and love in the most unexpected place. If you enjoy small-town charm, heartfelt second chances, and characters who feel real enough to sit and chat with, this book was written with you in mind.

I can’t wait for you to step inside Cherrywood Inn, meet Sara and Randy, and experience the heart of their story.
Thank you for being on this journey with me.

Welcome back to Cherrywood Inn. 💛