Category Archives: memoir book project

Out of My Comfort Zone

Several years ago, the desire to write my memoirs conceived. I didn’t know how far it would go or what the outcome would be. That didn’t matter to me because the more I wrote, the more the desire grew. The passion to complete the journey burned from within.

I never imagined the outcome. But I know now, God was in it.

After writing a couple of years on my own, I started mentioning what I was doing to some people and received some great advice and direction. Like a sponge I soaked in all the info I could and soon realized that I needed to join others with the same passion. I started visiting writing groups and even joined a couple. Every week, I took notes, listened to critiques, shared ideas and discussed scenes and sequels. I entered a few contests and some writing essays. I knew then that I had a story to share that would inspire others.

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I also learned that I needed a writers’ platform, so I started a Facebook fan page, a blog website, and finally, a Twitter account. Along this journey I’ve met some awesome talented people face to face, as well as through social media.


 

The time has come where I am definitely way out of my comfort zone. Matter of fact, as I timidly began this writing journey, wading into the water, it quickly went from ankle-deep to knee-deep. And the water continues to rise.

 

I am not perfect. I’m not some superwoman with super powers able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. I am just like you. I know my weaknesses and my limitations. But I am ready to go to the next level, and I daresay I go not alone. God has given me resiliency. He has given me favor and is opening doors. As I rely on Him–more now than ever–He sends the right people at the right time. Each one holds a special place in my heart and has touched me in different ways. Some plant and some water, but God gives the increase. I don’t take this experience lightly or for granted.

I had a dream. I never dreamt it would go this far.

I am about to give birth to my dream. Soon my first book, “Running in Heels: A Memoir of Grit and Grace” launches. In just a few days I will hold my books that I call my babies in my hands. For starters, I will attend book signings, blog tours, radio interviews, conferences, and speaking engagements. I may not know where all I’m going, but I remember where I once was. And that’s enough.

Do you have a dream? Does something take you out of your comfort zone? That means you are growing, stretching and bettering yourself. Does it scare the hell out of you? Good.

Go for it. If I can, you can. Reach for the stars. The sky’s the limit.

© M.A. Pérez 2015, All Rights Reserved

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Filed under memoir book project, Writing Journey

A Sneak Peek Behind the Scenes

Well, the day had finally arrived. A special day filled with prepping for my first professional headshot. I am very mindful of my followers and supporters and that I am not alone on this wonderful journey. So here I share with you some behind the scenes of my day (and not all are glamorous). Lol.

After some researching and making the appointments weeks in advance, I started the day off early for the first appointment at Hair International Day Spa. My youngest daughter, Angela, wouldn’t miss it for the world. Everything I needed to do today was right up her alley, so she met me at the hair salon.

I decided to step it up a notch and do something different with my hair. Hopefully, it pans out.

Hmmmm how short should I go?

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 A rare photo for all the world to see – and may be the last one I ever post! ((meh))

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I have chosen Chelsea to be my hairstylist and makeup artist. I trust her knowing I am in capable hands.

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 Okay. I think we’re on a roll.

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Getting in the groove.

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 “Mom …,” my daughter whispered, “there’s a lot of your hair on the floor.” Yep, 7-inches – gone!

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The finishing touch – hairspray!

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My new Bob cut.

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Chelsea did an amazing job! I just love her!

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Next appointment … to the photographer. (No time for lunch!)

I located this place searching the internet and after reading the reviews, I decided to call them. After speaking with Mary, she answered all my questions to my satisfaction. I was able to coordinate a time with her, not long after my hair and makeup session.

The studio, located in the Museum district, is in a historical home in Houston. Husband and wife team, Tom and Mary were friendly and accommodating. The atmosphere, charmingly odd, had an old-fashioned feel, and I immediately felt at ease. After changing outfits in complete privacy: show time!

Angela stood near the photographer and as the instructions began on how to turn my head and lean forward or back, look to the right or left, I saw my daughter’s thumbs up in my peripheral vision. I knew things were going okay with every click of the camera.

And so ladies and gentlemen, faithful followers and fellow bloggers, click here to see my untouched photos. I posted these on my FaceBook page and the votes were cast. I have three favorites and we will be working on them to use professionally.

Thank you for accompanying me in this journey; many more to come. After so many years, I am beginning to look and feel like a published author.

© M.A. Pérez 2014, All Rights Reserved

22 Comments

October 28, 2014 · 9:02 PM

In the Thrill of It All

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Once again, my birthday was planned by my beautiful and creative daughter, Anna Marie. She has always believed and supported my writing endeavors that I’ve started calling her my publicist. While I was on vacation, back home she rallied up my hubby, her siblings, as well as secretly contacted my list of friends. (I believe she even hacked into my FaceBook account, for goodness sakes!) The outcome being a wonderful, surprised birthday celebration for yours truly.

To my delight, I realized that my daughter planned out a theme for my birthday this year to honor me. She centered the theme with “Running in Heels,” my working title of my completed memoir. She designed and printed out bookmarks, created a decorated donation box, and had taken up a collection from donators who believe in my work.

This cloud-nine feeling by such love, the support and all that took place was surreal. I can’t imagine EVER getting used to having people who truly are fans, and those who faithfully remain in my corner, while cheer-leading me onward towards the finish-line. I have been deeply touched and I am grateful. But my work is not yet over.

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Yes, I am the author of this story. I lived and survived those years. I wrote the words on the pages through hours upon hours, throughout the night when sleep escaped me, and upon every available moment when at home in front of the computer or jotting down on a writing tablet. To my dear friends and family who have made this birthday gal feel loved and special, to the readers and fellow-bloggers who’ve encouraged my work, and to my supporters who went and will continue to go above and beyond, words cannot express the gratitude that is in my heart. Together we shall make a difference. Together we shall see this project completed.

From my heart to yours one beat at a time.

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© M.A. Pérez 2014, All Rights Reserved

16 Comments

Filed under Birthday, memoir book project