Tag Archives: memoir

Out of My Comfort Zone

Several years ago, the desire to write my memoirs was 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 with my peers. 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 writer’s platform, so I started a Facebook fan page, a blog website, and finally, a Twitter account. Along this journey, I’ve met some incredibly talented people face-to-face, as well as through social media.

The time has come when 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 superpowers able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. I am just like you. I am aware of my weaknesses and limitations. However, I am ready to take the next step, and I dare say I will not do it 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 the 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 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

11 Comments

Filed under memoir book project, Writing Journey

Pre-Orders Available Now!

Available in hardcover, paperback and e-book!

Orders are rolling in!

I received a message from Chart House Press earlier this week which blessed me: “Seeing the orders come in is bringing me to tears, Mary. I can’t wait for people to read your story.”

Purchase thru Amazon
Purchase thru Barnes and Noble

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3 Comments

Filed under Book Marketing, Running in Heels

Cover Reveal! Release Date!

Release date: February 24, 2015! Pre-orders available on February 1st.

 

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Results are in from the cover poll! Thank you for your input. Now pop over to Chart House Press to see what our designer did with the feedback! http://bit.ly/1E7Sl5z

2 Comments

January 16, 2015 · 4:27 PM

The Time Has Come…

Please visit Chart House Press and help us decide on a cover.

 

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3 Comments

Filed under Cover poll, Pre-launch

She’s Still Amazing

Eight years ago, God saw fit to add a little girl to my family.

I never thought that I could ever love another so completely

and so tenderly as I would my granddaughter.

On her twenty-ninth day, just two weeks

after the picture below was taken with her, her mama, and I,

we weren’t prepared for what was to come in the days ahead.

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The night before her surgery … a heart-rending and tender moment …

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At 2 1/2 months old!

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And look at her now!

Thank you, Lord, for giving us your gift of Grace.

Happy Birthday, Grace Elizabeth Adams!

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To learn more about our amazing Grace, go to http://wp.me/p3iDKm-83

© M.A. Pérez 2014, All Rights Reserved

13 Comments

December 9, 2014 · 10:26 PM

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 incredible journey. So, here I share with you some behind-the-scenes moments from my day (and not all are glamorous). Lol.

After conducting some research and making appointments weeks in advance, I started the day early for my 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 a fantastic job! I just love her!

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

I located this place by 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, situated in the Museum District, is housed in a historic home in Houston. The 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 on 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

Forever Mama

As I mentioned in a previous post, Mama’s and my relationship and communication skills are a work in progress. This is good because we are so much better than we were before. You see, I missed out on doing the everyday mother-and-daughter things with her when I was a child. But as an adult, I am blessed because I get to do some things for her that she never could for me. That’s not necessarily a bad deal. I feel fortunate enough to know that there is enough stability in my life, although it hasn’t always been this way.

I enjoy taking Mama out to dinner and a movie on occasion because these simple outings mean a great deal to her. I remember taking her to her first musical about a couple of years ago to see “Annie.” I knew there would be a lot of walking; therefore, I insisted that we bring a wheelchair (instead of her walker). In more ways than one, that turned out to be a smart move. We were given great seats, close to the stage. As I watched those talented girls performing in the musical along with Annie, I commented to Mama on which ones were my favorites. But Mama’s interest centered on one thing. And one thing only. On Sandy the dog. “What a smart dog!” she’d say. “Isn’t that dog smart?” she’d ask. “Well, yes, but look at the little girl, the youngest one there,” I pointed out. “Isn’t she something?” “Yeah, but can’t you see how animals are so smart?” she squealed. “Oooh, I want to take him home with me!”

Okay, so Mama and I don’t always see eye to eye or agree on everything. What may mean a big deal to me won’t necessarily be a big deal to her, and what may seem mundane to me isn’t to her. However, we are working on improving our communication and understanding. We really are!

Just a few days ago, we celebrated Mama’s 80th birthday. Family and friends surrounded her with their presence, delicious food (at a Cuban restaurant), birthday cake, and showered her with several cards and gifts. She seemed more comfortable having pictures taken. I’m glad she’s still a part of my life. I’m glad she will forever be my mama!

Please visit She’s My Mama – posted last year.

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© M.A. Pérez 2014, All Rights Reserved

 

12 Comments

Filed under communication, Memoir

News Flash

Dear Friends, Family, Followers, and Fans:

I am super excited to announce: “Running in Heels” has landed a publishing home with Chart House Press. Please read all about this in the link below, posted just today, while waiting in the lobby of a movie theater and sipping on a milk shake. Minutes later, I chatted with a lady whom I had never met before, and upon hearing what my memoir was about, she said, “Women like me need this. Honey, congratulations! I want to go to your book signing.”

Thank you for your continual support. Our journey has just begun.

27 Comments

Filed under Author, Blog

Not That Girl

She is not the girl who scratched and clawed her way to the top. She is the girl who learned how to float to prevent her from sinking when life tried to weigh her down. Who walked on pebbles and used them as her stepping stones to get to higher ground. Who learned that childlike faith in the God above would blossom into something much greater than herself. She may have had father figures who were missing in action, but she found comfort in a Heavenly Father who never left her side.

Once dejected and rejected, she is no longer the sad little girl she once was. Don’t feel sorry for her. Applaud her, because it was during the dry seasons that she discovered an oasis. Rejoice with her, because in the darkness, she found a beacon of light. Admire her for rising above her crisis despite her circumstances. She may have started out in the valley, pecking along like a chicken digging for worms. But then the Ancient of Days taught her to spread her wings like an eagle and soar into the air over the mountaintop.

Don’t cry for her, feel sad for her, or grieve for her. If you’re looking for a lost and lonely child, she is not here. Misunderstood, she may be; a wonder to many, she may be. If you’re looking for perfection, she is not that girl. If you expect to see sophistication or to hear profound eloquence, you will be disappointed. Her past may want to dictate her future, the voices in her head play a broken song, and her name may even mean “bitter” — but she refuses to be that girl.

What kind of girl is she? A simple girl. A blessed girl. She is stronger today for everything she endured. She appreciates the beauty of living life one day at a time. She surrounds herself with those who encourage and genuinely care for her. She clothes herself with a garment of praise, amazed by the wonders of God’s grace.

Sad . . . alone . . . afraid.

Not that girl anymore.

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© M.A. Pérez 2014, All Rights Reserved

 “The past does not have to be your prison. You have a voice in your destiny. You have a say in your life. You have a choice in the path you take.” Max Lucado

 

 

12 Comments

Filed under Memoir, survival

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 in and supported my writing endeavors, so I’ve started calling her my publicist. While I was on vacation, back home she rallied up my hubby, and her siblings, as well as secretly contacted my list of friends. (I believe she even hacked into my Facebook account, for goodness’ sake!) The outcome was a wonderful, surprise 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,” the working title of my completed memoir. She designed and printed out bookmarks, created a decorated donation box, and collected donations from donors who believe in my work.

This cloud-nine feeling of such love, support, and all that took place was surreal. I can’t imagine EVER getting used to having people who genuinely are fans and those who faithfully remain in my corner, cheering me onward toward 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