CarrieMattern.com

Thank you to all who stopped by tonight at Carman-Ainsworth’s TLC!  We had a great time coloring, playing, and even reading Papa, Why Does the Wind Blow? a few times.

Santa and Mrs. Clause were the shining stars, and the reindeer were beautiful!  Claire and Leo enjoyed the snowman crafts, cookie-decorating, and playing with their friends.  Papa even waited in line for cousin Gracen and cousin Caylin to take pictures with Santa.  I met a couple of beautiful little children and even one of my bigger children, Jeremiah, came and bought a Christmas gift for his sister Savannah.

Thanks again TLC…this event was truly memorable!

Join me on Friday night at “The Learning Community”.  It’s near Fenton and Bristol Roads; at the end of Parkwood St.  The event is entitled “Winter Fun Fest”.  It will run 4-6 p.m.  SSSHHHHH don’t tell the kids but Santa will be there 4:30-5:30.  It is completely free to enter.  And, if you are in the giving spirit, they will accept non-perishable food, a warm coat, or an unopened toy.  Look forward to seeing everyone there!

This weekend truly reminded me of what I am thankful for in my life.  It’s watching my daughter play catch with her brother and my friend’s new daughters, listening in on cousin-conversations such as; “Claire you do not take that Barbie from me,” or “Leo, please do not throw my book,” riding in a car conversing with my mom while babies slept in back, grading papers on another car ride while all my hubby wanted to do was talk, helping a friend in dire need, drinking decadent wine with dear friends, making scrumptious meals with my husband, enjoying overeating with family, missing my brother and his wife dearly, and allowing my children to cry…it is so difficult, but absolutely necessary, and I am grateful that I have family who thoroughly support me.

The proud, yet shy look on Claire’s face as I was sharing our story to a room filled with family, friends, and people she had never met before…the look of sheer determination as Aunt Candi hobbled in on crutches, fresh from her tumultuous fall…the look of anticipation on Linda’s face as she entered the bookstore searching for me…the look of joy on my mom’s face as she found her brother…the surprised look on Alicia’s face at my continued recognition…the look of Leo and my father enjoying a second read…the look of relief on my face as two dear friends arrived late…the look of pride as my husband introduced me, his “inspiring wife”…this is what I will hold dear.  Thank you for supporting me in my endeavors.

I want to thank everyone who came out to the signing today.  It means so much to me.  So, thank you Friends. Thank you Family. Thank you all for the support.  It was an amazing event.  It was an amazing day.  Again, thank you all.

Just a few hours and so much to do.  See you all real soon.

We are so excited for our first book signing on Sat Nov 21st at Pages bookstore in Downtown Flint. 134 W Second St to be exact. I cannot believe that it will happen tomorrow.  I want to thank everyone so much for their support.  It’ll be great to see all who come tomorrow.

I want to thank Pages Bookstore for this opportunity.  Also, Pages will be happy to order any title on your reading list they do not currently have in stock.