There’s something a little magical about seeing a dream take shape in front of your eyes. Today, I got to do just that. My very first book signing and meet-and-greet wasn’t just an event—it was a moment I’ll remember for a long time.

I feel like I should have one of those “First Time Author” sashes—because this whole season has been one long parade of firsts. And even though it’s been about six weeks since the book’s release, I still don’t have the perfect words to describe what I’m feeling. (Ironically enough for someone who just published a whole book.)

But today? Today felt different. Today felt real.

I shared the space with 14 other local authors, each with their own wild, wonderful story to tell. Sitting among them felt like joining a secret society where everyone has survived deadlines, self-doubt, late-night caffeine binges, and that one chapter that almost broke them. It was oddly comforting.

Somehow, I ended up being interviewed twice—which was both flattering and mildly terrifying—and was invited to be part of a podcast in the near future. (At this rate, I’m half expecting someone to ask for my autograph on a napkin. I’d sign it. I have pens now. Author pens.)

I sold a handful of books, but honestly, the sales weren’t the highlight. The real win was the people—the conversations, the shared stories, the curious readers, and even the “Oh hey, I know your cousin!” moments that only seem to happen in local events.

More than anything, I walked away feeling grateful. 

Grateful for the support. 

Grateful that people showed up. 

Grateful that complete strangers were willing to stop, listen, flip through pages, and treat my words like they mattered. 

Grateful that this little dream of mine—born in late-night writing sessions and scribbled notes—is now something I get to share with others.

Today was another first. And one I won’t forget anytime soon.

To those who attended, to those who stopped by and shared a few thoughts, reflections, or even just a simple conversation—thank you.

To those who walked by a few times, pretending to “just be looking” before finally making contact (I saw you, and I appreciated every lap)—thank you.

To my fellow authors, who made the whole experience just a tad less intimidating and a whole lot more enjoyable—thank you.

And to my buddy Charlie, for tossing my name into this melting pot of storytellers and giving me that final nudge I didn’t know I needed—thank you.

To my friends who took time out of their day to stop by, offer support, and remind me that I’m not navigating this author adventure alone—thank you.

To my dad and my siblings, who somehow always manage to add another blurb, anecdote, or accidental one-liner that might just end up in a future book—thank you.

To my wife and daughter, who supported me from the comfort of our home (and through a steady stream of texts, photos, and FaceTime check-ins)—thank you. Your encouragement traveled all the way across the valley and straight to the table where it mattered.

And finally, to my son—for standing beside me, helping hold down the fort, sharing the experience, and giving me one more memory I’ll carry into whatever comes next—thank you.

I send the biggest, most heartfelt THANK YOU I can muster. 

My gratitude is somewhere between “smiling like an idiot” and “trying not to get emotional in public,” but just know this: today mattered to me. And you were a part of it.

Your support—every bit of it—made today feel fuller, brighter, and far more meaningful than I could have imagined.

There’s more waiting at https://xinkblotz.com Telling stories, sharing thoughts, and drinking coffee. A blend of fiction, reflection, and whatever’s brewing – one post at a time.