Category Archives: Blog

Have you begun your new year? I have. It started with reflection and was swiftly followed by appreciation for where I was last year and how far God has brought me to date. This time last year, I wasn’t a published author. I had no concept of how to acquire ISBN numbers or even how to get my book printed. I had never built a website, didn’t have a Twitter or Instagram account and hardly knew how to use Facebook. Social media marketing? What was that?

Not to say that I’ve arrived. I still haven’t completely grasped online marketing, but I’m not letting it stop me. Everyday, I’m gaining a new tip or trying something different because technology is constantly evolving, and the greatest achievement in this is how much I’ve learned to value my baby steps.

Case in point: Last year, Periscope quickly became the new social media craze. People began venturing from their familiar Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts and started diving into this new trend of live video streaming. It’s perfect for those who love talking, love to be on camera, or love showcasing what is happening around them. I, on the other hand, am none of the aforementioned and consequently had no intention of getting on Periscope.

However, the Lord dropped a brilliant idea on me to start something called, Heather Dawn’s Book Corner, where I would have a live book excerpt reading and discussion. Of course, the kick-off topic would be––drum roll, please––my new novel, Imbroglio. (Well, whadya expect?)
Anyway, I quelled my inhibitions, stepped out of my comfort zone, and set sail on the concept. I scheduled it, even arranged to have two guests with me for commentary. When the day arrived to go live, I had the process mapped out logically. Although I had never done a single scope, I knew it wasn’t going to be rocket science.

Oh, how swiftly the ship began springing leaks. Things weren’t working the same way for me as I’d seen with others. It was actually quite comical. See the set up for yourself.

I could’ve shied away then but I didn’t. I tried Periscoping again, and the second one was… better. I even discovered another new app for that app called Katch, making it possible to view a replay of my growth here.

So what happened to Heather Dawn’s Book Corner? When’s my next periscope reading? I get asked these questions a lot, and yes, it seems I’ve fallen off the wagon a touch, but please understand I’m trying to learn another new social craze, Snap Chat, right now.

In all seriousness, I say to that person with a vision, dream or goal who has yet to take the first steps toward making them a reality, as well as to the person who has launched and stalled, “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin…” (Zech. 4:10)

If I can step into many realms of the unknown on wobbly legs, so can you.

Thankfully, I’ve seen a dream come to fruition. I’m selling books and getting rave reviews from my readers who are thanking me for entertainment that is refreshing and unexpected. Through the bumps, bruises, and sidebars along the way toward making it happen, I’ve grown, and the best part of my journey is the relationships I’ve developed all over the world that have blessed my heart tremendously.
So I ask again, have you begun your 2016?

Gotta run. I have a date with CreateSpace.