Free Ebook for Fifth Anniversary
- foreverpresent2
- Sep 26, 2024
- 3 min read
Today is the day the lead character of my memoir passed away. The person who was the reason behind my writing a book, which I'd never set out or planned to do. At times, I feel like it was not some divine universal timing that he died four days after my birthday. The character we all knew him to be would do something like that. Die in the month of my birth as a reminder to me that he's no longer here, but hold on until the celebration is over by letting a few days pass so I can enjoy myself. As I wrote in When Then Became Now, he never forgot the date I came into this world (I'll never forget his special day either or the day he left us) and wished me a Happy Birthday on his own Facebook page on September 22 without me even knowing. It sounds a bit morbid to think this, as I type it out, but he liked to be a jokester but a caring one at that.
The day after my birthday this year, I was surprised with some unexpected news. The memoir, a tribute to John and our friendship, won an International Impact award in the friendship, grief, and memoir category. This recognition validated my writing the memoir and it's a testament to the universal resonance of our story. It was a moment that made me feel John's presence more than ever. Everything always comes full circle, doesn't it?
I also randomly came across or was shown a post on Facebook from John's brother Mike, of a picture he posted of John with me, my mom, and my sister, and it said, "His happiest days.""
That broke my heart and made me smile at the same time. Life is never black and white—or simple, is it? If you pay attention, you'll see little signs that cause reflection . . . and often.
When writing the book, I wished to keep John, all the good parts of him, alive for his family and, with the family's blessing, to help others who've experienced what it's like to love someone with addictions or homelessness. And it's done just that. The book has kept John's memory alive and inspired and given hope to many readers who've experienced similar challenges. I can always find him between the pages when I miss his laugh or wonder where he is, and with random surprises and beautiful messages from readers who've enjoyed the book, he's always close by.
On the fifth anniversary of his passing, I'd like to give away the book so that others can learn who he was and the differences he's made in people's lives. So today only, the ebook is available to download for free from Amazon. Per your request, I can give you a free audible code if you prefer an audio version.
As a special treat, I'm also including some bonus photographs in todays blog that are not included in the book. These are personal moments that capture the essence of the love and friendship between our merging families decades ago. I hope you enjoy the trip down memory lane. If you "feel it", please light a candle or play a Led Zeppelin song in his honor today. And if Led Zep, is not your cup of tea, Pink Floyd, or Tom Petty will do. :)
I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each of you for your love and support. Your kind words and shared experiences are always a source of comfort and strength on challenging writing days.. I truly value each and every one of you.
Be healthy and thriving, my friends,
Monique
xoxo
My sister, John, my mom and me.
Wendy and her and Mike's son.
A photo of me, John took on the Alameda Beach in the 80s.
Happy National Hispanic Heritage Month!
To put a smile on your face, I wanted to share this picture of me at three years old. This is a family tradition I just now appreciated. I am so thankful to still own this little wool suit, which I am allergic to! I found out after this outfit and the blanket caused a whole bunch of reactions throughout my little body, Hijole!
I'm also going to give away a free ebook of The Unlikely Dreamcatcher for Hispanic Heritage Month! It's a short novella about the love of famila and a magical camera that takes pictures in your dreams! You can find me and my Abuela in the story, which always makes me cry.
(If you prefer an audiobook, please contact me.)
My poetry chapbook, Pieces of Me, is filled with poignant moments from my Mexican upbringing and is available for pre-order. The release date is October 25, 2024. You can reserve your copy at the link below.
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