Highs and Lows

This week I experienced highs and lows.

Like Harold's purple crayon, I wanted to imagine what had never been done before: bring together people to share knowledge of Belize, of Garifuna, of black and white photographs printed on rag paper. Our curiosity exists to be nurtured, grounded, and released — flying among the frigate birds before the storm.

If you're new here, let me give you the short version of how we got to this moment. I've been marking this journey with what I call Sparkle Parties — celebrations I give myself, for myself. The first was the day I declared I would write a book. The second, when I finished it. The third, when Koehler Books said yes. And Sparkle Party Number Four — February 15, 2026 — was the launch of Song of Hummingbird Highway into the world.

I chose Valentine's Day on purpose. Not for roses or reservations — but to give myself the greatest gift I know how to give: a story I believed in enough to share with the world. Loving yourself looks different at every age. This year, it looked like 526 pages and a room full of people who showed up.

So excited about the people and the immersive book launch. I forgot to take pictures with all my friends — being in the moment — but their smiles are burnt into my memory. Sharing their talent in photography, performance, drumming, dancing, presentations, and culinary excellence.

And then — signing. Finding the correct page. Looking at the person in the eye and deciding how to connect with them through my favorite medium: words that paint my emotion, in gratitude. Each inscription its own small story, written once, belonging to one person forever.

Then I listened to a song. Sad, powerful, with the imagery of strength, mixed with sprinkles of sorrow. Guitar chords brought me in and out, dancing with my emotions, leaving me with a force of resilience. Vocals pulled me raw, wringing sorrow and grief through me like a song knows how to do when it finds the places you've been guarding.

As the chorus repeated, I let go of this week's challenges and filled my heart with the rapture of loving the people around me — no matter if they are elated or bewildered.

My intentions are clear. I send hope wrapped in newspaper with a recycled bow.

Song of Hummingbird Highway is available now. Order your copy at areyoucreating.com.