Table of Contents
Umm . . . What Is Even Happening?
My three musketeers and I trade videos back and forth to keep updated on each other’s lives since we live so far apart. In doing so, these impromptu videos are full of all sorts of unscripted ridiculous moments. One bestie is constantly saying “What is even happening?” and she tries to describe in words what defies description. She often gives up and turns the camera around so that we can witness the insanity of the moment. We’re talking crazy cats, rogue turkeys, and snarky teens.
Well, I’m turning around the camera so that you, my loyal readers and true friends, can witness the insanity. For the truth is, I really don’t know what all is happening, but it is proving to be quite the ride. Buckle up!
Health, Wellness, and Moving Forward
In March of 2022 my mental and physical health was at an all time low. Migraines were debilitating to the point that again I could no longer leave my home. My weight had skyrocketed as I sought comfort in food, but food without real nutrition. Depression and anxiety were rampant and while trying a new medication, I almost committed suicide.
Had I lost my faith? No, but I was certainly struggling. Besties, family, and church members were praying. One tenacious friend reached out and made it possible for me to try a nutrition program that drastically changed my life for the better. I returned to life and became able to write again. Rapunzel’s Journey was even finished on time thanks to my amazing other bestie and editor-extraordinaire. Surprisingly, I even started helping and inspiring friends to reclaim their health, and this became an important avenue for my overall health.
While I’d love to report that I am no longer battling migraines or mental health issues, I am struggling again. Fortunately, I am surrounded by great support. I am doing what I can to weather this particular storm. I’ve had these kinds of battles in the past and eventually they do pass.
Despite the mental and financial struggle* for myself and my family, I have found inspiration. A whole new set of characters have shown up, but not the ones I thought I’d be writing. Let me tell you about the surprise that is breathing new life, and lots of chuckles, into my writing.
*for those interested in offering support, click here.
Wacky Jackie Q.
Once upon a time (yes, it has to start this way), a little girl named Jackie loved to laugh and play. She had a melancholy side, but was mostly a sanguine, talkative (some might say “yacky”) child. When she grew up, she left behind her nickname of Jackie and adopted the more mature sounding “JacQueline”, but the Q kept her fun and quirky.
So, you guessed it. My name is JacQueline and as JacQueline, I’ve loved writing the more melancholy Rapunzel with several quirky characters to keep things jolly. Even during more dramatic, and often romantic, moments. And perhaps that is the common thread here. There may or may not be magic in everything I write (whether as JacQueline or Jackie Q. or whatever pen name I may go to next) but there will always be some romance. Because who can live without love? (and isn’t love true magic?)
Crazy Fun in Texas
But, let’s be real, right alongside that romance is that quirky, ridiculous tendency I have. Like maybe I’ve tried to kiss my husband in an ultra-suave move, but accidentally (HOW???) tripped and practically fallen on my face. Trust me, things like this happen when I’m around. (Prayers for my husband’s safety appreciated.)
So, when I realized I couldn’t write the next fairytale retelling series, I was pretty bummed. Then, some super silly friends (all my characters are friends) came along to cheer me up. Because what could be better than being (by the magic of imagination) transported to a German-Mexican town in Texas? Yes, all kinds of silly started happening to create The Love and Laughter series. You should see the menu for Bachmann-Hernandez Restaurant. (Was I inspired by New Braunsfels, TX? Just maybe *wink*wink*). This all and not to mention the goofy little businesses around the town square–like the florist/funeral home. My brain is a silly space.
* Get your free teeny-tiny prequel/sneak peek into the goofy town of Levercusin (mispronounced Leave Ya’ Cousin) here.
Who is Running the Asylum?
Do I really know what is going on? Well, as of writing this, I’m over half-way through drafting The Design and Destiny of Love (UPDATE: it’s now finished and available!). I’ve also gotten a good start on what I hope will be a FREE prequel and some on book 2. With my health and finances as they are currently, I can’t make any guarantees about when these books will be coming your way. But I’m hopeful (take that, depression!) that The Design and Destiny will be published fall of 2024 with the sequel (UPDATE: available for pre-order now) soon to follow. But, who knows?
What I DO know:
- God is good and my books will have a redemptive, if silly, arc
- Quirky will win the day
- Pain loses in the end
Finally, are you one of those amazing generous individuals who likes to support the arts and/or those struggling with their health? Please check out my Patreon and consider becoming a patron, if that aligns with your values. Thank you as always for your prayers, friendship, and support!
