The winner is and new beginnings

The weather might be cloudy and blustery as I'm typing this, but I can definitely feel that spring is in the air and I know that's the same for a lot of you because you've been in touch to tell me about your wonderful new beginnings.

Sharing your fresh start stories with me has got me thinking about my writing journey, particularly the beginning of it, when I was juggling my writing time with taking care of a young family and working as an SEN TA.

It had taken me a very long time to find the courage to take my writing ambitions seriously but once I'd made the leap I became determined to give it my all, even with limited time and the most basic tech at my disposal!

Here's me, back in February 2017 writing and feeling chilly in my ancient Fiat Panda during the school lunch hour. I'm certain I would have been wearing fingerless gloves. The same pair that I have on as I type this post!

If you zoom in, you can see that it's Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells (my fifth book) that I'm writing and this story was told was when I was still working in school. I'd write longhand from 5 to 6 in the morning, again during my lunch break and then type it all up in the evenings once the kids were tucked up in bed.

As far as a laptop was concerned, well I didn't have one. This tiny netbook, complete with miniscule screen was what I produced my first 4 or 5 novels on!

As you can see, it's titchy but it cost very little and it launched my author career! I felt quite reminiscent when I unpacked it yesterday to take this photo. It has been fascinating to think back to the beginning and a timely reminder, given the season, that those small first steps can pave the path to success!

I wish you every happiness with whatever it is that you're getting ready to pursue!

Huge thanks to everyone who entered the giveaway. I had a lovely time reading what you're favourite spring flowers are!

The winner is

suemic2002

Congratulations! If you could please send your name, address and who you'd like the books dedicated to, to - heidiswainnewsletter@gmail.com I'll pop them in the post.

Wishing you all a wonderful April. I hope I'll be seeing you in Willowell! Publication day for Walking on Sunshine is April 23rd and I can't wait!

Order the book

There'll be a summery giveaway coming in a newsletter to celebrate the publication so don't forget to sign up if you haven't already!

With love

Heidi x