This past Sunday, February 8th, a long-held dream of mine came true. I hosted my author event at the Barnes & Noble bookstore in Wilkes-Barre, PA, and it was a day I will hold in my heart forever.

This was more than just an event for me. It was a moment I had been waiting for since I first walked into this bookstore over three years ago. That store became a personal space for me, a place of inspiration and countless stories. I dreamed that one day my own story, Karina: One Woman’s Journey from Fear to Freedom, would be present there.

And on Sunday, it was.

The afternoon was filled with conversation, reflection, and deep connection. Surrounded by shelves brimming with books, I had the honor of sharing the story behind Karina, reading excerpts, and talking with you about courage, change, and self-discovery.

This was my very first Barnes & Noble book event, which made it incredibly important and deeply special.

It was considered a “big success”—a sentiment I feel in my core. But this success wasn’t measured just in numbers, although seeing almost every copy of the book find a new home was a truly incredible feeling. For me, the success was in showing up to a place that means so much to me and allowing myself to be fully present. It was the feeling of gratitude, pride, and being grounded in my purpose.

Thank you to every single person who came, listened, and shared that space with me. Your presence and your open hearts meant more than words can say. These moments of connection are the reason I write.