From mama to author — embracing new beginnings, chasing God’s calling, and loving every minute of the ride.

My Book Baby Has Left the Nest (and Mama’s Having a Blast!)

November 11, 20253 min read

You know that feeling when something you’ve dreamed about for years finally starts to take flight? That’s me right now...watching my book baby make its way into the world, and honestly, I’m equal parts thrilled, amazed, and a little bit in disbelief that it’s really happening.

Two years ago, I knew nothing about the publishing world. Not a clue about book marketing, social media strategy, or how to pitch a podcast, much less be on one! Now? I’m out here doing radio interviews, chatting on podcasts, seeing my story in newspapers...and (wait for it) television is next on the list!

Who would’ve thought?

After thirty years of being a stay-at-home mom, raising kids and running a household, I’m finally working...for me.And yes, it’s work. But it’s the kind of work that makes you wake up smiling and go to bed grateful. Every single day.

I love it all...the writing, the speaking, the interviews, the conferences. Every piece of this journey lights me up in ways I never expected. These are things that were never in my wheelhouse, never on my radar, and yet somehow, God decided to drop them right into my lap. And you know what? I’m having an absolute blast figuring it all out as I go.

This is just the beginning.

My book baby may have taken years to be born, but now that it’s out there, this mama’s not slowing down. The best part? I get to bring you all along for the ride. So buckle up…because we’re just getting started!

There’s something both terrifying and thrilling about stepping into a completely new season of life...especially one that has your name on the front cover. For years, I poured myself into raising kids, managing a home, and making sure everyone else had what they needed. But somewhere along the way, I think God was quietly preparing me too. He was tucking stories in my heart, building compassion through the chaos, and shaping me into someone who could share hope, forgiveness, and faith with others.

I’ve learned that it’s never too late to chase a dream or start something new. You’re never too old, too busy, or too far gone for God to hand you a brand-new assignment. And let me tell you...when He does, buckle up, because it’s going to stretch you in ways you didn’t even know you could stretch!

From learning how to write a book proposal and navigate edits...to figuring out lighting angles for podcast interviews and remembering which button to press on Zoom...it’s been one wild, joy-filled crash course in “Author Life 101.” And while I’ve made plenty of mistakes along the way, every misstep has taught me something valuable.

This journey isn’t just about launching a book. It’s about launching a purpose. It’s about using my story to remind others that forgiveness is possible, hope is alive, and God’s love can meet you right in the middle of your mess.

So here’s to the next chapter...to more stories, more laughter, and more moments of saying, “Well, I didn’t see that coming...but okay, Lord, let’s go!”

Because if this season has taught me anything, it’s that the best adventures begin when we finally stop saying “someday”...and start saying “yes.”

God has been with me through so many wild and crazy times throughout my life. I’m far from perfect and have struggled at times but still tend to be a “Pollyanna” or with a glass half full type of attitude. My life may not have been easy, but it’s been wonderful and I’m here to share it in the hopes that maybe you will benefit a tad bit from my experiences.

Melissa Jean Rod

God has been with me through so many wild and crazy times throughout my life. I’m far from perfect and have struggled at times but still tend to be a “Pollyanna” or with a glass half full type of attitude. My life may not have been easy, but it’s been wonderful and I’m here to share it in the hopes that maybe you will benefit a tad bit from my experiences.

LinkedIn logo icon
Instagram logo icon
Back to Blog