8 July 2026 - 10:36PM
There is something special about returning home after a great trip. As wonderful as it is to travel, reconnect with friends, and experience new adventures, there is a certain comfort that comes with settling back into familiar surroundings and reflecting on all the memories made along the way.
We had an absolutely amazing time and were fortunate to meet and speak with several talented authors whose passion for storytelling was both inspiring and contagious. Hearing the stories behind their books, their creative journeys, and the experiences that shaped their work added a whole new dimension to the reading experience.
One author in particular left a lasting impression on us. Bimisi Tayanita had us laughing until tears streamed down our faces. Her wonderfully entertaining book, Brenda's Beaver Needs a Barber, quickly became one of the unexpected highlights of our trip. The title alone was enough to send us into fits of laughter, and before long it had become an ongoing joke between Chris and me. Throughout the week, all it took was a glance, a grin, or a mention of the book, and we'd be right back to laughing all over again.
Although the book was written years ago, it remains an absolute gem. The humor is just as entertaining today as it was when it was first published, and its playful charm is hard to resist. Chris had never heard of it before, which made it even more entertaining to watch his reaction when he first discovered it. What started as a chance encounter with a book quickly became one of the stories we'll be laughing about for years to come.
Trips are often remembered for the places we visit, but sometimes it's the unexpected moments that stay with us the longest. A funny conversation, a memorable encounter, or a book that catches you completely off guard can become part of the story you bring home.
Now that we're back, we're unpacking more than just our luggage. We're bringing home wonderful memories, new connections, fresh inspiration, and a handful of stories we'll be telling for years to come.
To the authors, readers, and everyone we met along the way, thank you for making this journey such a memorable one.