Flashback Friday to an Unexpected Honor

Last Saturday, Jade and Wilnona - the And I Thought Ladies, honored me with an Inspirational Woman in Literature Award for my work in supporting authors and promoting literacy! It was an unexpected honor and much appreciated coming from two people who work so diligently to create successful opportunities for other authors and creatives. A browse of their socials reveals how much time, effort and travel they expend transforming their own and others' publishing aspirations into reality.

[a framed 8in x 11in "Certificate of achievement, Inspirational Woman of Literature, Cardyn Brooks, You have shown excellence and innovation as an inspirational woman of Literature 2025, Jade Dee, Wilnona Marie, And I thought Ladies"]

We enjoyed a cozy lunch at the Reynolds Tavern in Annapolis, which provided a charming atmosphere and scrumptious food.

[three women standing in front of the corner of a brick building with a "Reynolds Tavern..." plaque above their heads; a "1747 Pub" sign hangs higher and farther behind them]

[a dinner plate filled with one slice of quiche Lorraine, a tossed garden salad and a small dish of salad dressing]

They also were very thoughtful and generous in the assorted swag they gave me.

[a small chick keychain, an And I Thought Ladies business card, a trade paperback copy of The Alyse Diaries by B. Danielle Watkins, a pair of "Melanin Goddess" earrings, a pair of pink footie socks with smiley faces on the heel]

We enjoyed a lovely afternoon of personal engagement, lots of laughs, revelations, encouragement and the sharing of future goals. All of that was a gift of quality time spent with quality people. The good vibes carried me through the week.

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