One of the best parts about being a writer is communing with other writers. They're always the most interesting people in the room---they've lived a hundred lives and are comfortable contextualizing their experiences in fascinating ways within the larger world.

And they're the best storytellers. 

Last year I entered New Southerner Magazine's annual contest on a whim. I haven't been submitting my creative nonfiction essays for very long, so I was thrilled to hear my story, "Plucking Chin Hairs," had won Honorable Mention for nonfiction. They only choose one winner, so Honorable Mention is essentially second place. 

The winners, honorable mentions, finalists and semi-finalists were all invited to a celebratory reading in Louisville, Kentucky. I had so much fun spending time with my fellow writers and reading an abridged version of my story aloud. Check it out! 

If you enjoyed my reading, please support me, my fellow writers, and New Southerner Magazine by buying the 2016 literary edition. 

I'm also working on my public speaking skills, so please let me know what you think. I'm always open to constructive criticism.