This month, I'm savoring the sweet success of a long-awaited dream-come-true. I signed a contract for a five-book publishing deal that will bring my cozy mystery series to a bookstore near you.

When my amazing agent, Cindy Bullard, of Birch Literary, called with the news, I was stunned. Could it possibly be true? I'd been chasing the elusive dream of becoming a published author for more years than I wanted to admit. Now, against all odds, the moment had arrived.

My message to you is this: It's never too late to pursue your dream. If it can happen to me, it can happen to you.

But, you don't have to take my word for it. Look at the others who have gone before us: Laura Ingalls Wilder published her first book at the age of 65. Grandma Moses didn't start painting until she was seventy-seven years old. And Walt Disney was turned down 300 times before someone said "yes" to his mouse-themed amusement park. No wonder the lyrics of Disney's theme song, "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes," rings with authenticity. The songwriters captured Walt Disney's own journey in their words.

"No matter how your heart is grieving

If you keep on believing

The dream that you wish will come true"  ©

Songwriters: Mack David / Jerry Livingston / Al Hoffman

A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes lyrics © Walt Disney Music Co. Ltd., Walt Disney Music Company, Wonderland Music Company Inc., Wonderland Music Company Inc, Walt Disney Music Co Ltd