What’s your name?

That’s the question my Dad would ask my siblings and I anytime we had moments of doubt or uncertainty. 

“What’s your name?”

It helped remind us who we were, and the strength and resilience we possessed, because we were Pattersons, dammit. 

I got to see that name in lights last night up on the Parkway Theater marquee, where 50 or so of my friends gathered to get a signed copy of Firebug. 

I was one of the most incredible and surreal experiences of my life. The amount of love in the room was palpable. So many incredible people were in attendance — people I love and respect and admire. So many people helped keep the event moving smoothly, and I was able to have a stress-free night full of hugs and laughter and handing off over 50 signed copies of my book to some of my favorite people on the planet. 

Yesterday was also my 42nd birthday. It feels like a milestone year — 42, the answer to everything. I don’t feel like I’ve arrived at any sort of cosmic answer, but I do feel like I have crossed a significant finish line. 

There’s still plenty to do, but the hard part’s over, and I’m going to be glowing from last night for a long time. 

Thanks to everyone who helped me along the way, and everyone who’s supporting me by buying the book. I’m honored to have you on the journey with me. ❤️🔥

PS - Firebug is currently free on Kindle through December 3! If you’d like to order a paperback, you can purchase one via Amazon or get a signed paperback from my website risapatterson.com!