So, it’s my birthday.Here’s the thing. When I started in comics, it almost didn’t...

So, it’s my birthday.

Here’s the thing. When I started in comics, it almost didn’t happen because I was so sure that there was no place for me as a writer in this industry. It’s not that people said anything like that, it’s just that I was a hairdresser, a woman, I lived in the boonies, I had no professional credits or experience, I had never been to a con, never met a publisher, and the whole idea seemed ridiculous. The first several times people offered me writing gigs, I turned them down, because I was sure it was a big mistake or hoax or something.

But I gave it a shot and loved it. There were always people who felt it was their duty to tell me I didn’t belong in comics, that comics were never going to be meant to appeal to women, people like that were always out there. They’re STILL out there.

But they were so ridiculously outnumbered, so completely overshadowed by the other people; the incredibly kind and gracious pros who welcomed and guided me, the retailers who supported and encouraged me, the publishers who took a chance on me, and the countless readers who inspired and amazed me.

Many times, when I’ve had a bad work day or am blue for some reason, some kind thing a pro or reader has said to me has lifted me up and put me right back on the right track. If I am a fighter, a big part of that is because of the kind support I have always been so damn fortunate to have.

It means a lot, you guys.

Waking up and seeing hundreds and hundreds of birthday wishes, many from people I have never met, many from pros I idolize to this day, and many from people it makes me smile to remember, is quite possibly the best gift of all.

I always say it, but it’s true. I don’t know what I did to deserve you but I’m NOT GIVING YOU BACK.

Thank you for the kind thoughts, the endless support, and for making me the luckiest writer in comics!