On October 21 2018, I gave my nana the chance to have a meet-and-greet with Nicholas Sparks for her birthday. Sparks is one of my favorite authors, as well as my Nanas. The day was full of surprises. While waiting for the event to start, the Charleston Gaillard provided everyone with lavender water, along with small finger foods. A gift was also given to those who joined the event; a signed copy of his new book Every Breath.

When he came out, everyone jumped to their feet! Nicholas Sparks is adored by the low-country readers. His romantic fictional stories are based on local places, like Charleston, Isle of Palms, and Myrtle Beach. The readers can relate to these stories, which is why he is very well known here. I felt like I was the youngest one there though.

Just as my Nana loved it, I did as well. It was one of goals in life to meet him, and that I did. When I first found an advertisement on Facebook for it in July 2018, I did not hesitate to buy a ticket. It dawned on me though that I was not the only Sparks fan in my family, that my nana would love this just as much as I did. Her Birthday was approaching, and found this to be a great gift.

When the event ended, I left happy and with a sense of accomplishment. Not only was I able to see my favorite author in real life, I was able to witness it with one of the most important people in my life.

The fun didn't stop there though. After we left, we decided to explore Charleston, my favorite place to be. It was where she grew up as a little girl as well. She showed me where she grew up, the church she attended, and places she would visit. All was still there even after all these years. I assured we had plenty of time to do what we wanted, and suggested we visit her favorite art supplies store on Calhoun Street. She wandered through the store, and I could feel her contentment. She was happy.

She has told me endless times that she dreamed of becoming a famous artist in New York City. She dreams big, and has passed that trait to all of her grandchildren. "Dreams do not have an inspiration date" she would always tell me. No, they certainly do not. One day, I dream on becoming half the women she is.