This is mandatory.

I have no choice.

Welcome to the obligatory one year post. It is law that all Substack¹ writers make this post on their 1st anniversary.

Photo by Tandem X Visuals on Unsplash

There’s almost 300 of you now.

We are officially a horde!

That just blows me away. I had no doubt people love ghosts, cyrpids, and aliens. Hello, MIParaCon, anyone?

But it’s amazing to have so many of you decide to join me. I’m humbled to be allowed a moment of your time. Especially with how busy life is. (Seriously, where does my day go? I only got half of what I wanted done!)

Thank you for taking a chance on me.

Initially, I had planned to end this post here, but a few questions have been brewing in my head. Plus, this may also be another mandatory thing in the terms and conditions².

I’m going to keep it easy with polls.

This next question I’m asking because I was told I might be surprised at how few people know this, and now I’m curious.

And lastly, I would like to know…

First, let me say this: I have no plans of ever pay walling my posts.

The paid sponsorship would be its own unique thing. It’s a way for you to help me keep writing and creating. Just as commenting, liking, or sharing a post is supporting me. But on steroids!

You could also buy one of my books or a coffee on Ko-Fi. (Because, let’s face it, why does everything have to be a subscription now-a-day??????)

But only if you are able.

Look, I’ve been in that spot where you have to decide if you’re gonna go to the doctor and find out what’s wrong or buy groceries. It ain’t fun. I’m thankful that’s not the case anymore, but it’s a reality for a lot of people. Hence, freebies.

But however you show your support…

(Quietly reading the email, leaving a comment or like, upgrading to sponsorship, or buying a book.)

…I appreciate you giving me your time.

It means the world to me that you are enjoying what I write.

That’s the number one reason I create: To make others smile.

Anything else is a cherry on top. (Or in my case, strawberry. I’m not a big cherry fan.) I really can’t say it enough:

THANK YOU!

I’m looking forward to bringing you more monsters, mysteries, stories, and creativity in 2024. (Which is going to play a lot nicer than 2023. RIGHT?! 😐)

Until next time, Stay spooked.

~Patricia J.L.

1. I think it’s in their terms and conditions, but I may be making that up. 😜

2. Okay, yeah, I’m totally making this up. But have you seen the number of 1 year anniversary posts on this site? There’s gotta be an unwritten rule somewhere.