Sharing the Magic of Storytelling
Hi there! I'm Heather, my pen name is Mary Joy. I'm a very proud mum of three extremely adventurous boys, navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood while pursuing my dream of writing and publishing books. Storytelling has always been a passion of mine, but it wasn’t until recently that I decided to take the leap and share my words with the world. Writing fast becoming my place of refuge from the madness of motherhood—a space where I can gather my thoughts, relive cherished memories, and explore the limitless boundaries of imagination. As a mother, I’ve discovered that life is made up of fleeting moments, each one carrying its own magic and lessons. From the laughter-filled afternoons of fort-building in the living room to the heart-to-heart bedtime chats about dreams and fears, these moments are woven into the fabric of my stories. I write to capture them, to give them life beyond a single instance, and to share them in a way that might resonate with others walking a similar path.
My journey into writing, while mostly terrifying, has been one of self-discovery. As a mum, my days are filled with endless responsibilities—settling the never-ending sibling squabbles, helping with homework, tackling the long list of household duties, and ensuring everyone is loved and cared for. Amidst the beautiful whirlwind of parenthood, I began to realise the importance of holding on to my own dreams. It’s easy to lose oneself in the demands of raising a family, but I’ve come to understand that having personal pursuits of my own isn’t just beneficial for me—it’s an example for my children. I want them to see, that dreams, no matter how big or small, are worth chasing.
My stories, drawn from everyday life, and my amazing children. Reflect the whimsical imagination of childhood, where the backyard transforms into an enchanted forest, or a cardboard box becomes a spaceship soaring through the stars. Other times, they dive into the deeply emotional journey of motherhood—of love, sacrifice, joy, and the bittersweet experience of watching our little ones grow. Whether it’s through fiction or heartfelt reflections, my hope is that my words provide comfort, encouragement, and a sense of connection to those who read them.
The decision to step into the world of publishing hasn’t been without its challenges. Doubts creep in, as they do with any new venture. Will my stories matter? Will anyone want to read them? Can I balance writing with the ever-present demands of family life? (I’m still struggling most with this one!) These questions swirl in my mind, but I remind myself why I started in the first place. Writing isn’t just about sharing words—it’s about finding me again and sharing a little piece of my heart, my experiences, and my unique perspective. It’s about contributing to those much-loved stories that bring us all together.
The road ahead is filled with excitement and uncertainty, but I’m embracing every step. I’m learning to trust my voice, to refine my craft, and to find joy in the process. While I know there will be many setbacks, and moments of frustration, I also know there will be triumphs, growth, and the incredible reward of seeing my words come to life on a printed page.
So, here I am—taking that leap, putting my stories out into the world, and inviting you to be part of this adventure. Whether you’re a fellow parent, a dreamer, a book lover, or someone who simply enjoys a good story, I’d love for you to follow along. Let’s celebrate the power of storytelling together, one page at a time. Thank you for being here and for sharing in this journey with me!
