Running From Yesterday Book Launch Performance

*With guest choreographers, Bailey Lord (left) and Aynsleigh Morehouse (right)*

After three years of hard work, five editors (including an Australian book coach), and a therapist on speed dial, I am still in awe that I've finally published my first book!

Throughout the writing process, I experienced endless moments of gratitude and humility, and the feedback from readers continues to astound me.

As Maureen from one of my favorite musicals, Rent, once said, “all you have to do is jump over the moon.” She meant taking the metaphorical chance on something big, something that seemed out of reach, something almost impossible.

Well, I did just that when I decided to turn my book launch into a show!

It all started with a casual conversation with a friend, asking for her thoughts.

And now, here we are, just two weeks away from the Running From Yesterday: The Musical—a dance production inspired by my book.

No, it didn't take three years, but it certainly required a heck of a lot of work.

Elsie the cow and I jumped over the moon, and we can't stop flying from sheer joy and excitement.

I am incredibly honored to work with my fellow dancers from Tampa City Ballet's adult program.

They have careers, families, and lives of their own, yet they chose to be a part of this extraordinary project.

They believed in the book, they trusted me, and, most of all, they share a deep love for the arts. For that, I am forever grateful.

Scroll down to catch a glimpse of what some people had to say about the book, along with some behind-the-scenes rehearsal photos!

If you're interested in experiencing the show, come along! But first, make sure to get your free tickets here.

When:

Wednesday, February 28, 2024 | 6:00 - 8:00 PM EST

Where:

New Tampa Performing Arts Center | 8550 Hunters Village Road Tampa, FL 33647

Praise for Running from Yesterday

“I was so excited to read the book and it exceeded my expectations by a mile. I knew some things from talking to you but now I feel like I know your life inside and out!! Just loved the ending where you got married and Sarge walked you down the aisle. I'm tearing up just thinking of it now. It was so beautiful how you described it and how it fit into the big picture of everything.

I finished your book and I just have to say how blown away I am. You are such an amazing writer and storyteller and an even more amazing person! Your story is inspiring, heart wrenching, and yet laced with humor and optimism. The warmth of your spirit shines through in each page. I am so incredibly proud of you and your strength. And I'm humbled to be able to share your story with others.”

— Chelsea

“Finished your book. Your story is amazing. God bless. You are truly a miracle!”

— Ruth

“Margarette, I just finished your beautiful book and life story. I am still speechless but also in awe of you. How many lives you have and will change because of your gentle, magnetic, sincere, fun loving, infectious personality (and many more I could add)... as I read your story, I heard your voice, saw your beautiful smile, imagined your movements and saw you as an adorable little girl who I would have loved to have been her friend. Thank you, thank you for being such an amazingly strong woman and role model and such a genuine person. One of the best unexpected parts of the book was you marrying Chris. I cannot wait to see you and hug you because I will not want to let go of you.

So, so proud of you!”

— Carole

“I debated sending this. I don't want to bring up old memories, and/or make you sad.

I started reading your book on Friday evening. It really touched a nerve so far. I cried a great a great deal.

My father in law, was an awesome man. I really loved spending time with him. My children, had an amazing bond with him, and still have with their Grandma.

He died 3 years ago. My oldest, was inconsolable. It was absolutely heart-breaking. A big part of her happiness died with him.

I don't even really know what else to say right now. I’m reading more of your book, and you're incredibly brave.”

— A friend

“The book finally arrived a few hours ago. I'm almost halfway through it, and I'm quite sure I'll finish it by tomorrow. Thank you for your courage and vulnerability. I remember you relaying some of these stories to a select few of us towards the end of the academy and although I may not have ever expressed it well enough, or maybe even at all… I always admired your tenacity and your ability to remain kind. I'm happy to have met you and honored that you're still apart of my life.

I'll never forget the day on the muster deck when you were doing a daily inspection and you looked at me and asked was I a happy girl. I remember being taken aback because I couldn't figure out if I had ever displayed characteristics of being unhappy, and I nervously laughed and said no, but I want to thank you for checking in because even in all your hurt and despair, you still wanted to help others. Can't wait to finish the next half of the book.”

— Shaquonda Bibbins-Blakes

“It was a great representation of the pain of addiction and healing. I grieved for baby Margarette’s loss and her broken spirit and cheered for her recovery.”

— Johanna Hartwell

“I finished your book while I was visiting my daughter in Michigan. It was heartbreaking for me to read your story. It is a wonderfully written biography and my arms want to hug you and give you lots of love! What a survivor you are! You are always enough!”

— Vicki