Goodbye to “Hello!” by Isabel Estrada O'Hagin

 

Our heart-warming It Starts with Hello series began in January 2022 to celebrate community and reaffirm the importance of how we foster relationships within SCBWI-Michigan. Before I sign off with a final good-bye to our Hello stories, I want to thank everyone who shared their personal stories of support this past year. Special kudos to the friendly souls who were acknowledged in these posts. May the thought that you made a difference add some sparkle to your halo.

Perhaps these stories reminded you of the person who made you feel seen when you needed a friendly smile. Like many of you, my list of names would be quite long. Here’s one story I’d like to share. . .

I joined SCBWI after attending an author’s panel held at the Haslett Public Library—listening to that group made me want to become a published author, too. Soon after, I learned about the Midwest Conference being held in Fort Wayne, IN. Yay, my first SCBWI conference! Unfortunately, everyone I’d just met in the Lansing Meet-up group who planned to attend already had their roommate situation set. Ann Finkelstein suggested I post a request on the listserv, and—lo and behold—someone responded! That’s when I met Angie Verges and Cheryl Adams—the three of us roomed together at the 2013 Midwest Conference (side note: We brought so many munchies for late-night snacking, we could’ve opened our own concession stand; - ). As I was still a newbie to SCBWI, Angie shared her knowledge of the who’s who in SCBWI and introduced me to her circle of friends. She took the time to share information about the wide world of children’s lit and her own journey. Angie and I became friends, roomed together at two other conferences, and stayed in touch. We also served on the first Equity & Inclusion team for our region.

Thank you, Angie, for your kindness and support all these years!

Back then I had no idea Angie—so considerate, polite, and kind—was a budding comedian! Need a good laugh? Catch her on Instagram: writermama223

It’s true—our Michigan chapter is a friendly group! It’s also true that walking into a room where you don’t know anyone can be intimidating. As someone expressed to me: “You look to see if anyone else in the room looks like you. You scan the room and hope you’ll be accepted. You want to feel safe.” Let’s continue our good work, Michigan!

This year we welcomed several new members to our Michigan chapter. Do you know the new members in your local community? As Co-Coordinators for our Kalamazoo Area Shop Talks (K.A.S.T.—where everyone’s a star!), Melanie Bryce and I make an effort to reach out to the newbies and make sure they know when we’re meeting.

As we slowly transition to in-person events this coming year, let’s welcome our newest members (from 2020-2022) and continue to support those already in the fold. It starts with “hello!”

 

Isabel Estrada O’Hagin

SCBWI-Michigan Outreach Coordinator