When did you first decide to become a published author?

Short answer: circa 1976

Long answer: I remember vividly the librarian from my elementary school reading aloud to us students. I sat mesmerized if only briefly taking in all the stories and imagining how amazing it must be to have the ability to author a book. I enjoyed school during these years as it offered to me an escape from reality. I attribute to this sanctuary, other wise known as, the library, the credit for instilling in me this near lifelong desire to be an author.

Exhibit 1 (My very first publication. September, 20th 1978)

Exhibit 2 (My early efforts at learning to publish. June 15th, 1990)

Exhibit 3 (Canary and the Mothman, October 12th, 2020)