West Virginia Mountain Mama

I live in West Virginia. I was born and raised here, and we were able to move back here four years ago.

I’m a West Virginia Mountain Mama.

It’s in my blood. Roots run deep here, and so do memories. Stories are passed from generation to generation. We take care of our own.

You have probably heard about the recent flooding here. Our family is safe from harm where we live, but so many others were not. And just when you think it’s all over, today it poured the rain again. I know so many were praying it would stop, that we wouldn’t be pummeled again.

And yet we were.

I don’t know why. Sometimes, it seems these mountains that hold us snug and tight seem to turn on us. It is devastating for those who have lived here for years, who have trusted this is a safe place to live.

But there is an outpouring of assistance, from relief groups to churches to individuals dropping supplies in the box at the local Kroger. Prayers abound. Communities band together and return pets to owners, provide food and shelter.

We’ve had disasters here in West Virginia before, and we’ll have them again. Everyone says this, and it’s true: we’re very resilient. Mountain mamas and daddies abound.

But please pray for those who have been affected. I’m honored I can write novels about contemporary West Virginia, to bring a flavor of our state to readers everywhere. This state is often neglected or mocked, yet it is unique and beautiful and home to so many kind people.

Thank you for your prayers.

-Heather