Words by Amy Michelle
Poetry • Nature • Reflection
2026-The Journey Continues
Instagram
A New Space for My Writing
January 2026
In January 2026, I created an Instagram account for Words by Amy Michelle. It became a new space for me to share my writing in a different way—through short moments of poetry, reflection, photography, and visual storytelling.
As I’ve grown more comfortable sharing my work publicly, I’ve begun exploring how social media can be used not just for visibility, but for genuine connection. A way to gently tell stories, share poetry, and reach people beyond the page.
I especially love Instagram’s carousel feature—how it allows writing to unfold slowly, one image at a time. I’ve also found meaning in pairing my words with music and photography, letting sound, imagery, and language meet in a way that feels immersive and alive.
This part of my journey is still unfolding. I’m learning as I go—how to show up, how to share, and how to let my work exist in a more public rhythm without losing its quiet center.
May 2026
Revisiting Where the Wildflowers Grow
In May 2026, I revisited and revised my poetry collection, Where the Wildflowers Grow.
While many of the poems remained the same at their core, I found myself approaching the collection with new eyes after a year of growth, healing, and creative exploration. I refined wording throughout the book, redesigned portions of the cover and back matter, and reshaped certain visual elements so the collection felt more aligned with who I had become as a writer.
This revision was not about starting over—it was about returning with greater clarity.
Around this same time, Park Road Books in Charlotte, North Carolina invited me to host my first local book signing for the collection on June 20, 2026. What began as a traditional signing quickly grew into something more personal: an afternoon that would include conversation, questions, and the opportunity to read selected poems aloud.
For me, it felt less like promoting a book and more like creating space for connection through the stories that shaped it.
To order my book 📕, click here
June 2026
Born to Shine: The Light We Create
In June 2026, I became part of the international poetry anthology Born to Shine: The Light We Create alongside a community of writers and artists from around the world.
This experience became meaningful to me in more ways than one. In addition to contributing my own poetry, I also had the opportunity to assist with portions of the editing process alongside Bruce Wilson, Director of Arts So Wonderful, and Poetry Pioneer Founder & CEO Candace R. Owens. It was my first time stepping into a collaborative editorial role, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for the care and intention involved in shaping a shared creative project.
The anthology was released worldwide through Amazon on June 2, 2026.
This chapter also carried a meaningful full-circle moment for me. The anthology partnership between Poetry Pioneer and Arts So Wonderful was the same creative collaboration that hosted the poetry contest where my poem Where the Quiet Things Grow received recognition the year before. As part of that award, I was invited to appear on Town Meeting TV in Vermont.
What once felt distant and impossible now feels quietly woven into the continuing story of my writing life.
Now, a year later, I will once again be featured through that same broadcast connection—this time as part of Born to Shine. Television Broadcast Date: TBD
You can purchase "Born to Shine: The Light We Create" here
June 2026 –
My First Bookstore Signing
Park Road Books | Charlotte, NC
On June 20, 2026, I had the privilege of signing copies of Where the Wildflowers Grow at Park Road Books in Charlotte.
Simply being there was a milestone in itself. Park Road Books has long been a beloved part of Charlotte's literary community, and knowing they chose to carry my book and host a signing was an incredible honor. Sitting at a table surrounded by shelves of books, meeting readers, and signing copies of my own collection felt both surreal and deeply meaningful.
What I will remember most, however, are the people.
One family stopped by my table with their two young daughters. One of the little girls looked at my book and asked, “What’s it about?” I thought for a moment and replied, “It’s poems about life.” She giggled and said, “Oh, I like life!” It was such a simple, joyful exchange, and it made me smile. The family purchased a copy, and inside I wrote:
May these words inspire and encourage you all. Always dream big. You can do anything you set your mind to.
Another moment that stayed with me was meeting a teenager who told me she hopes to publish her own poetry collection someday. She carried a notebook with her, and she reminded me so much of my younger self. We talked about writing and publishing, and I shared what I've learned along the way. It felt like a full-circle moment—one writer encouraging another at the beginning of her journey.
I was also grateful to have my sister, Lisa, by my side throughout the event. Having someone who has supported me through every stage of this journey made the day even more special.
A dear friend from church, Kathi, stopped by as well. She already owned a copy of my book, but purchased a second one. Even more touching was hearing her tell others how much she believed in my work. At one point, a woman purchased a copy simply because of Kathi’s recommendation. Moments like that remind me how powerful encouragement can be.
When I think back on the afternoon, I don’t think first about books sold. I think about conversations. I think about the little girl who likes life, the young poet carrying a notebook, the friends who showed up, and the readers who took a chance on my words.
Writing is often a solitary act. We spend countless hours alone with our thoughts, hoping our words will someday connect with someone else. This event reminded me that they can.
It was a beautiful afternoon, and one I will carry with me for a very long time.
