How This Book Came to Be (Part One)

Starting a Dream

In August 2023, after years of encouragement from friends and family, I finally decided to write a book. People have often asked me, “How did you help Scott achieve his dream in the music industry?” “How did you raise three successful kids?” And the big one: “Who’s the musician in the family—you or your husband, Rick?” (It’s Rick).

For a long time, the idea of writing a book felt overwhelming. But something changed after Scott and Mark got married. I don’t know if it was nostalgia or I was sad my youngest was all grown up, but I thought, you know, maybe I can do this. Our life had been such a wild, joyful ride that even if the book only became a family keepsake, it would be worth it. I could at least try.

I started by diving into old videos, thousands of photos, and old calendars, piecing it all together and letting the memories flood back. I also began talking to friends and those who had been part of Scott’s life to find out what they remembered. It all started to come together.

Early on, my daughter Lindsay stepped in and helped me set up a system to keep everything organized. I started sharing drafts with family for feedback and fact-checking, especially with Scott. She spent countless hours reviewing and refining my writing, and we talked almost every day for months. (Side note: She’s leaving the military soon, so if anyone is looking to hire someone good at just making things happen, she’s the one.)

By March 2024, the manuscript was starting to take shape, and I began researching self-publishing options. It was overwhelming and confusing. I had no idea where to even start.

Then I thought of Ken Phillips, Pentatonix’s early publicist, who I had stayed in touch with over the years.

(Part 2 coming soon!)