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That last paragraph - man, if I were a fan of tattoos, that would be the one!

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Jun 20Liked by Pat Willard

There is nothing in your previous story that is offensive if that's the reason people canceled. I would guess the story might have triggered some memory of a past painful event of their own. In any case, your writing is beautiful and your bravery is too. I hope your husband's response was among those who reacted kindly to your revelation.

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Thank you. Yes, he did--he edits me and after he handed the story back to me said, "that was unexpected," and gave me a long hug

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There is nothing in your previous story that is offensive if that's the reason people canceled. I would guess the story might have triggered some memory of a past painful event of their own. In any case, your writing is beautiful and your bravery is too. I hope your husband's response was among those who reacted kindly to your revelation.

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Cancellations. Sorry for that--as a Substacker, I know those losses sting. I have the feeling that they didn't cancel because of the nature of the story or the quality of the writing, but because they were looking for factual foodie stuff and this was something else. I know you know we can't please everybody. But it's worth saying. Again.

Also worth saying again: food has stories. I loved this one.

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And thank you for that last sentence and thank you always for your support!

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I agree on everything. I'm just always grateful there are people out there who stick with AE! no matter how weird it gets!

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I needed to hear these words today. Thank you, Pat. ❤️

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I'm glad--we are cross-country mind-melts if ever there were....

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