Hey y’all— I’m so glad you’re here.
My name is Bailey Henry. I'm a Mississippi native who, according to my former college professor, is “Unremarkable and has poor time management skills.”
I love wearing linen in the brutal Mississippi summers, I'm at my personal best when I'm practicing a good skin care routine, and even though it is wildly controversial, mayonnaise is my favorite condiment.
I lived really small until I was around 30. I was afraid people would laugh at me like they did in the sixth grade if I ever lived outside of my comfort zone, but I now realize to truly live, you must always be outside of your comfort zone. My favorite things on earth are being a wife, a mama, an observant storyteller, and an admirer of sunsets. I’m thankful Jesus calls me His and I am the worst side-seat driver you've ever met.
About seven years ago, I surprisingly found myself facing infertility. I used to think that was the sort of thing that happened to other people, but I'm no one special, so those things happen to people like me, too. I’ve since gone on to learn a lot about motherhood through loss, adoption, and grace. I adore honest conversations and French 75's.
I think they are both served best on back porches.
I really thank you for being here and you're very loved.
Ask Bailey.
Why did you write your book?
Loneliness is the short answer. My journey with infertility made me feel very alone and I made a valiant effort to comfort myself with my own stories and share them with other women so they wouldn't feel so alone either.
What’s your writing process look like?
I wish I could say I have this fantastic and elaborate process that begins with mediation in a dimly lit room overlooking a lake. But my process for writing this book was found in the corners of the home that I share with my husband. I wrote specific chapters in my spare room, my closet, my couch, and randomly, my hall bathroom. When the emotion of a memory strikes me, I just go with it. No matter where I am.
What motivates you to keep being so open?
When women send me messages saying they appreciate my honesty. That means the world to me. And to be honest, it has been a struggle to remain so open—I’m working on that now.
What is the best book you've read in the last few years?
Educated by Tara Westover
Which authors inspire you?
My all time favorite author is Elizabeth Gilbert. The way she can tell a story is what I aspire to. I have also been known to get lost in the words of Curtis Sittenfeld, Joan Didion, Robert Frost, and Mary Laura Philpott.
Did you always know you wanted to write?
Yes.
Do you have any nicknames?
Bails. And one from high school that we won't be discussing today.
Favorite TV show?
Mad Men