Greetings from Crazy Acres!

It's been an interesting year so far. The book is selling briskly and in-store signings are always fun. The only thing more fun is hitting myself in the temple with a crowbar.

OK, here's the truth: I love that people enjoy my book. I love getting feedback, and I especially love meeting fellow writers--the talent pool out there is scary good. What I don't love is having to be "on" for three, four or more hours. I'm an introvert and always have been--give me a good book, a silent house and a glass of wine any day. But to sell books you have to promote books, and that means putting yourself out there. (Obviously I didn't think this whole thing through.) It's beyond hard to sit at a table by yourself with a stack of books, a display photo and a bottle of water.... smiling stiffly and hoping someone, anyone, even speaks to you, let alone buys a  book.

At my very first signing, a gentleman ambled up, cocktail in  hand. He said his name was Jim, and he was from New Jersey. "Hi, Jim," I croaked.

"So, why should I buy your book?" he asked. "Because I'm cute," I blurted, and started gulping water. It was the only thing I could think to say; that's how scared I was.

Well, darned if he didn't laugh and buy three signed copies. The moral of the story: Be yourself. You were made by God to glorify Him, so don't let self-imposed fear hold you back. See you at the next signing!