December 9 – Party Prompt: Party. What social gathering rocked your socks off in 2010? Describe the people, music, food, drink, clothes, shenanigans. (Author: Shauna Reid)

Book signing. I was so nervous for this event. I thought no one would show, or people would show but no books would be sold. I was a nervous wreck. And I mean I was in complete meltdown mode. I wore a grey long sleeve shirt that I think is really hip, black boots, red skirt, and a blue flower necklace Paul and Beth bought me years ago. Chris and the kids came, and the kids were very excited. We brought snacks, crackers, cheese, cookies, veggies, dip and juice. Carol at Santoro’s Books provided wine. Carol and her staff member, a woman I really like with long grey hair, were nice and helpful before the signing begin.

Then people came. From far and wide, they came. Old editor/writer friends and the crew from St. John. Each one meant so much to me. I seriously was filled with so much joy when I saw each person walk through the door. I remember Astrid told me she wasn’t coming because she wanted the focus to be all on me. She wanted me to own the satisfaction of reaching a lifetime goal,and this party was the culmination. People ate, drank and talked, and I signed books. I signed books! KK helped me come up with a drawing that I put in each one: a stick person in motion. One of the best aspects of the evening was thanking people who had really come through for me. Since I had some wine, I repeated thank you to people who clearly didn’t want to accept gratitude.

Marika brought flowers. Lisa brough Kathy. Leanne came and I thanked her for all her lovely help. Lisa told Chris,” The whole family writes the book.” This meant so much to him. Lisa had KK sign one of her books, too. Annie darted around, and KK watched me sign books. We sold 17 copies of the back book and 11 copies of the knees book. It was a dream come true, elation defined. I can seriously say it was one of the most joyful parties on the planet.