I had a fantastic day at the Gaithersburg Book Festival. The weather couldn’t have been any better (totally made up for Kensington!) and the people were just fabulous. (Pictures.)
Many, many thanks go to my “sister” Amanda, who drove down from New York City to support me (it really didn’t help her book addiction. She went home with seven books!!); and to my son, Chris, who didn’t complain once about spending his entire day away from his computer! Thanks also go to my friend Randall, who drove up from DC to show his support, and take pictures of the event. You guys are awesome.
Congratulations to my other “sister” Dottye – this was her first book festival and she was there selling her debut novel, “Andrew’s Gift.”
I must admit, I enjoyed being treated as a VIP even if there were only about a dozen people in the audience, but I know, I know, it was early for a Saturday morning. The weather was absolutely beautiful, and I met some wonderful people who stopped by the Washington Writers’ Publishing House booth where I stayed for most of the day. Sid Gold did his part in promoting the publishing house and also sold quite a few of his poetry books. I especially want to mention Carla Dean, who stopped by the booth. She sells these very cool “author” t-shirts — I had to have one. Also it was a pleasure to meet writer Barry Nix. I must also give thanks to all the volunteers at the event. They did an amazing job. After I don’t know how many years, it was great to see Robin Ferrier, who was helping coordinate the author services – Robin and I used to work together in communications.
A funny thing happened. Amanda spotted a camera crew and invited them over to talk to me. The woman with the mic kept saying I looked real familiar and I was thinking the same thing about her. Turned out it was Gboyinde Onijala who had worked at a youth organization in Silver Spring where I had been a volunteer several years ago. What a small world! It was great to see her again. She now works with the Montgomery County Public Schools and was interviewing event participants. Not sure when or where her story will air, but if you see me on TV, drop me a note.
Thank you to everyone who purchased a book and came out to say hello. You truly made my day!