The Book

The book wasn't supposed to be ready until next week, but I got a call from the printer last night saying I could pick them up today.
I got around this morning and headed into town. I linked up with my new friend Roxanne at the Birmingham News and she directed me to the loading dock.
I'm not sure what I imagined 2000 books would look like. I had considered driving the Volvo to pick them up but when I asked Roxanne, she said there were thirty one boxes. Thirty one boxes, I asked. "Yep, thirty one." I guess I better drive the truck.
As I backed up to the loading dock at the News, workers brought out a pallet of boxes. The pallet wouldn't fit on the back of my truck, so we had to load them by hand.
As I drove away from the loading dock and headed the truck toward the country, writer's remorse set in. I had a half a ton of books in the bed of my truck and I suddenly realized, I have no idea how I'm going to sell them.
"That was stupid," my nay-saying self chided. "what were you thinking? You'll be lucky to sell a copy to mother! People aren't going to buy this crap! Where are you going to put 2000 books in a 1500 square foot house that already packed with your furniture?"
I got a knot in my stomach. But then I remembered the advice of my spouse - just breathe. I then reflected on the encouraging words from from friends, neighbors and other folks who stumbled upon my work. I began to relax. I also realized that the fun part was over, now I've got to hone my marketing skills.
Tonight, I feel better. Local newspapers are doing stories next week and I have my first book signing scheduled for the 30th. It is my intention to put my nay-saying self back in the closet where it belongs.