I did it! Last night I officially launched my memoir Loveyoubye, at Laguna Beach Bookstore! The day began at 4:30 am, when I awoke with my heart pounding and my eyes stretched wide like they’d been pinned open, ala Alex of A Clockwork Orange. The day was here! Maybe the earth would open up and swallow me whole before 6 pm. I could only hope. It didn’t.
6:10 pm: It’s happening. There I am behind The Author Table, all eyes on me. Full House. Wobbly opening. And then I’m reading the first excerpt. I can do this. Second excerpt; I remember how much I love to read aloud. Third excerpt. Maybe I could keep going? Of course I can’t. I stop where I’d planned to. Questions anyone?
There were questions. Great questions. Ones I could sink my teeth into, that excited me. I forgot everything but being in the moment and answered the questions from my heart, from where I live. I didn’t hedge, I didn’t waver. I’m not sure what came over me. Whatever it was prompted a local to remark on Facebook, “Turns out that nervous, scared oh-my-god-what-if-I’m-a-flop was all an act. You’re a natural, Rossandra, it was like sitting with you at a coffee shop, more a friendly conversation than a presentation. Such a wonderful hour!”
Wow! Who knew I had it in me?
I never doubted for a second that you had it in you. Congratulations, my uber-talented, amazing friend.
THANK YOU!!
I was swollen with pride and little prickly tears when I saw and heard you, in your element, finally at your wonderful, hard won moment!
Aww, my friend. I’m so glad you were there. Onward to Santa Barbara.
Hooray!! Good for you – now to counting the book sales, and on to the next project!
Dear Claudia, thank you so very much, you were there in the beginning, grateful for all the input you gave.
So excited for you!!!!!! Congrats! Bravo!
Thank you Nikki!!
When you speak from the heart, only the truth is always evident! I knew from the moment I met you that you’re the real deal. So happy for you, Rossandra.
Thank you dear Jessica! Who knew this book would lead me here. All the anguish of writing it and then finding myself in another kind of hell worrying about publishing it, the ramifications, etc. But deep down some part of me persisted. And here I am “connecting” in ways I didn’t know possible, with myself and with others. something I’ve wanted my whole life.
Congratulations, Rossandra. This is wonderful. I’m glad it was such a great success!!
Thanks Brooke!!
Sometimes, doesn’t it seem as if everything really comes together in ways beyond even our expectations? I think those important, momentous times in our our lives really the greatest staying power when we’re fully present to them. So happy you had such a successful launch.
This was indeed way beyond my expectations. Gratifying and surprising. Thanks!
Yay!!! I’m so happy for you Rossandra. So, so glad to hear it went well and, above all, you enjoyed yourself.
Thanks Jessica! Yes, it was a fabulous evening. Wishing the same for you on the 23rd!
I am way late to the party, but somehow reading your wonderful book and then going back to read your blog posts about the process makes it all the more sweet. I’m so happy for all you! You have worked doggedly, and have poured your heart into a beautiful memoir. You deserve every success coming your way!
Dear Becky, every time I look at that “Emergency” kit you made up for me, I think of you. A lovely thought. (That was quite the brilliant idea!)