Black Expo '09

On Saturday, October 10, 2009, I put myself out there for the first time. I was nervous at first because I didn't know what to expect but everything went well. A lot of people who were genuinely interested in Choices stopped by my table. Twenty copies were sold. I was hoping for more, of course, but I do thank God for each and every sale. Some who didn't buy a copy on Saturday did say they might go oline to buy a copy later. I hope they do because I really believe they'll enjoy the story. And there were people who stopped by my table to see what they could get for free, but that was okay. Who doesn't like free stuff? I know I do. I came prepared. I had plenty promotional pens, promotional mini flashlights, business cards and flyers and there were only a few of each left by the end of the Expo, so now many more people know about Choices.

The teenage girls who attended, well, I waved most of them over to the table. I wrote Choices for them so I just couldn't watch them walk right by. Some stopped without me having to wave them over, though. I remember one woman who brought her teenage daughter to the table. This young lady didn't seem to care a whole lot about reading and I really don't think she wanted her mother to get a book, but her mother wanted her to read more so she did buy a copy. I really believe this girl will enjoy the story and, hopefully, Choices will be the book to ignite a love of reading.

Then there was an author who said, "We have to support each other." He didn't just say the words, he backed them up and bought a copy of Choices. (I really appreciated that) He also gave me a nicely done promotional postcard. Vincent Taylor is a kind man who has a heart for young people, so I'd like to ask you to please take a moment to visit his site. You can even vote for the new book cover. I love the artwork on all of his books. And, oh yeah, Mr. Taylor was voted 2006 Teacher of the Year!

I'd like to thank everyone who stopped by booth #192, particularly the ones who showed an interest in my book (please don't forget to buy your copy :) and especially the ones who bought Choices that day. Your support is so greatly appreciated!

Effects of Domestic Violence on Children and Teenagers

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, so I'd like to share this article I came across today... I was the extremely introverted child and I was also very shy. I always thought introvert and shy were the same until I read another article. Anyway, the shyness is still there but I'm not as painfully shy as I used to be and I am still an introvert.
I'm not real good in social settings, never have been. Back in the day when I hung out with other girls, going to parties or whatever, I did my best to fit in but I was never comfortable on the inside. I am trying to work on my social skills. I have to admit that Choices (my way of reaching out to young people) has helped me with this because I'm being forced to talk to people so someone else will know about my book. Each time I leave the house I put promotional pens and business cards in my pocketbook and then whenever I see a woman or teenage girl who looks approachable (friendly face) I ask if I can give her a pen and/or a card. Oh, if the teenage girl is with her parent(s) I ask their permission.
So, I'm learning to open my mouth more even if I'm nervous about speaking up. My hairdresser told me once that God's trying to get me out of my comfort zone. Well, I can't say the zone I've had myself in for so many years is all that comfortable, but change would be good.