Book Tour 2011--the team

Sunday by Sunday’s main character Rose Harris and I glory in teamwork. That’s why she wanted to have a high-five with the guy she inadvertently cut off in traffic to celebrate that they didn’t crash. That enraged fellow, however, did not share my and Rose’s viewpoint that driving is a team sport—and everyone on the road is on the same team. In fact, Rose and I take a team approach to all aspects of life. Our philosophy is, “Let’s all work together with grace and harmony—and be amazed at the results!” In my writing ventures, including the business aspects, I have been delighted by the teamwork that consistently under girds my operations. A great team came together to make my recent book tour happen.

At the top of the list are those people who I laughingly refer to as my “handlers”—the folks at churches and stores and book clubs who replied affirmatively to my inquiry about holding an event at their places and then followed through with publicity and warm welcomes and supplying my every need, sometimes on short notice. When I say “on short notice,” one matter I’m thinking of is the magical assembly of acting troupes to help me with my programs. (Read about the thespian team members when I write on the topic “Drama.”)

My hosts were equally crucial to the economy and pleasure of my trip, and I am deeply gratefully for their generous support along the way. My most extended stay was with the sister who has stayed in our hometown. Late night TV and breakfast conversations with her and her husband, a great storyteller himself, were both merry and meaningful. They’re easy people to be around, with their attentive yet relaxed hospitality. With her help, I upgraded my wardrobe with bargain deals, had the technology I needed to keep things rolling, did some personal banking, and much more. I had several special days and nights with another sister, as well, seeing her new place and relishing time together. Another sister’s family hosted Thanksgiving dinner in their lovely new home. A cousin and his wife provided bread and board and many kind accoutrements for a few days and nights. Reunion was in the air as I was treated to lovely meals and perhaps overnights with my brother, high school friends, former teaching colleagues, and fellow church members from days gone by. New friends, too. “One is silver and the other gold…”

Obviously, there would have been no tour without the books and my marvelous writing/publication team: consultants and resource people for various aspects of the stories, editors—the main one and three others, tech assistants, graphic designer, printer, manufacturer of the gift boxes, encouraging readers and fans. And I can’t forget Kickstarter, the online platform through which I raised the upfront money to publish Sunday by Sunday III. All my backers and all the folks at Kickstarter.com are most definitely part of my team.

I find the world to be a very friendly place. And (indebted to e e cummings) i thank you, God, for most this amazing team!