There I did it!

I did Ok

When I walked into the expo the third time, Monday, things were so quiet I secretly hoped that no one would come to my final presentation. No such luck. I might have even had a few more people than the day before. That's ok though because I had added to my presentation, practiced some more, and thought I would really wow them. Then I got done more than 10 minutes early - AGAIN - and had a very nice woman who gives presentations all the time tell me afterwards that it was great, enthusiastic, and very informative but.....say it with me people...I talk too fast.

Remember this guy? I think we're related.

Nooooo!!  Do you know how often I said to myself "slow"? I really thought I had this one (it didn't help that I was cold - 3 layers on and then put my winter coat back on - in the conference room). I will say that this group was much friendlier than Sunday's and I had fun talking to everyone afterwards (and hugged all the ones that bought books - including my cheerful critic), but still. Ok, so I've learned that I'm not great at radio interviews or presentations - not sure if it's just because they're about me or if I'm not great at them in general.

I did lots of networking, had a great talk with a new author from Quebec who actually asked me for advice, and now I'm going to sound like I won an award - because I sort of feel like I did.

I want to thank Molly from McGraw - I was able to go through airport security today with really cool new socks that didn't have any holes in them (and I did bribe a few people to buy a book with the candy she sent). Wahoo to my friends for all their support whether they were able to come to the presentation or Facebook'd or emailed their well wishes. To my blog readers who checked in occasionally. And to my mom because you always thank your mom - they deserve it. And lastly, I give a huge shout out to Nautical Mind bookstore for being such a huge supporter of A Sail of Two Idiots from the day they got a copy and for pushing me to do this boat show. When I left their booth for the last time, it truly felt like I was leaving family, and I appreciated them holding my shaking hands throughout the whole process (due to both cold and nerves).

I am pleased to be leaving what has become -3C (about 26F) temps. I was quite toasty in the Toronto airport, until I reached the United terminal which apparently has not paid its heating bill. I had a great bagel though (and the internet's free), so that made up for it (sort of). No napkin needed, I'll just be putting my gloves on....I'm not kidding.

Time to board the 1st plane. See you in Key West!