The People in my Town Rock!

It’s almost 7pm … the time my book release party is scheduled to start. Books are on the table. Two pens lie there, waiting to be put to use. The laptops are set up with pictures and videos playing. The Cafe staff is putting finishing touches on their delicious spread of food.

The cup of warm apple cider feels good in my hands as I pace from one room to the next. The wooden floor squeaks here and there. I take a few deep breaths and listen to the soft music playing. I set up a few more get-well cards from the basket of cards that caring people sent seven years ago. I reposition the pens on the table (again).

My son and I share a few jokes about how many cars are in the parking lot. About how we are going to have to monitor the door to control the crowd.

Truth be told, other than the people helping, no one is here. I think about the posters hung all over town. I wonder if I annoyed people with too many posts on Facebook. I feel a connection with authors throughout the ages nervously wondering what a book signing will hold.

I enjoy some delicious butternut squash, ginger and pear soup (it is as good as it sounds!) and an egg salad sandwich prepared by the cafe’s owner, Bridget. The sandwich brings back memories, because it’s the same delicious sandwich I brag about in Because I Can.

About 7:03, the door opens. (I want to give them a case of books)

As I’m chatting with them, the door opens again. And again. And again. I lose count. (estimate around 60) The soft hum  of multiple conversations is heavenly. Cider is poured into mugs. Food is enjoyed. My son mans the book table as I chat.  The pens are used. I smile as I see my husband, not a crowd person, laugh and chat with old friends.

I’m surprised and blessed by a gift of flowers.

At the scheduled time, I position myself so I can see both rooms of the cafe and these kind people allow me to share. I can’t thank them enough for not only coming to this event, but for being a part of my life … whether they are best friends or causal  acquaintances. I also thank many others involved in my journey … from my paramedics to Rhizome Publishing.

I’ve had enough of miserable days, so this is a night of celebrating … and I’m savoring every moment. While I mention my struggle with depression, I read some of the more hopeful, healing moments from Because I Can, along with a joke or two. Of course, it’s hospital humor …

What’s the name of the person who invented the hospital gown? 
Dr. Seymore Butts

Daughters of friends, one a budding photographer, the other a filmmaker move quietly around the room capturing the evening.

More photos here - Video of the evening.

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Many of the people at the book signing on Saturday evening were also a part of an event for me seven years ago. Six weeks after being injured in California, I was finally well enough to fly home. Under the organization of my friends, Lynn and Lynne, my community threw an amazing home-coming parade for me, complete with a few of Morgantown’s finest in uniform. A friend, Scott, captured it on tape and put together this cool video. I’ve had the video for years, but other than a few friends, many in my community had not seen it … so this video played all evening.

I was not the only one that got teary-eyed while watching this on Saturday evening …

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I’m not a big fan of people acting like their town or community is the coolest one on planet earth, because I think there are many cool communities … but I must say the people in my town rock! 

Did you hear how many of them assumed I’d be running again someday? Love their optimism!

Thank you family, friends and community … for helping me through the many dark years and for celebrating with me now. 

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