Had a book signing event at a new bookstore this afternoon. We set up in a courtyard that was out of sight of foot traffic except for people coming to get a bite to eat at the neighboring café. But that sign I put a lot of work into yesterday brought in at least 3 people—I know because they mentioned it. I sold only 5 books in 3 hours, but I was happy meet the people that stopped by the table. I did a raffle for a free book and decided to give everyone a free book who entered (5 purchasers and 1 person who donated to a childhood reading program). I’m grateful that Birch Tree Bookstore supports local authors; a few independent book stores around here have turned their noses up at me for being self-published, but Leah is a champion so I want to do what I can to support her.

Later I went for a walk down the trail and saw the remnants of a large insect nest. I walk past this spot a few times a week and I’ve never noticed this. It looks like something (or someone) attacked it. Nothing was living in it as far as I could tell. While walking I called Mamacita, who is not happy about quarantine. But she’s been through this before and I know she can weather it again. I told her about all the things coming up soon in my world and how I’m feeling a little stressed about it. She told me that she knew I’d be able to plan well so that everything fell into place and worked out for me. “You’re a great planner. Whatever you plan always falls into place.” (And when it doesn’t, I try to let it go.) She said she doesn’t worry about me and that I should take that as a compliment, which I do. So she ended up giving me a pep talk. I love my mama.