The P-Lawg
Made in CT Expo (August 10-11, 2024)
My favorite hobby, writing in rhyme and illustrating books for fun, has gradually turned into a business that continues to grow. I couldn't stop creating books if I tried - I love it so much! I feel so lucky that my books bring so much joy to others, which makes me happy.
The Made in CT Expo in Berlin, Connecticut was the largest event I've done to date. While I've always attended events to promote my books, I never imagined how many wonderful experiences I would have while talking with people who are excited about my books and the infamous BIG sandwich! The memories are so special to me, so I wanted to share them.
A little girl, about age 6, wanted one of my books, but she had just gotten to the expo so her mother suggested she wait until she saw everything, and IF she still wanted the book after seeing everything, then she could buy it. She would have to save her money, which I imagined was tough with all of the fun things that were there to buy. I am honored to say that a couple of hours later, she returned to my table and bought a book with her crumpled bills. I will never forget that.
While looking down at my Gluten-Free Ghouls books, the mother of a young boy told me that she was going to cry (tears of joy). She was happy that I had books about being gluten-free because her son had Celiac disease and could not eat gluten. She bought both of the Gluten-Free Ghouls books. I hope he enjoys the books and that they bring him comfort because avoiding foods for specific health reasons is challenging.
A little girl pointed to one of my books and said that her teacher read that book to her class last year. I was excited to hear that because it was the first time a child said that when visiting my table. I couldn't help but smile. = )
A man with an orange puppet named Gordo visited my booth on the second day of the expo. I had the best time taking pictures with him. He was such a cool monster, who also made a short video about The Kids' Paige for me. So you know, he has yet to steal my sandwich. Haha.
Speaking of the sandwich, adults love it as much as the children do - if not more! One woman wanted to wear it as a silly hat. = )
I made connections, too! Kane Miller Publishing, Berlin schools (CT), and the Newington Library (CT) are the next steps and stops for The Kids' Paige. Stay tuned!
October Fun!
I'm excited to say that I've had nonstop visitors at my table during my last two events on October 6th and 12th. The second event was a bit windy, which was challenging at times. Coloring pages and the giant sandwich blew off the table every so often.
Despite having to chase papers and props around, there was lots of fun to be had. Kids loved my newest prop, Teaky. They were excited to see a character from my book sitting on a hay bale. One boy tried to feed Teaky the giant sandwich. It was adorable until Teaky's head rolled off. Whoops! So much for my handy work. I need to find a better way to secure the head. In all fairness, he's the first large character I've ever made. I love creating crafts as much as I love creating my books. Soon, Teaky will be holding a stretchy cheese sandwich like on the front cover of Gobbling Ghouls.
Every person who visits my table brings me so much happiness. I love talking with everyone, and it's great to see that all the kids love to color so much! Some scribble, some stay within the lines, some use a rainbow of colors, while others match the colors from my book. Whatever the approach, I enjoy seeing their finished works of art! One six-year old boy meticulously stayed within the lines. I learned that he is quite the artist and creates computers out of paper. He emphasized that he even makes the mouse! I was so impressed.
I love hearing about kids' talents, their dreams, and sports and hobbies they enjoy. Everyone is so amazingly different. One girl told me that she does fencing! She is the first person I've met that does that sport. I thought that was so cool!
As I was wrapping up, I asked my mother, who helped me that day, if she wanted to walk around to look at all the scarecrows people made along the streets. She had to get home to finish making a quilt, so she said she couldn't. A little boy who overheard that, said that I could go with him and his mother if I wanted to. That was the sweetest thing! The kids are the best! What a nice end to a perfect day. = )