I had a lovely time last Friday, giving a two-hour poetry inservice to about 25 librarians of the Catholic Schools of St. Paul.
I wore sandals because–well, because it was May, and I had a decent pedicure (a rare occasion). But then it snowed all the way there. I wasn’t sure I was at the right building when I arrived, until I spotted that welcome parking sign–telling me I was in the right spot and also making my several trips back and forth a bit drier. That was such a kind detail for them to think of.
Once inside, everything was terrific. Mary (see pic), one of the hosts/organizers, welcomed me and got everything perfect for my presentation; Red Balloon, fabulous St. Paul indie bookstore, sold books; 25 librarians wrote poems with me, asked questions, made sound effects, bought books, etc. It was awesome!
Then they fed me lunch and sent me off with a thank you card, my check, and a bouquet of spring. One of the nicest events I’ve been part of.
[Writers: Last week’s gig came about because of two previous events: I met librarian Deirdre Jameson at a book event?a couple of years ago. I have a video of her’reading?”Book Plate,”?but I can’t get it to?upload. Then Deirdre and a colleague heard me speak?at the?Hubbs Children’s Literature Conference?in February. A few weeks later, Deirdre emailed to ask about participating in Friday’s event. Events lead to more events, and word of mouth really helps. Who knows–maybe Friday’s event will even lead to a school visit or two down the road!]
Oh Laura, this is so wonderful. LUCKY librarians to be with you and lucky you to have been treated so well! I love the photos. What a great school. I think the Reserved for Author sign should be put up at all schools when they have a visiting author. Was it permanent or movable? Movable makes sense, but permanent, well, hooray for that.
Did you see my “We have spring” photo on FB? It has been gorgeous for like 5 days in a row. That perfect blue sky, which is rare for us.
Thanks, Janet! The sign was usually Reserved for Someone Else (maybe the principal?). But they covered up the Someone Else and put Author there. We have had beautiful days yesterday and today. Hoping it stays sunny through Maddie’s grad party in a couple of weeks! Off to check out your photo!
Oh Laura, this is so wonderful. LUCKY librarians to be with you and lucky you to have been treated so well! I love the photos. What a great school. I think the Reserved for Author sign should be put up at all schools when they have a visiting author. Was it permanent or movable? Movable makes sense, but permanent, well, hooray for that.
Did you see my “We have spring” photo on FB? It has been gorgeous for like 5 days in a row. That perfect blue sky, which is rare for us.
Thanks, Janet! The sign was usually Reserved for Someone Else (maybe the principal?). But they covered up the Someone Else and put Author there. We have had beautiful days yesterday and today. Hoping it stays sunny through Maddie’s grad party in a couple of weeks! Off to check out your photo!
Lovely!
It was, Catherine:>)
Lovely!
It was, Catherine:>)
Sounds like a very nice day, Laura. I imagine those librarians had a great time with you! And, congratulations on your NCTE Notable book award for A Leaf Can Be! Great to hear about!
Thanks so much, Linda! I am thrilled!!!
Sounds like a very nice day, Laura. I imagine those librarians had a great time with you! And, congratulations on your NCTE Notable book award for A Leaf Can Be! Great to hear about!
Thanks so much, Linda! I am thrilled!!!
SALAS POWER!!!!!!!!!
SALAS POWER!!!!!!!!!