On Friday, April 10, my husband and I traveled to Burlington, Iowa, to stay with my sister, Martha.  After spending the night with her, early in the morning we drove to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to the Barnes and Noble Bookstore for my first book signing of this year.

Authors Mac O’Shea, Sherry Hill, David W. Dorris, and Mary Martsching

Four authors autographed books for customers and visitors from 11:00-1:00 pm. Children liked the book cover designs on the books we offered for sale, and parents listened as we told about our book contents. Many read the synopsis on the book backs, and some asked questions about how and why we write. I enjoyed myself thoroughly!

Delene Wilson and daughter Amy

My first customer greeted warmly though she and her family drove three hours to specifically see me, and personally autograph my three books she wanted. How that touched my heart! To make it even more special, she grew up across the street from me, played all kinds of neighborhood sports with me and my family, and sang incredible harmony with my sister and me many nights after school while relaxing on a curb! For years we lost track of each other, but because of my post about this author book-signing event, Delene Loper Wilson decided to seek me out and buy my books. What a blessing she gave me! I met her daughters and some of her grandchildren, and visited about some of the ornery things we did growing up on South 5th Street in Burlington, Iowa.

Mia, a new friend, and others wait to have their books signed by Mary

Other shoppers blessed me with their interest and kindness while speaking with me while gazing over my books. Strangers bought my books, and other authors I sat with did, too.

Michael Helgens, an author and actor, came in and visited with me a bit, too. I had the privilege of sitting next to Michael two years ago at a book-signing held in Cedar Rapids at the Barnes and Noble Bookstore.

Michael Helgens, author and actor

Two young people who came to read Spanish books to children, stopped by and each bought a book from the author I sat by and me. We thanked them for taking time to read to children, and for their support with our sales.

Trish O’Dell and Mary Martsching outside of Red Lobster

In between signing autographs and visiting with people, we authors collaborated about marketing tips, and some of our experiences with the writing and publishing process. We all learned from each other. What a tremendous privilege to interact with customers and fellow-authors!  Right at the end of our event, another friend, Trish O’Dell, stopped by and we all went to lunch together. We shared news in our lives while we ate at my favorite restaurant, Red Lobster. The Lord truly blessed my day!