So it’s been 4 1/2 months since my last post. I want to say I’m sorry, but I’m really not. I was out doing that whole living thing. I hope YOU were, too!

I’ve had some really amazing experiences in the last few weeks, some of which I can talk about and some of which I cannot. (All in good time.)

One story I can share is the incredible time I had at the Maryland Renaissance Festival in Annapolis, MD yesterday. After buying a dress to attend a Ren Faire (any Ren Faire) 2 1/2 years ago…I finally put it on. And promptly had the time of my life.

When I reached out to Page After Page Bookshop last year, I did so hesitantly – an indie author, unsure of how I would be received. (Bookstores are either wildly supportive of indies or look at us as though we’re kindergarteners offering up our first ever essay and we just never know which reaction you’ll get.) But Vicki and Tom from Page After Page were warm and welcoming and a delight to do business with from day one. They even make sure their new authors get a tour of the faire grounds before opening day, so they don’t get lost in the thousands upon thousands of people when they arrive for their signing day.

What I expected: the flair, the fun, the fantasy, the people, the smiles, the laughter.

What I didn’t expect: the inclusivity, the overwhelming acceptance, the sheer volume of interest in my books.

Sure, it’s a festival! I expected to sell and sign books. I didn’t, however, expect to SELL OUT. But Ren Faire-goers may rival Gilmore Girls fans in their love of human connection and stories. I sold out before my signing time slot was up. Out of books? A good problem to have, my friend.

As a result, I got to walk around the festival with my kids for the next hour or so before heading back home again. The performances, the characters, and the food (omg, the food) were absolutely immersive and it’s no wonder hundreds of thousands of people flock to the MD Renaissance Festival every year. There’s jousting, and bards, and comedy, and actors, and crafters, and games, and…and…jousting. Did I mention the jousting?

But above all, it was connecting with readers that had me floating on air. (No, lest you imagine my feet off the ground, I confess I wasn’t really floating on air. In fact, yesterday was the first day I used the cane I bought 8 months ago. And what an incredible aid it was. Who knew a mobility aid would be good for…standing hours on end?) So many enthusiastic readers. Readers who love escaping into stories every bit as much as I do.

So maybe, just maybe I’ll catch you at the PA Ren Faire next year. (It’s certainly a closer drive for me.) And if they’ll have me back, you’ll definitely see me hanging out at the Authors’ Lair at Page by Page in MD again next year. Grab a pint and join me!