Over the past weekend, the Local Ladies Social Network (LLSN) sponsored the Southwest Florida Arts and Crafts Show at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in Punta Gorda, Florida. Scroll up from this blog and see the Upcoming Events & Appearances section. The online poster for an event where I will set up a table will be there. If you are in the area, come by on 15 September to the events center for the Falls Arts and Crafts show.

I genuinely enjoy these events where Linda and I meet so many people; although many want to talk or ask questions regarding the books, some folks find the books a great gift idea, or their interest is piqued where they want more of the story. I get to tell them the entire story with enough detail to create interest (and a sale). People’s stories about their lives or wanting to pursue writing are always interesting. Some folks ask where to start in the series “I am a Soldier, First and Always,” and the answer, without fail, is from the beginning.

It was an arts and crafts fair, so the place was filled with over one hundred vendors selling a vast assortment of handmade items. Painting and pictures, kitchen cutting boards and Lazy Susans, things to wear for kids and adults, creams and potions, and a select group of local authors. Three or four of us were looking almost out of place amid the sea of tchotchke. (CHɒCHkə). That made us unique, engaging, and out of the ordinary. Authors are great at sharing information, and I received a few tips about enhancing my display.

I love these events. The next event, also at the Charlotte Harbor Events Center, is on 15 September. I’ll be there at the table, telling anecdotal stories about the novels (and perhaps some insight into the current project – “Advance the Line” — and the Mackenzies in World War One.

We’ll continue to sign up for events within the area or a reasonable distance from Venice. I’ll keep them posted on the website. In the meantime, if you have a question about an event, email the address at the end of the website. I must return to my research of the Americans in France in 1918. See you!