Even the Easter Bunny Signs His Name

An aspect of publishing I didn't give much thought to until last month was my signature and the dedication. I've attended book signings in the past, saw them in movies, and met numerous authors at workshops and conferences but never did I see any of them struggle over how to write their name or what to write as a dedication. So why did I have an "Oh my goodness, I have to sign my books for people. What ever will I write?"

Rather than beat my head against the wall or practice my signature a hundred times like I did in junior high, I went to my book shelves. I opened various books I've purchased, been gifted, and accumulated since my childhood with an author's signature in them. I made a mental note of how different authors signed their books. Some included a dedication too while most just signed their name. Most, if not all, the Christian author's signed their name with a Scripture reference also. The books with a personal dedication came from authors I personally knew or have a connection to. So, did I learn what I was searching for?

The answer is "yes"! Just as no two people are alike, neither are any of the books tucked on my bookshelf. Topics, themes, and styles might be similar but each author is unique and my connection or interest in their book is different. 

So the manner in which an author dedicates and signs his or her book, is truly up to the author. I've decided there are many things I can stress on in life. 

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The way in which I sign my name, dedicate my book, or select a Scripture for the note isn't important in the grand scheme of life. Of course I want it to be neat, speak to the reader's heart, and share a verse God used to make a difference in my life but to spend countless minutes debating what and how is wasting the time God's given me.

A week from Wednesday you will have two opportunities to meet me in person for a personal copy of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey. The first at the mystery book signing during the day and the other at 6 p.m. in Oswego at the River's End Bookstore. 

If you aren't in New Haven or Oswego on April third, you can purchase the book on Amazon.com at Midnight! On April 4th, I will post upcoming book signings and speaking engagements on the blog and possibly add a calendar to site too. As of last week I am scheduling into September. I am excited, encouraged, and humbled at the way God is working in our lives through the release of Where's Heidi? and When the Waves Subside. 

Thank you for joining us on this journey ~ the sister's journey. Be sure to read tomorrow's blog, the final T.O.P.'s Tuesday of March, with the last of clues for the mystery book signing on April third. The April second blog will review the clues and give you an opportunity to guess, but wait until April 2nd so as not to ruin it for those who haven't seen all the clues or want to stay in suspense another week.

What is your favorite Easter treat and/or tradition?