Thursday – A Little Personal – Getting Ready for a Book Fair

A Little Personnal

“This is the life, Bailey.”

“Mmmff. Huh?”

“Ah never mind. Oops, there goes the boss again.”

“You know the boss has been a little busy today. I’m going to ask what is going on.”

“Okay, Lucy. You do that. I hope you don’t mind me getting a little more shut-eye.”

“Yeah stay there. I’ll yell at him.”

“What is it, Lucy?”

“Bailey and I think you are moving way too fast for an old guy.”

“Oh is that right. Well, I’m preparing for the Galveston Book Festival On March 24th is all.”

“The what?

“Come inside, I’ll show you.”

“Whoa. What the heck is that?”

“That’s my banner. It goes behind my table, so people know who I am.”

“Thrillers by John W. Howell. Who’s that?”

“Can you help, Bailey?”

“That is Pop’s real name.”

“Jeez, Boss. I never hear anyone call you John W. Howell.”

“I know. Lucy.”

“So, I see cases of books. This one is opened.”

“Yes, I was just checking them to make sure I have some of each.”

“Oh, I get it. Those are big pictures of your books up on that banner.”

“There you go. I think you have it now.”

“What about this table, Pops.”

“That’s where mom is putting bookmarks together.”

“Bookmarks? What are those?”

“People who read books like to remember where they left off, so these little things help do that. I will be giving them away. Along with Swedish Fish and some Library cards.”

“You can’t sell these?”

“I’m selling books. These are just gifts to readers.”

“Let me look closer. Oh, I see now.”

“They are just a little gift of appreciation.”

“Hey Lucy, you see these?”

“Yeah, I saw them. I think I’ll curl up with a good book now.”

101 comments

  1. Phil Taylor's avatar

    LMAO! I love your dogs conversations!

    Liked by 1 person

  2. Victoria Ray NB's avatar

    Reblogged this on raynotbradbury and commented:
    I just love it 🙂 …

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you so much, Ray.

      Liked by 1 person

  3. morristownmemos by Ronnie Hammer's avatar

    Do you always eavesdrop on conversation of friends???

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yes. 😀 Then I broadcast them to the world.

      Like

  4. Charles Yallowitz's avatar

    Great way to talk about the book fair. Have fun.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I hardly ever promote my stuff on my blog but thought it would be a good time to do so. Thanks, Charles.

      Like

      1. Charles Yallowitz's avatar

        You’re welcome. Love the banner display.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          Thanks, Charles.

          Like

  5. Jill Weatherholt's avatar

    Excellent book choice by Lucy! I loved this, John. The third photo is priceless!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Jill. 🙂

      Like

  6. quiall's avatar

    Good luck and have fun!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Pam 🙂

      Like

  7. Manja Maksimovič's avatar

    Great. Merely what you wrote here makes me wish to read you book now.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you. 😀

      Liked by 1 person

  8. Keith Edgar Channing's avatar

    Good luck at the book fair, John – keep those sales going!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Ha ha ha. Thanks, Keith.

      Liked by 1 person

  9. Almost Iowa's avatar

    It is sooo difficult to keep up on what people are doing. Makes you just want to put your head on your paws and sleep.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I know right? I wish we could do that sometimes.

      Like

  10. Sarah Angleton's avatar

    What good helpers you have!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thanks you, Sarah. They are. (Sort of) 😀

      Like

  11. Teri Polen's avatar

    Love the bookmarks, John – wishing you many sales at the book fair!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thanks, Teri.

      Like

  12. Gwen M. Plano's avatar
    Gwen Plano · ·

    LOL. I love the photo of Lucy looking at the poster. It’s a classic. All the best at the book fair; I’m sure you will do very well. (Remember to take your camera. 🙂 )

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Gwen. I will have to get a few shots. 😀

      Like

  13. Dan Antion's avatar

    Lucy is precious. It’s good to have support from the family. well, at least the humans. Good luck at the book show, John.

    I will add that when I read your books, I hardly has the need for a bookmark – they were hard to put down.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Ha ha ha. Thank you, Dan. You know how to warm a heart. 😀

      Liked by 1 person

  14. shoreacres's avatar

    Well, my goodness. I had no idea there was going to be a book fair in Galveston, but I know where it is now. I don’t know what I’ve got going for that day, but I’ve penciled it in on the calendar. I’ve never been to a book fair; it would be fun to stop by.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Oh please do, Linda. I would love to say hello. You have so many fascinating experiences and it would be great chatting.

      Like

  15. John Fioravanti's avatar
    John Fioravanti · ·

    Reblogged this on Words To Captivate ~ by John Fioravanti and commented:
    Lucy just loves to curl up with a good book! Another great episode with John W. Howell’s furry kids. Please enjoy!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, John

      Like

      1. John Fioravanti's avatar
        John Fioravanti · ·

        You’re welcome, John.

        Liked by 1 person

  16. Sorryless's avatar

    I can see them saying that . . “Hey Boss, who’s this John Howell character? And why is he using your picture?” Hahaha!

    Best wishes for your book fair jaunt!

    Peace

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Marc. Should be fun.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Sorryless's avatar

        You will make it fun, that’s for sure.

        Like

  17. Jan Hawke's avatar

    They’re great bookmarks! 😀 I like that they’re not ‘matched’ so they’re good for any reading material – don’t want to swamp any passing trade with the marketing… 😉

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      These are actually charms put on ribbon. I think they will work. Thanks, Jan

      Like

  18. Natalie Ducey's avatar

    Best wishes for the book fair, John! The banner and bookmarks look awesome. Another post that brings an instant smile. Cheers!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Natalie. 😀

      Liked by 1 person

  19. coldhandboyack's avatar

    Great post again. Have fun at the book fair.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thanks, Craig.

      Like

  20. Staci Troilo's avatar

    As usual, the girls have been the highlight of my morning. Wishing you success at the fair!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Staci. 🙂

      Like

  21. Fictionophile's avatar

    Wishing you success at the Galveston Book Fair. Beautiful bookmarks are a great reader’s gift. I always enjoy your Lucy and Bailey posts.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Lynne. I’m glad you like that post.

      Like

  22. Teagan Riordain Geneviene's avatar

    The girls are a delight as always, John. Wow a book fair, and in Galveston. Awesome! The banner looks great and the bookmarks are a really cute idea. I hope you sell every single book and take orders for hundreds more. Okay thousands — I need to think bigger. 😀 Hugs.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I like the idea of thousands. Thanks, Teagan.

      Liked by 1 person

  23. Mae Clair's avatar

    Lucy has good taste in reading 🙂
    I hope you have a fantastic time at the book fair. I love the banner an the bookmarks. You’re prepared!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Mae.

      Liked by 1 person

  24. Author Jan Sikes's avatar

    Looks like you are READY! I wish I was going to Galveston, but alas, I’ll be at my favorite music festival of the year in Abilene. I have told my friend, Judy, to look you up and make you feel welcome! Wishing you great success!!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I will look forward to meeting Judy. Is she a write as well?

      Like

      1. Author Jan Sikes's avatar

        Yes. She is a children’s author. She is a super person.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          Terrific. Look forward to it.

          Like

  25. The Coastal Crone's avatar

    Looks great, John! Very impressive. The bookmarks are a nice touch and the sea blue color is just right. Wishing you great success on another island!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Jo. I almost forgot that it is an island.

      Like

  26. D.L. Finn, Author's avatar
    D.L Finn, Author · ·

    Great post and book marks! Hope it goes well for you! Sounds like an amazing event. You need a picture of Lucy at your stand with the book;)

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, DL. I should have one shouldn’t I?

      Liked by 1 person

  27. Frank @ Beach Walk Reflections's avatar

    I’m wondering if Lucy will write a review!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Of course she will. She has trouble holding a pen though.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Frank @ Beach Walk Reflections's avatar

        Let her use the computer.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          She lost her computer privileges by ordering on line from Pet Smart.

          Liked by 1 person

        2. Frank @ Beach Walk Reflections's avatar

          Oh no … another shopping addict.

          Liked by 1 person

  28. Audrey Dawn - Oldest Daughter Redheaded Sister's avatar

    Love the bookmarks! I hope you have a wonderful turnout and meet some interesting people. You’re big time, Butch.
    Loved seeing the pups today.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thanks, Audrey. 🙂

      Like

  29. Website: http://brchitwood.com - B R Chitwood - My Mission: Writing to Discover Me's avatar

    Wishing you all the best, Good John! Hugs to the girls! ♥

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thanks Billy Ray. 😀

      Like

  30. Jennie's avatar

    I love this!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Jennie.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Jennie's avatar

        You’re welcome, John.

        Liked by 1 person

  31. dweezer19's avatar

    Good luck John! Have fun. Hubby is from Galveston. BOI. I hope they treat you well. Your table will be the best one there.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Cheryl. Big confidence builder.

      Like

      1. dweezer19's avatar

        Happy to be a cheerleader! 😀

        Liked by 1 person

  32. morristownmemos by Ronnie Hammer's avatar

    Just remember that there was a time that people said,”Who is John Howell?” And look at you now, and all you’ve achieved!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Aw. Such a nice comment, Ronnie. Thank you.

      Like

  33. roughwighting's avatar

    I’m excited for you! If I lived anywhere near, I’d be there! (Perhaps behind a table next to you…) 🙂 Best of luck – wonderful.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Pamela. 😀

      Liked by 1 person

  34. Lauren Scott, Author's avatar

    What a fun and clever post, John! Your dogs are adorable, and their conversations are always delightful. 🙂 I’ve never heard of a book fair around here, and if I lived nearby, I’d be there. 🙂 I wish you all the best in your sales. Loved the banner and bookmarks, too!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Lauren. Book Passages in Corta Maderia has famous authors visit all the time.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Lauren Scott, Author's avatar

        It’s funny you mention Book Passage, John. We’ve gone to many events there. I guess I was talking about a book fair where not so famous authors can sell their books (like me). 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          I get it. I miss being able to drop into Book Passage on a whim.

          Liked by 1 person

  35. Debbie's avatar

    Aw, these girls are just precious! Hope the book fair turnout is huge and the reception of your offerings is amazing, John! Love the bookmarks, too.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Debbie. 🙂

      Like

  36. The Hook's avatar

    Your furry pals have great taste in literature, John.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      They also have no choice. Thanks, Hook.

      Like

  37. circadianreflections's avatar

    The bookmarks are lovely. I love the ending of this post! So clever.

    Best of luck with the book-faire. I hope sell em all!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Deborah

      Liked by 1 person

  38. Vashti Q's avatar

    Loved the banner and the bookmarks. I hope you sell all your books at the book festival, John! Lucy and Bailey are adorable and hilarious, as usual. 😀 xx

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Vashti

      Like

      1. Vashti Q's avatar

        You’re welcome. Have a great weekend.

        Like

  39. robbiesinspiration's avatar

    A great banner, John. I hope you have a smashing event.

    Like

  40. macjam47's avatar

    I love your banner and the bookmarks. I hope you have a great turn out and sell all of your books. Are you taking Lucy and Bailey to the book fair? I’m sure they would have great stories to share.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Michelle.

      Liked by 1 person