The trip, the company, the book sales were great–eight appearances in five California cities–plus visits to three writer workshops (critique groups)  I once belonged to.  I sold 35 copies of Long Distance Grandparenting and brought home orders for more that I could not fill there; plus several copies of Just Pencil Me In and my humorous novel, Something's Leaking Upstairsi.

Sad to report that attendance at writer club monthly meetings has dwindled since the last time I spoke at these. However, attendance at the Unitarian Fellowship in Porterville where I spoke has increased considerably since I spoke there two years ago.  I believe that attendance at the San Luis Obispo NightWriters monthly meetings has dwindled because of the fact that their 12 writer workshops/critique groups are thriving.  The workshops are where the real writing help comes to partidipants..   

Later blogs will explore more about what I call "umbrella groups"–those that require officers, newsletter editors, dues as opposed to workshops that meet in homes. And some tips about book tours that I hope will be of help to readers.  Aranging for appearancxes (a year in advance!)  checking on the appointments, directing talks to any given audience.  Watch for these–as soon as I can get to them..