UPDATE: This giveaway is now closed. Thank you for your interest!
The evening started with butterflies. At first it was the unsettling kind. The kind that send your mind and stomach spinning. The kind that remind you that this moment you’re about to walk into, it’s big. And you’d better make it count.
Just then, when it seemed like those butterflies might win, a single monarch came and took their place. I first caught a glimpse of it out of the passenger-side window as I was starting the car. I stopped to watch as it flew, seemingly from the spot where my kids were giggling with their dad, waving goodbye to me. Then, with just enough intention, it hovered about 10 feet above my windshield, and slowly made its way into our neighbor’s trees as I pulled away from the curb.
I was immediately filled with a sense of peace. With the spirit, love, and confidence of my dad. It couldn’t have been more fitting, given that just down the road, awaited another girl who equally adores her father. Yes, this was going to be a good night.
When my big moment came, thanks to a lovely friend making a very generous introduction, the other butterflies returned. The thoughts in my head swirled as dangerously as the wine in my trembling hands, so I told her. About the butterfly. About how I was so nervous being right there at that very moment, but the butterfly gave me the nudge I needed.
And she knew just what to say. “Aww, you lost your guy. I’m so sorry.”
We exchanged more words. Hers, eloquent and perfect. Mine, sounding nothing at all like what I’d rehearsed in my head the few weeks leading up to this moment. Oh the questions I wanted to ask. The good impression I wanted to make. But the insightful, witty quips I’d imagined were replaced by clumsy words like “stalker” and the nervous nods of an obvious introvert.
She was lovely, generous, encouraging, funny, natural, and everything her written words would have you believe she is. She graciously filled the silence, and continued to return to our conversation no matter how often we were interrupted. After all, everyone there had come to see her.
I told her, being the stalker that I am, how she recently sent a newsletter that’s been my mantra as I work to write my own book. The subject line was, “Why not you?” And every time I start feeling doubt creeping in that I can make this dream of mine come true, I think about her words. “Why not me?”
And she knew just what to say, “Cheers to that!” Then she enthusiastically clinked her steady glass upon my shaky one.
She told me a story about a recent conversation she’d had with Anna Quindlen (because when you’re a New York Times bestseller, that’s the sort of company you keep), and reinforced the point that this was my dream to own.
We each moved on to separate conversations with other friends, and soon it was time to hear her speak. As this group of ladies casually gathered around her on a friend’s lovely back porch, she read a piece she’d written inspired by Glitter and Glue. One that captured her intentions and emotions behind the book.
And she knew just what to say.
Everyone in the crowd nodded. Laughed. Teared up. Exchanged knowing looks. While there must have been at least 75 people there, it felt like an intimate conversation with an old friend. That’s what she does. She makes you feel like she’s speaking directly to you, reading your mind — and your heart.
When she was done, ready to head off to the local bookstore for another reading, I caught her just in time to get a picture. And a couple signed books. At first I was going to keep a copy blank so I could give it away to a reader, but at the last second, I turned back.
“Actually, will you please sign this one for me? To Amy?” She smiled warmly, but with a hint of mischief.
And she knew just what to say. “To Amy, My favorite stalker. –Kelly Corrigan”
*Giveaway*: While I am absolutely keeping that perfectly signed copy all to myself, I’m not above stalking her to get another. To enter for a chance to win a signed copy of Glitter and Glue, please leave a comment on this post by Thursday, March 27, 2014 at 11:59pm PDT. Tell me, have you had the chance to meet one of your role models? What’s a goal that you’d like to achieve where you can adopt the mantra, “Why not me?” What do you love most about Kelly’s writing? Or, you know, use your words to share any other thought you might have. One winner will be chosen using Random.org and will be contacted via email with details.
NOTE: This post includes Amazon affiliate links, but I only share things I truly believe you’ll enjoy as much as I do.
Love this! What an awesome opportunity for you. I love your description of the conversation…I can totally relate not being an impressive conversationalist myself ;-). And the inscription…priceless!!
Thanks, Simona!
Loved this Amy! In case you have any doubts, you also need to know how much writing talent you have!!!
You are a writer and I love all that you share with us! You’ve kept me laughing, but I’ve also had tears reading some of your very eloquently written words. You’ve shared words that I have given me reason to reflect also.
Don’t sell yourself short….you may have not been as comfortable and relaxed with your idol as you would have liked, but I have no doubt that you will write that book!!! “Why not you?!” I hope I’m around to buy a copy and ask you to sign it for me!!!
Cheers! (and hugs!) Pam
You will absolutely have a signed copy waiting for you, Pam. Thank you for always knowing just what to say! xo
My dad is my role model…. Funny about 20 years (or less) I was asked at a high school club meeting for a spot at a leadership summer camp who my female role model was and I went with my gut and said my dad. He works hard, stands for what he believes in but at the same time (in these crazy days) tries to find time for himself and enjoys life! I love him to death and his understanding and hope to do the same to my kids.
Congratulations, Amy! Random.org chose “3” and as the third comment, you are the winner of this giveaway. I’ll be in touch via email with details!
I keep meaning to buy this book but haven’t yet. A signed copy would definitely be a bonus! 😉 As far as a goal for the mantra, I’d like to find a new career after staying at home with the kids. Since I’ve only ever taught, the quest seems daunting, but I’ll just have to adopt your words, “Why not me?” And thanks for the laugh…I can relate to the introvert awkwardness. 😉
I think I’d have a similar experience to yours if I ever met Katrina Kenison! And if I could adopt that mantra, you know I’d be writing a book. One day I’ll find the courage!
I love her. I have loved her writing for so long, and i love the youtube reading of transcendence. Always a feel good experience to make a bad day better.