I just flew back from New York (and boy are my arms tired). I know, but I had to use it once in my life. Anyway, it is an exciting time for the creation of the book that seems to take forever. I was completely unaware of the process, as I find are most. So let me explain in my own random way how this is working.

I sent the manuscript to the publisher in April. I was told it would take about a year from that date to publish a book. I didn't get it. Now I do. Since April I have the copy has been edited, the jacket cover chosen, the title determined, the interior design (still in process) nailed down and all the information given to the sales people who are in the process of selling the book to the stores. In other words, I had to have the whole thing kind of sold to the sellers so they could sell it to the retail outlets.

As I write right now, I'm waiting for more interior pages to approve or disapprove design. Also being made aware there is only so much time and money so hurry up but take your time. Which brings me back to New York.

I had the great opportunity to see what it is like for a publicist to take her selection of the spring season's books to the media in New York City. For two solid days of non stop media appointments (Good Morning America, Family Circle, Rachel Ray, O, Montel, Cosmo, Self, etc.) we went from cab to office where I watched as Kim Weiss, my publicist sell to those who either make the decision, or to those report to those who make the decision on her book line up for Spring. I had my little moment where I could mention what I have to offer at each meeting.

I was thrilled at the opportunity. I also met with Edward Ash-Milby who is the self-improvement buyer for Barnes and Noble. This too was a big deal, as well as a really nice lunch at Gramercy Tavern with he and Kelly Marangi, the national sales director for HCI Books. She's also a hottie with great legs. She sold me.

After lunch I went to meet with my agent for the first time. Adam Chromy of Artists and Artisans, who up until now has been more of a quick chat on the phone, a two sentence email on occasion, and a sign your life away contract negotiation. It was nice to put a face to the man I've put my trust in. He took me for coffee and cheesecake to meet Janette Barber, who is a writer and producer as well as comic, authors, spokesperson, and mostly wildly entertaining. I had more than one too-loud guffaw at the table.

That night I met my publicist at Cipriani for a lovely dinner and wonderful discussion as we planned the next two days. After two days of the press tour I met friends for dinner at Chow Bar on 4th street and 10th street but that confused every taxi driver so I ended up walking 20 blocks before getting close enough to hail a cab. (Not before a man stopped me on the street to ask my "why do you have to be such a faggot?). New York City. I can get that in rural Minnesota, but in Chelsea?

I spent Friday recovering, Saturday at work, Saturday night at the Jungle Theater in Minneapolis, and Sunday RE recovering. What a great time had by all of me.