book launch

A book launch isn't the place that you'd expect to find many children. I am glad, though, that my children weren't the only ones there. Anna was her usual self, alternating between charming people and getting into mischief. Thomas was my publicist and chief book-seller. (I admit it was difficult to get him to hand over the cash. What £40? he asked...) Not that many books were sold. Just two, in fact. Given that the crowd were mostly students at the theological college in which I teach, it's not surprising. Some of the university students might have fat allowances, but those preparing for ministry don't.

Special price £39. Thomas thought I should get the money. I am really grateful that a couple of people actually bought the book!

Iain brought a tank. Who wouldn't? He was soon tearing around college with his friend Bleddyn. Book launch? What book launch?

Some folks actually had a look at the merchandise. I appreciated everyone who came, though, even if they only came for the wine. I even appreciated the student who showed up towards the end, expecting another event, who'd forgotten entirely about the book launch. Never mind--he had a look at the book, anyway.

Lucy smiled at everyone and made friends. She insisted that I pick her up frequently, though, with the result that when it came time for me to say a few words, I did so with toddler on hip. Since I wrote most of the original text during kids' naptimes and precious hours while they were at nursery, it seems appropriate that they were close at hand for the speeches.

Anna, enjoying a still and quiet moment, between dashes for the stairs or kitchen.

I think they all had a good time. I'm just glad nobody had a tantrum or spilled anything. As not-conducive to book-writing as the children are, I know with absolute certainty that I couldn't have done it without them.