>**Warning!***Happy Fuzzy Feelings Below
One of the nice outcomes of the Red Maple Awards was that they hung up a gigantic big huge white sheet of paper and asked young readers to sign it for the author. It arrived in the mail a few days ago. And I tell you, it's a great inspiration to have a whole sheet full of encouragement from readers.
Yep, every once in awhile I just glance at it and then keep on writing. It's like having your very own cheerleading squad shouting over your shoulder as you write (without the noise or stomping sounds). It's an instant rush of inspiration.
Of course, though, one of my favourite lines on the poster is on this pic: 
See it? It's the one that says, "Sorry, didn't read it, too long!" Ha, at least you took the time to write out your apology anonymous non-reader. You and millions of other people haven't read the book. Billions actually. Anyway, I really appreciate the comments and the work of the librarians and other behind-the-scenes people at these sorts of functions. This kind of happy fuzzy stuff wouldn't happen without them.
Speaking of happy fuzzy, just received the CCBC Our Choice magazine and am happy to report that Megiddo's Shadow was awarded a star. This issue lists all the recommended books from last year. Yay!
I better go before I start getting maudlin and lose my tough-guy-from-the-west image.
