Cedar Waxwings

 Sometime in March or April about a dozen or so years ago, I watched a gift fly into view from my kitchen window in Chicagoland. A flock of the most beautiful birds suddenly swooped into my sightline, attacking a crabapple tree in the backyard. Attacking might not be the correct word, but it’s how it initially looked. They were actually feasting. Perhaps the words frenzy, frenetic, frenetically could be applied, but hopefully there’s the visual. Out of control.

First, I had never seen such a bird so I had no idea what was going on or why, not to mention a flock of feathered beauty acting a little crazy; secondly, as a photographer, I automatically grabbed my camera wondering how I could get outside without scaring them away. And third, the Original Best Girl was suddenly at my side ready to join me. You see, she was my canine supermodel and my camera meant she and I were going outside for adventures. So I couldn’t resist her soft brown eyes and go without her. Believe it or not, my girl and I went outside and stood about four feet from all of the activity and it didn’t phase the party at all. 

Getting a clear and good photo of them proved difficult, however, regardless of how close I was to them. They were moving around the tree so quickly, tossing back the berries and passing them around. I had no way of knowing where they were going next. Fluttering times a thousand. Even Lily, Original Best Girl, sat there mesmerized. Our presence did not bother these gorgeous birds. And just as quickly as they arrived, they departed as a flock. Done. Gone. Never to be seen again. 

My dog looked at me as if to say, “What just happened?” Even she had forgotten about the camera. The really only clear photograph I got that day is shared here. The image can be found on my Fine Art America/Pixels site. 

It took a bit of searching to find what type of bird had briefly entered my world that day, but they are called Cedar Waxwings. Described as social songbirds with pale yellow bellies and black masks, they travel in flocks following fruit sources (the berries left on my crabapple tree). They are also known to get intoxicated on the fermented berries they eat. Check. So I concluded that’s what I saw that day…it explains the way these birds were acting, and how oblivious they were to me and to my dog. They imbibed a little too much, and now I affectionately refer to these stunning birds as Little Drunk Bandits (note the black masks). Just for fun though.

That day was the first and only time I have ever been in the presence of a Cedar Waxwing. Right place, right time, gift sort of thing. At the time, there were two other crabapple trees in the yard so I wondered if they had hit those trees, as well. If not, I got lucky that day because the tree they chose was the only one visible from my kitchen window. Bird’s Eye View. Sorry, couldn’t resist. And call it a lucky gift if these beautiful birds ever decide to visit, however briefly it might be. 

Thrifting's Revival

Several years ago, I owned an antique store in the Chicagoland area. Over time, I moved to about five different locations with my final stop being in Peoria, Illinois. In the end I’d grown tired of moving merchandise in addition to the difficulty and expense I found in maintaining fresh inventory to sell. While I lived in the suburbs of Chicago, Peoria was an ideal place due to proximity and because it allowed me to visit my daughter while updating/working the shop. She attended university there. 

I have always loved antique, vintage and old. Antique stores and estate sales were usually always part of our weekends. As I mentioned in some of my other blog posts, part of the beauty and quality of the pieces included knowing the history and imagining the lives of the previous owners. It seemed a natural progression to simply open a shop. 

The idea of this blog post originated due to discovering a younger generation’s interest in thrifting. Of course, when you watch one reel on social media of a thrifter’s “find” you’re then inundated with endless reels of the same or related content. Watching them can be addictive if you aren’t careful, but I’m so happy to see young adults rediscovering beautiful pieces and bringing them into their lives; in addition, they are being very creative in repurposing some of those items. I applaud their cleverness. And thrifting isn’t necessarily antiquing, but the line gets a little blurry when stores, auctions, and estate sales carry/sell much of the same merchandise. Timeframes and eras don’t necessarily matter in defining a type of store or how someone collects anymore. 

Over the years, I came across some odd and very unique kinds of items in addition to the “normal” things one sees in antique stores. One such piece was a wrought iron plant stand that measured about seven to eight feet in height with the top curved into what looked like a bird cage. There were about four “arms” curving out from it which would hold plants in addition to the base. To add to the oddness of the find, I purchased it at an estate sale being held at a monastery. Because of its size, it was a challenge to get home. But it was so beautiful once cleaned, and it was certainly the center of attention in my shop. I envisioned how lovely it would look in the solarium or conservatory of an estate somewhere; eventually, it sold but it took a while. It was something I wish I’d been able to keep but had no room or place for it. 

Other unusual things I encountered over the years while buying inventory: a wooden coffin with lid/cover (c.19th century) being used as a storage chest in a home (DID NOT buy that one); creepy dolls that give you nightmares; skull mounts and taxidermy—in memory of someone’s pets…didn’t buy any of those either. I generally passed on more than I purchased, so it goes without saying I attended a lot of sales. But the best things were often hidden or unassuming, many of which came in box lots. 

Which brings me to the photograph I’ve included in this post. I obtained it in one of those “lots” and I’ve a full container of these old photos with some dating back to around 1800 (maybe earlier). Given the description accompanying the image, it’s one of the odd finds and discoveries, which I purchased at an estate sale in Batavia, Illinois. 

The photograph measures about 8 x 9.5 inches and is mounted on stiff cardboard; these were known as cabinet cards. I can find no information on the historical photographer named A. Lund, but that’s not unusual. There is also no date, but given the style of clothing and hairstyles of the women, I’d guess it was taken anywhere from the 1880s to 1900, plus cabinet cards originated around 1860. The description of the photograph is:

“This picture was taken at a shower for Emma Anderson Swanson. A mock wedding was held. Most of the women are employees of Bellevue.” Then it proceeds to list most of the names of those in the photograph. 

The history of Bellevue. Bellevue Institute was a private school in Batavia, Illinois that was chartered in 1853. In 1867, it was purchased by Dr. Richard J Patterson and the institute was renamed Bellevue Place, a private sanitarium for women. Its most notable resident was President Abraham Lincoln’s widow, Mary Todd Lincoln, who was a patient living there from May to September of 1875. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places; the building was eventually converted to apartments. 

My first antique shop was located in Batavia and I regularly drove by this building. Looking at the photograph and based on the description that came with it, I wonder about the unnamed women and the ones who were not employed at Bellevue. Were they patients? Why a shower? Why a mock wedding? Given the possible timeframe, could any of them have encountered Mary Todd Lincoln? Ironically, the Emma Anderson Swanson mentioned isn’t listed as the “bride” in the photo. The woman in the top hat is an unknown (no name was given), but it gives shades of Abraham Lincoln in my opinion. I suppose I’ll continue trying to find information regarding the names of some of the women, but so far I haven’t been successful. I would so love to know their history. That’s what antiques do to me. 

Yes, I’m happy the “old” is being discovered again. I’ve also fallen down the rabbit hole of reels where this same generation is discovering my generation of music…watching them listen for the first time to a song of my youth, and like it, is pure joy. 

Happiness. 

 

A Time of Reflection

A year ago, I wasn’t feeling much Christmas cheer.  It was the shadow of upcoming change that darkened the season and prevented me from enjoying the holiday.  For weeks, my focus had involved sorting through boxes that contained memories from our lives, deciding what needed donating, tossing or saving.  Packing and getting things in order overshadowed decorating, shopping, gift wrapping and cooking.  Christmas was hastily put together, an afterthought for me, because a bigger event loomed soon afterward.  And for the first time in my life, the decorations came down and were packed away as soon as December 25^th was history.  It was as if a light switch had suddenly been flipped, and the holiday was forgotten and over.  Time to move on.  Time to face big change once again.  And on December 30, 2015, I said goodbye to a house in Chicagoland that had been home to me for twelve years; a new place waited in Memphis, a new job for my husband. 

It’s difficult to explain the emotions that get attached to a house.  It is just a building, after all, and a dozen years don’t seem like many to some people.  However, it’s the level of living and the significant events that made those years full and meaningful for me, and that’s what makes a house a home.  The house saw both of our daughters graduate from high school and college; it was our home when one got married, and the other became engaged.  Within those walls, I wrote books and saw three of them published; anniversaries and birthdays were planned and celebrated, holidays passed and parties were held, vacations enjoyed.  The golden retriever that moved into that house with us lost her life to illness during those years; the sweet angel with fur that just moved south with us entered our lives as a puppy there, too.  The tenure might have been short, but the content was full. 

It was tough putting the house on the market.  The “For Sale” sign was placed in the yard on January 2^nd and five months later it sold.  During that time, I never lost the emotional attachment but I could only endure one visit in order to check on it.  Walking into that empty shell which had meant so much to me and seeing the condition it was in due to viewings was too much.  It was a disappointing list of things that hit me full in the face when I opened the front door, and it looked tired; the disrespect shown by strangers for something that had been part of my life took its toll.  I never went back.  The day our house sold was bittersweet, but I know the new owners are making their own memories in it.

Those who have gone through it know this: moving is hard.  Doing so across country means uprooting and leaving everything you’ve come to rely on behind you.  The day to day things taken for granted have to be rethought anew, with much of it trial and error until the fit is right.  In the past, the kids moved with us, easing the difficulty of that unknown, but this time was different.  One daughter remains in Chicago, while the other lives in Colorado.  Plans now have to be made to see both of them, and that’s tough on a parent.

And when the family moves because of one spouse’s job, that spouse has an immediate source of interaction to help with adjusting to a new place.  While moving is usually difficult for children, they too have support from schools and new friends.  It’s the other tag-along spouse/parent who is left dangling, trying to make things work while struggling to figure out his/her purpose that moving affects the most.  You feel lost while trying to establish yourself; planting seeds to initiate new roots is timely and they don’t always take right away.  It’s easy to feel like a failure.

The year has passed quickly, as they all seem to do nowadays.  It saw our oldest get married in May; we took a trip to Scotland and England in October, and spent Thanksgiving with the youngest in Colorado.  Family will arrive in a couple of days to share Christmas, which will be celebrated as usual.  No rushing and the decorations won’t be taken down on the 26^th.  The latest manuscript is now in the hands of literary agents, and there are thoughts of the next book.  I just organized a food drive that I hope becomes an annual event, and I’ve already participated in an author fair.  My new house is starting to feel like home.  You see those seeds are sprouting.

Take the time to reflect, and if you have the time, don’t rush.  Enjoy the season with friends and family.  I wish all of you the happiest of holidays; Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.  Thank you for taking the time to read this blog.

Catch a Bunch of Authors 2015 - Aurora Public Library Author Fair

This Saturday, September 12, 2015, I'll be participating in the annual "Catch a Bunch of Authors" event sponsored by the Aurora Public Library in Aurora, Illinois.  The author fair runs from 2pm - 4pm and will be held at the new Santori Public Library of Aurora, 101 S. River Street.

Copies of my books, Daniel's Esperanza, Billy's First Dance and Funny Pages will be for sale, and I'll be happy to sign them, too.  Information will be available about the latest book I'm writing, as well.

If you're in the Chicagoland area, please stop by and say hello, and see this beautiful new facility.  Plus, over forty authors will be in attendance, with many books for sale.  Thanks to all who come out and support us.

Events Plus Sara Teasdale's Poetry

A couple of upcoming events this fall include some author fairs I've been invited to attend.  First, the Aurora Public Library's "Catch a Bunch of Authors" on Saturday, September 12, 2015, at the new Santori Branch from 2pm - 4pm in Aurora, Illinois.  I will also be at the Oswego Literary Festival, Saturday, October 3, 2015 from 9am - 1pm at the Oswego, Illinois Public Library.  I will be selling and signing copies of my books, Daniel's Esperanza, Funny Pages and Billy's First Dance at both events.  If you're in the Chicagoland area on those dates and are free, stop by and say hello.  Many talented folks attend these festivals.

Just a reminder, if ebooks are your preference, Daniel's Esperanza is now available for Kindle download on Amazon for only $3.99, and Funny Pages for only $4.95. Paperback versions of all three are still for sale, too.

Work continues on my new manuscript, Williamsburg Hill, and my goal is to finish the first draft by the end of October.  We shall see.

As I'm always searching for blog ideas, I thought I'd share some poetry by the late Sara Teasdale. Simple, powerful, moving are words I would use to describe her work. As always, thanks for reading this blog. I appreciate it very much.

I Love You
By Sara Teasdale

When April bends above me
And finds me fast asleep,
Dust need not keep the secret
A live heart died to keep.

When April tells the thrushes,
The meadow-larks will know,
And pipe the three words lightly
To all the winds that blow.

Above his roof the swallows,
In notes like far-blown rain,
Will tell the little sparrow
Beside his window-pane.

O sparrow, little sparrow,
When I am fast asleep,
Then tell my love the secret
That I have died to keep.

Thoughts
By Sara Teasdale

When I am all alone
Envy me most,
Then my thoughts flutter round me
In a glimmering host;

Some dressed in silver,
Some dressed in white,
Each like a taper
Blossoming light;

Most of them merry,
Some of them grave,
Each of them lithe
As willows that wave;

Some bearing violets,
Some bearing bay,
One with a burning rose
Hidden away —

When I am all alone
Envy me then,
For I have better friends
Than women and men.

The Look
By Sara Teasdale

      Strephon kissed me in the spring,

      Robin in the fall,

      But Colin only looked at me

      And never kissed at all.

      Strephon's kiss was lost in jest,

      Robin's lost in play,

      But the kiss in Colin's eyes

      Haunts me night and day.

Mother's Day a Year Ago...Luka Bloom and the Blackhawks

What a difference a year makes.  When Mother’s Day of 2014 approached, I was one month away from seeing my younger daughter get married; the first weekend of May, I hosted a bridal shower for her.  I’d been working on my latest book for three years, and dealt with two literary agents who kept the manuscript for an entire year between the two of them.  I truly felt at least one of them would be interested in representation based on the feedback and vibes I was getting.  When they passed on the project, I endured the blow of rejection once again.  Trying a different publishing route, in May I began working with a cover designer that didn’t pan out.  Enter another designer and deadlines with the publisher I eventually chose.  The book was published in August.  Also in August: moving said daughter and new son-in-law to Colorado.

It’s fair to say with all of the above and the wedding planning that had taken well over a year’s time, I wasn’t myself.  I was exhausted, run down, not sleeping and couldn’t get farther than the day’s lists of things I had to do.  My health and immune system went a little under the weather, too.  An EKG revealed I needed to have an echocardiogram and wear a 24-hour Holter monitor to determine the source of heart palpitations and an irregular heartbeat.  My thyroid levels were out of sorts.  Months of blood work and adjusted doses of medication followed.  All is well now but stress and worry do affect your health.

With all of that going on, I think Mother’s Day was an “anything you ask for” kind of holiday last year…a Saturday and Sunday event.  On the day itself, my husband and I went to a Chicago Blackhawks playoff game and, incidentally, they played the same team in the second round that they’re playing now.  Saturday was spent at the Old Town School of Folk Music, attending a concert by the Irish singer and songwriter, Luka Bloom.

I can’t remember how I started listening to Luka Bloom’s music, but I’ve been a fan of his for quite some time.  He’s described as a contemporary folk artist and I think his sound is beautiful, haunting and unique; his lyrics read as poetry. When I discovered he was touring the United States and Chicago was one of the stops, I knew I had to get tickets, as I wasn’t sure if he would tour the US again in the near future.  It was my first concert of his and it was as good as I’d expected it to be.

If I had to recommend some of his music, a few of my favorites (originals and covers) include Lighthouse, Diamond Mountain, Everyman, Listen to the River, Exploring the Blue, See You Soon, Dreams In America, Me and My Guitar, Throw Your Arms Around Me, If I Were A Carpenter and The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.  The latter two are, I’ll admit, the most romantic cover versions I’ve ever heard of the two.  Probably many women of my generation who are Luka Bloom fans would agree. 

So Mother’s Day will be a little quieter this year for me.  However, this time next year, daughter number one will be walking down the aisle.  I hope to at least have the first draft of the book I’m working on finished by then, but I’m making no promises.  However, if it all comes together, I’d better start making plans…I’ll probably need to recuperate again.

 Happy Mother's Day to all.

Lighthouse                                                                                                                                   
by Luka Bloom

I see the red boat coming
Beyond out in the bay
Cutting through salt water
The end of a working day
Bringing in cargo
Of words I’m meant to hear
Words of loving kindness
To soften hate and fear

May I be happy
May I be well
May I be happy
May I be well

I can see the lighthouse
It’s coming to night view
Providing safe passage
For me and for you
You’ve shouldered your crosses
And brought them to this shore
Lay down your burdens
They’ll rule you no more

May you be happy
May you be well
May you be happy
May you be well

Everyman
by Luka Bloom

There is a quiet spirit in the world
Sleeping tonight
We’ll worry no more
You’ve let go the fight

Everyman takes his own load
Down the line
Everyman walks his own road
To the end of time

A faraway look in your eyes
Out beyond the door
Many tried to reach you
Bring you home to the shore

Everyman takes his own load
Down the line
Everyman walks his own road
To the end of time

There’s a quiet spirit in the world
You brought a smile to my face
A butterfly leaves the room
In its wake your grace

Everyman sees his own road
Into the light
Everyman lets his own load go
One last night

Sleep in peace tonight
Sleep in peace new life
Sleep in peace tonight
Sleep in peace goodnight

Author Event at Yorkville Public Library

The Yorkville Public Library will be hosting its first annual Author Event, Saturday, March 28th, 2015 from 10am-2pm. If you're in the Yorkville, Illinois or Chicagoland area and have some free time, stop by and say hello. Just posting this as a reminder that I'll be there signing and selling copies of my books.  A list of all participating authors is provided below...hope to see some of your smiling faces there.

Yorkville Public Library - Author Fair

I've been invited to participate in Yorkville Public Library's first annual Author Fair scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2015 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in Yorkville, Illinois.  It is one of many events scheduled over the year to celebrate the library's 100th anniversary.  If you're in the Chicagoland area on that date and have some free time, stop by and say hello. I will be selling and signing copies of all three of my books, Daniel's Esperanza, Funny Pages and Billy's First Dance.  Many other authors will be in attendance, too. If you can't make it to the fair and are still interested in some of my books, they can be found at the usual places such as Amazon, Barnesandnoble.com and booksamillion.com.

Also, I've added some new photographs to Fine Art America. Prints, pillows, cell phone covers and much more can be purchased from the images. Check it out at www.veronica-batterson.artistwebsites.com. Let me know if you make a purchase.

Thanks for reading. I'm working on a new short story that I hope will be ready to share soon.  As always, if you've read one of my books and liked it, please share the news. Reviews, shout-outs on Facebook and Twitter, plus word-of-mouth help so much. It's really appreciated.

Oswego Literary Festival and Q&A from Goodreads

Thanks to those who came out on this cold Saturday (yes, there were snow flurries this morning in Chicagoland) for a visit during the Oswego Literary Festival. I met some very nice folks and to those who bought copies of my books...thank you! I appreciate it very much and hope you enjoy the stories. It's always a treat participating in these events.

I'd like to share some Questions and Answers from Goodreads.  They shed a little light on what it is to be a writer (at least from my perspective).

1) How do you get inspired to write?

Keeping a blog helps, although I'm not as active as some bloggers. My personal goal is at least one post per month...so far, so good. The blog is an eclectic mix of stuff...short stories, sad attempts at poetry, musings, thoughts and things I've done. I have no theme and that helps in keeping my interest in the blog itself. As far as getting inspired to write the next book, it's a process of research, creating a loose and flexible outline, then it has to feel right before I can start writing it. That might sound crazy but without that feeling of "it's time", it will usually start out poorly and I won't be able to finish it. 

2) Where did you get the idea for your most recent book?

Three years ago, I visited a wild horse sanctuary in northern New Mexico. I'd tossed around the idea of including a story about saving the wild mustang in a book for quite some time. But after seeing first hand the need to inform the public of the plight of these beautiful creatures, the issue became more than just a story. It became the basis of the book. The setting is a wild horse sanctuary. While the book is a work of fiction, I hope it helps readers to think about the plight of these animals and to perhaps act on their behalf. I also hope everyone enjoys the story. It does offer a few other story lines, too. Child abuse, ranch life, New Mexico, Native American (Navajo), horse stealing, gambling...my new book takes on a lot of issues and has much to offer.

3) How do you deal with writer's block?

Read a lot, keep a blog or journal, outline story ideas but don't force things. I think that's why I've never participated in NaNoWriMo. It feels as if I'm forcing something that's not there or ready, although the writing challenge certainly works for some people. Eventually your muse will find you.

4) What is the best thing about being a writer?

Writing is therapeutic for me at times. It gives me a great sense of accomplishment and if you write fiction, which I do, you can go anywhere your mind takes you. I'm always thinking of ideas or scenarios...there's a sense of freedom in being able to create stories, characters and settings and webbing them all together to tell a tale. It's even better when those who read the stories enjoy them. Then you feel as if the time, effort, blood, sweat and tears have been worth it. 

5) What is your advice for aspiring writers?

Be open to listening to advice and take it if it works for you. But always write for yourself. Follow your own muse. Grow a "thick skin" and let the rejection (which is an unfortunate part of the business) roll right off of you. Keep going, never get discouraged and, most importantly, believe in yourself.

6) What are you currently working on?

I'm tackling historical fiction (with perhaps a little paranormal twist) next. Research for it took me to southern Illinois this summer...the outline is coming along and I hope to begin soon. A sequel to my latest, DANIEL'S ESPERANZA, is waiting in the wings.

Estate Sales of the Future...Strip Before Entering

For many years, I've enjoyed attending estate sales.  When I owned an antiques business, a great deal of my merchandise came from these sales and from auctions.  Since I closed my business, I no longer spend weekends searching for treasures to resell, but I do occasionally attend a sale if I have time.  Sometimes it's just the thrill of the search for me and I do find things that are personal and I keep them for myself.  Mostly, I enjoy the history behind the items and sometimes the homes that I see.

It seems estate sales aren't what they used to be.  Attending one recently left me with little, if any, desire to step foot in another one.  Upon reaching the front entrance of the sale, potential customers were bombarded with signs that had been taped all over the screened porch.  The estate sale company listed so many "dos, don'ts and warnings" that I wondered if we'd be searched upon entering.  Close.

Entering wasn't easy.  Handbags weren't allowed inside.  All purses were to remain in your vehicle, the sign had read.  Grumbling, I made my way to the car, stashed my purse and went back to the house.  I sarcastically thought they wouldn't want me to leave my money in the car, now would they?  This better be worth it, I griped further.

Once given the "yea" to enter, I immediately had to remove my shoes.  This isn't unusual, but it's not a request I like.  The potential for stepping on something sharp (nails, needles, pins, thumbtacks, etc) that's fallen on the floor in these homes is great.  Add a little rust, and well, I'm sure no one would like that risk.  Plus, no one "attends" the shoes. There is always a great pile of footwear by the door and if someone leaving likes a particular pair of boots (that do not belong to said person), then who's to stop her/him from putting them on and walking out?  This is a likely problem.

After removing the shoes, it was on to the next "station".  A lady working for the estate sale company asked me to remove my jacket.  What?  "Too many small items in this house will tempt shoplifters," she said.  "I'm not a shoplifter," I replied.  "Well, jackets aren't allowed," came the response.  By this time I was getting pretty mouthy.  "Then if there are shoplifters, will you guarantee my leather jacket will be here when I return to get it?" I asked.  She wasn't amused but said it would be.  I couldn't stop myself but went further, "My jeans have pockets.  Should I remove them, too?"  The woman didn't find that amusing either.

Once past the layer of security, I continued to think that my efforts had better be worth it.  Surely, there must be true antiques or vintage items of value.  Even priceless, right?  Why else would they make us go through all of this?  Usually if there are small and valuable items for sale, those items are "held" behind a table or enclosure, manned by an employee, and available to view if asked.  But that might be too logical, and besides, I'd just entered "Fort Knox".  The search was on.

And the search was over just as I stepped into that first room.  I think I gasped, but I'm not sure because I eventually realized my mouth was gaping open...a little hard to do both, but I might've gasped first.  Looking around, I thought I'd entered a home that was on the verge of being featured in an episode of "Hoarders".  Not quite there, but close.  If there was anything of value, and that was doubtful, you had to dig to find it.  Lots of plastic, and opened packages of figurines (think California Raisin dudes and the like).  For the life of me, I was trying to figure out why a shoplifter would bother.  If anyone was going to steal anything, they'd be doing the estate sale company a favor.  I didn't see many purchases being made.

Thankfully, my jacket and shoes were as I left them, I didn't have to go through a "pat-down" before I left, and I complained all the way to the car (without buying anything).  Of all the experiences I'd been through attending these sales, this was probably the worst.

Surprisingly, they hadn't enforced the cash only rule, as many estate sale companies do now.  As a former business owner, I understand not wishing to pay credit card fees, but it's the nature of doing business in my opinion. As is the risk of dealing with shoplifters.  You just don't treat everyone as a potential thief.  Imagine the outrage if a national retailer, such as Macy's, made you shed your clothing before you were allowed in their store, simply because you "might be tempted" to steal something.

As for cash only...it might work for small sales, but there are sales with high end items (furniture, cars, electronics, fine jewelry) sporting price tags.  A little difficult to deal with if you don't know the area, or where the nearest ATM might be.  Imagine getting a wad of cash and reaching the door of the estate sale I just described.  What?  I can't take my purse in?  Well, that's no problem.  I'll just stick the money in my shoe (something I did as a kid when I went to amusement parks).  I have to remove my shoes?  Well, I'll just stick the money in my jacket pocket.  What?  No jackets?  Well, what am I am going to do with my money?  I have no pockets on my pants.  The next logical place for a woman?  The bra, of course!  Hope that no one pays attention if something makes an appearance that shouldn't while you're fisting around the front of your neckline to pay for that lamp.

All of the above is in fun, but it does show how ridiculous it's become to attend these sales.  Estate sale companies should stop taking themselves so seriously.  I sometimes wonder what's next.  Strip search, metal detectors, body scanners?  Yeah, those California Raisin dudes are sure worth it.   

Fountaindale Public Library Author Fair

The Fountaindale Public Library will hold its annual Author Fair on Saturday, April 13, 2013 in Bolingbrook, Illinois.  I'll be attending with a host of other authors, representing many genres, from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.  Stop by if you're in the area and say hello.  I will have copies of my books, Billy's First Dance and Funny Pages, for sale and will be happy to sign them, as well.  My latest novel has yet to be published, but I have information to share about it...it's coming soon.

The Fountaindale Public Library is located at 300 W. Briarcliff Road, Bolingbrook, IL  60440.

Thanks in advance and I'm looking forward to meeting some new folks.  As always, it's great to support your local library.
                                 

Joliet Public Library's Regional Author Fair

For anyone in the area of Joliet, Illinois on Saturday, October 13, 2012, consider stopping by the Joliet Public Library's Regional Author Fair.  Held at the Black Road Branch of the library, it will run from 11 am - 3 pm and will feature a number of authors selling and signing their books.   For a list of authors and their websites, please check out the following link, sponsored by the library at Joliet Public Library Author Fair 2012.

This will be my second year to attend and I look forward to meeting everyone who stops by and says hello.  I'll have copies of my books, Billy's First Dance and Funny Pages, for sale and will be happy to sign copies.

This is a great way for the public to meet authors and learn about their work.  If you have any questions, contact the library via the above link.  To learn more about my books, check out the links I have here or visit my website at www.veronicabatterson.com.

Aurora Public Library's "Catch a Bunch of Authors"

It's that time again...time to meet and greet some local Illinois authors who will be signing and selling their books for the general public.  

This Chicagoland Author Fair will be held Saturday, September 8th, 2012 from 1 to 3 pm at the Prisco Community Center in Aurora, Illinois.  "Catch a Bunch of Authors" is an annual event sponsored by the Aurora Public Library and has become quite popular.

This will be my second year to participate.  I'll have copies of my books, Billy's First Dance and Funny Pages for sale and I'll be happy to sign copies.  I've met some nice people attending these fairs, while receiving wonderful feedback from people who purchased my books.  I look forward to seeing the folks who come out for this one.

Admission is free and you'll be able to register for a raffle to win some books.  Most genres are represented as are age groups, from children to adults, so there's something for everyone. 

If you're in the area, make plans to stop by.  Say hello, catch a new author or an "old" one and by all means, take the opportunity to read their work (mine too).  I hope to see you there.