Memories are the best things in life. ~ Romy Schneider
What’s your best memory? When I’m struggling (and I’m struggling as I type this post), I try to relive something amazing, fuel to carry me through the lows of the writing process.
And this is my best writing memory.
I couldn’t believe Nashville’s Southern Festival of Books selected me for its 2015 memoir panel. As a non-traditional author, it’s tough to describe the snooty rationales and dismissive comments I get when I query for appearances. “We only deal with Big 5 authors. No, I really don’t care how well received your program is.” “Nobody will come to your program because you aren’t famous.” “How cute that you think you belong here.” “If we’re interested, I’ll get back to you.” “Yes, we really wanted to plan a fundraiser around you, but we can’t pay you anything to come.”
So Nashville was a big coup. I was ready to storm the place. To make some meaningful connections. To mine the field for a slew of additional appearances and opportunities.
The airline gods at Delta had other plans.
They canceled my o-dark-thirty flight, the one that would ferry me to Nashville for the start of the festival, and they bumped me to a late afternoon departure. I wouldn’t even get to Nashville in time to experience anything on the first day.
I seethed. I pouted. I went back to sleep. I refused to get out of bed. I shook my fist heavenward and wondered why my proactive plans never came to fruition.
I was still in bed at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, wasting time online and wondering who was scoring the gig for which I was destined, when I happened to google ‘New York Times best sellers.”
MTM came running when I screamed. “What is it?” He shouted before he breached the door. “Did you see a cockroach? Or—”
He stopped short when he saw me on the bed, holding the computer screen toward the door.
“I’m number nine of the New York Times best seller list this week. That’s me, with Jenny Lawson and Mindy Kaling and—”
MTM smothered me in a hug before I finished. The scene of us on the bed with my computer is a boundless supply of strength when I’m dry. Because I never could’ve done it without MTM. And somewhere, someone knew I needed a delay to discover my accomplishment, to be present to celebrate with the only person who mattered.
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This is part of a series of pictures about making memories. If you liked the story why not share it with your friends? Let’s meet on Facebook or Twitter. If you prefer pictures you will surely like my Instagram. I’ve collected inspirational things and more on Pinterest! Any comments? Write them below!
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6 Comments
Sorry about the canceled flight! But how awesome about that list, Andra!!!
Tears of joy. I remember – thank you for reminding me that when I’m down…I can turn to my memories instead of being smothered by darkness. I need a reminder. I love this memory of yours.
One of my favorite Andra Watkins stories.
that is such a great memory –
ALL of my best memories have someone(s) special in them! The tears didn’t actually spill over, but they sure did well up quickly when I read this!
Your efforts have achieved so much more than you know.
I love it when that happens (though not as common as it should be), when something good comes along and surprises you just when you need it the most. I like the pic of Chef MTM, he’s a “Jack of all Trades” isn’t he?
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