Seconds, Please

I haven’t blogged for most of the summer, but I hope my loyal readers and followers will cut me some slack.  With my book release less than two months away now, my promotional efforts have kicked into high gear, and I’m just coming up for air before the next tide comes crashing in.

Many may assume I should be used to this, having had one book published already.  Through this whole process, though, I’ve been shocked by how differently this second round has unfolded.  Despite not having any kids, I’ve always compared a book release to a baby’s birth, albeit without the stretch marks or dirty diapers to follow!  No one, of course, has to tell me how drastically the two events contrast, but I thought I’d share the similarities I’ve observed between second-time parenthood and second-time published-hood.

I’ve both heard and witnessed how much busier moms and dads are when their second little ones arrive than they were the first time.  They’re occupied with caring for their oldest and the duties that come with that.  They also have better knowledge of the preparations they need to make before an infant throws their world into a temporary tailspin.

Likewise, my triumphs and failures from three years ago, along with better guidance, have given me insight into all I need to put into this launch to make it a success.  My debut was far from a flop, but not knowing my responsibilities, I cared more about finding a dress for my book party than anything else.  While I’d never neglect my fashion sense and do have my outfit for the big night planned out, my focus is marketing.  By collecting reviews, producing a book trailer—discussed here—, and doing interviews, I’ve endeavored to draw as much interest as possible to my new addition.

Like several parents have shared with me, there’s also a calmer, more laidback approach to caring for the second child…and any more that may come along.  I’ve found this, too, to be the case with my sophomore release.  With Husband in Hiding, I ached to know every step of the progression and often asked for updates.  Sure, I still have my curious moments, but this time, prolonged silences don’t bother me.  I know my release date—another difference from my previous experience—and trust that matters are being handled in the proper time and order.

One final parallel I’ve perceived between my circumstances and those of a parent of two is the goal to thoroughly enjoy the ride.  On any new experience, we can easily take it for granted, thinking we’re pros when we’re amateurs and being too concerned about next time than living in the moment.  When Husband in Hiding came out, I had my sights set on having a new book every year from then on.  That plan didn’t play out, making me realize the value of such an accomplishment.  Just as one can’t predict how big a family he/she will have, an author will never be able to foresee how many times he/she will have the thrill of having a book published.  Thus, appreciating every moment of Forgetting My Way Back to You’s release is my priority.  After all, kids—and books—grow up way too fast!