Wednesday, September 24, 2008

I'm so NoCal




James Dashner here, reporting live from Northern California. I've been having a good ole time here, lovin' every minute of it. And believe it or not, I actually took pictures (which you've figured out by now)! Mom, get up off the floor.

I spent Monday taking all of your advice, being as big a tourist as possible in the San Francisco area. The Golden Gate Bridge, Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf, street performers, fresh seafood, etc. And talk about perfect weather. I'm definitely coming back here with my wife. No doubt.

The last two days have been nonstop. Yesterday, I was lucky enough to hang out with the students from Foster City Elementary, Immaculate Heart of Mary School, Crestmoor Elementary, and Central Elementary, followed by an awesome signing at Barnes and Noble in San Mateo.

Then today it was off to Warwick Elementary, Kitayama Elementary, and Brookvale Elementary, followed by an awesome signing at Borders in Union City.

Wow. I forgot how fun and brain-draining it is to do these signings. I love it, love meeting the kids, love seeing them get excited about reading. I can't think of a more rewarding job. To all you students, teachers, principals, librarians, etc.: THANK YOU. And the icing on the cake: we sold a lot of books.

My only glitches of the day were being late for Warwick Elem. and calling a kid (named Noah) Moses. (okay, that second one was on purpose)

The next couple of days will be spent in the Walnut Creek and Clayton areas. The amazing Joel Harris of Clayton Books is in charge, and he's working me to the bone. But I get a prize - he's taking me to the Giants-Dodgers game on Friday night! Yeah!

In other news, I'm really tired. Good night.

10 comments:

Q said...

California is amazing.

Cheryl said...

Yay! I lived in the East part of Concord right next to Clayton. I love Clayton!

I'm glad you had a great time in SF. It's definitely a city to visit over and over and over and over...and over...

J.N. Future Author said...

That looks so fun! I wish i was in cali...

I remember when you came to our school. "Liz pushes a wheelchair across the old-peoples home" It was one of the BEST assemblies i have ever been to! Do you repeat your work from school to school? because it was extremely funny ^.^

Suey said...

Alcatraz? Yes, no?

Jewel Allen said...

Cool, James. Have fun at the game!

Suzy - Q said...

Nice Pix, James!!
The ocean is So Beautiful! I expect to see plenty of the east coast ocean too ;) especially if you spend a day in Boston! (who knows, you might have time for that...)

Keep havin' fun!

J.N. Future Author said...

ha, i just noticed the "South Weber Elementary" shirt ^.^

Kimberly Vanderhorst said...

You know, there's something about your description of the joy in your new career that makes me want it all the more. What an amazing thing to be inspiring kids to read!

The Anderson's said...

Mason loves the Sea lions picture.
Have fun in California and come back soon.
ccccccxxxd drtd d t(message from Mason)
Good luck, sell tons of books.
Blake and Mason

Anonymous said...

Thanks for coming to the Clayton Books store and meeting with the homeschool student from Horizons! They all really enjoyed your visit! We came back that night to get my daughter's book autographed (thanks!) and when we left she said "I feel soooo special!" You are very humble! Thanks again!