Stephanie Gayle

My editor routinely emails me with updates about my novel. She forwards good reviews and good news. It's a nice pick me during the day. Today's pick me up really picked me up and threw me across the room. It was that fantastic. Apparently on page 72 of the July issue of Redbook MY SUMMER OF SOUTHERN DISCOMFORT is featured as one of summer's best books. Ack!

When I got the news I promptly printed the PDF and accosted the nearest grad student and made him look at it and make happy noises. Thanks Jay!

Then I called my mom. And promised to call my Dad after I had the interview with the reporter from BostonNOW who was writing a piece about the book. So all you local commuters: forego the Metro for BostonNOW on Wednesday and read about the book and me! See if I managed to come across as a reasonably intelligent author.

Then I called my Dad, and emailed the very handsome boyfriend, the best friend, and Stacie at work who gets what a big deal this is.

Then I did work of the financial and filing variety.

After work I raced to the nearest bookstore and picked up a copy of Redbook. There it was! On page 72 as promised. My book! When I got to the counter where two salesgirls stood I said, "I know this is geeky, but look! It's my book!" I pointed to the open page. Salesgirl #2 said, "Congratulations!" Saleslegirl #1, who rang me up, said nothing. It is a testament to my high spirits that I didn't pick up the nearest hardcover and beat her with it while saying, "What? You're such a misanthrope you can't even manage a polite, 'good for you?'"

I ran into the talented Patty Keough while we ascended separate escalators, side by side. That was funny and brilliant. Everything is funny and brilliant now.

I giggled to myself as I walked home, unable to stop. After I showed the roommates the magazine I announced I was going to act like an author and go drink in my room. Ah, the dark and stormy. Yum yum!

And hours later I'm just...wow. Still wow. This is amazing.