I just got back from New York City where I attended the 2013 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Reception and Gala for Storm!
Storm was named a Finalist in the Young Adult category and will adorn yet another gold seal which states, “Next Generation Indie Book Awards Finalist.” This is the second award-recognition that I have received for this book since its release last December – pretty darned awesome! 
When I found out about the Next Generation Book Awards ceremony and gala, I just had to go. I couldn’t pass on an opportunity to mingle with other talented authors, agents, literary experts and NGIBA staff – in the heart of New York City! When these once in a lifetime opportunities arise, I jump at the chance to take them. It is so important to celebrate and to be celebrated. I couldn’t wait for the adventure.
The ceremony took place at the Harvard Club of New York in Manhattan between 5th and 6th avenues on 44th street. I headed to the gala in my Hollywood heels and “Sangria” party dress wracked with nerves and knots in my stomach. I had no idea what to expect.
The Harvard Club building is beautiful both inside and out. The interior made me feel important with its luxurious decor and presidential vibe. I ascended the decorative staircase to the 3rd floor where authors and their guests stood in line. We received goody bags, words of congratulations, friendly hand shakes, and flutes of champagne before being welcomed into the reception room.
Everyone was so friendly, warm and polite – I couldn’t help but feel at ease. I met many authors, agents and guests who all seemed just as excited to be there as I was. There was a cheerful, celebratory energy in the air.
Tag Goulet made announcements and introduced her sister and business partner, Catherine Goulet, Co-Founder and Chairperson of the Next Generation Indie Awards. Catherine’s speech was inspiring – so much so that it brought tears to my eyes.
Literary agent Marilyn Allen also gave a very fun and inspirational speech that made me feel lucky to be in her presence. I was thoroughly impressed by the NGIBA founders and staff who did a fabulous job of making me feel special, recognized and honored. How proud I am to be a NGIBA finalist!
When all of the winners and finalists had been announced, we waited in line to receive our medals and take a photo with the founders. Standing in line was a hoot – I felt like I had found a “tribe” of authors to celebrate and laugh with. We enjoyed the anticipation and experience together, relating through not only our book recognition, but also through the woes of our aching high-heeled feet. 
Anticipation grew! Overwhelming excitement, pride, joy, astonishment! There I was in NYC receiving a medal of honor for my baby, Storm! Tag Goulet shook my hand, congratulated me once again, then crowned me with my medal. Tears of joy sprang to my eyes. This was my moment – one of many – a very important milestone on my journey. So exciting! So exhilarating! Taking a professional “celebrity” photo with agent Marilyn Allen and founder Catherine Goulet was the cherry on top. How wonderful it was to be congratulated and personally acknowledged by each of them.
When the ceremony was over, I left feeling on top of the world – special, important, validated, absolutely amazing – overwhelming with gratitude. I walked down the streets of NY in my beautiful dress donning my big heavy official medal with a slap happy grin plastered to my face…Sex and The City style.
Storm and I have grown so much together. I have and always will believe in this book and its message with every ounce of my being. We’re on a successful adventure together and who knows where we’ll soar from here!
