What incredible experiences I had promoting my novel in northern cities! The weather even cooperated. I only had to open my umbrella once. The book appearances were coordinated by She Writes Press and I got to share the podium with some of their other published authors. I enjoyed hearing about their own writing experiences. At each bookstore it was fun to see family and friends that had moved from San Diego and make new ones too. Thank you to all who came out to celebrate with me. I scheduled in time to play tourist also. Here are some photos from the trip I thought you might enjoy.
Lucy was all ready to go and upset that I wouldn’t let her come too. Her argument was that she was in the book and I’m not.	My dear friend Tanya Peters gathered gifties so that I could make an altar in my hotel rooms to get the the chi flowing. These items included: a little Lucy collage with easel, a gardenia candle and yoga rock. The matchbox was given to me by Judy Reeves my mentor.
*SAN FRANCISCO is the setting for most of the chapters in The Black Velvet Coat. It was so much fun to visit some of the inspirational spots.*
It was good to see that Anne’s apartment building had recently been repainted but the pizza place was still there.	We’re all ready for the sunset at The Top of the Mark. Grace Cathedral is just lighting up below. Martinis are on their way!
Tiffany’s! Sylvia’s favorite place to buy shiny things! No, Jerry didn’t buy me anything there that day.	At Book Passage in Corte Madera it was very exciting to finally meet in person my publisher, Brooke Warner, from She Writes Press (left). We had had been working together for a year by phone and through email. Also pictured from left to right beside me are authors Diana Y. Paul, Erin Seidemann, Libby Ware.
Seattle was the tops! My sister, Leslie joined me so that we could hang out with our other family members that lived there. We took the monorail to the Seattle Center, visited the Chihuly Garden and the EMP. I particularly liked the Jimi Hendrix and Hello Kitty exhibits. What a juxtaposition! I wanted to sit in Sky Church all afternoon to watch the videos. We also visited Pike St. Market and the Frye. It was great to have sister and family time.
Wispy clouds above the space needle.	Leslie used to be a model and still does on occasion. I call this one “Reflecting.”
“Bad Hair Day”	After the reading surrounded by some of my Greenbaum family. Nephew Matthew, Brother Sandy, Niece Rachel and again Sister Leslie.
At Third Place Books, Lake Forest Park with fellow authors Leah Lax and Carole Bumpus
Portland was amazing and full of surprises!
Browsing Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world, I found The Black Velvet Coat complete with special signage! It felt magical and surreal to see it there.	Having lunch 30 floors up at Portland City Grill who should walk in but my soul sister. Gorgeous architect, Pamela Gorder, in a pink hat adorned with a rhinestone pin and gobs of sparkle around her neck. I think she’ll get a kick out of the novel.
At Another Read Through with fellow authors Margaret Bendet, Kate Jessica Raphael and LeeAndra Chergey	Portandia Sculpture is public art at its best. Based on a design from the city seal it is 35 feet tall and weighs 6.5 tons. it had to be delivered down the river on a barge!

Lucy is really glad now that the coat and I are home. I’m happy to be back too! But it was a trip I’ll never forget.

10 Comments

Sylvia Levinson on January 27, 2016 at 8:07 am

What a great journey – thanks for sharing the pix and stories.
- jill on January 27, 2016 at 5:26 pm
  
  Sylvia, Thanks for checking in. I’m glad you liked my post. It was such an amazing experience!
Jane LaFazio on January 27, 2016 at 8:54 am

great photos, Jill!! thanks for sharing your book tour with us!
- jill on January 27, 2016 at 5:27 pm
  
  Jane – Since you travel so much for business you probably could really relate! Keep teaching those great art workshops around the world.
Susie Clark on January 27, 2016 at 9:35 am

Sounds like you had a fabulous time!
- jill on January 27, 2016 at 5:28 pm
  
  Susie, I sure did!
Josie Rodriguez on January 27, 2016 at 3:08 pm

wow I can’t stop smiling for you.What a great adventure with so many terrific supporters. Truly a memorable time for you.
- jill on January 27, 2016 at 5:28 pm
  
  Josie, Yes! I will remember it for the rest of my life.
Judy Reeves on January 27, 2016 at 10:16 pm

Thanks for taking us on the book tour with you, Jill. Love all the pictures and comments. Leslie with ‘Bad Hair Day’ is a crack-up. (Oh, maybe I shouldn’t use “crack-up” so close to all the precious glass art!) Glad to have you home. We missed you here.
- jill on January 28, 2016 at 1:11 pm
  
  Judy, Thanks for reading my blog. I’m glad to be home. You do crack me up too.