LAURAD

So last night was the big book signing. I finally got to meet lovely Laura. If you are a long-time reader of this blog, you may remember I posted a "bucket list" of sorts a few years ago. A lot has changed in three years, but "Meet President and/or Mrs. George W. Bush" would still hover around number 6 or higher on that list. And last night, it happened!

Evan and I got to the bookstore around 6:30. He wasn't getting a book signed, he was just along for the ride (literally). It was crowded even outside the store. We had to enter through metal detectors, had our belongings inspected and then had to check or leave our purses, etc behind. Luckily, I had a friend to hold mine. So basically, once you got in line, it was you and your book - that's it.

Group one was near the front (duh) so I got to see when Mrs. Bush came in. We clapped for her, and she gave us a little wave before taking a seat. They had her up on a stage, and then seated at a table to sign, so you were looking up at her, almost 2' or 3' feet or so above eye level. And just like that, the line started moving.

They took our books in small stacks, each marked with a post-it with our initials and opened to the page she was to sign. Her handlers would quickly unstack the books, pass them in front of her for a quick signature and then hand the book to another handler who would give them back to us. It was efficient if not rushed. And as far as no personal items or photos allowed - y'all, she was signing 600 books (at least 600 - some people had two). If she took time to pause for a photo or sign random items, she'd still be there signing.

As soon as she appeared, I got a little emotional. I couldn't believe I was finally getting to meet her! What an honor. I mean, really. But, I pulled it together and managed not to cry the whole time I was talking to her.

"Hi Mrs. Bush...." I was straight up stammering. "It's such an honor to meet you. I love your book. I hope you write more."

She was signing furiously but I do remember her smiling at me and saying it was nice to meet me too and she was glad I liked the book.

And just like that it was over. I got my book back and floated back up the stairs, not without a few more last glimpses over my shoulder. She is STUNNING in person: such pretty eyes and skin, a really kind smile. Just as I imagined she'd be!

I wish I had been able to shake her hand or give her a hug or move in with her but I restrained. There was a TON of security there. Any slight move and I probably would have been in trouble. I can hear it now: "I wasn't trying to hurt her, I was trying to LOVE her!"

All I need now is for George to hurry up and finish his book, so I can meet him too!