Better Late Than Never: Hudson, Ohio

I'm more than quite a ways behind posting in real time, but here are some photos of my visit to the Hudson Library in Ohio. This was back in June.

The whole gang drove out there without incident, partly with thanks to my neighbor for loaning us those DVD screens you hang on the back of your seat! It was a seriously long drive.

Before heading to the library, we stopped at my sister's Montessori school to see the Rag Loom she'd built. Now you know that's right up my alley! She cuts t-shirts into strips and the kids can go over to the loom and weave them in anytime they like. I wonder if they'll auction it off or draw straws when it's done---where can I get me a straw?

Then we headed over to the beautiful Hudson Library to meet coordinating librarian Mary Balog. I thought I heard wrong when I asked where the reading was and the staff member told me the Flood Room! But sure enough, my hearing is fine and the coincidence gave us a laugh.

First thing after I arrived to set up, a gentleman approached with something in a big plastic bag. He introduced himself as Bob Gaspar, a former resident of Johnstown, PA---he was even wearing his circa 1950s Johnstown Varsity Letter sweater (below in red)! And, in that big plastic bag, he carried a map belonging to his wife's family who had lived in Johnstown since way back before the flood. What a thrill for a lowly wordsmith! It meant a lot to me that he knew about my book and that he went to the effort to come by with those treasures.

So, a little talking, a little reading, a few questions...and then I signed books provided by The Learned Owl. I so appreciate everyone who came by and it was particularly lovely to meet so many of my sister's friends and coworkers. I'm glad to know she's surrounded by such a wonderful community.