Cassy's Corner- Symbols

Well, it took much too long to happen. But it did. Many of you know my website is now up and running. I am proud of it like a new mommy. A couple of times I found myself opening it and just looking. I've seen it a hundred times as it was designed, but still there is something about logging on and "ta ding" there it is. (www.cassypickard.com).

Why is that? Why does it make me feel good to see the beautiful blues, the mysterious lady walking in the piazza, the couple meeting under the bell tower? I've been thinking about this. And, I have come to a couple of conclusions. Some totally understandable, and, some a little embarrassing.

First, the ones that don't make me squirm. I put a fair amount of effort into the website. Maderia James did all the hard work (xuni.com). I can't even begin to say enough about her efforts for her clients. But, she forced me to make the big time decisions. There was no abdication of responsibility. Something else I love her for.

Okay, why is that important? We talk about building brand. We talk about making our name become recognized. We talk about social networking and all that that means. But, there is another component. We who love to write love to create. The website becomes part of that process. It begs you to ask some pretty basic questions. Such as, how do you want the world to see you? What is it you have to say that might be of significance? How are you going to engage others to jump on your wagon and both cheer you on and become in love with your stories? How do you move from the person who sits for hours with fingers to the keyboard and then make a much more public appearance? Shall I continue with the questions?

But, there is another piece to this. Kari Lee Townsend said it so well yesterday. Her new book arrived in her hands, due for its debut. She tells wonderfully about the excitement of holding that accomplishment, seeing the cover, knowing it really was heading out to Barnes and Noble. This is a significant symbol of hours and hours she has spent making this the best it can be--and has already had some incredible reviews. (The Samantha Granger Experiment: Fused).

The website of mine is small. But, each of these is a symbol of what we try and do. We work hard. Then there is the moment. It's in your hands, it's on the screen, it's in the fan letter, it's a photo sent of someone reading on a beach--your book right there. We're trying to tell great stories. When you love them, we take a deep breath and then begin the next one.

Websites are more common than (as my mother-in-law would say) Carter's Pills. Why do one? Why would anyone want to read yours or follow your blog?

Well, that takes me to the more uncomfortable part. Why? Well, we who write and write for publication; we want recognition. We want our books face out on the shelves, not spine out. We want the fan letters. We want to know that when you read this and all the others who join in the world of "getting the word out," are in love with the stories we create that take you out of your living room or den and transport you to a spot you never might have imagined. We care about you, our readers, our friends, our fellow writers.

There is magic for us, just as there is for you. You join us. And we love it. And, I confess, I might log on again to see my website.

And for you?