Dear Blog.
My book “Within a Teenage Mind” has been selling well. I am pleased with the reception that the public has shown me since I published it.
My agent called me today and told me that an Stop Bullying organization heard of my book and then read it. They loved the story and the moral of how things get better. When they found out that the story was based off my Junior High and High School memories they said they had to meet me. They contacted my agent and she called me.
“They didn’t realize how young you were. They thought you were in your Thirties. They are actually very excited that you are a young woman who has found a successful life after the bullying." My agent said over the phone. “They want to invite you as a Guest Speaker to an Anti-Bullying Campaign Seminar they are offering in Philadelphia this December.”
“Really? I’m honored!! I would love to go, but how long is the seminar?”
“Just 4 days. December 6th to the 9th. There will be a closing session and get-together for other “survival stories on the 10th.”
“Oh…” I bit my lip as I thought it over. I had been saving up money for all the Christmas presents for our families and friends. I didn’t know how I could possibly afford to pay the plane tickets. “Gosh, I’m really honored they thought of me. I would really love to attend, but unfortunately I can’t afford a big expense like that…”
“Oh Desirae! You don’t have to worry about that! They are offering to pay for your plane ticket. You would leave on the 1st of December and return on the 13th. So you will be back in time for your wedding anniversary. I know that is an important date you wouldn’t want to miss!! I’m holding your reserved-tickets in my hand right now. You just need to confirm and they will be at your house by tomorrow.”
“Really? They are paying for my ticket? But that’s 2 weeks!!”
“They figured you might want to explore the city while you are there…”
“How many tickets did they send?” For a moment I wondered if they expected me to bring my husband.
“Just for you.” My agent sighed. “They apologized but the funding is limited and they could only afford to buy you a ticket from Mx to Philadelphia and back.”
“That’s fine. I don’t think Gerry would be able to get off work on such short notice. School lets out on the 29th, so I’ll have time to pack!” I was almost jumping up and down from excitement! I couldn’t believe it was happening.
“One more thing…”
Oh no…how what?
“Yes?”
“They aren’t paying for any accommodations. You have to make Hotel reservations or if you like I could do that for you.”
“No, that is fine. I’ll stay with my family. My grandparents live an hour away from Philadelphia. I’ll visit them, but thanks for offering.”
She gave me my itinerary and then we hung up. I randomly started singing and dancing around the room. Luckily there weren’t any other teachers in the teachers-room. I can’ wait to tell Gerry!!
I’ll write again soon.
Desirae Valdespino
