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Blogs by Pamela C Labud
Somebody pinch me! 3/27/2006 5:20:39 PM
A most amazing thing... Hello, Gentle Readers!!!
Well, it's been a strange couple of days. It all started last Friday when my phone rang. Because I'd worked all night, I been asleep when the call came. Delta sleep. The kind that actually hurts when you wake up.
Most times my husband lets the voicemail pick up. But, I'd told him that Friday was the day that the Romance Writers of America (RWA) would make their calls for the Rita award nominations. (Think 'Academy Awards' for romance writers, ie...it's national, it's big time, it's the show, baby!!!)
So, when he woke me, I thought it was probably my mom, my doctor's office, or, God forbid, work calling. The remote chance that I had finaled in a national contest was absolutely not in my head.
Imagine my surprise when I picked up the phone and found the President of the RWA on the other end informing me that my little book, SPIRITED AWAY, had finalled in the 'Best First Book' category.
What??? I was stunned! Who me? Not possible, I thought. Just not possible. But then, the nice lady on the other end continued talking, telling me what I'd have to do...and moments later I found myself digging out my editor's and my agent's phone numbers. My editor was in, and she was thrilled to death. My agent wasn't in the office, so I left her probably about a dozen messages and emails.
I was a little excited.
Then, after announcing my final to the whole world, otherwise known as my mom and all of my internet friends, I went back to bed. It was tough falling back asleep, but after a time I did. For about two hours.
Then, my internal clock went off. On the way to the bathroom my husband called me from our office. "You got another call. The number's by the phone."
What the heck?
My mind went about 200mph. Did they forget they already called me? Were they going to take it back? Oh, God! It must have been a mistake.
With trembling fingers I called the number. When the nice lady answered I told her who I was. Then, I blanked out for a few seconds. She said something about the Paranormal category...what? I'll have to send in five more books for the final round judging? This sure didn't sound like a mistake.
And, it wasn't.
So, more phone calls, more emails, and much more hooting on my end. My husband was impressed. My kids weren't. My coworkers were excited--though they really didn't know what RWA or the Rita awards were all about.
Part of me still can't believe it.
It's true folks, I finaled in two categories and I am amazed, grateful, and totally in awe. Heck, I'm still tearing up every time I think about it.
Of course, I don't expect to win. NYT bestsellers are on the lists, for heaven's sake. In four months you'll be hearing about my experiences at the award ceremony, so stay tuned.
Oh, and believe me, nobody knows more than I how many terrific books there are out there that didn't get nominated. Tons. I almost feel guilty for being mentioned.
Still, it's a really cool thing, and I am forever in the debt of the wonderful readers and judges, not to mention my editor and agent, for giving me and my little book a chance.
And hey, win, lose, or draw, I'm right were I've always dreamed of being--still in the game! Hugs everyone. Happy Reading! Pam.
