This isn’t a bout, but it’s a catchy title if you’ve been with me through Bouts I and II. Things are rolling out Red Carpet style, minus the fanfare and, as of yet, the red carpet.

An author’s copy has been mailed to me so that I can check (not for typos and grammar, we are thankfully past that) for errors like printed lines that are not straight and areas that might contain excessive ink blotches. They are unlikely.

I am receiving emails from Balboa like a computer spitting forth in a haywire fashion. Many departments, many people, many attachments. I must take time to breath, deeply, as I am quite excited, but need to maintain focus in order to answer the unending cascade of questions about press releases, book marketing strategies, and publicity considerations both general and specific.

It is said that creative people are not business-minded people. Yet, in the brave new world of self, indie and hybrid publishing, we need to be. Exercising that muscle, for me—is uncomfortable. But I will not give up. What a waste that would be.

Discomfort is often nothing more than a lack of familiarity and expertise. Sometimes it is just the back talk of our brains. If we are capable of learning, and have had successes to fall back on, we can master this. Daunting as it may feel.

The challenges we face and the time we spend figuring out their solutions, are well worth the effort. They elevate our next starting point.

I learned through the experience with my parents that I can do and manage that which I would not have thought possible. It is poetic justice that the launching of this book would require me to continue working outside my comfort zone and grow further. My parents would have expected it. It could well have been their parting goal and gift. Although really, this desire to grow and expand has lasted a lifetime.

Thank you Mom and Dad. This book is on its way to the world. A tribute to you both. I hope you feel proud.

I know I do.