Sunday 18th December
This afternoon I’ve set the ball rolling for an Olympic theme to part of my next book!
Just as well I’ve a few days off from my day job soon! 
Yes, it’s been confirmed that the outstanding actor chap Robert Gray will feature in the next book!
Sunday 11th December
Today I wrote three chapters of the new book. Yes, I said new book. I’ve moved my characters on from WTSMP, hoping for a different twist!
Saturday 10th December
New book has first review on Amazon!
Even more amazingly, I managed to suss out the “Look Inside” function all by myself! What a result!
Sunday 4th December
Knackered and cold, but just completed our fifth book signing. Turned up this morning to discover nobody knew we were coming!!
There had been no advertising either as all my posters and flyers were missing!
Despite this, a photographer arrived from the local paper and we met a lot of new faces. Hopefully it’ll boost sales of the Kindle ebooks too!
Thanks to everyone who took part!
Thursday 1st December
Received a royalties cheque today from Melrose for my first book. Always lovely to open those envelopes and bank those cheques. That’s one thing I will miss being my own publisher, as any payments will be coming direct so royalty cheques won’t technically exist!
Tuesday 29th November
Today my new reeds came in the post, thankfully! Discovered terrible reverberations on Sunday which indicated I needed an increased strength in reeds. With only a few days until my signing this was a potential disaster, but yet again the guys at Sax London have rescued me! Thanks guys!
Sunday 27th November
Last night we had the pleasure of seeing the Sax Pack at Soho Pizza Express Jazz Club. The guys were excellent!
Tuesday 22nd November
Dropped posters off at ws Stortford today. Received the emails yesterday for Amazon’s Seller Central and Search Inside functions, but when I clicked on the link nothing happened! Will try again with the next email.
Friday 18th
Yesterday discovered second pages missing from several Christmas carols I was attempting, so dug around and found all my pile of music books. Tonight, hey presto! 2 weeks and 2 days then it will all be over!
Sunday 13th November
This weekend my parents were down to see us. Engineering work all weekend made travelling a nightmare but we went to London yesterday regardless. Saw the lord Mayor’s Parade and went to the Science Museum.
Dropped them off at the station and now it’s straight back to business. This signifies the end of my week off. What week off, I ask myself?!
Wednesday 9th November
Replacement books are here and arranged our launch signing for Sunday 4th December 10 until 4. See you all there!
Tuesday 8th November
Updated detail of book 3 on Amazon, and placed first commercial order, to see what happens when an order is placed!
I’ve got a week’s holiday from the day job so hoping to do some writing for once!
Also sending back the 24 damaged copies to printers tomorrow. Hoping to receive a pristine set of 12 in return soon. Also hoping for news on the launch signing tomorrow. Watch this space!
Wednesday 2nd November
Yesterday went to arrange signing for book 3 and Patrick forgot to tell me that he was on holiday! Will arrange next week.
12 books had to be reprinted as they arrived damaged, but so did the replacement 12! Not impressed!
Wednesday 26th October
Today I’ve sent a copy of the book to the British Library and to Jools Holland!
Tuesday 25th October
The books are here. 12 are damaged so they will be reprinted at no extra cost! So, on with the actual selling now!
The black colouring of the jacket fits well with the image but with the laminate, they don’t photograph very clearly! ARGLE!
Monday 24th October
Tonight there’s an email from the printers saying my order is in transit!
Saturday 22nd Oct
Finally sorted the problem with the book’s spine text so books are being printed as we speak.
Sunday 16th October
Sent several emails this morning, generating first order for 50 copies of wtsmp3! Update sent to Neilsen, and Waterstones head office as well as the local newspaper, our MP and the editor of the writing magazine I subscribe to.
Sat 15th October
Signed the last lot of WTSMP 2 at Islington and Canary Wharf.
Mixed feelings as I’m unsure in this day and age if book 3 will prove as easy to get into stores.
I’ve been very lucky to have enjoyed the success i’ve had so far.
This is the next stage in my dream journey of being an author, stepping up to being promoter as well. Wish me luck!
Friday 14th October
Woohoo! New proofs here and looking good! 
Thursday 6th Oct
Second proof is not perfect 
Now trying to decide what to do! Choked with the cold and face, head and ears hurt
Monday 26th September
Awaiting second proof from printers which should – fingers crossed – be perfect!
Meanwhile the unenviable task of updating my expenditure and income information awaits….
Tuesday 20th September
Today the proof copy of my book came, and with a few tweaks, it’ll be perfect!
Saturday 17th September
Took my precious sax for repair today and the guys at Sax London were fantastic as usual, I’m highly impressed with their service. Glad I gave them an acknowledgement in my new book. Paul was in charge today and he was impressed I’m publishing the book myself!
Mon 12 September
Well, the second attempt of book was unacceptable! Have emailed away for a proof from my Plan B, a printing company who specialise in book printing, called Orbital Print.
Fingers crossed.
Meanwhile, potentially the last London visit for touting book 2 in Waterstones stores. Shall sign the Hampstead copy, then head to Islington, Canary Wharf and Kensington.
Sat 10th
Been in Cornwall this week. Another proof of book is awaiting my attention. Back tomorrow so fingers crossed.
Bought a new signature bag, Radley’s through the hoop. Spent perhaps too much money this week but never mind!
Sat 3rd Sept
Sent for another version of Book 3 on lulu, after waiting 10 days for them to solve my problem, only to be told last night that it can’t be fixed. Hence why I started again today!
1 September
Received a royalties cheque today from Melrose, first book sales!
Still having problems with the website for getting my third book printed.:(
20-08-11
Well….sent for my proof of book 3
Today I cracked my cover. Will give it 24hours before I ‘publish’ though.:)
18th August
It’s been a year since WTSMP 2 was launched in paperback, so there’s a Twitter q&a session today to commemorate this. Look out for facts throughout the day.
Aug 14
This week my Isbns package arrived. My IT manager is working on the front cover image for Book 3.
Visited my parents last weekend as wanted to see my father who had been in hospital. Travelling threw my tiredness, slept 12wk hours in 3 days. Almost caught up now!
Just sat and reviewed what I’ve written in the last 6 weeks. Trying to get back into the swing of it now….
July 27th
Finished the final edit ofbook 3. Just tinkering with the cover layout and ordering of the isbn to do and we’re ready to rock’n'roll!
July 19th
Decided after hours of formatting that having a free lulu isbn isn’t professional enough. Going to buy my own from Neilsen – 10 are £118 and you can’t buy singles.
Putting out feelers for a good book printing company.
July 18th
Behind every cloud there is a silver lining. New publisher uses same printers as GHP, so that knocks that idea on the head. However I’m saving lots of money…. I hope!
July 17
Finished the editing of Book 3!
July 16th
Yesterday Spiderwize accepted my manuscript, Woohoo!
Today I finally received my cheque from WHSmiths
July 12
Well, send manuscript to publisher to see what comes back.
Today I finally heard back from WHSMITHS I’m getting paid next week – about time! It took four months, several calls and emails!
I did manage to become a seller on Amazon
July 5th
Have decided if I can crack getting books on Amazon myself, I’ll totally self publish WTSMP 3 as per plan b.
July 1st
Tuesday is perhaps the last trip into London for WTSMP2 Heading to sign books in Hampstead, and enquire in several other stores. Soon will have to decide how to produce book 3 so watch this space for news!
June 29th
Sorted codes for Kindle payments and stats show I sold 5 books this month already
Tonight Dave is in town, he’s supporting at the royal Albert hall and his office said send the book to him there. Fingers crossed!
June 26th
Kindle page now doesn’t like my banking details. Sigh.
One year of me things to go….its my 29th birthday tomorrow. Last Friday work sent me to Dr’s thinking I had chicken pox, but its some strange viral infection. Itchy hands and arms – 93 lumpy spots yesterday! Plans for birthday in ruins now
Been in contact with Dave Koz’s office, they’ve said to send book straight to the Royal Albert Hall for his performance there on Wednesday. Have to put my faith in Royal Mail…. fingers crossed!
So in my final year of doing what I want, I plan to -
1. Release paperback version of book 3
2. Finish and launch the Prequel (half way now) , book 4 (nearly done) and 5 (half way) plus my advice ebook (nearly done) onto Kindle
3. Play more sax
4. Visit oxford
5. Look after myself – more pilates for starters. This year has been not great physically for me but I won’t give up!
6. Read more
7. Learn history
8. Sort my finances.
Unfortunately its not all easy and fun!
June 23rd
Seems Kindle ebooks are out selling paperbacks now, and prices are lowering all the time. Set my 4 to $1.59 now to compete!
June 19th
Back from hols, sorted stuff out. This afternoon shall load new photos, will leave the link here when I’m done
- True to my word, here you go:
http://www.photoboxgallery.com/westonphotographics
You’ll find 100 best photos from this year at Eastbourne in the album “Yvonne’s Tennis 2011″ – enjoy!
June 12th
Starsky and Hutch’s Gran Torino – as spotted in the Arndale Centre, Eastbourne. Posing with one of my infamous Radley picture bags!
Cloudscape from Eastbourne Pier
Posing on the pier in my summer outfit!
On the first day of the tennis here in Eastbourne I was mistaken for a tennis player. Here I am posing by one of the players’ courtesy cars!
Yesterday was the first day of qualifying and I took 400+ photos. Getting back into the swing of being photographer and not author!
June 7th
Almost finished my advice ebook, but struggling to name it.
Finished the last of my ironing, sorted hem on my new trousers and holders for new memory cards. Snaffled my husband’s spare camera bag last night too.
Received a text from my best buddy, who confessed she’s only just getting round to reading my books but what she has read is mind blowing. Lol
Monday 30th May
In order to make site navigation easier, there is now an ‘old blog roll’ and a ’2011 blog’. This is so that people can find the updated news on WTSMP and my adventures!
Very proud of my cousin, who next month undertakes a gruelling 1000 mile cycle from Lands End to John O Groats with a close friend to raise money for Highland Hospice, a charity close to his heart.
http://www.justgiving.com/cal-and-malcsLEJOG
This is the link to their sponsorship page if you wish to add your support!
Sunday 29th May
Glad that my weekend doesn’t end here! Started working on my backup plan for a decent paperback, just in case. The last few attempts, with differing companies and software have just wasted time!
Watching the tennis in between times, soon we are away to Eastbourne!
Friday 27th May
A mixed day. Been to the Eye Clinic and its good news – back in 6 months not the usual 3. Am very relieved!
There’s still uncertainty in the world of work, and my injury to my knee is playing up. Will have a weekend of rest, not what we planned but nowt I can do about it!
Shall blow my horn a lot, suddenly I’ve got the bug back. I’ve kept my hand in but haven’t had much heart in the music recently.
Weekend plans are to write more on the Prequel and book 5.
Two weeks today we are heading to Eastbourne for our annual grass court pilgrimage with our cameras. I’m excited already, I can almost smell the sea air…..
Sunday 22 May
Found most new fiction kindle books are around £5 or less. Did my homework converting dollars to work it out, and Amazon are using a different conversion rate! Groan.
Spent over an hour playing with blurb’s software for a few paperback books at a reasonable price, but it crashed 6 times. Back to the drawing board!
It seems Waterstones have been bought by a Russian businessman so perhaps we will be safe for a while.
Last Friday 13th I wrenched my ankle walking to work. It’s virtually healed but my outside knee ligaments have been damaged. It’ll be at least 8 weeks before they heal
Watching the French Open tennis and resting it today. Less than three weeks til eastbourne!
Thurs 19th May
Just posted the links for my 4 books on Kindle, and where to download the software for free!
Tues 17 May
Just sorted Kindle! Polished versions of the Trilogy coming in the next 48 hours, thanks to my IT expert!
Thursday 12 May
Yesterday was the second anniversary of WTSMP!
Sunday 8 May
With the help of Adrian, the manager at Sax London, I’ve just finished a scene in Book 5 where Jason has to replace his trusty saxophone. It was a tricky thing for me to do, with my limited knowledge, so I’d like to put a note of extra thanks to Adrian from here.
Adrian must have laughed when he read his emails, informing me that he’d never advised a theoretical sax player before! I knew he’d do a sterling job. I’ve never been let down by any of the guys at Sax London, from my first purchase of AJ, to my eternal quest for the best reed, to my impulsive upgrade to my fabulous Selmer. How wonderful it would be to find myself in Jason Bottelli’s situation – able to walk into the store and not leave until I had the best instrument money could buy. Coincidentally Jason comes home with a Selmer….
Monday 2nd May
The best three images from this morning’s photo session with my new look and my new Selmer La Vie saxophone. Isn’t she beautiful?
Tuesday 26th April
I’ve been watching the rankings on Amazon, and they’re climbing once more! It seems my promoting is working, although that has been put on the back burner somewhat over the last few weeks as I had the stuffing completely knocked out of me with this cold/flu bug, which developed into sinusitis.
I have major withdrawal symptoms, having not played my sax for more than two weeks! Worse, I haven’t even managed to write much in this time. So today I made up for it, writing the first two chapters of Book 5. Let’s hope I can fully shake this illness soon.
There are three possibles for my third publisher, and I’m desperate to have a Christmas paperback launch for the final instalment of the WTSMP trilogy. Of course, you have already seen that eLiberato currently are the only platform to host the eBook version of Book 3. We have already experienced downloads, and Book 1 remains their Best Seller of the Day (that’s been a week now!) Great news!
Can’t believe that Easter has been and gone….. This time last year we met Dave Koz, my idol, when he played in London’s Pizza Express Jazz Club. Come back soon, Dave!
Monday 18th April
Today I have launched all four eBooks – the WTSMP trilogy and my football book, Football Crazy – on Libby. This is a site where you can download books to your computer in PDF format – at a fraction of the price of an eBook!
Yes, you read that right – the WTSMP trilogy. Part 3 is enjoying it’s special launch on Libby’s platform, exclusive for a few months!
http://www.eliberato.com/Product=ywes_21718728 - Book 1
Tuesday 12th April – London Book Fair 2011 Day 2
Today we explored some exciting possibilities, not just for Book 3, but also for short runs of Book 4 and the Prequel. A tiring, but very important day!
Sunday 10 April
Tonight I’ve just finished editing over 7000 words from book 3 as part of the criteria for my potential new publisher. It’s London book fair on Tuesday.:)
Tuesday 5th April
Last week I launched the WordPress site that offers general advice about writing.http://authoryvonnegivesadvice.wordpress.com
Today I’m pleased to say that I signed the copies of WTMSP 2 in Holborn, Hampstead and London Wall. The front page of my site shows the photo a member of staff kindly took for me at London Wall this morning.
Whilst I was in the Holborn branch, I was interested to see they had a copy of a fictional book by another Melrose author, plagued by the grey template. I was surprised to see that this book, however, had a photo full length on the front cover. So there must have been a change of policy after we had several ‘discussions’ on the matter. How interesting….
Monday 28th March 2011
Today the Weston Photographics eshop was officially live!
http://www.westonphotographics.co.uk/eshop.htm
Browse for fun, enjoy our photos – you can even order direct prints from the site if you fall in love with any of the images. Contact us for further ideas and commissions at westonphotographics@btopenworld.com
Meanwhile, I was on holiday a fortnight ago. We were meant to head north for a few days, but the snow put paid to our plans. So for three days we hung out in Greenwich with Robert Gray; spent our pennies at Freeport (I love Radleys!); and took in the fresh breeze on a coastal day trip.
Well, on Thursday I sat down at my laptop and decided to edit book 4. How lucky I did, because I discovered I’d suffered a disaster. I don’t know how, but I somehow lost 5 or 6 of the last chapters of book 4, including the best scene I’d ever written!! Gutted was not the word!
I’ve just about remembered every scene that I had lost, and despite being meticulous before about backing up my work, I’m even more paranoid now! It’s a lesson to us all – always back up your work, and check it has copied across properly, as mine clearly did not.
Friday 18th March
Tomorrow is our first signing in Harlow and its a joint one! Hoping it’ll be a good one!
Wednesday 16th March
This afternoon I received a phonecall from WH Smith, cancelling our signing on Saturday. Part of me is not at all surprised because they are notoriously awful for authors trying to promote their novels. Our local MP however, thinks this is outrageous and is taking the matter higher! Bless you Robert, you fought hard to get me the signing and now you are fighting again!
— Two hours later, and our signing is back on, after Robert’s intervention. Well done, Robert!
More book news is that the following stores are expecting their copies of Part 2 very soon:
Chelmsford, Holborn, Hampstead and London wall – and Gower Street already have their copy!
Wednesday 2nd March
Dropped off promotional materials at WHSmiths today. Also received another royalties cheque from my first book!
Monday 28th Feb
Today I heard back from our local Wh smith – Woohoo! I have a book signing! Sat 19th March. Gulp. Not long to prepare!
Sunday 27th February
Just thought I’d best check my WTSMP email address, there has been only junk so far, so imagine my reaction when I discover an email from Dave Koz himself sitting in my inbox! I stopped breathing for two minutes! Lol Read it for yourself on the blog front page! I’m still shocked!
Saturday 19th February
Just written probably the best chapter ever. It’s chapter 44 of book 4!
Tues 8th Feb
Vowed with myself not to write a fourth book…so far I’m on chapter 38!
Tuesday 25th January
Today I got up with the intention to write…and play my new sax. I wrote three chapters! And tried playing some new songs…. oh dear, oh dear. Lol tried is the operative word! But I persevered and then cracked open the usual music book, thank goodness!
Saturday 22nd January 2011
Adrian and Paul very kindly posed with me, a Selmer and a copy of my two books today in Sax London. Paul assisted my (dreadful) Soprano playing – we have decided the fault is with me, not the instrument. LOL. I knew that all along! Thank you Paul, you didn’t laugh too much when I proclaimed this fact.
Very excited to sign the first copies of Part 2 in Trafalgar Square today!
This afternoon, Gower Street and Hampstead Heath branches ordered in their copies, with Oxford Street and Piccadilly to follow up. Next ‘tour’ will take in Ludgate Circus, Canary Wharf, Greenwich, Chelmsford, Holborn and many others!
19th January 2011
Today I bought my dream saxophone. She is a Selmer, with a bronzed patterned body and the sounds are incredible!
Got a bargain at sax London, almost 2/3′s off the rrp!
14.1.11
Received a beautiful letter of praise from a man we met on holiday two years ago for my two novels. ‘so beautifully written’ and ‘ not only have I enjoyed reading them because they led me into a world of bands and music with which I am not too familiar but mainly because they were written with such ease and cleverness and with such craft in keeping the what happens next factor that I found it very difficult to put them down once I had started reading.’
Glowing praise indeed!
10.1.11
Today we heard that Waterstones will not be centrally stocking my book, but there is an invite to ask! Same as with book 1, so not disheartened.
5.1.11
Today we had a slight blow to our good start to 2011 – when I visited Wh smith in Harlow as Robert Halfon set up my next signing session, the manager had no idea who I was! The misunderstanding came as the lady from Robert’s office who rang the store assumed the signing was for Robert! Easy mistake to make, really.
Still, I’m hopeful for a signing session, of my own work. If not, I still achieved more with Robert’s help than I did alone. Sure proves that sometimes its not what you know, but who you know!
Sat 1.1.11
Happy New Year! What does the start of the new decade mean to you? What resolutions have you set yourself?
Personally I want to play my soprano sax more, and restart my pilates. Plus launch book 3 of course!
Saturday 25th December
Merry Christmas everyone!
Sunday 12th December later on…
Success! Video is now on you tube.
Sunday 12th December
Fresh from a successful signing, we’re looking forward to having book 2 in a store near you in the new year! Hope you all like the photos. Due to technical difficulties, the video has been delayed, but it will be posted. (we’re working on how to fix this problem!)
Until then…. Seasons Greetings everyone! This is Jason Bottelli’s favourite time of year. I’m listening to Dave Koz’s seasonal themed albums at the moment and I’m starting to see what Jason does.
Monday 6th December
Five days until our book signing in Bishops Stortford. I hope to see lots of you there!
Tuesday 30th Nov
Dropped off 15 books to Patrick for our signing. 11 days to go!
Sunday 21st November
Interesting photo shoot today with AJ for some publicity shots (see photos). Less than three weeks now until the book signing – excitement is building!
Tomorrow they launch details of Dave’s Med Cruise….I’m waiting with baited breath.
Thursday 11th November
Our first comment on Amazon for book 2
Part 2 Proving It reader review
We are awaiting the professional review on bookblog.com, however it is nice to see that our followers are pleased with their second books!
Sunday 7th November
Updating my finances is very boring but necessary. Pleased to discover that my ebook sales are steady.
It’s less than 5 weeks until the book signing for book 2, so I’ve started practicing the Christmas carols already! I feel my sax has developed over the year, so I should be able to play more complex tunes.
Sunday 31st October
Happy Halloween ! On 15 Nov details are released about Dave’s 2012 cruise. Really hoping I can do it!
Today I finally finished editing book 3 and dabbled more with the Prequel and book 4.
Sunday 24th October
My new Dave Koz album arrived a few days ago – can’t stop playing it! There’s a Mediterranean cruise in 2012 with Dave and his friends. Usually these are only American, usually Alaska. Very excited at the thought ….wonder how much a ticket is?
Tuesday 12th October
This is the release date for Dave Koz’s new album in America and I’ve got an autographed copy on order!
Sunday 10-10-10
Yesterday I had the privilege of attending Anne’s book signing, where she introduced me as a famous author. Bless her! I will be, if its the last thing I do!
Also met Elena and her mum there – Elena is a budding author and I wish her well in her writing career. So many people say “oh I could do that” but they don’t !
Soon a copy of book 2 is going to Foyles for – hopefully – their approval. Also soon I hope to hear back from Waterstones regarding centrally stocking WTSMP!
Just printed the posters for our Christmas book signing in Stortford – less than 8 weeks to go until Dec 11th.10.30-4.30. See you all there!
! Confusion reigns but by putting new blog posts at the top you can more easily track the changes. !
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March 2009
It is less than six weeks until the launch of Book 1, and I’m sitting at my laptop, thinking about the forthcoming London Book Fair and worrying about the even more forthcoming operations I need on both eyes, thanks to a condition called PDS.
Well, operation one was complete yesterday and it wasn’t so bad. I know what to expect at the end of the month when the date for operation two arrives.
Today (8th April) I discovered my event is on the 1017 radio website (our local station) – how cool! http://iten501.fimc.net/calendar/Default.asp?DATE=11/05/2009
Just noticed that my book has shot 1,000,000 places up the ranks on Amazon – that means that copies are selling fast! Get in there now to buy yours – remember, stocks are limited!
Today have just completed my first phone interview for the local paper and the photographer is coming round tomorrow! (17/4) Eek! The reporter recognises me from my day job in our local Boots – it’s time for a career change!!
Another momentous occasion – my book’s Amazon rank is now the highest ever at 72,540! Woohoo!
Remember…these available copies are limited, so if you haven’t bought one already, move fast or you might miss out!
11/05/2009 – a momentous day! The books are here! Upon first inspection, they look great!
The first copy! At last!
12 – 18/05/2009 – the actual distribution of promotional copies to magazines, newspapers and reviewers begins in earnest! Including a lengthy spell at the local post office and a hike around London hand-delivering 14 book bundles!
We got excited weeks ago when the Amazon rank shot up by 1,000,000 places but we’ve seen a record high position of 10,000. Get your copy quick!
19-05-09 – In preparation for uploading a sax video, I’ve been experimenting in iMovie with a 22 second video of the St Ives seals. Paste this link to see for yourself! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28ip2kT3hOo
Last week saw my idol, Dave Koz, visit town, unfortunately I couldn’t meet him but I’m pleased to report that the guys at Sax London did. They are proudly displaying this photo on their website (Dave is in the middle):
Dave Koz meets the guys at Sax London
What I would give to be there with the guys!!
(7th June 2009) sitting here making my lists in preparation for heading to our annual seaside holiday in Eastbourne. Did I mention my husband and I are photographers? (See www.westonphotographics.co.uk). Some holiday! I take around 500 shots a day – this year there’s a mens competition as well, so I expect that figure will rise greatly. (gulp) Each night we clear our memory cards after downloading, sort the best photos in folders, name the photos… oh boy! I’m severely out of practice having invested so much time in the book and the promotion. Still! I’m looking forward to it….and I’m hoping to sell a few books while I’m there. Our hotel is right on the seafront, so we’re guaranteed a great view morning and night!
The view of the sun rising (approx 4.30AM) from our hotel window!
Perhaps we’ll have a walk along the beach before breakfast, like we did on the morning of our wedding! Such a shame that the beach is all shingle, and it gets washed away! I can’t wait to be there, inhaling the fresh sea air, being woken by the screaming seagulls at six o’clock……. And of course, AJ is coming with us this time, as I have to practice (practice, practice, practice) for the forthcoming Harlow Music Festival. Watch this space!
Obviously I will not be available to post comments and updates while we are away, so it’ll be quiet from Friday 12th June until Sunday 21st. Then I’ll be busy uploading new photos to our website – and I’m in the midst of writing my first sax song. It’s called Roadside Summer Poppies. The video will be duly uploaded when I’m happy with it!
09-06-09 – I’ve just had word from the manager at Waterstones Hatfield regarding a book launch at their store. Due to a shuffle, there can be no confirmation of such events in any Waterstones store across the nation until July/August 2009 – but he will make an arrangement with me after this time. Sounds promising!
I’m away to work some more on “RSP”, it was sounding rather good last night… John reckons it has a jazzy/blues sound.
Sunday 21st June 2009 – we’re back from Eastbourne. Please visit Weston Photographics to see the new photos!
Wednesday 24th June 2009 – confirmation of my attendance at Harlow Music Festival, Saturday 11th July 2009. We are yet to learn when and where exactly, but I am honoured with a 10 minute slot at the event. (Gulp) Keep checking here for exact details.
Saturday June 27th 2009 – Bishops Stortford Waterstones store is the first to join up to stock copies of my book, which I’ll be signing in a few weeks. We may also have a book signing session later in the year. In July/August, we are holding the official launch signing for When the Sax Man Plays at Waterstones Hatfield. See you there!
This is rather heartening news for me, as I was gutted to hear that Waterstones will not centrally stock my book. (This means that they would do all the work on my behalf, oh well, never mind!) Away to spend several more hours, and stamps, sending out invitation notices to several Waterstones stores and HMV stores as well.
I like nothing better than a birthday treat, and my new ‘toy’ arrived the other day. Her name is Lavender, you guessed it, she’s a purple soprano saxophone. Think I’ll go and play for a while before getting down to the boring business of typing in addresses and licking envelopes (shudders). Now that I’m 27 there’s no excuse to not be more organised and do with my free time what I choose. LOL. Like that will ever happen!!
Sunday 28th June 2009 – Just spent several hours printing ‘invitation’ letters to selected HMV and Waterstones stores in the local area, in London and in Scotland around where I ‘normally’ am. Away now to write and lick envelopes outside while the weather is nice.
Saturday 11 July 2009 – Harlow Music Festival, from 12 noon.
My main stage slot is now 2.40 and there is talk of playing in several locations around the town as well! Gulp! I did debate on taking Lavendar as well as AJ, but will stick to my old faithful! We’re going to have a video uploaded from the performance, so keep watching out! I’m away to get ready, so wish me luck! :
My thanks to the team at HMF, we all had a great time. Extra thanks to Richard, who was brave enough to invite me to play, and who took the photos. Here is my fanclub. LOL.
Fanclub!
L-R – Gill (my playing partner), Dawn, Chris, myself and AJ, Liz, with my husband in the background. My wonderful workmates. It was so ….I cannot describe how nice it was to have a following!
Tuesday 14th July 2009 – Good news!
Waterstones stores in Trafalgar Square; Hatfield and Bishops Stortford will have copies of my book available to buy instore as of next week. I’m going around and signing those copies as well. Watch this space for pictures! Waterstones Oxford Street are contemplating stocking copies, so if you’re in London and you want a copy they will happily order you one! That was worth walking my feet off for today!
Thursday 16th July 2009 – Great news! We have three publishers all interested in book 2!
Saturday 18th July 2009 – Jools Holland and His Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, Audley End.
The man himself!
Amazing performance from Jools and Co. We saw them last year at the Corn Exchange, Cambridge, but this being an outdoor concert, the atmosphere was completely different. It was fabulous, but I knew it would be! I’m so jealous of his saxophonists…and can’t stop watching the man at the edge of the stage with the bass baritone, it is nearly the same size he is! Awesome sax!
Tuesday 21st July 2009
The first Waterstones signing happened this morning, here I am posing with the book instore.
Tuesday 28th July 2009 – Plotting to sweet talk the owners of the Waterstones stores in Chelmsford into ordering in some copies. Hopefully. Went on Sat to sign the copies at Trafalgar Square and they hadn’t arrived instore! Not impressed! Means another trip into London, just as well it’s only a stone’s throw away really…
Woohoo! Just signed up High Street Chelmsford Waterstones – will be signing a few copies there in the next few weeks. Arrived home to find another publisher is interested in Book 2.
Tuesday 4th August 2009
Another rainy London day, nonetheless I was determined to get to Waterstones in Trafalgar Square for the signing. (Look slightly dishevelled in this one!)
WTSMP in Trafalgar Square branch
Starting to really feel a sense of achievement now! Next stops Chelmsford and Hatfield.
Sunday 9th August 2009
Yesterday I encouraged Waterstones Hatfield to take a few copies of the book, despite having an agreement already. App they were waiting for me to come in before they ordered any, which is fair enough.
This morning spent three hours editing book 3, and to my horror, I realised that there are many ‘gaps’ in it. The flow is not as smooth and I remember now that I’ve left myself those gaps in order to let the ideas flow as they have struck me. Gulp. But it’s good in a way, because it’s reviewing the information I’ve already given about Jason’s background, all the things that I’m currently writing in the Prequel. Oh Boy.
I’m also writing more in the WTSMP diary – perhaps I shall start to blog those as well, and merge the two. It’s an intense experience, and I do often wonder if it will be a one-off or not. Life is very complicated, as Jason has learnt!
Thursday 13th August 2009
Well it’s not Friday, but it felt like it. I headed to the Eye Clinic at our hospital for my three-monthly check-up and then had to back to work (normally I have the day off). Couldn’t see a thing for the whole day! Couldn’t do any work that evening! It’s things like this that really frighten me and prove that we are just a bundle of fibres running together which is great as long as nothing goes wrong within our bodies!
Sunday 16th August 2009 – the 32nd anniversary of the death of the King.
Click this link to hear another side to the Elvis we all thought we knew. I found this on YouTube and it’s the perfect dedication to the King. Enjoy!
Wednesday 26th August 2009
This has been an eventful week in the history of WTSMP. We had the launch of the eBook version of Book 2, available for download from iTunes – and today I had a visit from the Harlow Town Library Manager (Nick), clutching a copy of my book in his hands!
Really great news to see it available for those who can’t get to the bookshops and of course, will spread the word about my writing! Nick even promised to buy in a copy of Book 2 when it is released next year! Yes!!
Sunday 30th August 2009
Just back from a busy weekend in London with my best buddy Kat and her mum and several friends (all Invernesian). Had a proud moment last night in the taxi home from TigerTiger – Kat was telling the driver did he know he had an author in his cab? Funnily enough we were right outside Trafalgar Square, waiting at the traffic lights, so I told him he could nip in and get a signed copy whenever he wanted! It was the way she said it, she was fiercely proud of me.
Tuesday 1 September
Another image for the WTSMP library – the first royalties cheque! How nice this is!
The First Cheque
Friday 4th September 2009
Away to make the final preparations for our Italian adventures. Check back for the photos in the next two weeks.
Tuesday 15th September 2009
Pleased to announce there are nine new photos on Weston Photographics, specifically from Italy. More will follow shortly. Spent SEVEN hours working and viewing photos – will watch the movies tomorrow!
Weston Photographics’ Italian Adventure
I’m guessing my sax practice tomorrow night will be horrendous as I’ve had no saxophone for TWO weeks!!
Unfortunately, the stocks of WTMSP in Chelmsford and Hatfield are YET to arrive, thanks to a new ordering system that Waterstones have drafted in. Sigh. However, I’m very pleased to say that three members of our Italian Adventurers this past week bought a copy from my suitcase! (Hello to Janet, Nigel and Richard; Cath and Mike; and Eugene!)
Celebrated some nice news before we left – the eBook version of Book 2 is out and selling steadily.
Sunday 20th September 2009
Here’s a family photo from Harlow Library with the for-hire copy of the book!
Received a very intriguing comment on the book on Amazon:
“Oh no” I thought – not a book about students! Being a retired teacher that would be the last subject I would want to read about. Anyway, I persisted and was rewarded by an enjoyable read. There are enough loose ends and twists in the plot to keep one engaged and which, hopefully, will be tied up in parts 2 (and 3?). I am, however, a sucker for happy endings and will be disappointed if Jason and Georgie don’t get it together. Yvonne, you have been warned!
…..I had to laugh though!
Tuesday 29th September 2009
So it’s back to work at my desk. I need to set the ball rolling for the Christmas promo events. Watch this space!
Tuesday 6th October 2009
Yet another set back in Yvonne’s world. My other hand suffered at work on Friday last – another horrendous crack, in the same place as two years ago when I had my first accident on the left hand. Cannot obtain full functioning movement in the left hand, and am now petrified the same thing will happen to the right hand. Very restricted for moving, lifting, even trying to hold a pen…..ARGH!
Sunday 25th October 2009
Next weekend we are away to see Bill Wyman and the Rhythm Kings at Cambridge, which should be good. If Jools had created a different tour, we’d be seeing him again instead, but we feel – good though he is – a third viewing wouldn’t be so great.
I’ve just taken another booking for Elvis via saxophone – that’s dates in November and December. How great! Soon I will be revisiting the chords for Christmas Carols, so it will be nice to vary my practice sessions!
Saturday 31 October 2009 – Happy Halloween 2009!
Sunday 8th November 2009
Deeply excited to post that we have our first official signing on December 12th, and that stocks of the book will be available in more London stores in the next few weeks.
Our Calendar is filling up fast, between store visits, signings, the official signing and caroling session (!), and private gigs.
It’s all go here!
Tuesday 10th November 2009
Today we signed books in Chelmsford Waterstones and agreed a second signing in Waterstones Bishops Stortford for February 2010. Woohoo!
Tuesday 24th November 2009
Mailing list gone out to colleges in the nearby area for the book signing – less than 3 weeks now!
Away tomorrow night to play my first Elvis via sax session. Should be great fun! Working on the videos of Christmas carols, but frankly the view is absolutely awful – cannot hold the camera and play the saxophone. LOL.
Monday 30th November
It’s really very hard to get my head around this – tomorrow it’s December. Where did the year go?! I’m away back into London to sign some more copies of WTSMP. Watch this space for more photos coming soon!
Tuesday 1st December
Success in three key London locations! Piccadilly, Trafalgar Square and Holborn! See the photos on the front page.
Tuesday 8th December
The final preparations are underway for The Event. LOL. I need to actually do some writing at some point too…. LOL. OMG how cool is the snow on my blog? I remember as a kid we had White Christmases in Scotland - I’d love to give my kids that!
Wednesday 23rd December 2009
Here we are. The eve before Christmas eve, and for those of us earning a hard graft in retail, the night before the last day thank goodness for that!!
We’ve had white ground covering, some frost, some ice, some snow, for the last six mornings – the question is will it hang around until Christmas Day? I hope so!
Seasons greetings to one and all! x
Sunday 27th December
Ironically, this is Jason Bottelli’s birthday. He is one extraordinary man! As we speak, more people are reading his story – and hopefully wanting to know what happens next!
I’m editing Book 2 and to my horror, it’s not as ready as I thought it was. There are three publishers vying for the honour of getting Book 2 under their wings, which explains my confidence in having it on shelves in 2010.
And now, a minute’s contemplation to the demise of the Borders stores. A sad era. Where will it end?
Tuesday 19th January 2010
Finally some time to report on my blog! It’s been a busy few weeks.
Today I have finalised the second book signing in Bishops Stortford Waterstones, even bringing the Events Manager some beautiful A3 posters for the front of the store. (Shall have to remember to take a picture when we’re there!) My thanks to the wonderful men at Premier Print for their continuing superb work!
Finalising Book 2, will take more time than I imagined. I need to find another Italian translator, as the man I had lined up admits that his grammatical Italian isn’t quite up to the job! Help! LOL.
It looks like Book 2 will go to a Print On Demand publisher, which means that the price will be increasing, therefore I have altered the ending to incorporate another 100 or so pages taken from Book 3. Ah, I love the hindsight of being ahead! I’m thrilled with our new ending.
We’ve also been making contacts, Josh Ward (the star of the current T-Mobile adverts) had kindly accepted me also to join his band – and may even manage to make our signing next month! Awesome news!
Tuesday 26th January 2010
Four publishers have now shown interest in having their names on Book 2. Meanwhile, I’m chasing reviews and promoting Book 1 in order to ‘spread the word’. Please help the WTSMP fanclub grow by doing likewise. Many thanks!
Tuesday 2nd February 2010
Pleased with my mission into the Big Smoke today, and have another three Waterstones stores lined up for WTSMP 1. Photos coming soon.
Determined to conquer technology, I’ve also incorporated a poll into the website. Awesome! Didn’t know it would be so easy, and made only the most elementary mistake(!) so will do it again throughout the year. Best go and play AJ, I’m still undecided whether or not to play at the next book signing – I hit so many bum notes when I play in public!! No idea how the professionals do it. LOL.
Sunday 7th February 2010
Yesterday saw the opening of the 2010 Orchid Festival at Kew Gardens – we duly visited with our cameras, and as usual, I was completely carried away. More photos are on Weston Photographics, for anyone who is curious!
Had a breakthrough with the Italian translations problem – fingers crossed!
We now have copies landing in Oxford Street Plaza store, Herons Quay (Docklands) and Covent Garden. Like I say, photos coming soon, generally in four weeks time. Discovered also that Foyles are now advertising the book on their website – so shall target their head office in the next mail shot this week. HMV Head Office have had a copy sent several weeks ago, so please keep your fingers crossed for us!
Best get cracking with the book signing promotion also, as the second is coming up in less than a fortnight! Tonight AJ and I were performing some Jazz classics and it sounded fabulous, even if I do say so myself!
Wednesday 17th February 2010
The second book signing is on Saturday and I’m ready. Check back for photos and videos – I’m hoping to have another live sax video recorded at the signing – next week. I hope to see you all there as there may not be another in this part of the world…
Sunday 21st February 2010
Thanks to everyone at Bishops Stortford, we had a wonderful time at our second signing yesterday.
A Personal signing took place at the home of Bridie and Fred, who had a multiple purchase at the signing…
My first documented personal multiple signing!
My thanks to both!
Monday 8th March
We’ve just returned from a long weekend in Scotland, where I’ve taken my new camera to meet my parents and see the sights. LOL. I’m working on getting some new photos on the website, but train lag is sinking in fast…
Tuesday 9th March
More stores are signing up…and more photos have been posted on the front page! Here’s a taster…
WTSMP at Oxford Street branch
Monday 15th March 2010
Yesterday I uploaded a new video to YouTube – Always On My Mind, Elvis Presley, which perfectly coincided with Mother’s Day.
Tuesday 23rd March 2010
Visited Bishops Stortford Waterstones to check all the book had been signed, and was delighted to hear from Patrick (the events manager there) that he will happily arrange a launch signing for Book 2. How incredible!
Good Friday, April 2nd
So excited! Have got two tickets for Dave Koz’s Sunday night show at Dean Street!
Hoping to give Dave a signed copy of WTSMP while we’re there, after all, he is my inspiration for Jason Bottelli.
Wednesday 7th April 2010
I must admit, I’m still grinning when I think that we actually met Dave! Did you see the photo we had taken together? He is such a nice man, posed for photos, spoke to people, signed autographs happily….just like our Jason would!
Such a deserving performer…and Dave had a star installed on the Hollywood Walk of Fame too last year! How I’d like to see it! He jested about being there to polish it every day. LOL.
Sunday 25th April 2010
Today I did most of the polishing for my limited edition eBook ‘Football Crazy’. This is completely different to the WTSMP series, and is specially written to coincide with the forthcoming 2010 World Cup. I’ll post the link to the book here when it’s ready to go!
Friday 30th April 2010
Phew! Just sent off the “Football Crazy” special eBook I’ve written. Will be posting the link here soon, I’m sure.
Sunday 16th May 2010
So last Tuesday was our first anniversary of WTSMP. I’m still awaiting response from my preferred choice of publisher for Book 2. There are four weeks until we are officially Weston Photographics on our annual trip to Eastbourne for the tennis. Despite being unable to bear getting up at 4am last year to queue for Wimbledon tickets, I actually rather missed it! So I’ll be getting out of bed early again this year…. groan!
Yesterday I had the day off from writing and put on my photographer cap – heading to a local nature reserve, Fishers Green, in the morning, then spending the afternoon with Gill and her daughter, Ellie, at Sawbridgeworth Tennis Club. Gill had requested photos of her daughter playing tennis, and I was more than happy to oblige! The photos were excellent, and while Ellie didn’t win her ‘rubbers’ the standard of play was superb!
Coming soon in the land of WTSMP is Inverness next weekend, then Greenwich, Oxford Street and Gower Street. Watch this space…
Tuesday 25th May 2010
Having returned from a wonderful weekend away with my parents in Northern Scotland, I have many more photographs to sort out and will be putting more on the website. (Will let you know!)
Yesterday, I was very pleased to meet up with an old school friend who works at Waterstones Inverness. We now have copies in the Northern store, and depending upon my success rate there, perhaps even an established signing! (Photo coming soon.) As I’ve been away, I had left AJ at home…so I’d better get playing!
Wednesday 26th May 2010
Just completed a reshuffle on the site. More links down the right hand side of the page and less posts on the front page. I believe this looks better….?
Also, on a suggestion, posted an excerpt from “Football Crazy” my new eBook for the World Cup 2010, in the Ideas section of the site.
Thursday 27th May 2010
Ah, another day in London on the WTSMP tour, and another three stores signed up.
Coming soon will be Oxford Street, Gower St, Greenwich, Kings Road, Islington and Notting Hill.
Spread the word!
Monday 31st May 2010
Finally got the photo from Inverness from my photographer!
Wednesday 23rd June 2010
For a laugh, I’ve entered the Facebook competition – the Next model.
Vote for me with this link!
Wimbledon was fantastic on Monday, but it was a long day, on top of being at Eastbourne the week before.
But now it’s back to work….
Thursday 1st July 2010
Last Saturday I braved the heatwave and visited the last six stores in London on my list, with WTSMP 1. You can see the photos on my homepage, which I’ve just loaded up.
Been sidetracked recently with the tennis, and putting off making a decision on which publisher to entrust Book 2 with, so that I can make the most informed decision possible. It became apparent that perhaps my first publisher wasn’t the best, but that’s how you learn.
Hope to have a decision very soon, but I will promise you this, the cover will be bigger, brighter and better, as will the layout and the style.
Tuesday 13th July 2010
Still in communications with several publishers. Hope to be moving forward in the next 7-10 days.
Meanwhile….
….my dream wheels!
John and I are off to Cornwall in eight weeks time. My dormobile spotting is kept very busy in the land of Kernow!
Tuesday 27th July 2010
Very very very pleased to announce that we have finally set the wheels in motion for Book 2. Grosvenor House Publishing will be producing the next instalment in the When the Sax Man Plays trilogy in the next 8-10 weeks. woohoo!
Sunday 8th August 2010
Have just posted a picture of the front cover image on the site. It’s far, far better than the first one! I’ve had much more control with the second publisher, and if all goes well, I won’t be looking for a third one for Book 3 next year!
We should have a posting on Amazon in 5 weeks time. Tomorrow I shall be receiving the manuscript back from correction. There were only 12 errors, which isn’t bad at all!
Sunday 15th August
In the last week we’ve had emails flying back and forth to get both the manuscript and the cover absolutely perfect. I hope to approve the final correction tomorrow. Meanwhile I’ve been designing the posters in Works, it’s a brilliant programme!
Tuesday 31st August
Today I’ve been brandishing my copy at work, everyone has been very impressed and saying this looks very professional. Many haven’t wanted to let go of it!
Arranging a Drinks and Books launch party amongst my work mates, Friday 1st October, to flog Book 2. Because this is now POD, each book costs me more than double what I was buying the first book for. Hmmm…still. It’ll be easier for storage, and once I sell thirty, I can buy another thirty….and another…and another.
I’ve just sent a copy to Ricky, my Italian translator, as a thank-you symbol of my gratitude, and one to Peter North, the head man at Waterstones. Fingers crossed they both like it!
One is winging it’s way to Patrick, the Events manager at Waterstones Bishops Stortford, on Friday so that we can arrange our special launch signing. How very exciting!
Watch this space for updates….
Friday 3rd September
Spent the last hour uploading books 1 & 2 to Amazon’s Digital Text Platform, meaning the books will be available on Kindle and other devices. Woohoo! And it was all free.
Will be seeing Patrick later….will update later.
- I’m back. Patrick is thrilled with the new book and signed me up for a Christmas book signing, laughing when I stated we could play Christmas carols on saxophone!
Friday 17th September
The books have arrived! My first thirty of book 2. They look…..I’m speechless. Twenty, thirty, forty thousand times better than the first one! I’m so pleased!
Monday 20th September
Whilst browsing
http://www.waterstones.com/waterstonesweb/displayDetailEvent.do?searchType=1&author=Yvonne|Marrs
Clicked on the Events page on Waterstones’ website and I was listed in their “Favourite Authors” and the December signing is listed!!!!
Saturday 25 September
First live post from my new smart phone. I’m hoping this will keep me updating more often as we haven’t got broadband !
Wednesday 29th September
Just finalized plans for books and drinks on Friday night at our local.
My mother informs me she placed an order on Amazon for 10th copies!
Last week my 2nd book shot to 74000 places, not bad at all.
Saturday 2nd October
Last night we had a wonderful evening at books and drinks, welcomed a few new members into the WTSMP fanclub. Everyone agreed the second book is so much better than how the first was produced.
Tuesday 5th October
Two reader comments already from book 2. More kipper and does Jason open the envelope? What is the band’s reaction?
Keep the comments coming!
I’m very pleased to see that Anne is having her first book signing at our local w h smith, and I’ll be there to buy a copy and support her. Come along in Harlow on Saturday from 11.
*** in future, the updates are from the top of the page for ease! ***
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Remember! You can contact Yvonne via email on whenthesaxmanplays@live.co.uk.
Due to the nature of my unusual email address, please pick your subject header carefully as the junk filter is rather erratic – thanks!
