Biggest career announcement since I quit my "day" job!

I am one of those people who does not see the need to pound the gavel anytime I get somebody sniffing around for screen rights and all that stuff. For one, I have plenty of friends who have made that announcement, yet there is nothing happening years later. Sort of "Boy who cried wolf" in my opinion. If it goes into production, then tell the world. That is just how I see it. Yeah, I have actually had sniffs, but nothing that went through, so why volunteer to put egg on my face?

However...I have been sitting on this for a while because I did not want to say anything until it went through ALL THE WAY!

Yep, that is a contract signing!

On Thursday, I signed a three year promotional deal with Portland's Arena Football team, the Portland Thunder. My books will be featured at home games and a number of zombie themed promotions will be scheduled. One of my favorites is the "zombie row package" that is already selling! This all began when Denise was working in the office of the owner and handed one of my books to a fellow employee. And now...I will be seeing my books promoted at a large venue through the course of the season at EVERY home game.

"This row of twelve (12) seats will be marketed and sold as a group package

that incorporates a game ticket, an advance copy of the Dead: Snapshot - Portland, Oregon 

book and a stylized, co-branded Zombie row t-shirt"

I did not want to jinx things and say anything until it was inked. You never know what might happen until the deal is actually signed and the tickets sell. I will be a featured sponsor at every home game! Video and PA announcements during the game. "How would you survive a zombie apocalypse" video messages made by the players, all kinds of things. Who knows, maybe even Portland's Thunder Dancers in zombie makeup dancing to Thriller.

I want to thank Erin West for hammering out this deal and showing so much excitement in getting this rolling. We had a long meeting over coffee a few weeks ago where the proposal was made. I laid all my cards on the table (including some personal stuff that I felt relevant) and she never batted an eye as she put the offer in front of me.

I still can't believe this is happening. It is an open door that I am stepping through with hopes that this will take my stuff to a new level.

My little girl as I will always see her.

In more personal news, my daughter turns 20 today. I am so proud of her. I never dreamed that our relationship would grow as strong as it is. I love her more than I will ever be able to say and cherish ever minute we have together.

My little girl now.

Happy birthday, Ronni. I love you with all my heart.