Well, that wasn’t a title you expected, was it? I’ve been super vocal about the fact that I have social anxiety and the pandemic truly fucked with it. When I saw that one of my favorite authors who I actually talk to (LOL) was going to be going to Apollycon AND that Apollycon is practically in my back yard, I convinced a friend to try to get tickets with me.
Well, we got them (though I didn’t realize that I needed to purchase tickets for the panels separately – oops!) and then my friend couldn’t go. So I knew I was going to go and needed to find a buyer for the other ticket… and did nothing about it until a week ago. Yes, Apollycon is in two weeks. That’s just how I roll. 🤣 Never do today what you can put off until last minute.
Luckily, I found a buyer for the extra ticket in the Facebook group and she seems really nice and we may meet up, so hooray and a happy ending, right? Yeah, not so much. Situations like this make my social anxiety ramp up to insane levels. Like I’m already worried that this stranger won’t like me or that people will think that I’m weird or that I’m bothering people. Is this silly? Yes. Do I know that this is silly and that I’m a weird lovely person who will be among others just like me? Yes. Is this rational? Nope, not a bit. However, the thought of not going never crossed my mind. Why? It’s not the money; I mean it’d suck to be out that money, but it’s not a make or break decision for me. It’s about the people. There are a number of authors, not just the one I mentioned earlier, that I want to see and have them sign books (or other things – no, no body parts will be signed, get your mind out of the gutter, silly rabbit). I also know of Bookstagrammers and Booktubers who I follow who will be there and I’d like to actually say hi… and not come off as a weird, awkward person (delightful though I may be).
So all that is to say, if you see me, come say hi and grab one of my cards so we can keep in touch. If I’m super-awkward, just give me a minute. I’m a hugger, so if you’re not one, just tell me and I’ll make sure not to make you feel weird.
If you’re going to Apollycon, or if you’re a book convention pro, what are you bringing for authors to sign? Just books? What are some must-haves that people shouldn’t forget? (Just remembered that I should make sure that I have charging bricks on me… and sharpies.) I hope to see you there!
xo,
Holly
Bookish, Nerdy, and Curious 