I want to share my appreciation with so many of you who contributed to my wonderful experience in New York City and the Rainbow Book Fair.

Philip F. Clark, for handing me a dream (and his wonderful partner Parker – who delighted me with the best tiramisu I’ve ever tasted). Seth Ruggles Hiler, the talented artist whose portrait “Aaron” graces the cover of My Life as Adam, who surprised me with a visit and made fun of the amount of cream I take in my coffee. Beth Bloch, for morphing into my personal assistant  (at least for grilled-cheese runs). Perry Brass, Daniel Kitchens, and Sarah Chinn, whose hard work organizing the Rainbow Book Fair certainly paid off.  Joseph Harker, who endured my repetitive hugs, and Victor Kondratas, who graciously gave me the prize he won from the adult-themed TLA Releasing prize wheel.  Elizabeth Stelling, who took photographs when I could not, and who schooled me on impromptu interviews and the importance of fruitcake at public events.  My most passionate cheerleader and poetic angel, Annmarie Lockhart, who really is as nice as she seems, and her beautiful daughter, who may have convinced me to give green-tinted contact lenses a try (because her green contacts were glorious).  Manny Beltran, who was an absolute pleasure to meet. My fellow writers, poets, and artists in attendance (Jamie Newinski, Mike Luongo, Alina Oswald, among many, many others), whose company I was proud to keep. Stephen S. Mills, who, even in his absence, helped me bring “The Hanky Code” back for at least a day in New York City.   William Johnson, who I suspect will become a great friend. The kind-hearted Philip Clark, whose new anthology with David Groff, Persistent Voices: Poetry by Writers Lost to AIDS, has transformed writing for me in the 48 hours the book has been in my hands.  And last but not least, the beautiful D’Elia family, who are the reason I write, and who made every mile of my trip worthwhile.

There will be more names added to this list, because the amount of love and positive energy I felt in New York City was unlimited. There will be book reviews highlighting my peers. There will be more pictures, too, but, for now, check out me and Annmarie… photo courtesy of Elizabeth Stelling:

Thanks Philip, for the poster!

And some video, also provided by Elizabeth Stelling: