Tonight’s the big night!

Bastard Husband: A Love Story launch party
Tonight at 6 p.m.
Alexis Park Resort
375 E Harmon, across from the Hard Rock

If you're in Vegas, you're invited!

OMG you guys, I have a million freakin’ things to do to prepare for tonight’s book launch party at Alexis Park Resort. I heard from almost 60 people who’ve said they’re planning on coming—very exciting! The adrenaline’s flowing, in a good way, but don’t think for one minute that this isn’t just a tiny bit out of my comfort zone. You know me—I like the spotlight, but stage fright has always been a problem for me and I’m starting to blotch up a bit.

I have to remind myself of the advice I’ve given people over the years about the importance of getting out of your comfort zone now and then, even if it scares the crap out of you. You may have to push yourself to do it—or have me as a friend who’ll nag you to no end—but the reality is, once you’ve stepped outside your comfort zone, you’ll realize three things: 1) It wasn’t that scary after all, 2) You feel really, really good about yourself, and 3) Now your comfort zone is even bigger, which means you can do more and more with ease. That's growth.

Remember on my birthday I asked what you to think about what you do better than almost every other person on this earth? Have you given any more thought to how you're going to present that talent to the rest of the world? Wouldn’t today be a great day to do something to unfold the talent you’ve identified, even if it scares the crap out of you? Come on—let’s step outside our comfort zones together!

P.S. Here’s a technique I use to gain confidence. I keep a file of all the encouraging emails I get and read them before I venture into uncomfortable territory. Here are some emails I've received from readers about my book. I’ll be keeping these in mind tonight before I go on stage:

"Ok, first night and I read 82 pages. Need to save the rest for the flight. Looks like I'm buying Christmas gifts from you!"

“I can’t put it down!”

“I thought I would give you a few first reactions to your book. I just finished Part I. Hilarious. Sad. Extremely well-written. (you DO have a real gift)”

“I read your entire book on the plane and loved it! I got teary when Lola died and laughed out loud several times at other parts which were hysterical! You are so funny and strong yet willing to show what is hurtful to you as well. I simply loved it. When is the next book coming out!!”

“The book came yesterday and I made the mistake of starting to read it at 830pm.....lets just say I could not put it down!! But it is all your fault that I am more grumpy than usual today at work!!! GREAT BOOK”

“It's 2 am and it's been years since I've stayed up this late to finish a book. I just couldn't stop reading. Can't understand, with all the crap that is showing up in the book stores, why an agent didn't pick this up… Linda, this is a wonderful book and what I consider very well written. I hope it's noticed by a big publisher and moves on and into the spot light. There a lessons here for everyone... Thanks for writing this.”

“LL...only a few pages into BH and loving it. Its fantastic. You inspire the fuck out of me.”

Thanks, all! Wish me luck, and I'll do the same for you.

(What? You haven't bought my book yet? What the heck are you waiting for???)