HamFest2019

This was my second year to have a table at a local area Ham Radio “Hamfest.” As a ham radio operator, it’s a great excuse to see the electronics, antennas, and other radio equipment for sale. As an author, it’s a great opportunity to be out in my community, talking about and selling my books.

My favorite:

Ham Operator picks up DANGER IN THE CLOUDS: This book looks interesting. Does it have a ham radio operator in it?

We chat about the services ham radio operators provided during recent hurricanes.

Ham Operator reads back cover: Whoa! This is you! You’re the author! I’ve never met an actual author! If I buy the book, will you sign it?

Me: Certainly. <Squealing inside!>

** ** **

Sales were good, and the conversations were fun. Looking forward to another year!

How long could you go without your cell phone?

An hour? A day? Four days?

I’m about to undergo a most interesting experiment. My cell phone, still under warranty, has lost its ability to charge. The battery has dwindled to 25% from 48% an hour ago. Its battery life is draining away. (That’s the dramatic writer in me speaking.)

My replacement phone is expected to be delivered in three or four days. Meanwhile, I’ll be going dark. Unleashed. No cell phone ordering me to look at an email, read a text, or divulge my location. No instant response to social media.

I predict I’ll finish my final edit of I ALWAYS WANTED TO BE A SPY. And my house will be spotless.

Follow Up November 7

It’s been a week. My new phone went sight-seeing in Jacksonville FL for a few days before meandering to its destination. Yesterday the apps updated, and today we’re back in business.

How was it without a phone? I cheated and used someone else’s phone to check my email. So maybe it wasn’t a fair experiment. I did finish my final edit but did NOT hyperclean. I don’t plan to turn my phone off and put it into a drawer, but I’m less obsessed. We’ll see how long that lasts.

Tag: technology

Book Table at the Ham Radio Fest