Swag, swag, swaggity, swag...

I think I'm starting to lose my mind a little.  I actually feel that way quite often but right now it feels the most real.  Did that even make sense?

So I LOVE designing swag to give away to readers.  It's become like a hobby and I have to admit, I make some fun stuff.  There are mugs and tumblers, pens, magnets, bookmarks, pins, tote bags, Christmas ornaments, Christmas stockings, pocket journals, Kindle covers, thank you cards, chapstick, gum, key chains, candles...I mean...I've made a LOT.

With the upcoming Shaughnessy series, I really want to specialize the swag to go along with each book.  For example, in "Made for Us", Aidan is in construction.  So I would like to do swag that has a bit of a construction theme - tape measures, key chain flashlights, sticky note pads - that sort of thing. 

Then I started wondering if it was all too much.  Would anyone want construction-themed swag?  I mean, I know I enjoy a good sticky pad and I'm always searching for a tape measure that I can keep handy rather than taking my husband's, but...I don't know.  I know you can never go wrong with pens.  People LOVE a free pen.  I was up in NY visiting family and I had an uncle nearly tackle me to the ground to get a pen!


 I try to stick to a budget - because although I give it away, it's not free to make and ship.  Once in a while I'll splurge - like on the Kindle covers - but most of the time I really try to keep it to a minimum because by the time it's shipped to me and then I pack it up and ship it out to readers, it can get pricey.

 But they're so fun to design!!  When I'm bored or have writer's block - I design swag. 

So readers, do tell.  What do you like to get from authors other than books?  What would you like to have delivered to your door that would make you smile?  Are we trying too hard?  Is some of it ridiculous or a waste of time?  I would love to know!  Really, really, really would love to know!

Now if you'll excuse me, I think I have an idea for some shrinky-dink book charm jewelry that I'd like to investigate and see if I can make it myself.

Happy Reading!!