I was ecstatic when Reedy Press offered me the contract to write 100 Things to Do in Boulder Before You Die. It was June 2020. The uncertainty of the emerging pandemic was disrupting the travel industry. I needed to find a local project to keep me busy. Writing about one of my favorite places, Boulder, Colorado, was an amazing opportunity.
Writing 100 Things to Do in Boulder Before You Die
However, I could not predict how COVID restrictions would limit my access to indoor venues or how many places would either temporarily or permanently close. Several weeks after signing the contract, Ira was diagnosed with glioblastoma, terminal brain cancer. I spent many months taking care of him. Ira endured a craniotomy, six weeks of chemo and radiation, and six months of chemotherapy. Periodically, I would do research but it was not possible to visit any indoor venues.
Over time, I concentrated more attention to this incredible project. In 5 categories—Food and Drink, Music and Entertainment, Sports and Recreation,Culture and History, and Shopping and Fashion, I was going to shine a spotlight on more than 100 things to do in Boulder. While the title stipulates 100, I actually could include multiple places on each page. I had the discretion to use my research and analysis to formulate my recommendations. While I initially planned to visit everything, I realized that COVID and my concerns for our safety would prevent that from happening. Instead, I relied on pre-COVID experiences, input from numerous reliable sources, email correspondences, phone conversations, and eventually I was able to do in person visits.
I was so happy when I submitted my manuscript to Reedy Press. After months of editing, the book was officially released by Reedy Press in September 2022. Since it was unknown whether production delays may prevent a timely delivery, I waited until mid October before I promoted 100 Things to Do in Boulder Before You Die.
Marketing 100 Things to Do in Boulder Before You Die
In mid-October, I launched my book at the Boulder Bookstore. Wow. When the host had to bring in additional chairs, I knew it was going to be a great evening. My sales were impressive so I was considered a Boulder Best Seller for the week. I scheduled additional book chats and book signings at other bookstores throughout the metro Denver area and had book signings in shops, restaurants, and cafes. However, I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to give slideshow presentations at the Louisville Recreation Center, at CU for a Buff Lit club, a running group at In Motion Running, and mature individuals at senior citizen centers. I needed a break by the time Hanukkah started.
For more information about past and future events, visit Sandrabornstein.com.
To shine a bright light on Boulder, I publish stories about places in the book. Do you want to learn more about Boulder?
Links to Sandy’s Stories About Boulder
Family Friendly Hikes in Boulder, Colorado
9 Outdoor Activities in Boulder, Colorado
15 Incredible Things to Do in Boulder
5 Boulder Brunch and Breakfast Restaurants
BIO
When Sandy isn’t trekking or writing in the Colorado Rockies, she is traveling. She has visited more than 50 countries and lived as an international teacher in Bangalore, India. Sandy’s award-winning book, May This Be the Best Year of Your Life, is a resource for people contemplating an expat lifestyle and living outside their comfort zone. Sandy’s second book, 100 Things to Do in Boulder Before You Die was published in September 2022.
Sandy shares her lifestyle and travel experiences with international and domestic online sites and print media. Her stories have appeared in Travel Awaits, Wander with Wonder, Wander Magazine, Compass, The Healthy, Arvada Lifestyle, Hemispheres, Destinations Magazine, KUHL’s Born in the Mountain blog, Grand Magazine, Wandering Educators, Golden Living, One Travel, Miles Away, Canadian Jewish News, Getting On Travel, Far and Wide, Colorado Parent, Traveler Confidential, Family Circle- Momster, and others.
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