Every writer dreams of the day they’ll hold their book — a real, tangible thing — in their slick, excited palms. We peer at the typeface; run a finger over the shiny, beautiful cover. We probably don’t crack the story open because, you know — it’s too late for changes.

But we hold it. Admire it. Show it to friends, family, strangers in bookstores. We sign copies and send them to buddies.

And that’s where I am now.

Only it’s not my book.

It’s Michael Kardos’. One Last Good Time, a new collection of short stories set in a fictional Jersey beach town, was just released from Press 53 — and that’s my Ferris wheel on the cover.

When I received an email from Kevin, the publisher, about my Ferris wheel photo last fall, I was surprised — and excited. As with all opportunities that arrive via email, my initial reserve was up; you just never know with people. But it soon became obvious the offer was legit, and my photo — which Kevin found via a Flickr search (see, Flickr works!) — is now Michael’s cover photo.

Grinning like a fool, I tore open the package from Press 53 on Thursday morning and immediately slid a copy of the book into my purse. I’ve been carrying it around everywhere since, flashing my headshot and bio in the back when called upon. I asked Spencer to take a series of photos of me holding One Last Good Time, which is probably really narcissistic — but I was thrilled.

That photo is one of just three I shot last spring while walking into a mall. Out shopping with my boyfriend and mom, we parked near a carnival that travels through our town periodically on our way into JCPenney. The bright blue sky was what really captured my attention; I love finding “blank space,” as I mentioned in November. I took three pictures with my point-and-shoot camera, uploaded them and promptly went about my business. Kevin found the photo months later.

You never know where a random shot will lead you.