What to Expect When You're Expecting...

Okay, so I did just have a baby four weeks ago, but that's not what I'm referring to! I'm talking about my book baby! I waited for what seemed like forever to sell my book and then when I was told that it would be published 14 months later, that seemed like an eternity. We know it only takes nine months or less to birth a real baby!
Then while I was preparing for my baby's birth, I was also preparing for my book to hit the shelves! I blogged, answered interview questions, received reviews, had a wonderful baby shower, got the baby's room ready and actually gave birth with no epidural (not because I was too keen on the idea but because I had no time). A few days later it was back to book preparations--scheduled book signings, handed out postcard invites and emailed everyone in my address book. Now for the fun stuff:confirmed DJ for book launch and discussed play list, made hair appointment and next it's all about the outfit. Then I quickly remember that I had a baby less than a month ago so not much fits, need to go shopping!
So my advice to those that just sold a book, don't try and do everything at once, make a daily or weekly schedule of things you plan to accomplish (aside from writing). You'd be surprised at how much time marketing your book can really take. If you're shy, take full advantage of the Internet. You never have to talk to anyone if you don't want to. You might consider scheduling some school visits to get some experience doing public speaking. But most importantly, have fun. Concentrate your energy on the things that are important to you. Now for advice on juggling the birth of a baby and a book at the same time, that's another story!
I'd love to hear from others on how they prepared for the release of their book. Shrinking Violet hits the shelves in sixteen days!