One of the fun things about getting published in a local literary magazine is that there is usually an invite to the launch party.  There's food, drinks, and the opportunity for writers in the current issue to do a little public reading.  This was my first time attending a launch party, but also my first time reading my work in public.  Oh, the nerves!  But it was a great experience and something I would love to do again given the opportunity.  Nothing beats the reaction of a live audience to your work!