I'm always grateful and thank them for taking the time to read my book. It definitely brightens my day to hear someone say they love it or shared it with friends or family. Mostly because this book is also about my community and our history here so any time I get to share that and someone appreciates it then that is always a plus.
I don't think it changed the process. It changed what I knew about the process of publishing though. Definitely gave me more insight into how books are created from the ground up. I have great respect for publishers, especially mine, they were wonderful in walking me through the process step-by-step and made sure that everything was in order before we went to press.
Whenever you feel you have reached that point step outside. Go to the park, get your car, go for a drive, turn on some music, dine out, or watch movies with your kids, etc... Do something fun and something enjoyable. Often times this is also when inspiration will strike if I'm stuck on a chapter or scene in my book. Sure writing is important, but so are our lives, our overall health, and our loved ones.