Monday, June 25, 2007

Walking and sore shins

Began an exercise routine a couple of weeks ago with some fellow writers. We call ourselves "The Walking Writers." It's been more than just a couple of years since I've done any kind of exercise at all and my body has greatly complained...before and currently.

A couple years ago, I developed a circulatory problem in the ankles and feet and didn't listen to my doctor's advice about walking. However, after years of sitting in front of the computer screen writing my heart away, I'm paying the price. So get up out of the chair and move around. Or better yet, come join us!

The only thing that has stopped a couple of us from completing our circuit around the race track has been lightning, which happened only once. One of the ladies carries an umbrella with her when it rains, which makes me laugh, because she doesn't sweat. No sweat, no getting wet, is her motto, while the rest of us look like soaked bunny rabbits in wet t-shirts.

The walking has improved my circulation, my disposition towards the world, and my brain seems to be picking up a little quicker than it used to. Now if I can find a great remedy for my sore shins!

From The Walking Writers, signing off for today--
Cherri

Monday, June 11, 2007

Friends and Sunday Afternoons

Seems we never have enough time to spend with our closest friends and this Sunday seemed more special than usual.

For many years my friends and I have stayed in contact with each other. I'm speaking of over thirty-three years of friendship laughing, growing up together, and sharing secrets that aren't privy to the rest of the world. And yesterday graced me with the privilege to share another Sunday afternoon with one of my dearest friends and her husband. (who I might add, I couldn't have done a better job if I had found him myself for her)

Her kitchen is the heart of her home and is a true reflection of my friend. The openness of the kitchen from her table is a mirror to her kindness. The sweetness of cakes just baked, hot and flavorful; the spicy aroma of spaghetti sauce simmering on the stove top; a baked chicken prepared with loving hands wafting throughout her home; and the scent of fresh brewed coffee as you walk through her door. She's not only organized and talented, but she can also speak on any subject under the sun. She keeps my mind sharp, my attention focused, and my heart filled with comfort. Like the aromas of her kitchen, her home...she is a Godsend. Thank you, Bella.

Within our tight friendship, we also have friends outside our immediate circle. And why am I writing about this? Because recently she lost one of hers. At a time when she should have shown a dimmer side to her, she didn't. Instead, her light shown more brilliant, a brightness filled with hope, with honor, with a heart filled with love. The depth of this woman's soul is more pure than any I've ever met and I thank God every day for having her in my life.

I love you, Bella,
Cherri







Saturday, June 2, 2007

Running to keep up!

What a week full of being busy, submitting, editing, meeting MY PUBLISHERS in person and sharing a lunch with them.

L&L Dreamspell are two dynamic women, who I am convinced don't sleep. Linda Houle and Lisa Rene Smith pulled me into their web of well spun, organized tethers that connect to impossible dreams made true. (of course, accomplished with some good old fashioned elbow grease!) They are intelligent, brilliant in this business, and give unprecedented opportunities to their writers. And now, I am happy to announce that I am one. Officially, we signed my contract yesterday over lunch.

And also, officially, the title of my debut American Service Searchers mystery series will be:
The Scent of Money.

Yes, Lisa, I'm not blogging---I'm working on the editing!

Running to keep up,
Cherri