I love book signings!

I had a blast at my book signing at Books A Million in Sumter, SC, the town where I was born.  The feeling of sheer nostalgia filled my senses as I drove past Shaw Air Force Base where my Mom and Dad met and fell in love sixty-eight years ago.


As I shared my story of Lady and the Sea, I could see their eyes light up at the spoken word.  One woman is taking Lady on her cruise next week; another will read Lady while convalescing from her surgery she's having tomorrow ... I love their stories too.  And I met several young women, Shannon and Jessica, who's passion is writing.  I encouraged them: "Don't give up.  Write your heart and soul.  Your dream can come true!"


The Books A Million manager invited me back for more book signings, so I'll be returning to my home town in the near future to meet more friendly folks.


Writing is one of my passions, but encouraging readers and inspiring writers I meet along the way is the frosting on my cake.  


Now I must go and finish enjoying my Mother's Day with the man of my dreams.  Actually, ladies, he is the frosting on my cake, if you know what I mean.  *wink*


I wish you smooth sailing and oceans of blessings for the coming week.  And I hope you're having a special Mother's Day.  Sharing my day with my daughter, Jacquie, after being apart for five years, is another dream come true for me.  Hang on to those dreams ... they DO come true!

Mother's Day 2011

Mother's Day at Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens 2011

A new path lies before us; we're not sure where it leads;

but God goes on before us, providing all our needs.

This morning as I sip my Starbuck's vanilla latte, I'm sitting on a bench in a most peaceful garden writing in my journal. I hear the soothing fountains, the chirping birds, and the flowers proudly strut their colors. God's creation at its finest.

I express my thankfulness to God, then pray for those living in tornado-torn and flood-worn areas of our country. I remember family and friends, and end with a prayer for the USA, and for the peace of Jerusalem.

I'm in a people-watching state-of-mind...lots of material for future stories. One thing in particular stands out -- all mothers are in their glory. Fathers and husbands, and all men in general, are biding their time, sacrificing their golf day, their date with their favorite TV sports program -- all for the love of the special women in their lives. Will they ever know how much their sacrifice is appreciated? Maybe not. But their women will cherish these moments forever. Honest.

My grown children are in SoCal, my Mom is in heaven, and Rob is working, but God has given me another special lady in my life: Rob's mother. When I finish revelling in my own special moments here at the gardens, I'll take a drive to The Agape Assisted Living Home, where they will have an afternoon tea for all the lovely ladies.

So whether you're surrounded by loved ones, or you're alone like me, make the best of this day. Don't feel sorry for yourself. Instead, count your blessings, then treat yourself. You deserve it!

Oceans of blessings to you on this Mother's Day, 2011.