So I woke up this morning, completely startled by the dusting of snow on the ground. (This happens when you neglect to watch the news on a regular basis. Note to self: get head out of tukas.) It has coated the tree buds I’ve been watching and celebrating, the new spring grass in my yard, and the small green shoots in the garden. But it doesn’t bother me all that much, to tell the truth. Spring is still here. She’s just messing with us a little.
One reason it don’t make no nevermind to me, (to quote somebody’s random Gramma in South Carolina), is because I’m in too good of a mood for a little cold, wet, white weather to dampen my spirits. Especially since the sun just came out, and is starting to melt it all away, even as we speak.
But there are other reasons for my good mood…first, that I had a GREAT visit to the old statehouse in Springfield, Illinois (where Abe Lincoln made his “house divided” speech!) last month for the “Illinois Reads” kickoff, where I got to meet other authors, get interviewed for radio, and sign copies of my book, which was being honored as part of this fabulous state-wide reading project. Then, soon after I got home, I had two school visits that were a blast! At Boston Latin Academy, their book club made me high tea—I’m talking fancy tablecloths, silverware, scones, and pie! (Hey, it was PI DAY!) Then I went to Rockville HS in Connecticut, where I was warmly welcomed, fed pizza (yum!) and got to hobnob with some really fun kids who had read my book. How lucky am I, that I can call this my JOB?
And here is something else that I am EXTREMELY HAPPY to report…I have finished writing another novel! It has taken me roughly two years from the day I got the idea, to the day (one week ago) that I pressed “send” on my computer. It was a moment something like giving birth, but without the doctors and screaming and whatnot. (Don’t worry, I won’t get more graphic than “whatnot.”) The working title of my new book is LIFESHARDS: A GLIMPSE OF ROSES. It’s about a girl named Rose who is able to see alternate paths of her life. That’s all I’ll say at the moment, other than the fact that I loved writing this book. It’s a fantasy/ contemporary/ romantic/ mystery story that also has a whole lot of heart. I missed the characters so much after finishing the book, that I sat right back down this week and started writing a sequel. Three chapters in three days—what?? I guess it’s just my way of refusing to let go of this world and these characters. Anyway, that’s all I have to report so far on the status of LIFESHARDS…I promise to keep you posted if/when there are any new developments. Take nothing for granted, is my motto…especially when it comes to publishing and the weather. Even so, I must say HAPPY SPRING… warmer days are coming!
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cal armistead 