I must share with you the cover of the large print edition of Chin Up, Honey. Now, that is a cover! Of all the covers on my books through the years, this has to be my very favorite. A woman walking on, head high. I suppose that is the theme of all my books. And it is a pleasant image. I am known for writing ‘feel-good’ books. Just looking at that cover gives a pleasant feel.

The large print is hardback, but they need to be to giving you something extra for your money–the cost is a whopping $31.95! Most of the large print editions are sold to libraries, of course, but they are available special order from any bookstore, and they are listed on Amazon.com. and BooksaMillion. I have not checked the other online stores, but I imagine the book is available from many sources.

I have to say, I find the large print a relief to read these days, so remember the book when you are looking for a gift. The large print of any book would make a great gift for older folks, or writers. We writers all wear thick glasses.

Here’s something really funny: We held the book up to my Sweetie-pie and asked him, “Who’s this?” He replied, “Nana!” It is so lovely that my grandson sees me in such a light.

This week I experienced the bitter-sweet finale to the crafting of the Valentine Series. I completed the final editorial changes for the last book of the series, Little Town, Great Big World, which will be available in June 2010, I think. I’ll keep you apprised. It is time for me to move on, but the folks in the town of Valentine remain in my heart.

To celebrate the coming holidays and this beautiful cover, I will give away a copy of the hard cover large print Chin Up, Honey to some lucky person who leaves a comment on this post. The winner will be chosen at random, just say hello.

Blessings,

CurtissAnn

Originally published March 23, 2009

Shush, woman daydreaming.

Sometimes I sits and thinks, and sometimes I just sits. ~Satchel Paige.

I still, after all these years, tend to feel guilty for my strong requirement for time alone to do nothing other than daydream. The world worships goals and productivity. One does not see books with titles such as “7 Habits of Highly Inefficient Daydreamers.”

“I was so busy today,” seems to be the modern, and expected refrain. This is perfectly acceptable, however, to say, “You know I chose not to do anything or to see anyone today, I did not even answer my phone,” is taken as highly unusual, if not suspect.

One day last week, I realized I was angry. In the way I have learned to deal with this, I asked myself, “Honey, what’s going on with you?”

The whisper came: “Doing too much. Time to relax and rest.”

Ah. I had been trying to keep up with the ‘Jones’ in many areas, losing myself in the process. Time to get back to me. Time to refill the well, as it is known in writer talk.

He that can take rest is greater than he that can take cities. ~Benjamin Franklin.

It is an art to be cultivated, this resting. Not sleeping, which I very often have done because it seems productive, and an unobtrusive way to hide. But to simply allow the soul to rest, to daydream and simply be is what is needed. It is amazing how simply sitting still for five minutes can sometimes be the most difficult thing, yet the most refreshing. Just sit with no agenda. No well-meaning prayer, no purposeful meditation, no paper and pen to write or plan.

For thus says the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel: “ In returning and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” ~Isaiah 30:15

Cat on the lap and cup of tea do seem to to encourage daydreaming.

Enjoy some daydreaming today.

Blessings,
CurtissAnn