Anyway - I wanted to mention how different books are - and one of the reasons I write. When I was younger, I believe it was before my mission and marriage - I ran across an author that I gave up reading after a while because there was usually bed hopping. Her books were almost porn...and I realized one day that I needed to give them up. It just wasn't worth it. I didn't want that in my head.
One of her books, though, I have kept. It's called The Summerhouse, and it's ...just wonderful. Every time I read it I have a hard time putting it down. There are a couple of writers that make me feel that way. Another book that is like that is called Coast Road. I realized recently that one of things both books have in common are painting. And writing. Two of my passions - so perhaps that's why they call to me.
Anyway - after reading that book on Monday and realizing it was just - UGH...I read one yesterday by Robin Cook. His are usually interesting and full of medical terms that loose me, but this one was another UGH. both are now consigned to be donated to some charity.
So today, when I realized I was staying home (yet again!) I picked something that was comfortable and I knew was worth reading. Kind of like slipping into a comfortable pare of slippers and wrapping in a warm blanket. The story covers the lives of three women who have the same birthday and happen to meet at the DMV on the day of their 21st birthdays. Each of them have a goal in life...a dream that they are pursuing. One of them is an artist, one is a dancer, and one is simply...beautiful. The story tells how their lives went NOTHING like how they had imagined them at 21...and they get together when they are all turning 40 at the bequest of the artist. She is now a world renown writer. Their stories are enough to break your heart. And then, they are given the chance to relive 2 weeks in the past. They can pick the two weeks, they can do whatever they wish. Then, at the end, they can choose to continue the life they had perhaps changed in the course of those two weeks, or they can go back to what they were.
At the end of their two weeks, 2 of them never looked back. Only one kept her life as she had lived it...but she was determined to make changes. I think Jude Deveraux is a darn good storyteller.
Reading this book always makes me examine my life and what I'm doing. This is the first time I've read it that I realize I am pursuing my dreams with a drive I've never had before. I am painting almost every day - I'm working on getting my 4th book in the Hibiscus Ladies out, and I have a book being accepted by a publisher. It still gives me chills...
And my husband is a big part of that. I tell him all the time, but I'm not sure he believes me. He is my support, my inspiration...most of my male characters are based on him in some way - they usually have one or more of his habits, his characteristics... He accepts that as being married to a writer. (remember, I know you, am friends with you, I will most likely use you as a character in a book. Not that I'd use your name!!! lol)
I have been so extremely blessed in my life. I never thought I'd be where I am today...though I did hope to be a writer...always.
I know that it's a combination of the Savior, His gospel, and my husband. When everything else is crazy, (kids, job, grandkids, house...) I know that I can have at least a hope with them.
Just wanted to share. And say you really need to read The Summerhouse... Just saying. :)
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