On the Road Again...and Ready to Write!

I'm psyched about writing again! Yep, I'm encouraged, motivated, inspired and ready to write!

What in the world has gotten into me? Well, first of all, I'm still on the "Girlfriend's Weekend" high! It was my second annual trek to Jefferson, Texas for the long weekend extravaganza that is all about authors, books, readers, and fun. I can't even say it's unorganized, because I think to be UN-organized, you have to first be organized, which that event is not. Yet, miraculously, it all seems to come together, and despite things not being done the way I'd do them, it's awesome! (And the best part is, I didn't have to do it, so who am I to complain?)

To give you an idea what Girlfriend's Weekend is all about, take a look at this:

Yep...that's Fannie Flagg, talking to the group about her writing life, and her new book I Still Dream About You. (Which I did get signed!). Later on that evening, she joined us at the "Big Ball of Hair," where everyone was to dress as their favorite book character. She came as a grown-up version of Pippi Longstocking. It was hysterical! I even got her to do a "happy birthday Dolores, DORIS!" video for my mama! (She got the name wrong the first time, then looked dead in the camera and said "Well Doris, now you know that I've gone completely insane!!!")

We were dressed as Kathy Patrick, the author of

(Which, by the way, you can get for one cent right now on Amazon.com.

With $3.99 shipping, that's only $4 for the book!) Our club took first place for our costumes!

Pat Conroy was back for a second year, along with his daughter, Melissa, who wrote a children's book called "Poppy's Pants." Many wonderful authors were there as well, including one of our bookclub favorties and Mississippi native, Neil White, author of "In the Sanctuary of Outcasts." Now, Neil is quite a handsome fellow, but he had to step out in drag this weekend, and I don't want to be the one to tell him that he makes one ugly woman!

That's Neil on the left, posing with one of our bookclub members, Cherry Prather. Don't let his looks fool you--he's a wonderful author, and if you haven't read his book, you should do so. Here are a few more pics from our fun weekend:

Fried Green Tomatoes, in honor or Fannie Flagg's visit.

A dozen or so Kathy Patricks posing with the REAL Kathy Patrick!

Jamie Ford, author of Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet,  with his wife

Enough said.

After dinner at LaMacha's, in the historic Jefferson Inn.

Pat Conroy signing his new book, My Writing Life, for Brownie Shott.



So, as if I wasn't inspired to write after going to Girlfriend Weekend, I've had several more literary experinces. Our bookclub (the BB Queens) met Monday night at Lemuria, where we discussed the book "Janeology," by Karen Herington. We met Karen in Texas, and she agreed to do a call-in during our discussion. It's always inspiring to hear the authors tell about their books.

Also this week, I went to a meeting of the Mississippi Writer's Guild, of which I am a member. Nancy Kay Wessman went with me, as we have decided to be "writing partners." I haven't been to a MWG meeting in several months, and there were lots of new faces there. It was fun meeting fellow writers, and hearing what kinds of things they are working on. Afterwards, I went to Nancy Kay's, and we shared what our plans and aspirations are for books written and in the works. We are going to pace each other, meeting weekly to hold each other accountable so that we'll do a better job of staying on track. My main focus now is preparing to write a book on Nicole's journey. I'm going to Maine the entire month of May to write. There are lots of ducks to get in a row before then, especially my financial ducks...I've got to make some money and fast!!!

One of the ways I'm raising money for my trip is by selling hand-knitted caps...hand-knitted by ME! I learned how to do it now long ago, and ever since I've been a knitting fool. I'm primarily making baby hats (makes a great baby gift!!!), but can make children and adult hats, too. If you want to give a thoughtful gift that will help a starving writer, let me know! I'm packaging them up really cute and they'll be ready to give. Here's one I made on the way to Jefferson last Thursday:

If you want a hat, email me at larssue@aol.com. I'll email you photos/prices of ones I have on hand,

or I'll knit one up in the color(s) of your choice!

I was motivated enough to write this blog today, and now I'm off to the next big adventure (a new car?! We'll see! Stay tuned!!!).

Blessings to all who read this!

Susan

Goodbye, 2010!

The older I get, the faster time flies. I really believe this to be so. How else can you explain it being January 10 and I am just now getting around to writing my first blog post of the new year?

It seems I had it much more together last year. So, I'm putting my best foot forward and making an attempt to do at least as well this year, if not somewhat better. Don't want to put too much pressure on myself!

Last year, I did a recap of 2009 , complete with photos, lest I forget all that we did/accomplished. Recording those memories seemed really important to me following Nicole's accident, because it was a way to measure how far she's come. But in the past year, she has settled into a new normal. There is no need to point out each milestone, no matter how large or small...because they are more a part of her everyday normal life. I understand that so many people clung on to each accomplishment because it was a reaffirmation that all was going to be OK. But now we know that for sure. No need to convince ourselves.

But it doesn't hurt to look back...to see that the days weren't just whirring by, but that each month was filled with things that enhanced our lives. Days filled with friends, family, laughter and joy. So what if the bank account has been totally depleted? Our lives are rich and full with the many blessings that have been bestowed upon us!

January-February--March 2010
I went to a fun event called Girlfriend's Weekend in Jefferson, TX with ladies from my bookclub. What a hoot! One of my favorite authors, Pat Conroy, was among the many authors who were there.
The best part, however, was spending the weekend with girlfriends who are intellegent, motivated, creative and fun! These are women who don't wait for things to happen--they think them up then they DO IT!

Also in January, I lost the Nature Made GOOD MOOD BLOGGER gig contest. I came in second with over 10,000 votes. All that got me was a year's supply of SAM-e and a yoga mat. But, thanks for your votes!

 

This blogging thing has gotten serious, and I wanted to learn more. So off I went to Nashville to attend the Blissdom 2010 Blogging Conference at the Opryland Hotel. My friend, Nell Floyd, rode up there with me and we stayed with one of my bestest buds, Carol Terry. I learned alot about blogging--mostly that I am way behind on the technology curve and that I had alot to learn about Twitter, Tweetdeck, etc., but it left me wanting to learn more. The highlight of the event was seeing handsome Harry Connick, Jr. live in concert. I was really close to the stage, which was in a small little "nightclub" inside the Opryland Hotel. It was a night to remember!

There were some milestones in January as well...things to celebrate, and things to mourn.

Nicole had her last day at Methodist Rehab's outpatient therapy clinic in Flowood in January. She "graduated" to Quest, which focuses more on independent living skills. Her therapists threw her a big party.

Sadness came with the death of Bob Rall--"Chopper Bob"--a dear friend and that familiar voice we heard each morning on WLBT.

Valentine's Day and love was in the air. Joe has really fallen head over heels for pretty Emily White. They are rarely apart, and love to have their photo taken together. I especially like this one:

I had the opportunity to tell Nicole's story--again--in the February 2010 issue of PORTICO jackson. It's not an easy story to tell, but at the same time, I get so much joy sharing the fact that miracles do happen, and we had the blessing of having one happen in our own lives. I'm happy to share that story with the world, because it certainly gives people hope.

And speaking of HOPE, Nicole is simply shot up with it! So much so that she concieved, planned and executed "An Evening of HOPE" as a way to give back to the community that gave so much to her. The event benefitted a cause close to her heart: "Ask for More Arts," which helps make sure the arts are a part of our children's education. I was so proud of all she put together, from the dinner to the art auction to the dances. Oh the dances! She choreographed some very elaborate dances which were performed by students in the Belhaven Department of Dance.

You can see video of the dance here

The awesome poster was designed by Talamieka Brice. The video was produced by Jef Judin of 4Tell Films. It was also a night to remember!

I had the chance to take another girl's trip in March--this time to Fairhope, Alabama with my super wonderful nextdoor neighbor, Phyllis Geary, and some other fabulous women. We stayed in a spectacular home and went to an incredible arts festival. I was again surrounded by remarkable women who inspired me so much! (Did I use enough adjectives in this paragraph? If not, add stupendous and fantabulous anywhere in there!)

April-May-June 2010

Nicole and I spent Easter with friends Sunny and Crystal on the banks of the Pearl River where we witnessed a old-fashioned Baptism. It was a picture perfect day and such a special and meaningful way to spend the holiday.

A fun event was held at the Methodist Rehab Extended Care facility--a fundraiser for the Wilson Research Foundation. It was called Walk n' Roll, and Nicole's team raised over $1000! But the big thing is that she walked in the event--one mile--without assistance. A pretty big deal for someone who had to learn to walk twice!

She also danced a bit, too!

I just love new beginnings, and we got to witness a very special one when friends Domenick DiPaolo married Tiffany! What a fun wedding! Those folks from Philly really know how to party!

 

June is a perfect time for new things, and our favorite new thing this year is a precious baby named Liam! He's the grandson of my bookclub buddy, Leslie Puckett (who takes her role of "Oma" very seriously!" and the son of one of Nicole's high school friends, Cricket McIllwaine. He came a month early, gave us all a big scare, but in the end turned out to be the cutest, funnest baby ever!

Life was pretty uneventful for a few months, and that was a good thing. I continued to write, although the publishing world is feeling the effects of the economic crisis, too, and freelance work has been slowing down. More and more publications are using staff writers. Thanks to Anita Hand in Birmingham, I became a consultant for Scentsy. It's a great product and I'm having fun selling it. To see what it's all about, just visit my website! And yes, you can place orders online (this is how I am paying Joey-Joe's college tuition!)

July-August-September 2010

July 5, a much-anticiapted segment ran on the CBS Early Show. It was a segment about Nicole that was actually shot back in March (remember the Evening of HOPE? The CBS crew and Betty Nguyen were all here then...but the story didn't air until July!) It was a really good piece, and Nicole has used it at some of her speaking engagements. To see the segment, click here.

That's Paige Kendig (a producer from CBS), Betty Nguyen and Nicole, playing with Nicole's Wii Dance (which was later stolen...grrrrrrr.).

 

In August, Nicole made two really big moves. The first was a literal move--out of our house and into a rental house in Belhaven with roommates. The next was to travel to Seattle, Washington, ALONE, to attend the wedding of friends she made while she was an acting apprentice at Actor's Theatre in Louisville, KY. Jake and Ruthie became mine and Larry's friends, too, when Nicole was in NY Presbyterian Hospital. They came to visit often. Nicole made the trip to Seattle just fine, and it was proof that she is well on her way to total independence.

 

The house wasn't such a good deal, however. The landlord we were so impressed with turned out to be a real jerk, and we're pretty sure that the handyman stole her Wii. That's really unfortunate, as she used it often for therapy. She had the Wii Fit and Wii Dance. Now it's gone, and we can't afford to replace it. Bummer.

 

While Nicole was in Seattle, I went to Monroe, LA with my parents for the Beebe Family Reunion. Always fun to see others on the same family tree!

This summer, Nicole and I were honored to be Honorary Chicks at the Jackson Free Press's annual Chick Ball at Hal & Mal's. I had a great time with fun friends and felt honored to be in the company of the other Honorary Chicks that night.

Nicole's motivational speaking career has picked up, and that's a good thing for sure. She's made over 35 talks since her accident. Most have been to schools, civic clubs and local organizations, but she has made a few to some big groups at conferences, including the Mississippi Arts Commision conference and the Rehabilitation Association of Mississippi conference at Silver Star. She is now represented by the Premier Speakers Bureau in Nashville. Time to make a living!

The biggest thing to take place this quarter was mine and Larry's 30th anniversary. We always have intentions of celebrating big, but the follow-through doesn't always happen (we spent our 25th anniversary eating at Backyard Burger...). But Nicole made sure the occasion was celebrated in a big way with a surprise party at Hal & Mal's with many of our close friends. And yes, we really were surprised. And yes, it was loads of fun!!!

October-November-December

School started again and Joe continued to work hard at Holmes, majoring in occupational therapy. He also got a job at Majestic Burger that he really seems to enjoy. Go by during lunch and he'll be at the counter, ringing up your order! He and I are both distributors for cPRIME, an incredible band that is worn around the wrist that helps with balance, strength, flexiblity and endurance. We both love them (Nicole, Larry and my parents all wear them too, and they are all believers!).

It's another income stream for me, which is sorely needed, as all the medical bills have really caught up with us in a big way (as in, we are tapped out). Want to learn more about cPRIME? Check out my website (and yes, you can order online!) Another shameless plug!

Fall brought a performance at the historic Alamo Theatre for the CD release party of Eclektik Soul...

What's that? Special performance by Nicole Marquez???

A move to a new house for Nicole....

Nicole also went to Sedona, Arizona for two weeks to take a 100-hour certification course called "Yoga Meets Dance," and she taught a series of free classes at Joyflow Yoga in Ridgeland to introduce it to people here...

She's now teaching at Joyflow every Tuesday at 10:30am and 4pm, and Fridays at 4pm. It's a great workout that's lots of fun. PLEASE go, and take a friend...this will help pay Nicole's rent!!!

I attended the Oxford Creative Nonfiction Workshop in Oxford in November, in preparation of writing a book about Nicole's accident/recovery. I was overwhelmed, but learned so much. I'm ready.

Nicole's also finding her way into things that are close to her heart. She's on the board of the MS Brain Injury Association and she's on the MS Spinal Cord/Brain Injury Trust Fund Advisory Committee. I'm still very involved with the USM Alumni Association of Central MS (I'm president-elect!), the Whisper Lake Garden Club, and I'm excited to be on the board of the Millsaps Arts & Lecture series.

Nicole and I spent the first week of December in New York with sweet Megan Poole. Nic was asked to do a testimonial commercial for New York Presbyterian Hospital, so they flew us up there and we stayed several days at the fabulous NY Hilton, just around the corner from Times Square. It was a star-studded trip to say the least, and we will remember it always! Look for Nicole's commercial in a couple of months...(of course, I'll post links!!!)

Two divas...Nicole and Patti LaBelle!

Nicole, Tina Fey and Megan, on the set of "30 Rock."

Megan,  Nicole and actor Steve Harvey in the studio of Good Morning America.

We also got to visit the wonderful folks in the Neuro-ICU at NY Presbyterian while we were there...It was especially fun seeing Mary Grace Savage (second from right) who was featured with Nicole in the PBS "NOW" segment called Nurse's Needed. (Check it out here).

Larry still works too hard and too long at the Country Club of Jackson, where they really are wonderful to him. He is grateful to be there after nearly 24 years.

My parents are doing great (thanks to their cPRIME bands!). We spent Christmas together with my sister's family in Nashville and were treated to a white Christmas!

New Year's Eve found us scattered--Larry at work, Joe and Emily in New Orleans, Nicole in Austin and Roxie and I hunkered down during tornado warnings at home.

And now it's 2011. And this week I'm heading out to Jefferson, Texas again with my girlfriends. This is also the year I write THE BOOK. I'm planning on spending the month of May in Maine to write. Joe is working on opening a retail store, probably in Madison, that will sell nutritional supplements. A bold move for such a young man. I have every faith in his abilities to make it happen. Nicole is wrapping up her therapy at Quest, and will soon be on her own altogether. I'm hoping she can earn enough money with her Yoga Meets Dance classes and motivational speaking to pay her rent/utilities and to pay for her daily workouts with Eclecius.

I have high hopes for you, 2011! We've been pushed down enough, and so far, we keep popping back up...that's something the Marquez's are really good at! I think we're all going to do just fine!

Blessings to all who read this!

Susan

Bah, Humbug?

Here we are, all up in the 12 days of Christmas, and my house is not decorated (save for the wreath on the front door, which, up until Monday, was flanked by pumpkins and dead mums). Time has not been on my side this holiday season. That, and I'm just kinda tired.

It started with Thanksgiving--a time when I usually decorate as much as Christmas and really put on the dog. I love setting a festive table and having friends and family gathered 'round. Larry asked me about our Thanksgiving plans about a week before the big day. Jokingly, I laughed and said I was waiting for someone to invite us over. As the words came out of my mouth, I realized that was a really good idea, and I was going to hold out for an invite. Each day, Larry asked me again--did we want turkey? Pork loin? And yet, not a grocery shopping list in sight. I just wanted to get dressed and go somewhere else. And wouldn't you know, my dad came through! He called saying he had a ham in the freezer, and could make a green bean casserole and dressing. Instead of hauling all that food to my house, I suggested, how about we just go to their house? It was a plan! And we had a wonderful, relaxing, low pressure evening enjoying a great dinner and conversation. Perfect.

Now on to Christmas. Could it happen again?

Yep! My sister in Nashville decided that it would be fun to have everyone come up to their house. So that's what we're doing!

But once that decision was made, my desire to decorate diminished. Each day I think it might be THE day, but then writing deadlines and other work commitments get in the way. And it's been cooooold, which makes digging in the garage for Christmas decorations less than appealing.

And there are even more excuses...a five-day trip to New York last week...a couple of days of feeling under the weather...lack of discretionary income...it's enough to make me feel a little Scrooge-like.

Yet, I've once again had the pleasure of enjoying other's holiday decorating efforts. Monday, I went to my neighborhood's garden club Christmas meeting at Betty Foster's house, which was decorated absolutely beautifully. We sipped on eggnog and wassail as we played dirty Santa with garden-themed gifts. That night, it was my book club's Christmas soiree at the home of Diane Lisenbe, who decked her halls with festive decorations. I just soaked it all in...then went home to my wreath.

Neighbors have commented that they've noticed my lack of decorations--I usually go a little over the top with lights, bows, garland and such. It was something I started years ago because I wanted to make our home feel like a special place for Larry--who was separated from his family in Venezuela and who works so hard during the holidays helping others celebrate the season. And I wanted to make our home feel special for our children, imprinting strong holiday memories in their brains.

When Nicole was in Methodist Rehab, she had an overnight pass for Christmas, so it was important to have our home decorated for her return, and for our annual Christmas Eve open house. So many people wanted to come see her, and rejoice in her miraculous recovery. But now she's in her own place, and as a part of moving her in and feathering her new nest, I put up her purple (of course!) Christmas tree, decorating it with all her special ornaments, as well as decorating her mantle, stringing colored lights on her front porch and hanging a wreath on her front door.

Joe spends most of his time at the home of his girlfriend, Emily. He's helped her parents decorated their home for Christmas, so he gets to enjoy that.

We still have a week left before heading to Music City for the holidays. Do I drag all the decorations out for Larry and I? We are forgoing the open house this year. We have busy schedules up until we leave. And if I decorate now, I'll just have to put it all up when we get back. (Sounds like I'm talking myself out of it, huh?)

So this year things will be a bit different. I believe I'm going to shift my focus to the real reason for the season, which often gets sidelined. Instead of spending hours decorating, I think I'll be still and read the Christmas story. One of history's most profound events was not surrounded with garland, lights and tinsel. Instead, it was in a humble stable, illuminated only by a star shining bright in the night sky.

Will I feel sad not having a decorated home for the holidays? I really don't think so. There are enough festive decorations all around to fill my need for the holidays. I will take that stress off myself, and focus more on family, friends and faith, and in doing so, my heart will be full.

Ten days left before Christmas...and I'm not feeling any pressure at all! Merry Christmas!

Blessings to all who read this!
Susan

Travelogue: New York

The more I go there, the more I understand why Nicole was happiest when she lived in New York. We had a chance to return this past week--for the third time since her accident two and a half years ago. And for the third time, we stayed at the wonderful New York Hilton, located in midtown, on Avenue of the Americas. To give you some perspective, it is one block from Radio City Music Hall, a couple of blocks from Rockefeller Plaza, a couple of blocks from Fifth Avenue, and a couple of blocks from Times Square. Perfectly situated in the middle of the universe for about a bazillion people who all came to New York this past week to do business, shop, see shows and to just be in the middle of the most spectacular Christmas displays I've ever seen. The city was alive, and so were we!

The purpose of this trip was for Nicole to do a testimonial commercial for New York Presbyterian Hospital--the place where her life was saved more than once, and where she was literally put back together again. Former Mayor Ed Koch did a commercial for them that was very well received, so they decided to get a few more former high-profile or big-story patients to come in and do the same. Nicole made the list!

Megan Poole, who was one of Nicole's personal care assistants, went with us. She is currently in the same theatre program Nicole went through at the University of Southern Mississippi. She was able to work around exams to make the trip, and we met up at the Jackson airport last Saturday morning for a big adventure. The star-studded trip kicked off with our connecting flight from Charlotte to LaGuardia...when disco diva Patti LaBelle boarded our flight! Of course, Nicole connected with her right away and by the time we parted ways, Miz LaBelle was telling me that Nicole was a "trip" and that she was full of  "spunk." Well ring my bell and tell me something I don't know!

After getting settled into the Hilton and eating dinner at a brew pub around the corner, Nicole and Megan took off in a cab to go to a birthday party for one of Nicole's friends in New York.

Sunday we slept in a bit...then got a special visit from Annalisa Meyer, a young woman who was a patient at NYP the same time Nicole was. The last time I saw her, she was in a coma, sick with a rare form of encephelitis. Today she is a bright, beautiful college student at Columbia in NY. What a joy it was to see her doing so well.

After a lazy morning, we ate our fill for lunch in Whole Foods at Columbus Circle.

Then we loaded up for a trip to Chinatown, where we spent all afternoon walking and visting the many stalls filled with scarves, wraps, hats, sunglasses, and all manner of enticing items. We bargained and haggled our way through blocks and blocks of shops before calling it a day. (Nicole was on her feet, walking the streets of Chinatown, for a good three hours...a miracle, considering she is not even two and a half years out from her accident!)

Monday morning a car picked us up at the hotel at 6:30, and off we went to Silvercup Studios, where Nic's commercial was shot. She got true star treatment, doted on by a wardrobe stylist, hair and makeup, and just general pampering and coddling. We all enjoyed the wonderful craft services area with made-to-order omelets and waffles!

It didn't take long for Megan and Nicole to figure out that one of their favorite shows, 30 Rock, is also filmed at Silvercup.

After seeing Tina Fey at the 30 Rock craft services table while they were making a restroom run, Nic and Meg giggled and laughed like school girls. As it turns out, Nic's makeup artist, Dierdre, knew the set designer for the show and she arranged for the girls to go on the set and meet Tina. THAT was fun...and Tina Fey could not have been nicer!

Monday night we met up with several of Nicole's friends who are living in NY...her former roomie and apprentice at Actor's Theater, Raffie, and USM friends Zdenko, Emily and Jake. We all went to eat some good NY pizza at an old school place called Angelo's. Afterwards, I headed to bed, while everyone visited in Nic and Meg's room.

Tuesday we had another early morning...we were in a car on our way to the ABC studios at Times Square at 6:30am. We had VIP passes to Good Morning America, thanks to my friend Stuart Kellogg at WAPT in Jackson. We were guests of one of the producers, and we were whisked up the Green Room to wait for the show to begin. Lucky for us, they had breakfast there, and we helped ourselves to bagels and coffee. When we were finished, we were escorted to the studio where we watched Robin Roberts and crew do the news and weather. I got to meet Bob Woodruff (the journalist who suffered a brain injury in a blast in Iraq), and we also met Steve Harvey, who was amazed by Nicole's story.

The big excitement of the morning, however, was watching the STING concert in the studio downstairs...we rode the elevator down with Robin Roberts (who I worked with 25 years ago at WDAM in Hattiesburg!) and the sweet stage manager positioned Nicole and Megan right in front of the stage! Here's the interview Robin did prior to Sting's performance (sorry, you have to watch the commercial first...):http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/FallConcert/video/sting-releases-album-featuring-royal-orchestra-12331917

After the show, a car picked us up and off we went to New York Presbyterian for a visit with nurses and doctors. It was a great visit...we got to see our beloved Mary Grace Savage, who Nicole really bonded with while she was a patient there. We also spoke with Dr. Stephan Mayer, who wants Nicole to come speak at a medical conference next year in Toronto, and Dr. Lee, who stopped his very important rounds to give Nicole a big hug. It was great seeing them all again, and so good for them to see how far Nicole has come since her days on a ventilator.

We left the hospital and headed for Fifth Avenue, where we soaked in the incredibly creative and detailed store windows for blocks and blocks. We went in stores like Juicy Couture and H&M, where the girls went nuts. So much fun, and it was great being in all that hustle and bustle with people Christmas shopping.

What recession???

And after all that walking up and down Fifth Avenue...we WALKED back to the hotel! Hallelujah!!!

That night we had a chilling ride from the hotel to the theatre where we had tickets to see The Addams Family. We met another of Nicole's friends from USM, Kermit, in the hotel bar for a quick cocktail before heading to the show. When we went outside around 6:30 to get a cab, the line was forever long, and the traffic was in gridlock. Not a good situation for us, considering the show started at 7pm. A guy on a little rickshaw bike said he could get us to the theatre faster than any cab, so we hopped in and hung on for dear life as he swerved in and out of traffic. But he was true to his word...he got us there in one piece and earned a big tip for doing so!

Seeing Nathan Lane as Gomez and Bebe Neuwirth as Morticia was a huge treat, and the show was even better than I thought it would be. We had first row mezzanine seats (thanks, NYP!) and it was like they were singing directly to us! We loved it.

Wednesday, we had to pack up and head home. It was a wonderful, magical, exciting, memorable trip. Megan is a wonderful travel companion and she was such a huge help to Nicole and I. It was a great experience for her as well, so good times all around!

As soon as the commercial is complete, I'll share the link so you can all see it. Until then, be sure to watch the story the CBS Early Show did on her last spring (if you haven't already). Feel free to share the link with your friends...it's an amazing story! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThCK-93wAME

Blessings to all who read this!

Susan

Starting Over in a New Place

There's something about a new place that is so exciting. It's a new beginning of sorts...a new way of living life in a different place.

Nicole moved out of our house (again!) and into a rental house in Belhaven in August. She rented a room, and she and the other roommates had use of the common areas of the home. The only thing is that the common areas were decorated with the homeowner's things, including movie posters, a pool table, and other "man cave" accoutrements. The only place Nicole could truly make her own was her bedroom, and she definitely put her stamp on it.

For alot of reasons, that place just didn't work out. But Nic and two of her roomies found a better house, perfect for their needs. It's a little further south, in Belhaven Heights--a wonderful little Craftsman bungalow that has been completely renovated. It is absolutely filled with character and I believe it will be an ideal place for them to pursue their life goals.

Of course, Nicole's decision to move meant that the Marquez Moving Company would be resurrected once again. Countless loads of boxes, furniture, clothes, etc. were carted not only from one rental house to another, but finally, out of our garage in Madison!

As a matter of fact, the entire home, except for the other girls' bedrooms, was furnished from Nicole's collection of authentic mid-century modern pieces that at one time furnished her apartment in Hattiesburg. For the past three years, most of it has been in our garage, where our cars should be. But now, it's out of the garage, in her house, and it looks great!

The roomies moved in--basically putting their stuff in their bedrooms--then left town for the holidays. One to Chicago. The other to Atlanta. So that left Nicole, who just can't do all the moving, organizing, arranging and fluffing like she used to. I have spent many hours over the past week organizing their kitchen, decorating the living room, hanging pictures, and even decorating the mantle and her purple tree for Christmas. The finishing touch: Christmas lights on the front porch railing--a signal to the neighborhood that there's something fun and festive happening in that house!

Yet, I come home and have not one ounce of energy. I can go and go, do and do at her house, getting things just right...but at my own house, I can't seem to find the energy or motivation to get anything done. Maybe it's because my family is scattering, so the focus of our home is changing. I really just need to concentrate on feathering my own nest to make Larry happy and comfortable.

I really do think there is something life changing about moving into a new place. It's an opportunity to live your life in a slightly different way. Alot of time is spent imagining what life will be like in the new home. The dinner parties you'll have in the dining room. Making breakfast in the kitchen. Relaxing on the front porch. Movie night with the girls in the living room.

Nic and I talked about having the new house blessed by a priest. I think it's a good idea. My friend, Ann, had a house blessing party when they got settled into the home they built around the corner from us. It can't hurt...knowing that they willingly asked God to bless their home and all who lived in it and visited it is comforting.

I hope that this home is a place where Nicole and her two roommates can find happiness and that their friendships will grow even stronger.

Now it's time for me to rediscover my own home...and to enjoy my newly cleared-out garage!

Blessings to all who read this!
Susan

It's All About the Story

After a weekend in Oxford, I am now looking at the art and craft of writing with entirely new eyes. Last weekend, I attended the Oxford Creative Non-Fiction Workshop in the Meek School of Journalism and New Media, located in the Overby Building, on the campus of Ole Miss.

First let me interject that as the daughter of an Alabama alum, I was not raised to be an Ole Miss fan. As a matter of fact, when I was a junior in high school my daddy told me that if I went to Ole Miss, I'd go to hell. I took that to heart, and went, instead, to Mississippi State. I stayed there three years before transferring to the University of Southern Mississippi (which, I might add, kicked Ole Miss's butt in football the last time we played them--in the early 1980's!).

I have not spent much time at all in my life on the campus of Ole Miss. I regret that now, as it is absolutely one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The Overby Building is just across the street from THE GROVE, one of the most iconic spots on campus, due to the elaborate game day celebrations that take place there. The trees on campus were putting on a real show, still full of leaves in all shades of orange, red and gold. And I loved the town of Oxford. The town square was vibrant and full of life with wonderful restaurants, shops and the famous  Square Books.

I rode to Oxford on Thursday with Diane Williams, a famous Mississippi story teller. Needless to say, she kept me entertained with her stories on the two and a half hour drive.

The conference was organized and presented by Neil White, Susan Cushman (author of one of my favorite blogs, Pen and Palette) and Kathy Rhodes (a facebook friend whom I got to meet in person!). My first session Thursday afternoon was with author Neil White, who wrote one of my favorite memoirs, "In The Sanctuary of Outcasts." Afterwards, the conference attendees boarded Oxford's double-decker bus (an ode to Oxford, England!) and headed to the Square Books for the Thacker Mountain Radio Show. (Think "Prairie Home Companion," but with a real Southern flair!) There was music and readings by two of the conference instructors: Lee Gutkin (the godfather of creative non-fiction) and Ian Frazier.

Afterwards, I had the pleasure to go with Diane and her friend, Rebecca, to St. Peter's Episcopal Church for the annual Veterans's Day covered dish supper. It was like a slice of Mayberry. Veterans from WWII and the Korean War gathered in a fellowship hall festooned with red, white and blue bunting and balloons. Everyone sang patriotic songs, most without the aid of the lyrics provided. It made me wonder if we are teaching our children these songs the same way we were once taught them. Afterwards, we enjoyed the most incredible array of foods I've ever seen laid out on a buffet table. Those people know how to throw down in the kitchen! After dinner, there were a few more songs, and introductions of the individual veterans. Judge Lamb then administered the Oath of Service to the group of veterans. It was very touching. I felt honored to be there.

The rest of the weekend was filled with sessions on writing cinematically and, because we were talking about non-fiction, speaking the truth--telling the story as it happened, and learning how to fill in with information pertinent to the story. We truly studied the craft of non-fiction. I loved every moment of it! During the day, I met many of the workshop attendees--many from New York, California, Kentucy and other states. I was amazed that they came to Mississippi for a writing workshop, and asked several of them why. Most cited Faulkner, Welty, Grisham and the gang...I do live in a state that produces great writers! It made me feel fortunate that just a little over two hours up the road from my own home, I was sitting in a literary hotbed!

I got to know a few more of the folks who came to conference a bit better Friday evening at the reception held at Memory House, the home of William Faulkner's brother, John. Built in 1837, it's where John wrote Men Working, Dollar Cotton and My Brother Bill, a tribute to William Faulkner. I met several agents, editors, publicists and folks who are looking for the next big work of creative non-fiction. That was interesting, for sure!

So, now I feel much better equipped to write the book that must be written, but I also feel re-energized and ready to take my article-writing up a notch or two. I don't know if anyone will notice but me, but I know that to capture and keep people's attention, and to make sure they learn and retain what they read, there must be a story. It's all about the story, and everyone's got one to tell.

Blessings to all who read this!
Susan

Let Your Light Shine!

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

This is a quote by Marianne Williamson, an internationally acclaimed spiritual teacher. I heard the quote while watching the movie "Akeelah and the Bee," about a young inner-city girl who goes to the National Spelling Bee in Washington, DC.

Akeelah's friend, Jordan, always told her that she could do anything she believed she could do. Yet, Jordan wanted to be a flight attendant. "You can't be a flight attendant if you've never flown on a plane," said Akeela to Jordan, just before she invited her to go to D.C. with her.

What is holding you back from doing what you want to do in your life?

I've had the great honor to be around some people lately who are not letting their "fear of success" get in their way. A very driven young man, Matt Steffe, was a guest in our home Tuesday night. Matt played college basketball and went on to coach Divsion 1 basketball in Oregon. The California native is a devoted husband and father to three beautiful young children. Yet, six weeks ago he quit the "sure thing" in his life--his full time job, to persue more than he could ever accomplish in a standard 9-to-5 career. Matt is the highest-producing distributor for C-PRIME, a company that my son, Joe, and I are now involved with. Matt is "on" almost 24/7, talking to those who are also high achievers, and encouraging those who want to be.

We got into this company at the worst possible time...or, the BEST possible time. We just weren't in a position to invest alot of money in a new business. Thankfully, this business doesn't require that. But I do have what it takes: time and the desire to help others become successful. And in so doing, I've had the joy of watching Joe develop and grow and be successful in this business right along with me.


Next week, I'm going to challenge myself again. I'll be heading up to Oxford for the Creative Non-Fiction Writer's Conference. I'll be meeting other writers, as well as agents who will hear our ideas and, well, who knows what will happen? I know I want to write Nicole's story, and this will be the first step in making that happen.

I'm so happy that I'm surrounded by people who are creative and who push themselves to do more.

My own dad learned woodworking--wood turning and wood carving--after he retired. And there's Jonni Webb, who went from a career in advertising/sales to following her passion to be a full-time potter. And Leslie Puckett, who creates wonderful herbal lotions, soaps and other potions. There's Brenda Judin, who uses her creative talents to write and produce videos. And Ann Frye, who continually pushes the envelope on creativitiy of all sorts. And Jacqui Katool, who is stepping out of her comfort zone to hold a trunk show of her jewelry on November 11 at Chandelier in Ridgeland. And so many others...including my own Nicole, who took a leap to travel to Sedona to take a 100-hour course, "Yoga Meets Dance," and is now working on putting together classes where she can teach others.

"We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone." Yep, you can teach an old dog new tricks. I'm learning new ones every day. Growing...learning...and feeling God's glory manifested within me!

Blessings to all who read this!
Susan