Feeling Fine in 2009

As each year dwindles down, I typically make my resolutions for the new year. By January 2, most of those resolutions have been broken.

This year is different.

I have not resolved anything.

I have, however, set some goals.

For my health, my goal is to start working on losing 20 pounds. To that end, I am watching what I eat and trying to lay off the Pepsi. I am also going to finally crack open that exercise DVD that I’ve had for over a year.

For my family, my goal is to spend at least 10 minutes a night reading to and with my son. I also vow to kiss my husband more frequently and randomly (excluding our hello/goodbye pecks). My other goal is not to take my family for granted.

For my writing, my goal is complete my WIP by May 15. I will complete my short story by January 31 and get it to my editor by February 1. And somewhere in there, I will promote the heck out of “Journey to Jordan” and participate in “The Write Stuff” program. I also plan to blog at least once a week and not get hung up on Facebook and Twitter.

For my spirit, my goal is to read Scriptures at least once a day and pray more often – concentrated prayers, not just grace and the one I rattle off before I fall asleep.

That’s about as many goals as I can handle. Now that I’ve actually written them down and put them out there, I have no choice but to honor them.

Anybody willing to hold me accountable?

Do You Have “The Write Stuff”?

I am thrilled to be a part of this upcoming reality program for writers. If you wish to be a part of the show, please see the press release below for more information:

When “The Write Stuff” literary reality show begins to air in select cities across the country in June 2009 on the CW Network, there will be candidates vying for something that has never been offered on television before: a one-book deal provided by Hollygrove Publishing (located in McKinney, TX) complete with a marketing plan designed especially for the winner by a New York Times Bestselling author and a two-year contract with a publicity team. In all, over $15,000 in prizes will be presented to the winner, equipping them with everything they need in order to make their written work a success. Over 14 weeks the contestants will be put to the test in challenges designed to highlight what it takes to make it in the publishing business, and one by one they will be eliminated until only the strongest is left standing, proving they have The Write Stuff. The judges will include some of the most influential names in the industry as well as those who are up-and-coming in the business. Throughout the entire process Chicago will be front and center, even involved in the audition process. Authors Kia Stokes, Bruce Williams, Jeff Rivera, Joseph Henderson, Chamein Canton and Monica Marie Jones will be traveling to the state for the historic event. Joining them will be Chicago’s own authors Tony Lindsay, Steve Mayfield, Jane Jordan, Michelle Larks and Donna Deloney.

Created by Mississippians Cyrus A. Webb (President of Shadow Play Entertainment and Conversations Book Club) and Zane Bell (President of Innovations), the show is designed to encourage and promote literacy as well as give opportunities to those desiring to see their words in print. Airing as a paid program in several markets on the CW Network to over 15 million households beginning in June 2009, “The Write Stuff” will put those who believe they have what it takes to make it in the industry to the test. Explaining why Hollygrove Publishing wanted to participate in such a major way with this groundbreaking literary endeavor, President Brian W. Smith said this: “This writing business is extremely difficult to break into if you aren’t already a celebrity. A program like “The Write Stuff” is long overdue – it gives aspiring authors a chance to be discovered and it promotes literacy, all while entertaining the public…I jumped at a chance to be a part of this.”

Auditions in Chicago, IL will take place at the Comfort Inn Chicago (4005 Gabrielle Lane * Chicago/Aurora, IL 60504) from 10-6p.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2009. There will be a meet and greet at the same location on Friday, January 23, 2009 from 6-8p.m. for those interested in finding out more information about the show, meeting the judges and just networking with others who share a love of words and the craft of writing. Fashion designer Terri Stevens from Bravo’s Project Runway will even be available for both events to talk about the life of an individual on a reality show, what those auditioning should keep in mind about being true to themselves and how it changed her life. Admission is free to the meet and greet as well as the auditions, however, interested individuals should visit http://www.thewritestufftv.com to be best prepared and find out what is expected. Similar auditions will be held in San Francisco(CA), Montgomery (AL), Memphis (TN), Metairie(LA) and Jackson(MS). Once the show begins to tape, 14 will have been chosen to compete for the grand prize.

For more information about The Write Stuff and to read feedback from those involved in this historic project, visit http://www.thewritestufftv.com. Interview requests should be directed to James Magee at 601.937.3245 or via email manof1524@yahoo.com. You may also contact Cyrus A. Webb via email at cawebb4@juno.com.