First Day Of Spring!

Today is the official first day of Spring. And, as new life springs from the ground and the weather shakes off the last bits of winter chill, I can't help but think about my blessings. Although my life hasn't always been easy, it is very rich and filled with much joy as well.

It's impossible to relate all my blessings, but I wish to tell you about my top ones, the ones that shine the most bright. First off is my Mom. That woman is my hero and I don't say that lightly. Without her support, and yes her warrior attitude when it comes to helping me, I honestly doubt I'd be here today. That woman is the single MOST important person in my life and I love her beyond measure.

Right on her heels would have to be my two cats who through their love, and yes their insanity, keep me sane.:-) Whether it's my older cat dive bombing the toilet or the younger one opening cabinets so she can spelunk, they fill my world with laughter.

This week, my very first book ever was released and that is huge. I'm still buzzing from it.:-) But what has come from being a part of Red Rose is far greater than even that. I have met some of the best people on the planet. I know I'll never remember everyone and I hope they can forgive me, but just a few of the amazing people I've met through Red Rose are Wendi, the actual owner and stalwart champion of all her authors, Shirley, the head of the art department whom I actually owe for my second contract with Red Rose, and Emmy who did my amazing cover.

Also, Carrie RO, my fantastic editor who has become a very dear friend. She's always supportive and just downright funny. Zena, my line editor for both books thus far has been great. And I am now working with the amazing Missy Lyons on the cover for book 2. The webmistress for the RRP site has been extremely helpful to me and I am grateful for it. And Dee, the head of content edits has gone out of her way to help all of us through some major changes that have been taking place. And that's just the staff. The authors I have met and become friends with are just as spectacular.

Just to name a few of the wonderful authors I have been lucky enough to call friends is a thrill. There are so many that this list could be miles, but I'll keep it as brief as possible.:-) Franny Armstrong and her sister Kali Willows, both of whom were very concerned and supportive of me when I was in the hospital. Kaye Manro who actually promo'd me on her blog on my release day and she's actually the first author I got to know. She's an angel. Kristy Bock who made me a book trailer out of the goodness of her heart at no cost.

Roseanne Dowell who is the sweetest person I have ever met. Lisa Lipkind Leibow who is the second author I met and she's been a huge support. Adelle Laudan who was the very first RRP author to actually visit my blog. Aline De Chevigny who helped me tons after I had a computer crash. LaVerne Thompson who wrote me the day I was on BTR to wish me good luck. Angela Kay Austin, who like me was a newbie with RRP and she agreed to be my very first interviewee. I was so excited that day.:-)

And that is just to name a few. Plus, there is my wonderful family out in Montana who have been so wonderful and supportive, my Uncle Eric and Aunt Audrey, my dear cousin Kyla who like me was battling a kidney stone last week, her daughter Brooklyn, my cousin Alicia and her baby boy Gabe, my cousin Sam, his wife Mariesa and daughter Abby, and my cousins Parker and Claire. I am truly grateful for all of you.

So, although last week was really rough and rather painful, I am truly blessed. Each and every one of you have helped make my life truly special and I thank heaven that each of you have been and continue to be a part of my life. And I would be truly remiss if I also didn't add as part of my blessings in life N.J. Walters. Your friendship and encouragement has meant the world to me. So to all of you, thank you and enjoy the first day of Spring.