Launch of a Novice Fiction Writer’s Path – Part II

How Does It Feel to be a Newbie?

In this series of posts, I thought it would be interesting for me to trace my feelings about commencing a fiction career. As I noted in Part I, I have written several thriller manuscripts over the years, self-published Riddle of Berlin in 2008, and then decided that I would take advice of successful thriller writers and undertake to develop the skills and habits of a successful fiction writer.

I should also note that I am age 67 and have had successful careers as an international tax lawyer, author of taxation books, and director of a family company that has become a major multinational. Success in other areas, of course, means nothing on a new path.

When people on planes, beaches, or otherwise ask what I am doing when I am writing or editing, I inevitably answer that I am learning to become a fiction writer. After asking what genre and how many stories have you published, the next question is usually “how does it feel to be a nobody.” Actually, the comments are far more polite, but this is the underlying questions. I often think that these questions come from the commenter’s own self-question of “could I do that.”

I answer these questions based on my feelings of the moment. As I now head down this path with patience and persistence, I have thought about what it does feel like to be a newbie, rookie, novice, neophyte, or whatever other terms one chooses to describe someone at the precipice of beginning. 

The answer is that it feels good. I am proud of myself for learning that I have a hobby that is relaxing and joyful (I did it for about 15 years before deciding to get serious). I am not one whose hobbies are television, watching sports, hunting, fishing, or other pastimes. My hobby became fiction writing.

I am also proud that I have taken the time and coaching to prepare myself for striving to achieve my dream of becoming a skilled fiction writer. One benefit of age (life experience) and success in other areas, I think, is that I can approach this process with perspective. I will have fun regardless of whether my stories become bestsellers. If there is such success, via reviews or royalties, that will be great, of course. 

At ThrillerFest each year, new published authors are introduced. This year, there were 60 of them. My immediate dream is to be so introduced one year in the future. It may be that I will be the oldest newbie on the dais, but there will be no one happier and prouder to say a few words.

Another question that I am often asked is whether, as a newbie, I am prepared to “have fun.” This is a polite way of asking whether I am prepared to be a critical and commercial non-event. It is another good question, to be addressed in the next blog of this series.

Warms, Cym

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Baptism in the Ocean

Here I am being baptized in the ocean. I was baptized as a baby, but, of course, I do not remember. It has been important to me to reiterate my vows as an adult.

We have found a physical home in Rosemary Beach, Florida, as well as a spiritual home in the Chapel at the Beach in Rosemary.

I have lived a full life. Raised three successful children, military service in Vietnam, a career and found happiness in my soul. 

Faith is an important part of my life. I want to re-dedicate myself to finding ways to give to others what has been given to me from our Lord and Savior: forgiveness, redemption and resurrection. We can each be reborn as often as we are willing to re-dedicate our lives.

I am blessed and thankful. As I embark on a new phase of my life, I am joyful that Pastor Michael Young baptized me in the ocean on Memorial Day.

Warms, Cym

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My Father’s Ashes Are Home #happyfathersday

I was born and spent much of my early life in Montana. My father died at 93. He and I were close throughout my life. His dying wish was to have his ashes spread in his favorite fishing stream near Whitehall, Montana. 

My two brothers and I brought his ashes her to be spread on Father’s Day. He died 18 years ago. I have not been ready to spread them until now. My Dad’s parting words to me in every conversation were “I love you and am proud of you son.”

With love and pride, we will wade out into this stream at this location to spread his ashes. It may be the hardest thing I have ever done, though I know his love and pride are engrained in my soul. I pray that I may be able to the same for my children and loved ones.

My father gave me the gift of himself, which I will cherish to convey to others as I release him in the waters of his life.


Happy Father's Day.

Warms, Cym

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My Day Job: IFA Tax Treaty Evolution Presentation

What's your day job?

-CYM

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Fuck Cancer

This is what my scalp cancer (Melanoma) looked like about 2 weeks before I saw my dermatologist and a month before my surgery (January 2013).

When I received the diagnosis of melanoma, at age 66, I was at my home in Rosemary Beach, FL. You see, At the age of 70, my Mother finally succumbed to breast cancer. My Dad was diagnosed with skin cancer at age 65 and died of kidney failure at age 94.  

On my own, I cried. In my prayers, I asked God to "Please let me live. I have found such happiness and fulfillment with my sweetheart. If I am to die, thank you for what I have enjoyed and please be with her to find her own happiness as I wait for her to join me again."

God heard my prayers. We got the lab results back & we are in the clear. I am so blessed. If any of you out there reading these words get such a diagnosis, or if I do again, say your prayers of thanks and await heavenly reunion. If you/I pass muster this time, adjust your life for what you learned - life in this world is ephemeral; in the next it is eternal. Be thankful and patient with your comfort that God and your earthly fellows love you! 

Earthly anxiety be put in perspective.

I still work even while waiting for surgery! Edit, Edit, Edit!

-Cym

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Cym's Recipe for Republicans #FiscalCliff

I rarely make political comments (as I view myself as a Commie Left Democrat), but I did send my thoughts to Chairman Boehner (and a few others).

Dear Mr. Chairman: 

Thank you for your leadership. Good luck in your "cliff" discussions with the President. Have you considered the following response: 

(i) the President has made it abundantly clear that his positions are non-negotiable on both spending and taxes; 

(ii) we believe these positions will lead to the economic malaise of Japan and the EU; 

(iii) the American people and their economy desperately need the "cliff" matter to be resolved to clear the way forward; 

(iv) there should be plain accountability for what is done to address our economic problems; 

(v) the President was re-elected; and, therefore, 

(vi) we will stand aside and allow the President's proposals to be enacted. If they are successful, we will all be delighted. If they have the malaise consequences that we fear, then we will stand ready in 2 and 4 years to address the situation as it may then be framed.

The poker-playing here is quite interesting, except for the danger that the antagonistic positions create for us all.

Love, Cym 

PS. What are your solutions? How is this affecting your family or you personally? Leave me a comment!

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What I am doing in Singapore... Transfer Pricing

Several of you have asked....

(that would be me on the far left)

Warms-

CYM

Resources:

Transfer Pricing Weekly

International Tax Review

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Business Travel to Singapore

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I am in Singapore on business, hence the blog absence.  When you get a chance, drop me a line & tell me what you are currently reading.

This is a picture of Singapore at Sunrise- a great place to walk, think & experience growth.

Warms, CYM

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~ What's Been Going on with Me ~

McDermott Adds Internationally Recognized Transfer Pricing Team in Expansion of Global Tax Platform

Seven-Person Team Lead by Renowned International Tax Lawyers

CHICAGO AND HOUSTON (June 19, 2012) – International law firm McDermott Will & Emery LLP today announced the appointments of renowned international tax lawyers Cym H. Lowell and Mark R. Martin as part of a seven-person, full-service transfer pricing team in Texas.  The team, whose practice focuses on designing and defending the allocation of income and expense in cross-border transactions, is joining the Firm from Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP.  In his new role, Mr. Martin will serve as the head of McDermott’s transfer pricing practice.

Mr. Martin, partner John T. Woodruff and associate Mark Horowitz will be based in McDermott’s Houston office.  Mr. Lowell and three professional advisors (Hiroaki Furuya, Managing Director, Tracy Gomes, Economist, and Haiyan Zhang, Financial Analyst) will practice out of a satellite office in Dallas.

Mr. Lowell, who is ranked by Chambers USA in Band 1 for Tax (Litigation), works across a wide range of planning and controversy matters for U.S. and foreign-based multinational companies as well as wealthy individuals.  He has handled transfer pricing cases with proposed adjustments in the billions, structured advance pricing agreements on a global basis and advised clients on the full range of international tax planning matters.  Mr. Lowell is Vice-Chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce Taxation Commission, as well as a member of the Business and Industry Advisory Committee to the OECD and U.S. Council of Business.  He has been a consultant to U.S. tax writing committees, an expert witness for the United States in treaty litigation, as well as a former Council Director, ABA Section of Taxation (responsible for international committees).

Mr. Martin was named an “Up and Coming” lawyer in Chambers USA 2011.  A leader in resolving transfer pricing matters through unilateral and bilateral processes, his global practice includes multinational energy, construction, and chemical clients.  Mr. Martin has particular specialization in resolving critical transfer pricing issues through emerging dispute resolution processes in the U.S. and other countries.  He is the incoming Chair of the Transfer Pricing Committee of the American Bar Association and formerly served as Chairman of the International Tax Committee (Tax Section) of the State Bar of Texas.  Mr. Lowell and Mr. Martin have co-authored several important treatises on U.S. international transfer pricing, U.S. international practice and procedure, and U.S. international taxation. 

“I am truly excited about this unique opportunity to welcome Cym, Mark and their excellent team to McDermott,” said Lowell D. Yoder, partner and head of McDermott’s U.S. and International Tax Practice Group.  “McDermott has long had the most prominent tax law brand in the country.  The Firm is widely recognized for excellence in international planning, M&A, partnerships, financial products, closely held companies, and tax controversy.  Our new transfer pricing team enhances the McDermott brand of excellence, rounds out our full-service client capabilities on a global basis and adds particular strength in the area of tax litigation.”

“These important additions will help us dramatically expand the Houston office and our offerings to clients,” said Steven G. Spears, partner-in-charge of McDermott’s Houston office.  “Transfer pricing knowledge has become increasingly important in Texas as oil companies and suppliers with significant international operations seek to adapt with more tax efficient structures.  This group provides us with a highly-branded tax practice and a strong platform to build our tax capabilities in this very important market.” In May, McDermott added prominent antitrust lawyers Allan Van Fleet and Nick Grimmer to its Houston office.

Transfer pricing is a critical element of the tax planning of multinational companies.  It is also a material issue for all countries in defending their tax base, and therefore creates a significant amount of interest and controversy, even attracting front-page New York Times coverage.  The relationship of multinational companies and tax administrations with respect to transfer pricing (especially in developing nations such as the BRIC countries) is perhaps the most important current international tax issue.

This new McDermott team is at the forefront of this evolution in transfer pricing.  As one of the largest law firm-based transfer pricing practices in the United States, it has in-depth experience in negotiating advance pricing agreements and handling competent authority cases between the U.S. and its treaty partners.  A significant part of their practice is international, and they work with foreign advisors and governments in countries such as Canada, U.K. and the Netherlands to negotiate advance pricing agreements and resolve competent authority cases.  In addition, the team has extensive experience handling inbound and outbound transfer pricing and controversy matters in Japan.

“The combination of our in-depth experience in transfer pricing and McDermott’s brand and global reach will enhance service to our clients, current and future,” Mr. Martin observed.  “Indeed, our expanded team has its fingers on the pulse of the transfer pricing world as it is evolving.  I look forward to working with such a great international team of professionals,” Mr. Lowell added.

In addition to Mr. Yoder and Mr. Spears, the transfer pricing team will work closely with Tom Scott, the new head of the London office Tax Department, across a broad range of international and domestic corporate/commercial tax issues. 

About McDermott Will & Emery
McDermott Will & Emery is a premier international law firm with a diversified business practice. Numbering more than 1,000 lawyers, we have offices in Boston, Brussels, Chicago, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Miami, Milan, Munich, New York, Orange County, Paris, Rome, Silicon Valley and Washington, D.C. Extending our reach to Asia, we have a strategic alliance with MWE China Law Offices in Shanghai.

Bloomberg Businessweek

-CYM

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Beloved Marleigh

This morning at 9:10, Seth and I handed our beloved Marleigh over to the One who created her. We said our final good-byes to her and her to us, and released her into the hands of pure Love. We had 12 of the most amazing, fun-filled, joyful years with her. Marleigh, though just a canine companion to anyone that didn't know her well, was one of the most trustworthy, faithful, forgiving, intelligent, protective best friends anyone could ever hope or pray for. Her unconditional love and understanding never ceased, even until the very end. She gave us everything she had and we tried to give everything back to her, though I believe she was the more giving one and we got the better end of the bargain.

She never asked for anything more than to let her be who God created her to be:
- Like all pets, she only wanted to be loved and cared for and on the occasional times when we let her water bowl run dry, she always forgave us instantly.

- She only asked to have her own place in our family and was happy to be a part of our "pack" and do whatever we were doing - she just wanted to be where we were.

- Unlike most kids, Marleigh loved putting her toys away and into her toy box at night. If she thought I'd fall for it, I'm sure she would've taken them out several times a day just to put them back again (I'm sure the treats helped with this one).

- To help me out with my exercise program, she readily volunteered to take me on walks every day and even helped me cross the street by taking her leash in her mouth and walking me across, then she'd drop it the moment we were on the other side. I loved the look on drivers' faces as they watched this.

- She was a beloved big sister to Abby, though it didn't start out that way. When we adopted Abby, Marleigh thought we were crazy and had somehow betrayed her. To show her great disapproval, she would retreat to the garage, but I'd go get her and make her spend "quality" time with all of us. Oh, she couldn't stand that new "small, brown thing with tall, skinny legs and a head too big for her body" that we'd brought home. If she could speak human she would've said "Take it back, we don't need it! Take it back!" But, after a few weeks Marleigh and Abby became close friends and sisters, and we enjoyed seeing them tumble and wrestle together 2-3 times a day. It got to the point that wherever Marleigh went, Abby went. Marleigh taught Abby almost everything she knew - how to get out the dog doors, how to retrieve a ball, and eventually Abby even got what "patch" meant, though it took all three of us to teach her. She even kept Abby in check on walks by letting us leash them together. Abby will also miss her very much.

- Marleigh longed to have as many jobs as we could think of for her. One of her favorite jobs was fetching the paper for us every morning. Rain, snow or shine, she trotted to the end of the drive-way, picked up the paper and placed it on the coffee table or ottoman (whichever we told her) - and for the small price of a treat, she would've been happy to get every neighbors paper for them, but somehow they didn't appreciate her slobber like we did. Every Halloween Marleigh helped answer the door and neighbors would recognize her (not us) and say "Oh, that's the dog that gets the paper for you every morning...where do I get one like that?" You don't, she was one-of-a-kind.

- She was patiently persistent. When she wanted to play and I was busy at my computer, she'd bring one toy and try to get me to play. I'd tell her "later Marleigh", but she'd just go get another toy thinking the first one must not have been good enough or the right one. Before I knew it I had every toy from the toy box at my feet. I could hear her thinking "surely one of these is the right one." Of course I'd cave and we'd go play ball for awhile - often at her favorite park - oh, how she loved the park. She was so focused on the ball and retrieving it for me - her job - that there could be 50 dogs in the park and she wouldn't even say "hi" to them. "Later, I'll talk to you later. I'm working now and I want to get it right." Her focus remained on me (or, frankly, whoever would throw the ball) and her job - fetching and retrieving the ball.

- The one thing we were never able to do for her was play ball enough. We always got tired first. One of her favorite moments in life was when mom and dad would come to visit. When Marleigh saw dad it was all over. The excitement was overwhelming and as far as Marleigh was concerned, the rest of the family became chopped liver - I think dad was just fresh meat. Dad wasn't tired of this ball game yet like we were and he was fresh meat. She loved it when he'd play ball and she egged him on the entire time he was at our house. Her unrelenting persistence usually paid off for her. Thank you dad for those special moments and memories.

- Marleigh never forgot anyone. Even in her last days, if I mentioned Cassie, Barney, Bridget, Paddy or Maggie, her ears perked up. While she was healthy, if I mentioned the "Denver group" at all, she'd rush to the front door and sit and wait for them to come. I learned quickly that I couldn't say these names unless Cassie was going to arrive in the next few minutes. Marleigh would sit for hours waiting to see them appear. I'd have to take her on a walk, play ball or something to get her mind off it. She didn't do it as much with the names of "mom" or "dad" because Seth and I were "mom" and "dad" to her. But, if Seth accidentally said "Mickey" or "Charlie," that was different, there she'd go to sit at the front door - the welcoming committee. She even got used to Grace's name and every time we talked about Grace (which is often), her ears perked up, her tail would wag and she'd go to the front door waiting to see if her play mate was coming over. When Grace or Cassie would come for an overnight visit, when they left, Marleigh and Abby would always go to the guest room for several mornings afterwards to see where they were. Even after Cassie's last visit, as hard as it was to walk, Marleigh would go into that room and look for her.

Finally, I cannot forget Marleigh's smile. She's the only dog I've ever had that smiled. She'd smile at anyone who approached her...she was convinced they were there just to see her. In her last days, she was unable to smile, but I could see a slight smile in her eyes - she was happy to see us when we walked in the door. I'll always miss her smile.

Although our hearts are broken at the loss of our beloved girl, the joy she gave us over the years far outweighs the pain we feel now. I wanted to write this mostly to help heal my heart and to get those wonderful memories of her written down. These memories are only a few. More will come over the next days and weeks and I'll write them to myself and my Jesus whom I love more than life itself. I don't know what I'd do without Jesus in my life - especially during times of sorrow. I'm so thankful that He knows the grief of losing a beloved pet, because He knows and shares in all of our joys and sorrows. Thank You, God, for the gift you gave us with Marleigh...she is and will always be greatly loved and missed.

I'm one of those crazy people that thinks because of Who God is and because of His great love and mercy, we'll get to see our beloved pets again one day. I imagine Marleigh romping and playing with Cooper, Barney and Bridget. She's out of pain and discomfort, in her right mind and a happy girl. I love you and miss you my dear, sweet Marleigh-girl.

From Seth and I, thank you for all your prayers, support and love during this time. To mom and dad, and Cym and Dale: Thank you again for your enduring patience with us over Thanksgiving...that was Marleigh's most difficult day. We know each of you can understand the sadness we are experiencing right now, but the Lord reminded me of this verse this morning "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning". Ps. 30:5. I'm looking forward to the morning...

We love you all so very much.
Robin Lowell (Cym's Sister-in-Law)

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We Are Blessed and Loved Regardless of Tragedy

We are all so blessed. Our friends the Woodruffs of Houston have suffered an unspeakable loss in their lives. There is no balance in that loss, though the outpouring of love of their communities reminds us of the blessings that are all around us, regardless of one’s religious beliefs. I believe that God is all around us, reflected in our friendships and connections. Perhaps that provides balance.

Have a relaxing Holiday Weekend Friends,
Cym

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thanksgiving 2011


Dearest Family & Friends,

In the busyness of life, we often forget the things that truly matter. I am guilty of being all-consumed with school schedules, pickup times, sports and extracurricular activities that -- while centered on my children -- left me ragged at the end of each day. There was literally nothing left of “me” to give to my husband, to God, to myself.

During this time of despair, devastation and loss, I admit I have approached Thanksgiving with a cynical eye. What do I have to be thankful for in this desperate time of trial and unbearable pain, when the recent, tragic loss of our sweet Rebecca never leaves my mind?

The answer is, simply, a lot.

This time of trial has forced me to slow down, to reconnect, to reflect. It is during these quiet times that my eyes have been opened in new awakening to show me what is truly important in this life; and that I do, indeed, have many blessings to be thankful for.

I am thankful for my husband, John, who has shown me nothing [and everything] but love and shared pain. I cannot say we share understanding, since perhaps we may never know why God took Rebecca, and then his dad, only one week later. But we do share faith in the One who has brought us closer together, and who will see us through in time.

I am thankful for my children, who have suffered so much. How can they possibly understand, when we struggle so much ourselves? Nevertheless, they have collectively shown a faith and “will to get through” that defies their age. They have leaned on each other, cried together, and laughed together. Rebecca was the center of all of our lives – the one who brought us all together. Now they know how much they need and love their other siblings, too.

I am thankful for our families, whom I honestly didn’t think would have the means, time or care to make the five-hundred and thousand-mile journeys to Kingwood, and who have shown us unwavering love and compassion during this time of trial. They have seen me at my absolute worst, and still stayed close. They have helped in so many ways -- from taking care of the children and making arrangements to cleaning house – when I couldn’t possibly do anything on my own besides weep in agony, despair and guilt. They were right there, and continue to be there, during the times when no words need be spoken, and a tight hug shows and tells all that need be said.

I am thankful for our neighbors, colleagues and friends, including the ones I have never met, but am honored to call “friend.” They have renewed my faith in community and humanity. They were right there when the accident happened, helping me, guiding me, fighting off the media and prying eyes until John got back into town and could be by my side. They have provided meals for my family, when I had no desire to eat and had all but lost the motherly, nurturing instinct to feed my children. They have provided friendship, distraction, and transportation for my children; which in turn, has provided me the time and quiet peace needed for reflection. Most importantly, they have shared their own stories of loss, and have shown me that I am not alone in this grief -- they have gotten through the unimaginable pain of losing a child, and have made me believe that I will, too.

I am thankful for our church families; who have been there from the very beginning and have seen Rebecca transform from an introspective baby into a bright, beautiful, generous child full of life, love and God’s teachings. They were also there at the end, to grieve with us, to pray with us and to pay witness to the passing of her earthly life and the beginning of her journey into everlasting life.

I am thankful for everyone at Bright Beginnings Learning Center, who have known and loved Rebecca since she was still in the womb. They called her loving nicknames -- like “Princess Becca” and “Sparkles” -- and were instrumental in shaping her unique, captivating personality and God’s love and light within her. In her memory they have planted Becca’s garden, so her joyful spirit can live on in life anew; and so all who pass by can reflect, see and feel the beauty in the colors God has so perfectly chosen for each petal as she smiles down upon them, whispering to them to pick the prettiest one.

I am thankful to everyone who has lifted our family up in prayer. You have shown our family love and empathy in your own quiet time of reflection, in words spoken and thoughts unsaid, but deeply felt. You have outwardly shown your love for us by posting on Rebecca’s memorial page, by sending cards and letters, and by posting on Facebook, forums and blogs. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed nor unfelt, though I am still too weak from the depths of despair to respond to them directly. It was only via these things that I truly understood how far reaching the impact of one little girl has been throughout the United States. The words and heartfelt sympathies you have posted are reread often, and have provided more comfort and peace than you will ever know.

I am thankful to all who work with John at Gardere, who have provided me time with my husband and who have provided friendship, support, countless meals and groceries under the most difficult of circumstances.

I am thankful for Dr. Raj, the chaplain, and the staff at Memorial Hermann, who did everything they could to save my baby, and who showed the utmost in respect and compassion in her passing.

I am thankful for the donee families; that my daughter’s joyful spirit may continue to live on in their own children.

I am thankful for the local firefighters, who had the courage and foresight to come forward and use Rebecca as the catalyst for change in Houston’s 911 emergency response policy. The new protocol has already been adopted, and will benefit the millions of people in Houston and surrounding areas, who may one day find themselves in the throes of life and death.

I am thankful for my counselor, whose patience, compassion and understanding is helping me see the meaning of tragedy, when it sometimes seems impossible to go on.

You ALL have shown your love for our family by your very presence in our lives.

Finally, but certainly not least of all, I am thankful to God, the Almighty One, for allowing me this time of reflection; to see life anew. He has shown me unwavering love during not just this most difficult time, but throughout my whole life. I am grateful to Him for choosing ME to be Rebecca’s mother, and for the time I was allowed to love her and hold her here on Earth. I have seen Rebecca in the arms of Jesus, and she is HAPPY. I have seen her with Jesus hand in hand at the beach – her favorite place in this Earthly world. And, I have seen her dancing – her joyous smile illuminating Heaven even more than it already was. I am so thankful to God for allowing me to “see” her in this not-so-far-off place of unconditional love, wonder and joy. HE is so good.

Like King David in the throes of pain after losing his infant son, I know she will not come to me, but one day, I will go to her. And I can’t wait.

Psalm 100
A Song of Praise for the Lord’s Faithfulness to His People
A Psalm of Thanksgiving

Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
Serve the LORD with gladness:
Come before His presence with singing.
Know ye that the LORD, He is God:
It is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves;
We are His people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving,
And into His courts with praise:
Be thankful unto Him, and bless His name.
For the LORD is good;
His mercy is everlasting;
And His truth endureth to all generations.


God doesn’t give you the people you want,
He gives you the people you NEED.
To help you, to hurt you, to leave you, to love you
and to make you the person you were meant to be.
(Author Unknown)

Mere words alone cannot truly express my gratitude and appreciation for all that you’ve done; for all that HE’s provided. I hope this letter conveys the love and blessings I wish to share with all of you this Thanksgiving. Keep close to the ones you hold dear, and may you be surrounded with love.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Much love from all of us,
Olinda

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Always Baby

As writers, we seek to convey the reality of emotion. As readers, we relate the emotion in stories to our actual experience. The young daughter of one of my beloved law partners died suddenly a few days ago. Her obituary filled my heart with the love she brought to her family. I have no life experience to comprehend the reality of this loss, which is so very real. Please read her story and then include Always Baby, and her family, in your prayers.

Rebecca Lauren Woodruff
6/13/07-10/21/11

We called you "Always Baby." When you told mommy you were getting big, she said "you'll always be my baby." And you loved your mommy so much that you named yourself Always Baby just to make her happy. You had a hundred loving nicknames like "Little Girl", "Fickle Pickle", "Rebecca Cheeks", "Moon Monkey", but Always Baby said it all.

You were an inseparable part of Mommy; an extension of her soul and an answer to her prayers. You filled her with love and light and laughter. When you departed, an emptiness was left too great to be filled with anything but God's love. I know you will dispatch the angels to watch over her – you always took care of her and always will.

We all fought for your attention and you had us each wrapped around one little itty-bitty finger.

You commanded Daddy's attention on your terms, in your time. When I worked at home, you treed me like a cat, climbing in my lap and insisting we play games or make letters together. You ran outside to meet me when I came home, saying: "hold you, Daddy, hold you." You gave me daily shopping lists, constant reminders and sweet little girl kisses when once in awhile I would get it right - I never had to wait for my performance assessment. I'd give the world to have given in to you a few more times and the universe for one more super tight hug with your pretty little head buried deep in my neck.

You loved your sibbies so much and they loved you in ways that cannot possibly be expressed in words. Your lyrical relationships were each a verse in a round – a different meter and key, yet somehow in perfect harmony. The works of the bards and the poets pale in reflection.

We cannot possibly understand why God took you from us. We only know that the light that you brought into our lives will illuminate heaven now. The healing gifts of generosity, laughter and love that you brought into our lives must have been needed somewhere else. We miss you so, so much Always Baby! You will always be our Always Baby!

Kingwood Funeral Home


Warms, Cym

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The Texas Drought

This is a picture of our lake. The picture on the left was taken 1 year ago. The picture on the right was taken today. Cedar Creek Lake is really suffering. Pray for Rain.

Warms-
CYM

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Coming up for Air

I have been traveling for 10 days. Please bear with me as I get it together.  Here is what I am working on:

1. $15 Amazon book review link-up winner announcement
2. Library Kit book review link-up winner announcement
3. Thrillerfest Re-cap
4. 2 Book Reviews
5. Book Bloggers Spotlight
6. Friday's Musings
&
7. Thrillerfest SWAG! Tons of SWAG!  I will decide how to divide up all the fun stuff and give it away to YOU!

Whew!  What are you working on?

-CYM

PS. I would love to host you as a guest blogger. Do you have a recent book review or book article? Copy & paste your html code in an email. I will make sure the post links back to your blog etc.

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Happy Anniversary to my Sweetheart!

We are at Paradis in Rosemary Beach. A lifetime of love all fit into 2 years of marriage and 5 years since we met at Starbucks (another story). Now on to the sand, water & stars.

Warms, CYM

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Happy Father's Day

An early walk in the surf, Dawn Donuts, reading NY Times on the beach, talking to the kids. . .this has been my Happy Father's Day.

What did you do to celebrate?

Warms, CYM

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You Say it's Your Birthday...

~Happy Birthday~

65 Today! It is my 65th birthday. 

Seems quite amazing actually. I have always felt that each of us has three phases of life to be lived: 

(i) to do what we are supposed to do in life, have a career, enjoy family and friends, save for the 2nd and 3rd phases, and, hopefully, maintain mental and physical health to move on; 

(ii) after having accomplished what we are supposed to do, we should then do what we always wanted to do; and 

(iii) when we have done what we are supposed to do and always wanted to do, we should live out life in hedonism as we each define it. 

 In my mind, at 65 I have navigated Phase I and am about ready for Phase II. What have I always wanted to do? Just relax and enjoy! I am so fortunate and thankful to be just here.

Thank you for all my birthday wishes!

CYM

PS. The review party is still LIVE for a couple more hours!

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Fighting in Libya

source

Our Young People Fighting In Libya – For Whom and What?

I spent my time in Vietnam long ago. I am not a pacifist. Hopefully, I am a realist having lived a long life observing politics and international finance. We get into these wars with limited objectives (preserve the status quo, humanitarian assistance, domino theory or whatever). Then some commandos, mercenaries, ground support, or whatever are deployed on the ground for “temporary assignment”. Soon, our young people are there fighting limited wars devised by politicians who never tasted combat.

The question is always the same – why are we doing this? Our treasure and fine young people are invested for whose benefit? Why Libya? Why not in all of the other countries of the world where people are massacred and the civilized world turns its head? Why not deal with serious problems like Iran or North Korea? Why not make an all out commitment for relief of our friends in Japan who are suffering and need us?

 For once, it would be rewarding to have a politician actually address real questions with honesty and historical perspective. Where are they? Our young people who fight these wars are heroes! Our leaders should be heroic enough to be honest.


-CYM

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Blessings

*photo taken with my iPhone

We are lucky enough to live in Dallas, Cedar Creek Lake and Rosemary Beach, Florida. This weekend we will relax with friends, family and I will spend most of my time reviewing publisher edits of The Dust Scenario. I am making progress as there are materially fewer edits. I am learning - edit, edit , edit every purposeless word. Say a prayer for the Japanese and Libyans and your own blessings.

Warms, CYM

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Japan

Prayers for Japan

I have spent much of my professional life working in and around Japan. Japanese culture and people are patient and observant of the needs of the country, whether rebuilding after war or a natural disaster as hit this week in Northern Japan. I had planned to leave today for Tokyo for a week, as I do every 8 weeks or so. My colleague advised that electricity is sporadic, food shelves are bare, and gasoline tanks (natural gas in Japan) are empty. He and my other colleagues report that they are safe and ready to sacrifice for recovery. My prayers are with the Japanese people and I hope yours are as well. If you would like to contribute to the humanitarian needs, a Red Cross link is below.

 Warms, CYM

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