I’m happy to say that it is the second anniversary of my blog. I’m amazed at the response my blogs received. They have had well over two thousand views. I thank all of you who have read them. I can assure you that I will continue to write more blogs.
When I was considering whether to start a blog or not, Deborah Tutanuer and Dusty Demerson from Crested Butte encouraged me to do it. Thank you, Deborah, and Dusty. You thought I would have some interesting things to write about as well as drive traffic to my website.
When the pandemic hit last year and we went into lockdown, I struggled over whether I had another book in me or not. During the lockdown, it was hard to concentrate and focus. There were two novels I was considering. I’m still considering them.
In the end, I decided to go in another direction. I’m writing a memoir about Anita and my adventures living and working in Hollywood for almost twenty-five years. My blog entitled Hollywood Tales contains my most popular blogs. Anita said, “People always like stories about Hollywood,” and she has been right.
They say when you are considering writing a new book it’s supposed to rise to the surface and speak to you. I was reluctant to listen, but Our Hollywood Tales kept speaking to me. I forced myself most days during the pandemic to sit down and write. However, as I cranked out more stories, I remained pessimistic about the book.
I got a terrific boost last month from my friend and fellow author Arvin Ram, co-owner with his wife Danica Ayraud, of Townie Books and Rumor’s Coffee and Tea in Crested Butte, Colorado. Arvin said, “I’m starting a literary journal and I would like to feature some writing of yours.” I felt honored and told him about Our Hollywood Tales. I sent him an excerpt from the book, and he loved it. When I sent the same excerpt to another author/friend this was her response, “What an enjoyable two hours you provided me. I was so taken up by your writing, I forgot my appointment for the pool. It was well worth it. I love each one of the stories.” Their comments were the incentive I needed to keep writing and working toward its completion. (Photo below of Danica and Arvin.)
Getting back to the journal, Arvin emailed me to say, “It has gone to the printer.” It will make its debut on September 15th at 5 p.m. at the new Crested Butte Center for the Arts. Anita and I will be on hand for the event. I will read one of the chapters from the book and show a short film that the story pertains to.
So, if you are in Crested Butte at that time, please stop by. It will also be an opportunity to purchase any of my books. We’re looking forward to seeing friends during that week.
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