One of my dearest friends is actually a “friend magnet.” She does what I am too shy to do:
Show up at an event where she knows no one—always in some elegant suit or posh dress—and charm everyone there.
I'm talking about the novelist Eileen Goudge.
You'll find her on the couch, bottom right, snuggled with the cutie in the orange top. (Blouse? shirt?… Don't get me started! I'll explain later.)
If it hadn't been for Eileen introducing me to the motley crew of authors in this picture, I wouldn't have yet another five friends who, with Eileen and me, are “sisters from another mister.” By that, I mean we truly share a genuine love for each other. We may write in different genres, but we support each other personally as well as professionally.
For example, if something wonderful happens, we'll initiate a Zoom call so that we can all cheer at the same time. And although it's a joy to share a high with these ladies, it's just as important to know they'll be there for any pity party to which one of us is the mistress of ceremonies. On many an occasion, they've turned my frown upside down and by the end of the call, any tears I've shed will be accompanied by my snorting laugh.
Even the darkest moment can be forgotten, if only for an hour.
Geographically, we are far-flung: from New York to California, with Toronto, Virginia, and Indiana in between. Still, we strive to see each other at least once a year. Sometimes it's in small groups, when one or another finds herself somewhere within driving distance, we let the others know.
When I read Eileen's latest novel, ALL THEY NEED TO KNOW, I realized our unique sisterhood was the premise of her book.
She confirmed this in my Author Provocateur podcast. The tragic catalyst that puts her story in motion is based on her something that happened to her.
You'll definitely want to listen to it, and then enter my contest for a chance to win a $20 gift card and a signed copy of the book.
So, who are my dear friends in the photo?
Beside me left to right: Francine La Sala and Jen Tucker.
From the left, on the couch are Julie Valerie, Meredith Schorr, and Samantha M. Bailey
Which brings me to the orange top… I mean, blouse! …
Aw, heck, I mean SHIRT. You see, at one of our annual in-person gatherings, a debate as to what constitutes a shirt, a blouse, or a top became a heated discussion. Considering we had a textile authority in the room — Julie —we deferred to her.*
With giggles.
Lots of giggles.
*By the way: whereas tops are a feminine term of women's upper attire, mostly women opt for blouses—which are opened by buttons. Shirts are too, but are worn by everyone, although cut and sized differently for women and men.
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