It’s difficult to explain the energy created simply by being in the same space with other writers, but Passion’s Promise, my fourth story has come to life thanks to a group of incredible women and a special writers’ retreat. A very special friend opened her mother’s home to us (a group of eight) and we brainstormed, laughed, chatted, and found quiet time to work on our individual WIP’s — the energy swirled and sizzled and I think we all felt the magic of productivity. I certainly did!

The setting was fabulous, who wouldn’t be productive on a tiny island off the New England coast? Our afternoon breaks were spent at the beach, where we continued to brainstorm or work out story issues. Several brave souls ventured into the water, which was way too cold for me, but the sunshine and the comradery warmed me to the core. 

It was the company that made the days/nights sprint by. I’m blessed for having met such wonderful people. I’m thankful for each moment I’ve been allowed to spend with them. I thank them for being an inspiration to my work and for the friendship they so unselfishly share!!

To the “Moondance babes” thank you for being there for me. Best of luck with your work and until we can get together again, write with passion.

Hugs, Christine  

This is it - the week we crown a new idol. I have a prediction, do you want to hear it?

I think David will win!

Ha - whether it’s David Cook (my hope) or David Archuleta. A guy named David will win this week. It’s been fun.

Now — on to a new interest. I’ve been reading Christopher Moore lately. Anyone else into his books? I read You Suck: A Love Story first, and now I’m into Coyote Blue. He’s a hoot. I love his writing style and his characters. He sucks you right in and makes you want to keep turning the pages to find out what happens next.

I started Coyote Blue while traveling and of course, I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. The woman sitting next to me on the plane must have thought I was nuts. But hey, I’m enjoying it.

I’d love to hear what you think if you’ve read any of his stuff. If you haven’t you might want to pick one up and give him a try.

Well, for now, it’s back to work for me. Enjoy. C -

I was in Oklahoma City last week attending a writer’s conference, so missed Brooke being sent home. There are four left standing - three guys, one girl. Who will earn the crown? After last night’s performances, I think Jason will go home. He’s got his fans, but the last few weeks, he’s been coming across as lazy! He doesn’t know the songs and doesn’t seem to make any effort to learn them. A smile can only take you so far … sorry, Jason.

As for the others, it will be a tight race. I still think David Cook has the most talent and should win the competition. David A has had strong performances and will continue to grow into his large voice. I think he’s a close second with Syesha nipping at his heels. She has grown stronger each week and shown she can do a variety of numbers. These three deserve huge congratulations for making it this far. No matter what happens, they’ve earned their audiences. Job well done!  

I wish them all luck with their careers. They’ve found their own niche, so I wish them success for years to come. 

A quick run down of the last two weeks — I went into shock when America sent Michael John home. Who saw that coming? I’m still recovering, though last week, as Simon said, “Christy Lee, it might be your time.” Right call, America, it’s about time. Now this week, another shocker to see Carly go — but we are down to the finest talent. Someone has to get the boot.

This week’s top in my opinion (just my opinion, mind you) … David Cook, the best. He brought tears to my eyes. Syesha did an incredible job! And Daivid A bounced back with an outstanding performance. Who will the top three be?

We’re getting down to the wire, so put in your vote and let me know who you think will be our ‘08 Idol.

It’s obvious at this point in Idol that all of the players can sing! Talent has well surpassed last year’s group … but here were my favorites Tuesday night. Jason Castro’s Hawaiian version of ”Over the Rainbow” brought tears to my eyes. It has an emotional tie for me, but still, he did an outstanding job. Michael John once again showed his star quality. I didn’t really like Carly’s song choice, but the girl can belt them out!

David Cook, who I think will be one of the top three wasn’t his usual high performance self, but again, he still rocks Syesha and Christy Lee. And unfortunately, little David A is beginning to bore me. He has an amazing voice for being so young and I think his talent will mature, but he hasn’t done anything memorable in weeks. Who’s going home? It is anyone’s guess. What do you think? 

I guess I wasn’t surprised by the bottom three on Idol last night, but Brooke and Ramiele should have continued on. They won’t win, but still, they both have talent! Has anyone else noticed that one of the remaining competitors shows no real emotion. Christy-Lee’s facial expressions say nothing while all of the others are fighting tears. They look sad and genuinely care for their singing buddies and their fate(s). Even the hug Christy-Lee gave Ramiele at the end was insincere … go figure. Will she be next to go?