As Valentine's Day approaches, my heart is warmed, energized, and deeply touched--the best cardio workout around! My secret...hanging out with wonderful women who believe in the power of books.

Recently, I've been on a streak of attending book clubs to talk about writing and publishing Chasing the Butterfly. Even after a full day of teaching school, and then having to ignore the call of my pajamas, I find myself infused with stamina like no other--the ultimate organic energy drink. Yes, good conversation with other book lovers is fuel for the soul. Solid talk. Honest talk. Inspirational talk. That's the making of an evening well spent. 

Each conversation is unique. Questions, musings, predictions, connections, and insights consistently remind me of our common humanness--our desire to make meaning out of story. After each occasion, I regret not jotting down every comment and question--especially those that have never crossed my mind or possibly play into the making of the sequel and prequel bubbling around in my head. 

But in addition to the fruitfulness of the conversations, I am convinced that simply being in the presence of these women--to laugh, and perhaps even cry, is the best workout for the heart. Thanks for getting me in shape! My gratitude for you shouts from the mountaintop!

Meeting with Kathleen Dammen and the Willow Springs Book Club at Flights Wine Bar in Morrison, Colorado

Longtime book club unites at Andrea Sowitch's beautiful home