As an author, the question I once  asked myself was...

"what do I write about?"

I sat and pondered for many years wondering when I would eventually write my very first novel? My life had been extremely busy, consumed by my full time job as an Interior Designer, and most importantly, my role as a Mother and my dedication to raising three children. Although my passion was placed on hold for many years, I never gave up on the idea that one day I would write a book, but.. the real question was "what would I write about?"

The answer magically appeared two years ago while sitting at Laguna Beach. I observed couples as they walked by holding hands, then asked myself "are they soul mates?" Just then, a light bulb flickered on and off in my head until the light remained a solid brightness. There it was, the answer I long awaited. Now, nothing would stand in the way of pursuing my dream, my passion, my love of writing. "Eye of the Storm" was born and the sequel "After the Storm" is soon to be released. I would like to thank so many incredible people I've met throughout my journey. You've been an inspiration, and nothing less than 100% supportive. Part of the rules for earning this award are that I mention 10 things you might not know about C.K.Gray. Following that, I am to point you toward six nominees for this honor which I will, though I wish I could point you toward more than six because I know MANY truly terrific people!

My life as an author has taken me to places I'd never thought possible.  I ask myself constantly "was this my calling"? I've written my entire life..notes, journals, poetry, thoughts, and quotes.  Some of what I'd written in the past makes absolutely no sense to me now..must have been what was running through my mind twenty plus years ago. Who was I twenty years ago ?

I was a young Mom raising a nine year old, and a seven year old. I was single, living on my own, working full-time trying to do the best I possibly could at the time. My life seemed to be consumed by only dreams of what my future may one day amount to.  

 I worked diligently as a Designer, multitasking from Mom to Professional on a daily basis. Homework assignments, skating, and hockey practices, school functions, and obviously the day to day MOM stuff.   I tried to be a dedicated loving mother to two beautiful children, who were so deserving of the life I would one day be able to give them.

My life was half lived before I really understood what life was all about. Passion was the key to my success, there was no stopping me !
My Personal Story:

Pursuing my greatest passion, to write anything and everything from articles to poetry to quotes. This was basically what I did each time I had to release my thoughts, feelings, even stress. Writing became a part of my daily life....

Many years as a single parent, raising three young children, I placed my own life on hold, putting family first, my number one priority.

Through the years, as a parent, I enjoyed every minute of witnessing my children grow through childhood to adulthood, from diapers to college graduations, and everything in between.  I could only do my best to obtain their respect , portraying that role model as a Mom, their Mom.  The years flew by, the end result..three absolutely wonderful, loving,  successful grown children, least to say " I'm extremely proud of each of them".  Having no regrets in the end, it was worth every minute placing my own life on hold.

Although working full-time for over 25 yrs. in a job I absolutely love,  my dreams weren't being fulfilled.  I had an epiphany two years ago.. I asked myself "what do I do for me" ? I paused for a minute..came up with an answer... "nothing".  I then realized it was now MY time to pursue MY dream, write that story, live vicariously through my characters, and continue with the passion I had buried so deeply inside of me !

The hopeless romantic that I am..that love story was written in nine months, published, radio interviews have been scheduled throughout the United States,and sales have now reached thousands. My novel is now in the hands of  Hollywood Producers. Within one year, my dream became a reality. Dedication and hard work, promoting, traveling, pounding the pavement, and never giving up. I've realized that it was now my turn to leave a legacy, live my dream. Never giving up something I felt so strongly about.

This is not a Cinderella story, as I've had many struggles throughout my life, but wasn't allowing anything to stand in my way. I contribute all that I've dealt with in the past, the hurdles I've had to overcome, as well as the support from so many wonderful people in my life to who I've become today.

My first novel has gained so much traction, interest, and excitement that the sequel "After the Storm" is now in the process of being completed. I'm on a roll, and again..My life was half lived before I really understood what life was all about. I'm now living my dream, the dream I'd placed on hold so many years,  Loving who I've become, as I continue to believe in myself, and never giving up my passion.

Although I never fathomed the thought of ever having difficulty writing, the words just tend to flow once I come up with some substance. My mind continues, but unfortunately, my hand isn't cooperating. Frustration has set in.
Almost three months ago, I  injured my right hand.  Diagnosis : Fracture, bone chip, avulsion, torn ligament, and now scar tissue. Painful ? YES, to say the least.
What's a writer to do ?
I could just sit back, and take a year off for this injury to heal, or I could persevere and let nothing stand in my way. What do I choose to do ?  I am sure for those of you who know me, you could answer the question without hesitation. As knowing my passion to write, I choose to let nothing stand between me and my next novel.
In the midst of writing "After the Storm", the only draw back would be the length of time involved.  As this may take a bit longer than intended, not my choice of course !  Learning my newest technique of typing without the use of my right thumb has become a difficult task, but over time, my next novel will be completed.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank so many wonderful people ! Yesterday, at my book signing, I met so many from all over the United States and Canada. The interest in "Eye of the Storm" was overwhelming !
'HIGHLIGHT OF MY DAY'..... Four adorable children ran up to my table, camera's in hands, wanting to have their picture taken with me.  They were so excited to receive an autographed book mark ! I have come to realize that it's the little things in life that mean so much !

I would love to take this opportunity to thank each, and everyone of you who have supported me in so many ways. The book signing events have been extremely successful with attendance, and sales. I cannot express how overwhelmed I am with the interest, as well as such positive feedback. I am loving every word expressed !!

I will keep you informed as to  the upcoming signing events in the very near future.

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart !
C.K. Gray