I've Got the Spirit! This Just in From Chicago Writers

In many ways my Wednesday was a typical "hump day."  I did my usual "rise and shine" about 6:00 a.m., got cleaned up, brewed some hot herbal tea, and mentally prepared to tackle a "to-do" list as long as a bride's wedding gown train!

Worked on clients' projects; prepared and published my 823rd blog post; struggled with computer glitches; and attempted to navigate my way through new content management system changes imposed by Blogger.

Hours in, I decided to take a much needed break. I kicked back, watched a little of the boob tube and then returned to my computer. At about 12:43 p.m. I received an unexpected email from the President of Chicago Writers Association that read the following:

"Dear Jennifer,

I am writing to you with the news that you have been selected as the recipient of CWA's Spirit Award for 2020. I nominated you, and the Board unanimously endorsed your selection. We hope you will be able to join us for our virtual Book of the Year ceremony, which will be held via Zoom at 7 pm on Saturday, January 16.

I couldn't think of a more deserving recipient."

What? Who? I was elated... temporarily in disbelief! In fact, I had to read the email multiple times before it would fully "sink in." This is a big deal to me, folks. And I am totally humbled and grateful for this prestigious award.

The SPIRIT AWARD honors individuals in the literary community that demonstrate:

You can read more here:

https://www.chicagowrites.org/spirit_award

Past honorees include: a book store owner, the executive director of the Chicago Hall of Fame and a publisher. I'm geeked to be in such highly-regarded company.  

This has been a tough year. For all of us. And this recognition certainly has given me reason to smile, keep going, and continue to be rooted in divine faith. 

My heartfelt appreciation to Chicago Writers Association (a great group of quality people) and all of you who have supported my journey, followed my blog and cheered me on throughout the years!

 ... Now I just have to get busy trying to find something black and slimming to wear for that virtual ceremony. It's rumored that the camera adds 10 lbs.!  :-)

Thanks for reading.

Image credits: Pixabay.com