Writing is kind of like firing the work of my heart out across a massive canyon and having no idea where it will end up. I sometimes wonder who hears the words echo in the unknown and if another voice will shout back and say, “Yes. Me, too. I get it.”   

This weekend the shout back from across the canyon came unexpectedly from a wonderful newspaper columnist. The incredible Garry Brown has been putting his accounts on paper for six decades and I just discovered that one of his most recent articles was about my book in progress, a true story of great love and heart that will make you believe anything is possible. (Click here for Garry's article.)

Having someone pay attention to a project, a business or a book that's still being developed is like having him make a big deal about your baby before she's born. Like any proud mama, it makes me want to jump up and down and hug Garry because he cared enough to write about my baby with just an ultrasound to go by. Maybe that's because this is a story for everyone who has ever followed a dream. Or maybe it's because the events of the book made history in the city where the newspaper is published. Or perhaps it’s the sweetness of an undying love between a father who gave up the thing he loved most to adopt the daughter he would come to love extraordinarily. Or it could just be that Garry Brown is one heck of a nice guy who appreciates another writer pouring words into the canyon.

Whatever the reason, I am grateful to Garry, the Springfield Republican, and Massive for previewing the most important story I’ve written. You have added fuel to my fire and reach to my voice across the canyon. Thank you!  And thanks to each of you who yells back across the void so we can connect. That's what we're all here to do.

Oh, and New England sports fans will love Garry’s nostalgic collection of experiences he’s had during a lifetime of covering most every game played from AHL hockey to major league baseball. Take a look at "Garry Brown’s Greatest Hits" and his website, which is a sports lovers’ delight: www.hittingtoallfields.com 

Thanks again, Garry and all who shout back across the canyon. This writer’s heart is grateful!