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Guest Author, Hank Phillippi Ryan & Prizes!

by sue on Jan.27, 2010, under Book Chat


DRIVE TIME
Hank Phillippi RyanTrueromance hankRyan994 Guest Author, Hank Phillippi Ryan & Prizes!

Setting: Boston and New England—a major market television station, a prestigious private school, and some dark and dangerous places only an undercover reporter would be brave enough to visit
Subgenre: mystery/suspense
Hero: Ah..Don’t want to give that away!
Heroine: Charlotte McNally—smart, savvy, sassy and sexier than she admits. A top-notch TV reporter who’s worried about being replaced by someone younger. What happens when you’re married to your job in television—and the camera doesn’t love you anymore? Will Charlie wind up a media old maid?

One sentence summary: Reporter Charlotte McNally’s latest scoop—an expose of a dangerous and diabolical scam complete with high-speed chases and hidden camera footage is ratings gold—but when ugly phone calls and deadly extortion threats put her darling fiancé in jeopardy, Charlie must untangle too many secrets, and decide if it’s ever safe to tell.

Scene you like most and would never cut: One of the things I love to do in my books is take a very ordinary commonplace occurrence—one that’s happened to all of us—and twist it into something completely different. So let me ask you—what do you think really happens to your car in valet parking? Read DRIVE TIME and you may be doing your own parking from now on!
In one of my favorite scenes, set in a dingy and deserted parking garage, Charlie goes one-on-one to outwit a deadly killer. And I’ll give you the scoop–she does it with only what she finds in her coat pocket. Since writing that scene, every time I go into a parking garage, it gives me the creeps!

Thing your heroine would never be caught dead doing/saying: Charlie’s glamorous, smart, hilariously funny, and devotedly focused on getting her next big story. She’s classy and tough and stylish—Murphy Brown meets Diane Sawyer. Charlie would never cheat. She tries never to be mean to anyone—unless they’re a sleazy bad guy who’s in the target of her camera and her relentless questioning. And even though she’s always stylish and camera-ready—when she goes undercover, her disguises require her to wear some pretty outrageous getups.

Your hero, is he a boxer or brief kind of guy: Ah—don’t want to give that away. But think: Jeremy Northam. Gregory Peck in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. Harrison Ford in WORKING GIRL. Gabriel Byrne. Colin Firth. You get the picture. And at the exact moment when Charlie finds out first-hand whether it’s boxers or briefs—well, it’s almost instantly irrelevant! (Because he’s not wearing them anymore.)

Ancillary character you had the most fun with: Well, any of us who have dated a person with a child from an earlier marriage—you know how tough it can be to win them over! Charlie’s been devoted to her job for her entire career and the idea that she might soon be a step-mother is more than daunting. So 9-year-old Penny is a challenge … especially since her mother is still very much in the picture.

It was fascinating to mine the relationship between little Penny—who I think is hilarious and a real stitch!—and grown-up Charlie, who can handle the toughest of journalism assignments—but who’s sometimes baffled by a little girl. (And of course, how to handle the passion of a new love when there’s a pre-teen in the next room!)

Your heroine’s favorite hobby: I must admit, Charlie has no hobbies. As a TV reporter, she’s on call 24/7—and that doesn’t leave much time for fun. And although she’s a great cook and loves her cat, Botox, she’s all about breaking the big story. And, suddenly, she’s also got to juggle planning a wedding. If she can get a free moment. (Just ask her mother. Charlie’s not quite on schedule with the wedding thing!)

Your hero’s favorite hobby: He’s a prize-winning skier. And an accomplished sailboat racer. Trueromance hankRyan196 Guest Author, Hank Phillippi Ryan & Prizes!

What you think readers will like best about this book: DRIVE TIME is exciting. A thrilling page-turner with non-stop action, and with the kind of passion only someone with real life experience can enjoy. Charlie McNally is a successful and independent career woman–who may finally, after all these years, realize that true love is not out of the question.

Plus, after my thirty years as a television reporter—and I’m still on the air at the NBC affiliate in Boston—I’ve wired myself with hidden cameras, confronted corrupt politicians, chased down criminals, and have 26 Emmys for my reporting. In my Charlotte McNally books, I can bring you the inside scoop on what it’s really like to be a TV journalist—the high-stress, high-stakes and often not-so glam world of reporting. And, if you’re lucky, the joy of being able to catch the bad guys and bring some justice to the world.

The person that readers want you to write about but you haven’t yet: You know who that is? Charlotte McNally—married lady! It’s all about the juggling, as all of us with a job and families know. Charlie’s been on her own all these years, but how will she manage with a new husband and instant daughter? I can’t wait to explore that balance.

What’s next: You’ll be the first to know, I promise! I’m starting an incredibly exciting new project which I hope to make public soon. And what’s next for Charlie McNally? Again, you’ll be the first to know. Will she actually get married or will something happen to stop it? And just when Charlie begins to think she may have everything she’s dreamed of—what might happen to make it all go wrong?

Hank’s turn to ask a question: Thanks, Borders readers, for sharing Charlie’s adventures and her personal quandaries.
Do you balance job and personal life? Do you have time for both? Do you feel pulled in several directions, and try to make it all work? How do you handle it—and what do you wish could change? Charlie is considering embarking on a whole new life which will require giving equal time to her love life and her job. What’s your advice for Charlie? Is it possible?

And PRIZES! I’ll send an autographed copy of one of the first three Charlie McNally books (the Agatha-winning PRIME TIME, FACE TIME or AIR TIME) to ten lucky commenters!

(Yes, it’s a series—but they are all stand-alone novels that can be read in any order!)

Can’t wait to hear what you think! And come visit me at my website http://www.HankPhillippiRyan.com for some behind-the-scenes photos (Nora Roberts, Lee Child, Brenda Novak, Sue Grafton!) and lots of fun. Plus you’ll find my schedule—I’d love to chat with you in person!

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84 Comments for this entry

  • Linda Henderson
    January 30th, 2010 on 10:58 am

    I always thought I was a pretty good multi-tasker but when my daughters were still in school I found out I couldn’t have it all. My youngest daughter was really into sports, soccer, running and basketball and sometimes they all ran together, it was tough getting her to everything when I had a full time job. Since I’m divorced I had NO help from her dad so it became a juggling game. Well then I decided to go to college at night and boy did that throw a spanner in the works. The girls were great about it and were very proud that mom was going to college. I’d find myself up half the night doing homework because I have that overachiever gene and was bound and determined to get good grades in all my classes. Well, my hard work paid off for me, I had a 4.0. Unfortunately my youngest started doing bad in school because I wasn’t there as much to help her. So at semester, with no hesitation I quit college to help my daughter with her education. I’ve never looked back and regreted it either, my daughter’s education was so much more important than my proving I could hack college after being out of school for so long.

    Reply
  • RobynL
    January 30th, 2010 on 12:16 am

    both can be done; but when I was working a 12 hr. night shift all I did during the day was sleep and get ready for work again at 7 p.m. So there was little time for home. Since I got cancer and had surgery and treatments things are much different as you can expect. We have lots of time and I quit work anyways.

    Reply
  • catslady
    January 29th, 2010 on 4:37 pm

    Luckily I’m retired and no longer have to juggle 50 things at once. Your book sounds wonderful and I’m looking forward to reading it!!

    Reply
  • RosieG.
    January 28th, 2010 on 6:56 pm

    Working days long over - so no need to juggle. These books look very good.

    Rosie G.

    Reply
  • Karen T.
    January 28th, 2010 on 1:02 pm

    I would love to win. This series looks great.

    Reply
  • Ruth (CO)
    January 28th, 2010 on 10:28 am

    Greetings,

    I read your books after hearing about them in Pub Rants, read the first and had to finish them all :) I would love to win the paper books as I currently only have them in e-book.

    I work too many hours and paying to have my house cleaned was the best gift I ever gave myself.

    Reply
  • Laurie G
    January 28th, 2010 on 6:03 am

    I’m lucky because I work in a friendly environment. I’ve met some nice people. I have to work, so that helps a lot.
    My sons are away at college that also makes my life easier. My husband is flexible with what he’ll eat and when he’ll eat. He also helps with cleaning and laundry!
    On my days off, I take a walk with my husband, read, relax. It works for me!

    Reply
  • Pearl
    January 28th, 2010 on 3:34 am

    Hi Hank,

    I just discovered and bought the first three books in this series! Looking forward to reading them.

    As for balancing job and personal life. At the moment I have nothing to balance as I am job hunting. But when I worked it was hard balancing the job, social life and hobbies. Every once in a while (usually once a year) I get the feeling of being overwhelmed by everything and everyone pulling on me and wanting “a piece of me”. I am very much a people pleaser and have trouble saying no to requests and demands. But then I sit down, step back and try to breathe through it and be grateful for the wonderful things that I have in my life. I sit and make lists and plans and ways to get some breathing room and all is well again…

    Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 11:37 pm

    I’m so delighted to meet you all..what a wonderful spot. And thank you, Sue, for inviting me. We’ll be announcing winners soon–as always, watch this space.

    You know, I’m here as the poster chid for having your dreams come true. If you’ve always wanted to do something, but worry that, oh, it’s too late–just think of me. And then–go for it!

    Keep in touch, come visit me at my website (just click on my name) and happy reading!

    Reply
  • Lisa G.
    January 27th, 2010 on 10:30 pm

    Hi Hank! Great interview today. Congrats on your new release. I can’t wait to get ahold of it. When I am overwelmed I give myself a time out… in a hot bath tub, candles lit and soft music. I lock the world out and relax until I want to rejoin the outside world.

    Reply
  • Kara C
    January 27th, 2010 on 10:25 pm

    I have a job that I love - most of the time. It is one that could easily take over my life, keeping me busy 24/7. Then I have kids, and those of you who have a couple of those know they can also take over your life and keep you busy 24/7. Somehow, it works out. I’ve tried lists, but quickly conditioned myself to ignore them! lol My mantra for both home and work is ‘I’m never bored’. And isn’t that the truth? I love it - most of the time. :)
    Congrats on the books’ success. Can’t wait to read this newest one.

    Reply
    • Hank Phillippi Ryan
      January 27th, 2010 on 11:32 pm

      Thanks, Kara. Sounds like you’ve got exactly the right attitude! I do hope you love Drive Time–I’m very excited about it. After 30 years in television–and still going strong–writing books people seem to love is absolutely fantastic!

      Reply
  • Chassily Wakefield
    January 27th, 2010 on 9:52 pm

    Hi, Hank, fun interview! Drive Time sounds like a must-read to add to my pile.

    Oh, managing life and work… people do that? LOL Seriously, my to-do lists are my constant companions. I prioritize and get busy, and I make sure the most important thing of all gets done first. Beyond that… Life happens!

    :)
    Chassily

    Reply
  • Donna S
    January 27th, 2010 on 9:37 pm

    Thanks for sharing!! It sounds like a really good series. Look forward to reading it.

    I do balance the two but it is not always easy. And there are many times I wish for just a couple more hours in a day.

    Reply
  • Michelle S.
    January 27th, 2010 on 8:27 pm

    now that i’m working, i try to do all my work stuff at work (even if i have to stay longer but i try not to stay longer than an hour). i don’t think work takes away any of my personal time with my family and friends but it does take away time from my doing other things like reading, writing (i used to journal for hours but now i hardly have time), blogging and crochet during the work week. i do make sure i squeeze in as much reading time as i can during the weekends.

    i haven’t read any of your books yet ms. ryan but they sound really great! congrats on the release! :)

    Reply
    • Hank Phillippi Ryan
      January 27th, 2010 on 9:47 pm

      Michelle–sounds like you have your priorities straight! And the good news about working..it pays the bills! Good for you. (Just as long as you have time to read! I’m on the fabulous blog The LIpstick Chronicles–do you kow it? Our motto: “Just keep reading and nobody gets hurt!” Check my website Http:///www.HankPhillippiRyan.com )

      Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 8:18 pm

    Back from my speech–thanks to everyone who came..it was packed!–and who asked such perceptive and insightful questions. It’s such a treat to hear from peple who read the books, loved them, and consider the characters as people they know. That’s the most gratifying thing, as an author…we sit in our studies, typing away, wondering if anyone wiill care.
    And then, when they do? It’s just–so satisfying. Thank you.

    Reply
  • Mariska
    January 27th, 2010 on 7:36 pm

    A great book indeed :)

    When i was a working mom, My time was spent so much at my work. well, i tried to balance it, with spent my weekend with my family and friends. But, since the job was taken more and more my time with my kids, so i decided to quit. and more concentrate with my kids (at that time he’s 1.5 yos) and i’m happy with my decission :)

    so my advise will be, if you ‘knew’ that the new whole life will be much better , why not to take it ? we won’t know the result until we tried it !

    Reply
  • Chelsea B.
    January 27th, 2010 on 7:19 pm

    I love these books interviews! You really get a good look at what the book is about! I love the way this series sounds!

    Reply
  • Tori Lennox
    January 27th, 2010 on 5:21 pm

    This series sounds like so much fun!

    Reply
  • Anne J
    January 27th, 2010 on 5:12 pm

    I don’t have much of a problem juggling home and job, but I have no children and my job is flexible. I also don’t get stressed about having a clean house. There are more important things to do. (like reading)

    Reply
  • Karyn Gerrard
    January 27th, 2010 on 5:03 pm

    This certainly sounds intriguing to me, Your series sounds wonderful!

    Right now, I have no problem juggling, My working days are over. I don’t miss it either. Happy at home, reading, writing, whatever.

    Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 4:56 pm

    I’m rushing out to do a speech–talk about juggling! So I’ll talk to you all later this evening…speech! Dinner! Dishes! Writing!
    Got to love it…
    xo

    Reply
  • Cindy C.
    January 27th, 2010 on 3:49 pm

    Its so hard to balance personal life and work. I had to give up dates for work, but the economy is really bad so I can’t make that sacrifice. Guess, its going to be a bit lonely for now. I wish guys can understand that work isn’t whats important, but the bills are and the food you need to buy in order to live is.

    What’s your advice for Charlie? Is it possible? Yes, get good hours and someone who is patient, VERY patient.

    Reply
  • Scorpio M.
    January 27th, 2010 on 3:34 pm

    I am not married so I haven’t really had to juggle. Life’s been good and I am happy with both my professional & personal life but I would imagine (and from what I can tell watching my married pals) it depends alot on your significant other. I mean ALOT.

    My advice to Charlie would be: find a good man who loves you to death and is understanding, passionate, compassionate & what the heck…lusty and gorgeous, too (we are talking about fiction, right? so dreams can come true :)). Then juggling work and personal life will be easy-peazy.

    Reply
  • Harley Jane Kozak
    January 27th, 2010 on 3:20 pm

    Hank, a heroine with no hobbies is about the most refreshing thing I can think of. What fun!

    Although hanging out with a 9-year old girl is a sort of hobby unto itself.

    Reply
  • sarah strohmeyer
    January 27th, 2010 on 2:32 pm

    Hi, Hank:

    Having followed this series from the beginning, I love the evolution of Charlie and your weird way with boys’ names. But mostly I love the interesting look into TV news and, of course, Boston.
    I’m so glad this series is getting more and more exposure. It’s really great!

    Sarah Strohmeyer

    Reply
    • Hank Phillippi Ryan
      January 27th, 2010 on 2:41 pm

      Thanks, Sarah! Lovely of you to stop by…
      And wow, we all know where we’ll be Saturday Jan 30 at 9pm…watching Lying to Be Perfect on Lifetime! How wonderful to have a movie based on your Cinderella Pact. (Which gets five stars on Borders.com!) Congratulations!

      Reply
  • Nancy Naigle
    January 27th, 2010 on 2:12 pm

    Can’t wait to dive into this one. Charlie’s a gal after my own heart … juggling a whole of 24/7 demands, but then that’s what makes life interesting, right?

    Thanks for bringing us stories that remind us we’re not the only ones doing a balancing act, and giving us an escape while you’re at it.
    Thanks Hank!
    Nancy Naigle
    Drewryville, VA

    Reply
  • Tia
    January 27th, 2010 on 2:12 pm

    I find that I can balance work and relations just fine, but if I throw in activities, forget it. Reading, exercise and anything else will lag behind.

    Reply
  • vicki batman
    January 27th, 2010 on 1:59 pm

    Hi, Hank. I just finished your first book and loved it, especially all the insight into your business.

    Vicki Batman

    Reply
  • Roberta Isleib
    January 27th, 2010 on 1:46 pm

    Hi Hank, congratulations on the new book! Can’t wait to read it–and I have a lot of experience with the stepfamily challenge so can help Charlie whenever she needs it:).

    and Elaine–we’ve figured out the secret to how Hank manages everything: the woman simply does not sleep…

    Reply
  • Jenny Northern Johnson
    January 27th, 2010 on 1:13 pm

    Dear Hank,
    I wrote more in my note but I had to copy and paste it back in this but apparently I didn’t get it all copied. Sorry for the mistake. I did answer your question in the first response but I didn’t get it pasted in here, so here is my response to your question:

    My schedule usually revolves around doctor’s appointments but I do try to get “me time” mixed in there. I make sure I take along something that will make me smile (book, iPod, notebook, etc). When my husband gets home, I make sure I focus on him and put the other things that are stressing to the side. I think that it is great to make sure you schedule a few hours a week to do something fun for yourself. I always schedule time to go to the library every week. It calms my nerves and is a stress reliever for me. I think it is important to make sure you schedule at least one hour a week to make yourself happy or else your stress level will build. Life is too short to not schedule some happy time each week!

    Reply
  • Jenny Northern Johnson
    January 27th, 2010 on 12:50 pm

    Dear Hank,

    I was fortunate enough to meet you at Bouchercon 2009. You made my trip! I received “Face Time” and LOVED it! Now I can’t wait to read the rest of the book!

    I appreciate the fact that you are so approachable to your fans! It makes reading your book that much more enjoyable. It means a lot, as a new fan, to be able to reach out to you.

    You have also inspired me to finally try to start writing. I have been asked many times to write my life story so I am finally going to give it a try. You told us at Bouchercon that something fantastic would happen to each of us. It did…Bouchercon gave me back my spirit. I came home a different person and much of that was due to you. You put a smile back on my face. :)

    Thank you again for all your kindness! I cannot wait to read “Drive Time” when I get it!

    Jenny

    Reply
  • Quilt Lady
    January 27th, 2010 on 12:41 pm

    What a great prize! Your books sound wonderful! Right now I am not working due to loosing my job but I have been there. It is very hard to keep up with everything and work to. I always had to do it all the housework shopping, laundry, there was no such thing as a weekend for me. I stayed so busy I am not sure now how I keep it all up. I guess I was just younger then.

    Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 12:24 pm

    Hi Helen..yes, lists do help! In fact–there’s a stack of them by my computer right now. Now, all I have to do is look at them from time to time….

    Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 12:23 pm

    Mare! Thank you so much for the kind words about my books…love to hear it.

    xo

    Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 12:22 pm

    Welcome, Rhonda! Yup, The Yo-yo Life! In fact, maybe that’s the perfect title for a non-fiction book. And all of us here today can contribute!

    Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 12:21 pm

    HI GSM–yes, it’s a slippery slope. I had my yearly check-up last week, and the doctor asked me: Do you ever say to yourself…”If I can just get through this, it’ll all be fine?”
    I said, well sure, every day!
    And she said–time to dial it back a bit.
    Food for thought. Which I will think about when I have more time! :-)

    Reply
  • Amy Allgeyer cook
    January 27th, 2010 on 12:20 pm

    What a great interview!! I loved hearing more about Charlotte and Hank’s plans for her future! As a step-mom myself, I can certainly imagine the tension ahead! :)

    Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 12:18 pm

    Hey–Elaine Viets! So great to see you here..and can’t wait for your newest book! Talk about time management..you have two series going at the same time. Now that’s some serious juggling…

    Reply
  • Hallie Ephron
    January 27th, 2010 on 12:16 pm

    I have ALWAYS wondered what happens to my car in valet parking. Charie is a one-off, so funny and authentic. So interesting, taking her into the complications of a family…you are brave…and as others have said, YOU are the expert on the juggling act, my dear. I think you must not sleep.

    Reply
  • Mare F
    January 27th, 2010 on 12:13 pm

    Hank, my life is a catch as catch can kind of place. LOL. If you ever do figure out how to balance it all please share. Until then I’ll just continue to devour your books as soon as they arrive. Just keep ‘em coming.

    Reply
  • Helen L.
    January 27th, 2010 on 11:57 am

    Best wishes on your new book. These books look very interesting. Please count me in for the drawing.

    I am an older lady and try not to get crazy with things but sometimes it is not possible, right? Lists do help - at least then I have it down on paper what must be done. That alone is an accomplishment. LOL.

    Helen L.

    Reply
  • Evelyn David
    January 27th, 2010 on 11:53 am

    Hi Hank,
    Congrats on the new release!I haven’t found any balance yet. I just go back and forth like a yo-yo, home - work - home - work. Something always suffers.

    Rhonda
    aka The Southern Half of Evelyn David

    Reply
  • Jen Forbus
    January 27th, 2010 on 11:45 am

    Yay Hank! Congrats on the new release! :) I don’t juggle both, unfortunately. There’s no significant other right now, so I just juggle the blog and the full-time job. But if you find Mr. Right, point him in my direction.

    Hope to see you soon! Have fun with this release and don’t work too hard. :)

    Reply
  • GSM
    January 27th, 2010 on 11:40 am

    Thanks for visiting today. Love your books. When I was younger, I worked outside the home for a major corporation. I juggled work and family for about a decade and when I think back I realize I was always tired, always cooking and always keeping up with various kids’ activities. The kids are older, and have their own kids. I no longer work outside the home and am happy I can spend more time on volunteer church work and on hobbies–like reading.

    Reply
  • Elaine Viets
    January 27th, 2010 on 11:19 am

    I love your books, Hank, and can’t figure out how you find the time to write, work on air and do the promoting necessary. Have you discovered the 28-hour day?

    Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 10:38 am

    Danielle–time management! It’s got to be the key..and I’m with you. Sometimes I wonder–am I choosing the right thing to do? But were all just doing the best we can, right? And things generally work out for the best…

    And good luck with your writing! Talk about one day at a time…

    Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 10:36 am

    OH, Jennifer, you are so right! Charlie McNally has been married to her job–but what will happen when the camera doesn’t love her anymore?

    Carol L–7 children! You’re amazing. How do you ever have time to sleep–or read–or do nothing? Talk about priorities..you must be completely organized. I’m in awe…

    Reply
  • Danielle Yockman
    January 27th, 2010 on 10:34 am

    Well, we all try. IT is a challenge, and I don’t even have kids yet! But that’s probably b/c I work, I write in my “spare” time, I am active with a local charity. and then I try to pay attention to my fabulous husband.:) I have my mother’s disease. I can’t say no! So for me time management is key, and knowing when I have to let something else suffer for the sake of another item on the list that is a higher priority.

    Reply
  • Carol Luciano
    January 27th, 2010 on 10:23 am

    Hi Hank,
    I haven’t read any of the books yet either but I definitely have them on MTR list as of right now. You certainly have led an interesting life. I have always just tried to get through “today”. One day at a time or I’d never have made it raising 7 children as a single parent. Enjoyed your post.
    Carol L.
    Lucky4750@aol.com

    Reply
  • Jennifer M. (NYC)
    January 27th, 2010 on 9:33 am

    Having never read this series and not knowing Charlotte’s personality I’m just guessing here…I would recommend that she put more priority in her love life, family, friends because no matter how much you love your job and are ambitious, it won’t hold your hand when you are down or offer love when need it most.

    Reply
  • Margay
    January 27th, 2010 on 9:18 am

    Hi, Hank! I used to juggle work and family (back when my girls were young and I was healthy), and as a single parent, it was a real challenge. But I think the key is to not feel guilty that you have to do it and to make the most of the time that you have together. Also, keep open communication with your children so that they understand why you have to work. Of course, it is much easier when they are in school and would be away from you anyway!
    Margay

    Reply
  • Laura (in PA)
    January 27th, 2010 on 9:11 am

    Hank, it’s so great to see you here. I don’t need to be considered for the contest, I have all three Charlie McNally books, and I love them! I can’t wait for Drive Time.

    As far as balance, it’s a lot easier now that my daughter is older, but I still need to make time for my husband and dogs! ;) One thing we both enjoy is spending quiet time with each other at home or doing something fun, so as busy as we may get at work, it’s a priority to make time for home too.

    I hope everyone here checks out Hank’s books - they rock!

    Reply
    • Hank Phillippi Ryan
      January 27th, 2010 on 12:35 pm

      Hey Laura–thank you so much for the kind words about the books…I’m very excited about them, and nothing makes me happier than when people enjoy them.

      Quiet time..very important. Maybe tonight…curing up in a big chair, with a big afghan (a blanket, not a dog..) Sounds lovely.

      Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 9:01 am

    Pat L–oh, what would we do without lists? I have lists of lists–but it does help, doesn’t it?

    Are any of you listmakers? Or do you just–hope you remember everything?

    Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 9:00 am

    Virginia C–thank you so much for the kind words! YOu sound like you really have it worked out…and your laughter idea is genius. SOmetimes I think–I’m going to laugh about all this someday–so why not–laugh sooner?
    SO my motto? LAUGH SOONER!

    Reply
  • Hank Phillippi Ryan
    January 27th, 2010 on 8:58 am

    Hi Jaime! Yes, you’re so right. Just breathe..sounds simple..and it really works. That “taking a moment” to be in the moment–is a wonderful secret to share.

    Reply
  • Jaime Rush
    January 27th, 2010 on 8:19 am

    Hi, Hank! Best of luck with the new book!

    The way I handle feeling overwhelmed is to simply BREATHE. Clear my mind, take a deep breath. It also helps to remember that I can only do what I’m doing right now, so it does no good to think about the 20 other things that need to be done today, too. The only thing that counts is this very moment.

    Reply
  • Virginia C
    January 27th, 2010 on 8:10 am

    Hi, Hank! Let me start off by saying that every time I see your picture, I say to myself: “What a gorgeous lady”! Your love of life shines through in your smile and in your writing : ) I think the best way to balance home and work is to keep the everyday necessities on a slightly flexible schedule. Structure helps to keep kids, pets, spouses, parents and other family members in a somewhat manageable assembly. That way you can handle with a little more ease the curve balls that life throws at you. Sometimes it seems like those curve balls are thrown by a batting machine stuck in overdrive! The important is to realize that family comes first, compromise won’t kill you, and laughter is the best medicine : )

    Reply
  • Pat L.
    January 27th, 2010 on 7:13 am

    What a wonderful prize - I havent read any of this series and it certainly sounds interesting.

    As for balancing work and personal life, it is not always easy. Sometimes I get overwhelmed at just a bunch of little things I must get done in my personal life. Luckily I work close to home so that helps as I am not taking up time getting back and forth. I try to organize things by making lists and not driving myself crazy.

    Pat L.

    Reply
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