Giving Back



George Eshilman, Maggie Toussaint, Wally Orrel

 This past week, I spoke at the Rotary Club in my hometown. The invite flumoxed me at first as this is a group of folks who help others in a very big way. I'm guilty of scheduling myself to the max, so that there's no time leftover for one more thing.

To prepare, I started thinking of giving back and helping others, and I was delighted to realize I had something to say. Now there's no way I give "Service Above Self" like the Rotarians, but I'm not a total slacker either.

About 4 years ago, I wrote, produced, and starred in a mini-series for local access TV on literacy. It was a blast, and I really enjoyed creating the programs. However, 25 minutes of air time equated to more than ten hours per week of prep-work. After I did about 5 shows, I had done all I could do without giving up my paying day job. But it was a community service.

Within the writing realm, I've helped beginning writers with critiques and advice.  I donated the profits from No Second Chance to a horse rescue farm.Outside of writing, I've helped at church, cooked meals for shut-ins, served on the Library Board, wrote newsletters for non-profits, and tutored elementary students.

I'm not saying this to toot my horn, but to seed the helping ground. Chime in and let me know of ways you've helped others. Maybe we'll spark a wave of helping!

Maggie Toussaint
Seeing Red - the bed and breakfast that almost wasn't
$2.99 in all digital formats
http://www.smashwords.com/

A story reborn!

I'm in the process of bringing an early publication back out as an e-book and a trade paperback. SEEING RED is the story of Emma and Quentin and their quest for love.

I'm pleased to say I have a wonderful cover, courtesy of Laura Shin! Take a look for yourself - I hope you like the new "sweeter" look for this classic story. I've always loved staying in Bed and Breakfasts and I loved that movie "The Money Pit." If you've ever done any rennovation, you know what a nightmare it can be.

In Seeing Red, Emma needs to rehab an old property and Quentin's her man. Or he wants to be. She's not sure she wants his attention, but he's keen on building a lasting foundation with her.

Coming soon: SEEING RED!

Maggie Toussaint