Writing, Not Retired

September 8, 2026 | Waterside RV Resort | Sebring, Florida

Yes. It’s been eight months since our last post. And in that time, something new, or renewed, has occurred.

Cheryl is writing.

Before we delve into what, let’s talk about why. During our 24th wedding anniversary lunch in May, Cheryl asked Marsha the question:

“Of all the things I’ve written, am writing, and hope to write, which do you think I should focus on right now.”

“Which one is closest to being done?” Marsha asked.

Cheryl thought.

“The one I’ve been writing for more than 40 years. My own story shaped into literary fiction.”

Cheryl tends to have many irons in the fire at once, which usually worked out fine when she was juggling a career in the workforce. In retirement, not so much. She had to pick one thing to focus on and finish. And so, she did.

From May 19 until August 1, Cheryl wrote. She researched, culled through thousands of journal entries, photographs, memories, and fragments to complete her novel, And the Sea Shall Be No More.

Since then, it’s been a month of sending queries to literary agents hoping to land one and have the book published. So far, three “it’s not for me” responses and crickets everywhere else. But, it’s to be expected. Landing an agent is very tough. It’s not unlike applying for a job. And just like the job search, we’re confident the right one will come along in its own time. Until then, Cheryl sends at least 10 queries each week, and she’s writing the second book in the planned series.

The above photograph is Cheryl’s screensaver. It also bears the quote that is the inscription for the novel. The quote comes from Retelling Sacred Stories: Our Journeys to a Shared Sacred Story published by the Fetzer Institute. It’s well worth the read.

It’s very hard to put yourself out there. Even harder when it feels like you’ve just exposed yourself to the world. What Cheryl has written is fiction, but it’s based on her own journey to hope and wholeness.

Since finishing the book and sending out queries, we’re also hosting weekly reading sessions with our friends here in Florida, Georgia, and Michigan. We’ve managed to get through the first four sections and will read the fifth this Thursday. “Getting through” has been much easier with wine, laughter, a few tears, and lots of discussion. So far, so good.

If you’re interested to follow this part of our retirement journey, stay tuned. Cheryl has added a couple sections to this site: The Writing Life, Publications, and Selected Works. Check them out, and spread the word.

One day, hopefully very soon, you can say “I knew her when …” and perhaps join us for a book launch party or reading.

Welcome to the next chapter in our retirement saga!