A couple of months ago Crystal reached out to me and asked if I would be interested in reading an advanced copy of her anthology, Clash of the Couples. I agreed, IF I could also do an accompanying Be Inspired interview because y’all, authors and editors INSPIRE me! It’s probably the fact that I used to be an English teacher and my Master’s degree is in Reading but I think that people who pursue their dream to write, edit, or compile books are pretty awesome! So not only would I recommend reading more about Crystal’s dreams below, because I think they’re inspiring, but I would also recommend checking out the book…because it is laugh out loud funny…and makes a great Christmas present!
It is my hope that you leave this blog feeling inspired. Whether you spend 2 minutes reading the blog every month or check the blog on a daily basis, it is my hope that when you click away from my site you leave inspired. Inspired to try something new. Inspired to step out of your comfort zone. Inspired to embrace a new challenge. Inspired to make a difference. Inspired to dream big and chase those dreams. Inspired to live life a little bit different. Inspired to be the best you possible. This series introduces you to people and stories that inspire me and it is my hope that they will inspire you as well.
Meet Crystal…
What dream are you currently pursuing?
I am currently pursuing my dream of publishing my own book. I’ve had a draft sitting for six years now that needs to be tightened up and edited. It’s a paranormal romance story and, yes, I’m a hardcore Twilight fan.
What is your biggest dream?
To see my family life turned into a sitcom! HA! Seriously. You would not believe what goes on around here. Having five kids and a younger husband means crazy stuff happening all of the time. My biggest dream is retiring in an Italian villa next to a vineyard.
What accomplishment are you most proud of in your life?
I don’t have to think about this one. My kids. They are my world, and I am so proud of them!
Who has been an inspiration to you and how have they inspired you?
My grandmother was my biggest source of inspiration as a child. She encouraged me to write and to believe in myself. Because of her, I have been writing since I was three. I’ve also been inspired by so many in our blogging community. The talent out there is incredible.
How do you handle obstacles that arise as you pursue your dreams?
Prozac? No. I just anticipate and overcome. Find a workaround. All obstacles can be eliminated if you are determined to succeed.
Can you share a few interesting facts about yourself?
-I once worked out with Sean Penn and didn’t know it.
-I’m addicted to coffee and vampire TV (The Originals and Vampire Diaries).
-I have five kids; the oldest and youngest are 23 years apart.
-I chose People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive 2014. They forgot to mention that in their announcement.
Since this anthology is all about couples, what is your best piece of advice for newly married couples?
Never go to bed angry at each other. And I mean that. Try to work out problems sooner than later before they manifest into those unfortunate irreconcilable differences.
Other than your own (which was hilarious!) what is your favorite story in Clash of the Couples?
Since I compiled the collection, I’m not at liberty to pick favorites. Each story added something magical to the book. I especially love the fact that we broke the norm with a co-ed edition! That guys really brought their A-game to
Clash of the Couples.
I hope y’all enjoyed getting to know a little bit more about Crystal and are inspired by what she has accomplished! I’d also love to hear, what books are on your Christmas wish list or on your Christmas giving list?
8 Comments
Monique
Great interview Julie! This book looks awesome, congratulations Crystal for putting the time and effort into getting it finished and up on Amazon. Lord knows us writers could all use some of that motivation! 🙂
Marcia @ Menopausal Mother
Great interview! Crystal is truly amazing and an inspiration to us all!
Sarah (est. 1975)
Terrific interview! Love love love Crystal, and the book is fabulous. Thanks for promoting it!
Chris Carter
Crystal – YOU inspire me with everything you are able to accomplish all the while being a mother to FIVE children!!!! Your endless energy and infinite investment in your work with supporting other writers in launching their literary dream… blows my MIND. I for one, do not know another woman out there who is as gifted and generous as you…
Thank you for sharing with us all your ongoing wisdom, experience, and insight into the publishing world and most importantly? Thank you for never wavering in your commitment to all that is GOOD. You are a force of light in the writing community. Lord knows, we all need more of that. 🙂
Crystal
Thank for hosting us! And for allowing me to answer some questions! I enjoyed the interview! 🙂
Ginny Marie
Crystal truly is inspiring! I love how she gets an idea in her head and she goes for it!
My book wish list is getting very long…and I’ll probably be giving Clash of the Couples as a gift to several people!
Julia @ Frantic Mama
I loved reading the interview with Crystal. She is such a smart, energetic writer and businesswoman. Definitely an inspiration for those of us who think having just 2 kids is hard :). Thank you for reading Clash of the Couples!
~Julia
Kevin Zelenka
Loved the interview! Thanks for reading the book, and sharing your review with your readers! It was as much fun to help write as it was to read.