After a truly spectacular time in New York City, it was time to head south to Baltimore, Maryland, the city of my birth. From the moment I was born I knew I didn't belong here and longed to escape. It wasn't until I stepped foot in Toronto, Ontario as a teenager that I truly felt at "home". Although my parents remained in Baltimore, each visit became shorter and shorter as the desire to be anywhere else grew. THIS time however, I decided to view the city with a new perspective. I set the intention to experience my time there from a different lens, that of a tourist. I secured a dog-sitting gig for the first four days and stayed in a part of town close to the inner harbor and area where I spent a lot of time as a child. I was curious to see what would unfold, and that curiosity led to quite the adventure.

Like my time in NYC, the fall foliage in Baltimore was also spectacular. The trees were bursting with color, and I took every opportunity to capture the beauty around me. The BEST part of the trip was reconnecting with my oldest and dearest friend, Nicole who I've known for 40 years. We first met thanks to our love of baseball. I was 13 and she was 11 as we met at Memorial Stadium cheering on our Orioles. It was so wonderful to see her again and catch up.

The home I was staying in was a few blocks from Patterson Park and I loved spending time there each day walking the dog and taking in all the beautiful landscapes. The weather was also perfect with sunshine and mild temperatures which was such a blessing. Memories flooded my consciousness of another time as a child spending time in the park and skating at the outdoor rink which now has become an enclosed skating center. 

In addition to time at the park, I strolled down to Fells Point and the Inner Harbor taking in the shops and cafes along the waterfront. The smell of fresh baked bread lured me into one of the bakeries to satisfy my taste buds. Along the way I had to smile when I came upon this Mermaid at the entrance of a home surrounded by cobbled-stone roads. 

At the Inner Harbor, the holiday decor welcomed me with a small outdoor rink located between the shopping complexes. The USS Constellation (pictured above in the first photo), built in 1854, is the focal point of the main harbor area welcoming tourists. It's been there as long as I can remember and has quite the story as the last sail-only war ship built by the United States Navy. It now serves as a museum ship and National Historic Landmark. There are a few other ships from the 1930s and 1940s that also graced the Harbor waters.

If you're not familiar with the history of Baltimore, it's pretty cool. The Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812 was highlighted with the defeat of the British at Ft. McHenry during which Francis Scott Key wrote a poem that would become "The Star-Spangled Banner", which would become our national anthem in 1931. The Baltimore-Ohio Railroad is the nation's oldest railroad built in 1830. And of course, there's the CRAB, Baltimore's signature dish with its location situated on the Chesapeake Bay. I've never liked crab, so another reason I never belonged here. HA!

Being able to experience the city with this fresh outlook and mindset was wonderful. I felt like I was visiting for the first time and each experience was new. I will say the public transit system could do with some improvement. The buses never came on schedule, and it was pretty much a guessing game as to when I'd arrive at my desired destination. Luckily, I was in no hurry, so it didn't matter much. Also, where I was staying was pretty much walking distance from all the places I wanted to visit, so I ended up walking more than relying on the buses.

After my dog-sitting gig, I moved to my parent's home north of downtown for the remainder of my stay. It was a pretty somber time as my mom's health had severely deteriorated since my last visit earlier in the year. She was bedridden and not eating and we knew we didn't have much time left with her. She had told me early on in the year that she wouldn't make it to the end of 2023, so we took time to enjoy our moments together, even though we were never close. My dad had become a 24/7 caretaker for my mom and was exhausted, so I tried to do the best I could to lighten the load a bit. I stocked the house with food and begun the decluttering process of going through all the photographs in frames around the house and consolidating everything into one box. Organized things and got rid of a lot that no longer served a purpose.

November was also our birthday month, and since I wouldn't be there on the actual day, we celebrated a bit early with cake. On November 15th I kissed my mom goodbye (knowing intuitively it would be the last time I'd see her). Said so long to my dad and promised to come back in January after the holiday season, and I headed back to L.A. I was grateful for the time spent in Baltimore, and especially grateful to view it with new eyes. 

So, my question for YOU is this - Where were YOU born and how do you feel about that place? Do you feel a strong connection or none at all? Perhaps a fresh perspective might change the way you feel as well. Here's to looking at life through a new filter.

On October 23rd I grabbed my suitcase and backpack and headed to LAX for the first stop on my year-long travel adventure, the BIG APPLE - New York City. I was super excited to get back to The City as I had lived there in my 20s and remembered how the energy felt, that belief that anything was possible. I was gifted the plane ticket and an apartment in the heart of Manhattan to call home during my stay. It was located in Tudor City near the East River and a few blocks from Grand Central Station, a PERFECT location for exploring the City.

Tudor City is a 13-building complex consisting of 11 housing coops designed by Fred F. French in the 1920s. It's named for its Tudor Revival Architecture and lies on the National Register of Historic Places. The apartment I stayed in was the perfect bachelorette pad complete with doorman. You felt as though you had stepped back in time. I felt so blessed for the opportunity to be back in the City and get the opportunity to explore at my leisure without much of an agenda. I simply would allow life to unfold before me each day, and it was wonderful.

Once I unpacked and figured out where the grocery store was, I set out to see the one item on my list of must visit, the Brooklyn Bridge. Something about that bridge calls to me, the same as the Golden Gate in San Francisco. There's just something so beautiful about the structure and the way it makes me feel when I see it. Siri even found it mesmerizing and requested a photo op. It was also fun to see the great pumpkin display which was a very popular photo background.

Next up was Times Square and I had fun with promoting my latest book, THE MANIFESTING MERMAID. I also really loved how I could walk to all my favorite places including Bryant Park which was decked out with its holiday market and ice rink.

It was fun to return to FAO Schwarts and see the rink at Rockefeller Center, but I must say my favorite spot where I literally could have spent all day, every day was Central Park. The blessing of visiting NYC in October was the glorious Autumn Colors in full bloom. It was simply spectacular. Of course, a trip to the City is not complete without a visit to Serendipity 3 on East 60th for their famous Frozen Hot Chocolate. If you've seen the film, SERENDIPITY, you know what I mean. If you haven't, GO! Such a great film. One of my favs.

A first which was very exciting was a trip on the Staten Island Ferry (which is free by the way) and getting view of the Statue of Liberty and the City on what was a glorious day. That was the BEST part. I packed winter clothes and yet brought the L.A. weather with me. One day it reached 80 degrees and was simply lovely. I also checked out the High Line which is public park with a walkway above the main street. It was filled with colored trees and plants. Just beautiful. Another favorite moment was visiting the Intrepid Museum which was spectacular. Along with the ship I was able to see the Space Shuttle and Submarine, both extraordinary. So happy I visited. 

On one particular day I decided to visit all the sites I mentioned in my book, SHUFFLING THE TIDES which take place during the maiden voyage of the RMS Queen Mary which pulled into Pier 90 in May 1936. It was wonderful to visit the neighborhood where my characters stayed, the restaurant where they met, and of course the Pier. Spending time in the different neighborhoods also sparked new ideas for future books that are currently in my head. I have about 15 waiting to birth. I know they will come precisely when they are meant to. 

Each day was filled with a new adventure, and I was always delighted with what showed up. I was flying high and loving life. There were however a couple instances when I was brought screeching back to earth. One in particular really shook me. I decided to visit this rooftop bar, which was nice, but when I went to exit, I went through the wrong door (even though it had an EXIT sign on it). It led out to a metal staircase that you could see through ALL THE WAY DOWN twenty plus floors. I've never been afraid of heights, but will admit, my stomach turned. I almost panicked as the door had locked behind me, and the thought of having to walk down those stairs was I'll admit, frightening. I mustard up the courage and took one step down. ALARMS WENT OFF and I immediately turned around to head back up. The door had unlocked, and staff waited on the other side not too pleased as I went through. Phew! The other time came when I went to visit the Public Library and was crossing the street when a truck decided to test the yellow light and just missed me. Another Phew!

So, with my life still intact, I ended my 10-day stay in New York City feeling so very grateful for the opportunity to spend time there. It was a wonderful trip and perfect way to kick off this new adventure. Thanks for coming along on this journey with me. Up next, Baltimore, Maryland.

PERCEPTION is 2020!

This is what my Muse whispered to me one morning a couple weeks ago. At first I thought it meant I needed to publish my 10th book, PERCEPTION which has been sitting on a shelf in my mind for over a year. I had initially planned to release it in November, 2018, but it wasn't ready. I realize now it's because I still had A LOT more to learn. Now I'm thinking the message too meant a LOT more than just the book.

Everything in our lives is based on perception, our individual unique perception which is created by every aspect of our lives and the filter we view life through. I realize there is so much more on the subject I want to share in the book in addition to the continuation of the story from my 7th book, PEARL.

What I love about life is that I'm always surprised. Although I'm quite intuitive, it's nice to envision an outcome and then have it appear in a way that is so much better than I could have hoped or imagined.

One example came last month as I had hoped to go out on the boat to spend time on Mother Ocean with a fellow MerSis here in L.A. We were excited as it was a glorious warm day. However when we arrived at the dock, we were the only ones there and the Captain informed us they needed at least ten people to go out. We were so disappointed as we drove away. I suggested we go to Malibu and hike Point Dume and possibly catch a glimpse of some whale from above. MerSis however suggested we grab a bite to eat first and then explore El Matador State Beach which I had never visited before. I was excited as I always love exploring new places.

Well, when we arrived it was like a dream. Beauty in every direction. The BEST part was the timing. It was December 12th and we arrived at 12:12pm. It was perfect as if it was the place we were meant to be. As we walked barefoot in the sand and sea, I felt such peace amongst the chaos that is our world today. We walked through the rock formations and it really did feel as though we were going through a portal of sorts, stepping into the next chapter of our lives. I captured the photo above and every time I look at it, I feel that sense of peace. It was truly magical.

We didn't see any marine life that day, but it didn't matter. We were precisely where we needed to be. So the next time your plans don't work out as you imagined, try to take a moment and appreciate where you end up. It may just be a nice surprise. 

How to stay ORGANIZED in 2020!

I usually have the same routine at the end of every year. I purchase a new Day Planner, a new Journal, a new wall calendar and things to keep me organized once the New Year rolls around. This time around was a little different. I wanted to create some structure in my life around my daily activities. My background in event management comes into play in terms of being organized. I function better with structure. 

I knew what I wanted to focus on daily, my Morning Routine which is so important. I begin each day with a Gratitude session followed by some ways to focus on my intentions. I also wanted to focus on my Top Priorities and the action steps I would take daily to fulfill them. I then wanted to keep track of my Hour of Power, 60 minutes broken down into three areas (Exercise, Mindfulness and Study). I also wanted to wrap up each day with a Gratitude session and also have space to Journal. 

I couldn't find anything online or in stores that included everything I wanted, so I decided to create it myself and did so in no time. It was fun and I'm thrilled with my new planner. As I began writing in it, new areas popped up in my mind that I wanted to keep track of, eating habits, finances, etc. I simply made room for everything and ideas popped up to revise the planner for next year.

Creating a routine each morning to go through my steps and write down my intentions and priorities feels great. Even if I don't accomplish everything I set out to each day, I don't punish myself. I simply acknowledge that I did my best and I celebrate what I do accomplish. 

My Pearls of Wisdom planner is available on AMAZON if you'd like a copy of your own. Those who subscribe to my newsletter received a free digital copy.

What's New?

2020 Writing for Hollywood Summit!

I'm thrilled to announce I will be hosting the Inaugural Writing for Hollywood Summit as part of the 2020 San Francisco Writers Conference next month. Last year I led the Book to Screen track at the conference supporting writers who were interested in adapting their work for the screen. It was such a huge success that I was asked to expand on the track and create a one-day summit. The result, this fabulous event that I can't wait to share with those interested in a career in the entertainment industry. I'm so looking forward to returning to the Bay Area and excited to support you every step of the way. 

2020 MASTERCLASSES!

It's Simply Publishing Masterclass 
In this class you will learn a step by step process to writing, marketing and publishing your first book.
​Have you had a book inside of you for WAY TOO LONG?
Are you ready to add AUTHOR to your name in 2020?
Then this class is for you.
LEARN MORE & REGISTER

​How may I support you moving forward?

What is YOUR big dream for 2020 and where could you use some support?

Share in the comments.

Until next time, continue to DREAM BIG and here's to a fabulous New Year!

​Cali

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

Yes, I realize it's been MONTHS since I've posted a blog on my site and my apologies. I am hoping to become more active in this department come 2020. I do post regularly on Instagram and Twitter, but this is after all my home on the web.

2019 was quite the year, a roller-coaster ride for sure. The first six months were absolute bliss. I was able to secure funding to officially launch my own production company, Tower 15 Productions and I woke up every day doing precisely what I loved, creating and supporting other creatives. Then the money ran out and I was still building the infrastructure and didn't have funds coming in. That made for a very difficult second half of the year. 

There were however some bright spots along the way, and one really BIG moment was releasing my short film, INVISIBLE which sheds light on the homeless crisis here in L.A with a focus on prevention. You can learn more about the film HERE and check out photos from our first public screening earlier this month. If you are in the L.A. area and would like to host a screening, please reach out. I'd love to share my work and spark a discussion on what we all can do to help.

I have BIG plans for 2020 and super excited for the year ahead. I'll post a more in depth update around the New Year.

Wishing you and your families a joyous holiday season and all the best for 2020.

​Cali

How can you pay it forward?

Think of ways that you can become involved in either your alma mater or through organizations within your community to pay it forward. I'd love to hear your thoughts. Are you involved with any organizations at this time? I'd love to hear how YOU are making a difference.

SPARK CHANGE SUMMIT - Click HERE to learn more.

NEVERTHELESS documentary - Click HERE to learn more about this film bringing light to sexual harassment and assault in the workplace.

BE NATURAL - the untold story of Alice Guy-Blache, the first female film director. Click HERE to learn more.

HERSTORY - To learn more about this organization supporting women empowerment and to sign up to speak at the Global Empowerment Women's Conference, click HERE. 

PEARL Documentary - As mentioned, I hope to launch a crowdfunding campaign in June for my PEARL doc. Click HERE to follow along.

WRITER'S PROGRAMS - If you are dreaming of publishing a book by the end of the year and seek some guidance, I would love to support you.

To learn more about the IT'S SIMPLY PUBLISHING Masterclass, click HERE.

To learn more about my VIP DAYS in Santa Monica, click HERE.

If you'd like to be one of the SIX women to join me in September at my Writer's Retreat, click HERE.

If you'd like to stay updated more frequently, I post daily to INSTAGRAM and TWITTER.

I can't wait to hear about what you have been up to. Comment below and share. I would love to support you on your journey and cheer you on every step of the way.

Until next time,

​Cali

Thrilled to kick off the month of March and Women's History Month by announcing the launch of my very first WRITER'S RETREAT here in Santa Monica. I've always envisioned bringing together a group of heart-centered women and supporting one another in sharing our transformational stories with the world. In June I plan to do just that, and hope you will join me.

2019 San Francisco Writers Conference
This year's conference was more than I could have ever hoped for. It was my 7th year attending and I had a blast. After serving as a volunteer, program designer and speaker over the years, this year I was given the task of leading a new track called BOOK-SCREEN on screenwriting and filmmaking. It was a huge success and I'm thrilled with the response we received from those in attendance. I'm so grateful to my colleagues who joined me on the panels and the wealth of information each shared to those just starting out in publishing/filmmaking.

It was such a huge success that I've been invited back next year to expand the track and teach a masterclass which I'm super excited about. I feel blessed to be able to pay it forward, and grateful for the opportunity. Special thanks to SFWC Director, Laurie McLean and SFWC Marketing Director, Barbara Santos for their continued support.

It's Simply Publishing Masterclass
During the conference I announced the launch of my new online masterclass, It's Simply Publishing. The course is being offered through Teachable and I'm so excited to reach a broader audience and support writers across the globe.

​To learn more, click HERE. 

It's Simply Screenwriting - Book Two of the It's Simply FILM Series
With the success of the screenwriting/filmmaking track at the San Francisco Writers Conference and the invitation to return next year, I figured it's the BEST time to launch the second book in my FILM series.

It's Simply Screenwriting will be released in January, 2020 and feature valuable information from top female screenwriters as a guide for those just starting out. I'm currently recruiting those to include in the book and excited to share their stories with you.

If you know of a female screenwriter who you would like to see featured, drop me a line with her name, website or IMDB page.

VIP DAY Santa Monica
One of my favourite things to do is host a fellow writer in my hometown of Santa Monica, California and guide them throughout the process of creating a strategic plan for their book project while also showing off what makes SaMo so special. Beginning this month, I will be offering TWO (2) VIP DAYS each month to writers who hope to add AUTHOR to their names in 2019. 

Are you one of them?

If so, click below to learn more. I can't wait to connect and support you every step of the way.

And the OSCAR goes to?

Did you watch the Academy Awards broadcast?
Did you love it as much as I did?

I have to say it was my favourite Oscars of all-time. I've watched the awards show year after year for MANY years, but I'll have to admit, I usually channel surf while watching. THIS YEAR however, I was glued to the tube and didn't change the channel once.

Of course opening the show with QUEEN & Adam Lambert
on stage was HUGE!

It was wonderful to see all the first-time winners and so many independent films receiving recognition. It was truly inspiring and gave me hope as a filmmaker that one day I could indeed grace that stage with my own work. It also inspired me to work even harder and create a piece of work that has substance and will truly move people. As an artist, that is my goal, to create a piece of ART that inspires and brings hope to others.

It was also such a thrill to see people I know WIN and listen to their words as they took the stage. Huge congrats to Paul Massey and John Ottman on their work for Bohemian Rhapsody, as well as Peter Farrelly and his work on Green Book. Two spectacular films and well-deserved wins.

What was YOUR favourite part?

​Leave a comment below and share. It was such an exciting year for film, and I can't wait to see what 2019 brings.

2019 has certainly started off on a HIGH note and I'm super excited to see what March brings. I have so much I want to do, so many I want to support, and I'm grateful to wake every day and do just that. If I can support YOU in any way, please feel free to leave a comment and reach out. Taking that first step is the key to success and making your dreams come true.

Until next time, onwards and upwards.

​Cali

TOWER 15 is OFFICIAL
A few days after my last update I received the start-up funding for my production company. It's amazing how things can change overnight. On Christmas I was wondering if I'd have to put my dream on hold or even if I'd have a home come the New Year. Then on January 2nd I was registering my business with L.A. County. I felt like the miracle I had asked for was fulfilled, and it was such a blessing.

My mission for Tower 15 Productions is INSPIRING CREATIVES THROUGH EDUCATION & COLLABORATION. It is my dream to collaborate with and support other creatives in the areas of publishing, photography and filmmaking so that together we can share our creative projects with the world. I have learned so much from amazing mentors over the years and now it's time to pay it forward. I can't wait.

FULL SUPER MOON LUNAR ECLIPSE
Did you happen to catch the Super Moon Lunar Eclipse the other day? It was spectacular. I was fortunate to receive my brand new Canon camera earlier in the day so I could capture this photo. I was so pleased. I'm amazed at what I can do with my cell phone in terms of filming and photos, but nothing like having a great camera.

I love the moon so much. I feel such a strong connection to her. Her energy is powerful and days before the eclipse I had a migraine and just wanted to sleep. I listened. After she rose on eclipse day, I felt much better.
​
​Do YOU feel her? If so, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

WHAT'S ON TAP?
My next BIG event is the San Francisco Writers Conference next month where I will be leading a new track entitled BOOK TO SCREEN which will focus on screenwriting and filmmaking. I'm so excited to support those writers interested in a film career and share panels with my fellow screenwriters and filmmakers.

In developing Tower 15 Productions I'm eager to learn what other creatives are desiring in the industry. My plan is to offer classes, workshops, networking events, and resources in the areas of publishing, photography and filmmaking.

Is there something ELSE you would like to see? What is missing for the artist? How can I serve YOU?

Eager to hear your thoughts.

Until next time,

Cali

Hello All! Happy Holidays!
It's hard to believe another year has gone by and as we approach 2019, I'm excited for this new chapter. 2018 was quite the year, and as I've mentioned before, not one I expected. I know I'm not the only one who feels this way. It was a bit of a rollercoaster ride. I will say however, that I'm grateful for 2018 because it was yet another year of massive GROWTH!

I learned a lot about myself and those around me. I learned about the life I was living and the one I choose to create. That's the BIGGEST lesson learned, that we all have a CHOICE. Despite the fact that we live in various places around the globe and under various circumstances that comprise our lives, we each have a choice as to how we live our lives. It starts from WITHIN!

The last few weeks have brought massive clarity which I'm also grateful for, and I have BIG plans for 2019. Below you'll find all the latest details. I'm so grateful for your support of my work and my dreams and hope to connect with you in the New Year. Here's to dreaming and dreaming BIG!

RETURN TO SUNDANCE!
2019 kicks off on a great note as I return to Park City, Utah for the Sundance International Film Festival. I first attended Sundance some 13 years ago and it was magical. There's something special about the energy of Park City, walking down Main Street and taking in all the action of the films, events and gatherings. THIS year I'm super excited to announce that I have been selected as one of the official VOLUNTEERS for the festival and will be working mostly in the Press Center supporting the media covering the events. I'm so excited and grateful for the opportunity to lend my skills and expertise to an industry I love and be of support any way I can. I'm also looking forward to catching up with my fellow filmmakers and soaking in every minute of my time there. If you will be in Park City during the festival, let me know and hopefully we can connect. Should be a fabulous time.

DREAM BIG and don't be afraid to put in the WORK!
In 2012 I began the year with a clean slate, or blank canvas as I like to refer to that period of my life. I had just experienced the most transformational year of my life in 2011 where I lost a LOT including a child and my home. I needed an outlet for my emotions as there was so much inside of me that needed to be released. That outlet was WRITING. At the end of 2011 I released my first book, IT'S SIMPLY SAUSALITO which was a combination of my writing and photography, but I wanted more. I wanted to learn everything I could about book publishing and the publishing industry as a whole. That's when I discovered the San Francisco Writer's Conference.

That first year in 2012 I decided to sign up to volunteer even though the conference was about a month away. As it would be, there was ONE slot available, and I was offered the opportunity. I loved every moment and learned so much. I was also able to meet the conference director, Michael Larsen. I expressed my dream of learning about the industry even though I was homeless at the time. He took me under his wing and taught me so much. Each year I would return to volunteer at the conference and learn. Soon I was publishing book after book of my own and then invited as a SPEAKER sharing my own journey and success to those just starting out.

In February I will be attending again, but this time leading a new track on Screenwriting & Filmmaking. I can't tell you how excited I am to share this track with those in attendance and connect with fellow screenwriters and filmmakers who I've called friends over the years. We're hoping this can be a track that grows each year so that we can support another crop of screenwriters and filmmakers and support them on their journeys. To learn more about the San Francisco Writers Conference, click HERE. I can't wait to meet you in February.

MY BIG DREAM!
In 2019 I plan to officially launch my production company, TOWER 15 PRODUCTIONS and set it up as a 501(c)3 non profit organization to support creatives through education and the arts. I have a passion for the arts and for creating. It makes me feel alive and I want to share that with others.

I have so much I want to share and have spent 2018 putting all the pieces together. I'm still working on securing the start-up funding to get this project off the ground, but have faith in doing just that and living the life I'm meant to live. Stay tuned for some exciting ways to help over the next month, and for an opportunity to be a part of the film projects I currently have in place. I can't wait to share this journey with you.

     2018 was a very interesting year and one I really didn't see coming. I was so excited to kick off the New Year and had such high hopes for what this year would bring. Yet it turned out to be one of MANY lessons and LOTS of growth, all of which I believe was for my own benefit and soul's evolution.

2018 was also a year of REFLECTION, looking back at the last seven years and being so grateful for everything I overcame and how much I accomplished. One thing is for sure, I couldn't have done it without YOU!

Being able to share my creative gifts with the world has indeed been a dream come true, and one I hope to continue into 2019 and beyond.

So happy to have you along for the ride.

Cali

Skating Documentary
Back in the day before I decided to pursue my creative passions for writing, photography and filmmaking, I was actually an athlete, a figure skater to be precise. After 12 years and a realigned spinal column, I hung up the skates to pursue journalism and event management. But I'll always cherish those 6:00 am ice times and that beautiful clean sheet of ice. In this photo I'm pictured with World Champion and two-time Olympic silver medalist, Brian Orser. We skated for the same club in Ontario.

So when fellow skater and filmmaker, Sharidan Williams-Sotelo asked for support with her new project, GO FIGURE, how could I say no? I'm thrilled to support her and fellow skater, Randy Gardner with this film. We're currently one week into the crowdfunding campaign on Seed & Spark, and just selected as the Staff Pick.

You can learn more HERE and many thanks for the support.