Sharilee Swaity... Guest Post

Welcome


I was just thinking of you the other day as I closed the last few pages of your book Second Marriage. It is an impressive read and chalked full of many excellent points. I must share with you and the readers your approach to marriage and commitment speak volumes of many ills we see today.
 
It is my pleasure to introduce Sharilee Swaity and welcome her to the “Fireside.” I believe it has been near 6 years I have been following her writing. If there has been one constant in her writing it has been her consistency to write from the heart. As she shares her experiences in life you get this sense and peace this writer has been on a journey of self-discovery.
 
The area of Canada she calls home displays some beautiful sunsets, sunrises and amazing waves of the lake right out her front door. In the mid seventies I had the privilege of living in her Province she calls home. I worked underground in the iron ore mines and eventually on many of the massive hydro projects throughout her north.  
 
So settle in everyone, as always help yourself to the small buffet set out for you. For now you will have to sample the virtual. 


Beautiful Manitoba 

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As you follow along be sure and keep this picture in mind as it is the setting which Second Marriage and your study guide were written. As writers we all like to think we have a great view but in your case Sharilee you hold the candle as having one of the best.

Sharilee can you tell us a little about yourself?
 
Hi Rolly, I am so happy to spend some time on your blog today. Thanks so much for your kind words! I have also truly enjoyed your homespun warm style of writing for a long time.
 
Well, my name is Sharilee and I have loved books and writing for as long as I can remember. In fact, my Mom told me that instead of finding toys piled up on my bed, she used to find piles of books.

I went to school to become a journalist but ended up switching into education because I thought it would be more a more practical career. I taught school for ten years and really enjoyed it, but the writing bug wouldn’t let me go.
 
Six years ago, I started writing at a place called Hubpages (where I met Rolly) and started doing my own blogs. One year ago, I took the plunge, left my job teaching grade six and devoted myself full time to

What motivated you to write your book your latest book titled Second Marriage?
 
Thanks, Rolly. This book was actually inspired by an article I had written on Hubpages. After a few years, the piece still got quite a few hits every day and to me, that said there were many people looking for good information about how to thrive in a remarriage.
 
I started expanding on the information to see if I might be able to make a book out of it, and four years later, I finally got it finished. I am extremely vulnerable in this book but both my husband and I agreed that we would open up our lives in the hope of helping others.


 Over the years I have followed your writing I have always been impressed with what you write comes from the heart. Can you tell us a little of the process you have established?
 
Rolly, thanks so much. That’s a great question. Yes, my writing tends to be pretty personal. I guess it’s because writing has always been very cathartic for me. As I am to heal and grow in certain areas, I really enjoy helping other people move toward healing, as well.
 
For example, a few years ago, I wrote a hub on the topic of workplace bullying.  I had been through a horrendous experience at a workplace and still felt traumatized by it. One afternoon, I started writing down my experience and all the things I wish I had done differently.
 
I then added in research, lots of good graphics and posted it on Hubpages. That hub is one of the top searches on Google for workplace bullying and has received hundreds of comments.
 
So as far as my actual writing process goes, I tend to write down my own thoughts first on a topic, thinking of whatever I can, from my own experience that might help my audience. Then, I try to add in some stories and examples (either from my own life, from people I know or from reading/movies, etc.) Then, I go to literature and research and look for information to back up and add to what I am saying.
 
So, I start with the personal and add in the science, so to speak. That’s just how my brain works. I am the INFP type, so it works in a different way than a lot of people.
 

Being the educator you are have you ever given much thought of speaking to small groups and sharing your insights?
 
Wow, another fantastic question. Yes, I would absolutely love to! I am just really not sure where to start in making this happen. I would love to give lessons on my materials to small church groups. I will be doing a radio show next week on the topic of my book, so maybe this will be a start. 

For many people stepping into a second marriage involves creating a blended family. Some are instant but there is the extended family that becomes a part of your life. Can you share a little of that experience?
 
When my husband and I got married, his boys were 12 and 14. We had them at our house for every other weekend and it was a big adjustment for all of us. My husband and I have very different personality types, so even though we loved each other, it took a few years to really understand each other.
 
Regarding the blended family, that was something that really took time, too. Being teenagers, they already had their ways and routines. When I tried to change things too quickly, they understandably took offense.
 
We had some pretty tough times but I am happy to say that we are all in a really good place now. They are both in my heart and are making their way as young men in this world.


 Do you have any words of advice Sharilee for others? I know along with your book you have created a study guide. Just reading through it was a journey as well?
 
Thanks, Rolly. The piece of advice I would give to anyone in a second marriage, or starting over in a new relationship, after losing a spouse either to divorce or bereavement is to be patient. Don’t think that because it’s too complicated, it’s not meant to be. Those complications are part of the process. It may take time to work things out but it can definitely be worth it! 


What is your next project you have in mind?
 
Right now, I am almost done a workbook to go with the book. This will allow more space to answer questions from the book. As well, I am creating a second marriage journal. When those are done, I want to do a book about being married to your opposite personality. I have ideas for books in other topics, too, but now I am trying to build a library of books in this particular niche.
 
Thanks so much for having me, Rolly! It has been really interesting. 

Thank you Sharilee for your thoughtful answers. I really do think you are onto something that holds true to both you and your hubby. Material such as this is so needed and is very timely for those who are looking at that opportunity to find love again. 

Here is a link to Sharilee's book... join me in wishing her well on her journey. We are very proud of you... 


https://www.amazon.com/Second-Marriage-Insiders-Guide-Healing-ebook/dp/B071V9DXR5/

Please be sure and leave a comment of encouragement for Sharilee... 

© Rolly A. Chabot 

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Hugs to all