I had the pleasure of lunching today with April Lurie, author of a wonderful debut ‘tweener novel, Dancing In The Streets of Brooklyn (Delacorte, 2002). (See a review from Story Circle). April lives in nearby Round Rock, Texas, which is a suburb of Austin. She’s terrific company, whip-smart, and has the most beautiful smile.

Speaking of the Austin area, Ballet Austin and Pollyanna Theatre Company are putting on “Trail Of Tears: Walking The Choctaw Road,” based on the YA book Walking The Choctaw Road: Stories From Red People Memory by Tim Tingle. (Lovely man, highly recommended as a speaker). “This production combines dance with dialogue to explore the stories of the Choctaw Indians during the Indian Removals of 1830.” The event (for young audiences, defined as ages 8+) will be held at the Texas School for the Death, 1102 South Congress Avenue at 3 p.m. Jan. 22. For tickets, call 512.476.2163 or visit the Ballet Austin box office at 501 W. 3rd St. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Thanks to April who told me all about this at lunch!

More personally, Tracy (my best friend from high school) has joined her real estate practice with her her husband’s. If you’re in the Denver area and need a house, check out team Russell and tell them “Cyn” sent you!