By KATIE DE VERTEUIL
FOLLOWS the success of her first memoir ‘Sex, Drugs and Meditation’, long-time broadcaster on ABC Coast FM Radio and author Mary-Lou Stephens is headed to Noosa to launch her latest book ‘How to Stay Married’.
Taking readers around the world, How to Stay Married visits the glitter and glare of Las Vegas, the sub-zero temperatures of the French Alps and the tropical heat of Thailand, all with cabin luggage only.
The memoir is based on writings that Mary- Lou put together whilst on a round the world trip with her husband in 2011. The book also marks her and her husband’s 10th wedding anniversary.
“When we came back from our travels a lot of friends were asking how we managed to travel with cabin luggage only,” Mary- Lou said.
“I took the idea and made it into a metaphor for travelling light in life and relationships.”
While Mary-Lou is excited about the release of her latest book, putting such personal experiences to paper hasn’t always been easy.
“When I was writing Sex, Drugs and Mediation I was terrified the whole way through because it was just so personal,” Mary-Lou said.
“But when it was so well received, that gave me the courage to write this book.”
As for any tips on how to keep a marriage alive, Mary wasn’t going to give too much away but she was clear on one thing.
“I think a lot of people rely on their partner to make them happy,” Mary-Lou said.
“If you own your own stuff and are not always projecting your problems onto your partner and blaming them for what is not working in your life, then the relationship is easier to maintain.
“That’s what has kept out marriage going.”
Mary-Lou Stephens – How to Stay Married will be launched on Tuesday 24 March from 6pm at ‘Annie’s Books on Peregian’, 8 Kingfisher Drive, Peregian Beach.
This is a free event and there will be wine, cheese and a little music to add to the celebration. For further information phone 5448 2053 or visit www.maryloustephens.com.
