OCEAN PARK – Adding to the growing list of accomplished writers on the Peninsula, the work of another local business owner and author will be featured in the newest edition in a series commonly known for featuring thematic and inspirational short stories.

An Ocean Park resident, Candace Carteen’s short story, “Stork Stand,” was submitted to and chosen for publication in “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Grieving and Recovery,” which is set to be released in February.

In “Stork Stand,” Candace discusses how a 10-day trip to Hawaii resulted in helping her son, Keefer, remain close to his father, George Blakeslee, who passed away suddenly three years ago.

George had arranged a trip to Hawaii to celebrate the couple’s anniversary. Though reluctant, Candace decided to go on the vacation anyway, as Keefer convinced her that they could bring George’s ashes to Hawaii. On the island of Kauai, Candace and Keifer sprinkled his ashes into the Pacific Ocean as a way to say thank you, as well as goodbye.

Little did she know that a few months later, back on the Peninsula,

“It was just a story that had to be told because that scene was way too dramatic for me,” Candace says.

She says about 10 or more of her stories have been published in the Chicken Soup book series. Her stories can also be found in the “God Allows U-Turns” series, “Cup of Comfort” series, Aviation Career Magazine, Guide Magazine and others. One of her stories, “In God’s Eyes,” has been published in 17 languages and is often used in church sermons.

Anyone interested in purchasing copies of “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Grieving and Recovery” can contact Carteen at 665-4243.