Sally Charette: Constant Chatter Contributor

Sally Charette often scribbles away the predawn hours in coffee houses and all-night diners, which simultaneously satisfies her love of hot beverages, writing and eavesdropping.

Originally from Indiana, Sally is now fully integrated into California life. She works as a script researcher, helping CSI:Miami, Army Wives, Switched at Birth and the occasional feature film stay out of trouble. She regularly travels Southern California and beyond in her pursuit of photography subjects, good food, music and art.

Her blog, Any Given Sundry, reflects her many interests and maybe reveals a little too much about her constant search for novelty. She was a PEN Center/West Emerging Voices fellow and has been in writing workshops, groups or critiquing relationships most of her adult life. The best she's ever felt about being runner-up was the year her first published short story was named "One of 100 Other Distinguished Short Stories" in Best American Short Stories.

Sally lives in the high desert mountains outside of Los Angeles with her husband and a small, deeply devoted flock of birds.  

Articles by Sally Charette

Green Cleaning: It's Easy Going Green

Going green around the house may be easier than you think. Natural products can handle a whole host of cleaning challenges, while making you feel clever, resourceful and like an all-round good citizen. When's the last time you got all that from tidying up your home?

We Tried It: Zumba

It seems like everyone's doing Zumba these days, but if you've never tried it, the dance-inspired fitness class can be intimating to start. Contributor Sally Charette's giving us the inside scoop, filling us in on what to expect, seasoned tips for newbies, the workout's benefits--even what to wear when we join in!

Putting the Muse in Museum

Next time you're looking for a different take on down time, consider a day of culture at a local museum. Not only can you get a fresh perspective, but you can also unwind in an unexpected setting. Contributor Sally Charette explains why you shouldn't downplay the museum options around you.

Recipe: Simple Harvest Grains

Tired of overly simple side dishes that you're never excited to eat? Constant Chatter contributor Sally Charette has developed a grain-based recipe that will keep you healthy and happy and doesn't require a blanket of cheese over the top to taste good.

Grains: Got to Get You Into My Life

When it comes to making healthy meal choices, we often get stuck in a rut of dishes we're already comfortable with. If you're not already of fan of grains, take a moment to check out contributor Sally Charette's perspective on the tasty pellets. You'll have a brand-new easy-to-prepare option for your eating arsenal.

Special Agent Training Saved My Creative Life

Personal empowerment is a mighty thing--and something contributor Sally Charette threw herself into earlier this year. Embarking on a physical and mental challenge with the help of the California ATF, Charette rediscovered her creativity through this intense new experience.

Make Memorable Photo Invitations For Your Party

Will you be hosting a party in the near future? If so, you've got invitations on your horizon. Our creative contributor Sally Charette has several suggestions to help you craft stand-out announcements that are sure to win a place on guests' fridges.

Stories You May Have Missed

New Mommy Files: The Down 'n' Dirty on Diapers

The latest dispatch from the New Mommy Files addresses the raging controversy over cloth diapers vs. disposable. Prepare to be mesmerized by talk of such things as Pre-Folds, Envelope Shells and the St-Lucia Blues. Who knew keeping the planet green and your baby's bottom clean could be so involved?

Beauty on a Budget: Stock Up on Makeup

We've all got our addictions; that habit we just can't kick. Frances Grove certainly does, and she gets her fix at the drugstore. No, it's not a jones for Percocet that gives her the shakes. She needs the really heavy stuff: John Frieda, Revlon, Sally Hansen, L'Oreal, Roc, CoverGirl. You get the picture.

Book Review: Rain Mitchell's "Tales From the Yoga Studio"

Looking for a book that's a blast to read, but won't evaporate from your consciousness the minute you turn the last page? Rain Mitchell's "Tales from the Yoga Studio" offers a slyly clever peek into Lalaland's yoga scene. Nuanced characters, a compelling plot and more than a few laugh-out-loud moments will keep you reading this one well past your bedtime.