I knew today would be better. After over 24 hours of travel, my husband is safe and sound at his destination. I've set myself up for a quiet weekend of self-care and decluttering. So far, so good! I have comfort food in the crockpot, plenty of healthy snacks (and one or two not-so-healthy like that... Continue Reading →
Day 1 – Resetting the Llama Week: Valent-Sighs Day
My house is quiet. My cat is staring at me. Everything feels off-kilter. What? Did you expect me to be lighthearted all the time? Let's settle for most of the time, shall we? It started sometime around the holidays. "I'll have to travel to the India office, probably in February." Okay, I thought, "I can... Continue Reading →
Book Review: My Lady Melisende by Misty Urban
What a perfect blend of romance and intrigue this was! Intelligently crafted, I found myself captivated as Melisende and Philip's story built steadily and powerfully. Each chapter added more depth to the characters and complexity to the plot. Like a fine wine or a full-bodied coffee, My Lady Melisende is a story to be savored.... Continue Reading →
Book Review: A Diamond in the Rough by Andrea Pickens
Close your news feed. Tuck your social media aside for a while. It's time to curl up with a romantic getaway to St. Andrews, Scotland. It's okay. They'll all still be there when you get back. Reading Adrian and Derry's story, I felt transported. Yes, of course, I took care of my daily obligations, but... Continue Reading →
Jerky Germ Season
When I was a child, visiting my grandparents, breakfast included my grandmother setting out their daily pills. I didn't think much of it then. Oh, but now I do! Mind you, my "pills" are vitamins and supplements...all except one newcomer to the mix: a low-dose diuretic. (A side effect of diuretics, in case you weren't aware,... Continue Reading →
Book Review: The Banished Bride by Andrea Pickens
You know those books you put down for a bit, but the story and characters call you back? That's how The Banished Bride was for me! You see, I picked up one of those yucky winter viruses. You know, the ones that wipe you out and boggle your concentration? Yet, this lovely story kept calling... Continue Reading →
Book Review: Elven Council in Ashes by K.J. Dawson
Elven Council in Ashes is a perfect sequel to Elven House of Ivy. With surprises around every corner, this fast-paced page-turner grabbed me from the start. So much so that when I began reading it (at bedtime, of course), I thought the first chapter was strangely long….only to realize I was four chapters in and... Continue Reading →
Next Chapter Highlight: Michele
Age 62 Retirement Status Retired How does Michele spend her time as a retiree? Storyteller - Lifelong Learner - Priest Upon first meeting with Michele, I noticed a feeling of calm and thoughtfulness about her. Which certainly fits because she is an Episcopal priest. Recently relocated from Texas, she is still relatively new to her... Continue Reading →
Book Review: A Perfect Match by Kimberly Cates
A free-spirited pet shop owner, a by-the-book cop, two adorable kids, and a big, lovable, mayhem-causing dog…I knew there was no chance of putting this book down, even with gifts to wrap and tuck under the tree! Oh, and I was so right! A Perfect Match is a great story with down-to-earth characters and a... Continue Reading →
Book Review: Magic of Moonlight by Tracy Brogan
Maybe it's the weather or the holiday season that's finally upon us, but I cannot help but compare Magic of Moonlight to a freshly made cup of hot chocolate. Not just any hot chocolate, either, but one swirled with caramel-like prose and laced with humor like little marshmallows floating in the mug. Alex and Trudy's... Continue Reading →