Freshly-picked berries from my garden.

I had plans for this summer. Big plans.

My daughter was going away for six weeks (art camp), and I was going to finish my novel.

Suuuuuuuuuuure.

So, that didn't happen.

Things did not go exactly as planned.

After dealing with concerns about my mother's health this past year, my family decided to move her into an assisted living home in Providence. She had spent her entire life in Pittsburgh, PA, so this was a monumental project. 

Moving my mom was at times exciting, stressful, overwhelming, emotional, frustrating, and finally a relief. She is safely ensconced in a lovely (and lively) spot, near to us, and we've been able to see her much more frequently, which is one of the bright spots of this move.

My mom and my son, Cristian

Adding to my stress pile was a troubling doctor appointment that forced me to deal--aggressively--with a worrying diabetes problem. My numbers were getting worse, not better. So, I started a very strict diet/exercise plan, and it worked. I have lost eighteen pounds since July 1, and my blood sugar is way down. I feel much better and will continue to work on healthy eating habits.

Homemade hummus and veggies

Needless to say, I did not finish my novel.

I did not start my novel.

I didn't write one single word this summer, and that's okay.

My mom is safe and sound. My health is on the upswing.

I spent a lot of time in the garden, which was good for body, mind, and soul...

Goodies from my garden

My son completed an on-line class at home, my daughter had a wonderful experience at RISD, and my husband finally got to Canada for his yearly fishing trip.

Did he have fun? Yes.

We are now about to launch both kids into their junior years--Cristian is going to Budapest for a college semester, and Hazel is gearing up for volleyball season in high school.

I am finally able to start thinking about writing projects and workshops. Coming up this fall...


1. I will be attending the NJRWA conference in October and co-presenting a workshop with the uber-talented Rosie Genova. We are giving a talk called HOT MAMAS, SILVER VIXENS, AND GROOVY GRANNIES: WRITING THE OLDER HEROINE. I will also be participating in the book fair on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 4:30-6 pm. I hope to see some of you there!

2. I have re-worked the concept for my YA Christmas series that is a spin-off of the KLAUS BROTHERS SERIES. I decided to turn it into a YA paranormal mystery series called THE KLAUS COUSINS CAPERS.