Yikes! I’ve been “gone” for the last two weeks “at” conferences. All at home and on Zoom, as one does these days, but that doesn’t mean I had a minute to spare. Because, as every woman juggling home, family and life right now knows, being home just complicates it all. Sigh.

But my conference season is now over and I have nothing, as in NOTHING on the calendar, except for writing for the next few months.

Which fills me with joy.

And joy, these days, isn’t always easy to find, so I’ll take every bit I can gather up—and then pass it along to you.

So let’s find something to make you smile:

One

This one is for everyone who loves Halloween and cats. Because this pair of pumpkin hatted competitive kitties cracks me up. Watch this.

Two

Speaking of things that crack me up—have you heard—Lenora Bell has a new book out? She is such a funny writer. And don’t we need laughter and some lighthearted romance? If you haven’t tried her, give her new book, Love is a Rogue, a read.

And if you have read her already, you know exactly what I mean.

Three

Just a quick update for all of you who have been following my pandemic follies (read: sourdough starter, baking to excess, mad hunts for graham crackers) and finally, budding avocado farmer.

My youngest son has autism and he was fascinated by the avocado seed I started to sprout. Before I knew it, we had six of them going. One met with an unfortunate accident, but the others are faring well. Just this week we planted the two with leaves—fingers crossed for their futures.

The others are finally starting to grow. Just really S.L.O.W.L.Y

Don’t worry. I’m not going to abandon my writing for the joys of an avocado orchard. Which, would have to grow in my front room, given the temps here in Seattle.

Four

Speaking of dropping temperatures, are you starting to crave those warm homey comfort foods? I know I am. And one that I love to make is Martha Stewart’s Spaghetti and Meatballs. Nothing fancy here, but it easy to put together, and if you double up the meatball portions, then you can bake them off and have them in the freezer for a really quick meal later.

Nothing I like more than a double duty meal plan.

Five

Finally, if you are looking for something a little dark and a little bit scary, might I suggest S.J. Parris’s mystery novel, Heresy? I rather liked it and have the second one on my TBR. For anyone who loves the Elizabethean era.

Did I hear doublets? Check!!

Have a great weekend. And to all my readers in the US—if you haven’t already, make sure to cast your vote. Every voice deserves to be heard. And please, mask up—the rising numbers have me worried for all of you.

Love you all!

Elizabeth