Still creating a writing life...

I used to wonder why “retired” folks were so busy. Doing what? I wondered. I couldn’t imagine. Well, now I know.  They were living their life. And what a gift it is! It doesn’t always feel that way. I’m way too busy to be “retired.” But that’s because I’m living the life I’ve always imagined, though the details were a little unclear. The challenges were never part of my imagination. But I’ve always been a writer, going way back, and have always loved books.

When my kids were young, we didn’t have a whole lot of expendable income, but my rule was they could always buy a book. You can never have too many books. I can’t say if I had many as a child, but I wanted my kids to have a passion for reading. They are, let’s say, mature adults now with their own children, their own families. One has children who absolutely adore reading. The other adores screens rather than books, but he’s smart as a whip and a great reader, just not of books. It’s interesting how our little people turn out, and how heavily influenced parents are in that journey.  

Speaking of journeys,  my awesome, sweet daughter-in-law, Liz, seized her passion for pretty nails this year by taking a course and becoming a licensed Nail Technician. She’s trying to get more experience and is offering manicures or pedicures at a practice price. Truth be told, she’s very good at it already, but she works with great intention, and it does take a while, so bring a book. Oh, I’ve got just the one for you…LOL.

So yep, life is busy, and though I enjoy the pace at times, the introvert in me aches to cozy up on these bright and beautiful autumn/winterish days and curl up with a good book, or a Hallmark Christmas movie. Or just curl up and do nothing. To be still, get quiet, and celebrate the peace. I turned a significant number recently, and a friend sent me a birthday card that read, “To get this card for you, I had to leave the house and interact with other humans. You’re one of the few people who’s worth all that.” That friend is one of the few people who knew I could relate to that sentiment. I have some wonderful friends and feel so blessed to have them in my life.  

Author Hillary Oat and I were at the St. Pius X church in Middletown for their holiday fair, which was freezing cold and fabulous. The weather was perfect, and we met so many kind and wonderful folks who stopped by to see what we were all about. One woman was particularly interested and shared how she likes to buy books from local authors and have them signed. She is gathering a collection of these books for her daughter, who was also there. After buying copies of all of our books, she asked if she could get a photo of her daughter with us. That was a first, and we were honored to be asked.

In other literary news, I did a book signing amidst the hustle and bustle of a massive Barnes & Noble bookstore, noticing how very different each venue experience is. No two are alike, but they all feel great, just to be out in the world sharing our creations and having them celebrated, each in their own way. And then I retreat back to my humble abode for a little solitude.

At the risk of challenging that exact thing, I felt called to sign up for a weaving class at the senior center and fell in love with weaving on a small, simple loom. It is like a meditation for me. I’ll take another class when the holidays are over, but how exciting to discover a new creative outlet at this time in my life. I’ll show you one of my creations.

Speaking of meditations, here's one for you. Find a quiet place, take a few deep breaths, and still your mind with this one-minute visit to the wind and waves at Weekapaug.

Last month, Hillary and I were graciously welcomed by Christine Reed, owner of Shayna B’s By the Sea in Westbrook.  Shayna B’s was named one of the top vegan restaurants in the country by Food and Wine Magazine, so it was an honor to be there. We went to sign books, but it was a little challenging to concentrate with all her delectable gluten-free/ vegan creations in the bakery cases.  We chatted with folks about the writing life and signed books, and it was fun to hear how some of our books were destined to be Christmas gifts. It’s interesting how people are so curious about our writing process and the story of how we came together and we’re always interested in their stories as well.    

On December 13^th, we are scheduled to be in the atrium at the Velvet Mill in Stonington.

And this Saturday, author Joanne Moore will have our books at the North Madison Congregational Church's 30th Annual Holiday Crafts Fair & Cookie Sale. The event features over 35 artisans and 2500 Christmas cookies for their signature “Cookie Walk.” They'll have live music, and if you didn’t have enough last week, there is a bistro offering turkey pot pie.  Sounds like a fun day.

If you know of a place that might welcome three shoreline women for an author chat and book signing, we’re all ears. And if you purchased Synchronicity online at Amazon or the Barnes & Noble website, and would like a complimentary bookmark, zip me an email, and I’m happy to send you one. When you purchase books directly from us, you can have your book signed and get a complimentary bookmark.

Wishing you an abundantly blessed holiday season, with much gratitude for your interest in this amazing writing life. Thanks for sharing the journey with me.

Until next time…

Peace and Blessings,

Patty