Brr!

Oh my, chilly doesn't begin to describe this upstate New York morning! It's downright cold here! But we had the most gorgeous weekend, with blue skies and almost balmy breezes, so there's no complaining coming from this chair.

The answer to a brisk morning? Around here, it's a nice cup of cappuccino, so I'm off to brew a cup. Or two.

Then, I'm going to park my behind in my chair and get to work. Oh yes, I'm working on a new book. I'd begun something sweet, sexy and fun...and by chapter 3 I wanted more. Much more. So I closed that file, and intend to return to sweet and sexy at a later date. Now, though, I'm lost in something entirely new to me. Really. So new that it's a challenge, which is precisely what I need right now. I need something to stretch my creative mind, something that isn't a walk in the park to write.

Oh, boy, I've given myself the perfect diversion for what may be a rocky stretch. These are the first holidays I'll spend without my sweet husband, so I know I might have a tough time but I'm trying to keep my chin up, stay busy and look toward the future. I'm not forgetting to allow myself time to cherish the beautiful moments from my past. He was so good, and we were blissfully happy, so there are lots and lots of wonderful memories...

So, writing today. A challenging story. Filled with intrigue, sexual tension and way-out-of-the-box characters. One big question? Will they get a happily-ever-after? Honestly, I don't know yet. What I do know is this: Whatever happens, she's strong enough to survive it, and that's all that matters at this point. The rest will take care of itself. I think. I hope. We'll see.

First, though, cappuccino.

What about you? What's on your to-do list this chilly Monday morning?

Travel Hints

Today was spent doing laundry, wading through a huge stack of mail and tackling yardwork. You know how it is when you go away; there's always a ton of stuff waiting for attention when you return home. So, today I paid attention. Tomorrow, more of the same.

I don't mind one bit. Both being home and adventuring keep me busy. An added bonus? I carved time today for writing. It's finally beginning to get easier to write, more like it was before...well, before. In the old days, long before life took a frightening turn, writing was fun. The words came without too much effort. I took pleasure in putting fingers to keyboard and telling stories. Finally, that's beginning to come back to me, that joy of writing. It's coming slowly but at least I know the feeling is still there. Somewhere. Anyhow, today I tackled chapter three and it was very satisfying.

Now, a few hint-y photos from my adventure. I'm not divulging much yet, just sharing a couple of random shots.
First, let me just say I know why this is called an Airbus. Just saying. For the longest time it felt as if we might drive from Philly to New York. Really. An Airbus.

Where I went, even the decoys travel in pairs.

Ibis feed in twos.

Mangoes grow side by side.

Ducks waddle in unison.

Even bananas grow two to a peel!

Love signs?

Just there for the observing...

Good Clean Living

Our friends Penny and Jim hold an Artisans' Fair in their barn a couple of times each year. The last event took place last weekend. This is the welcoming committee. I don't know if the cow has a name. All I know is she's pretty big and I am always grateful there's a fence between us.

A shot of one corner of the barn. There were so many different types of art and some of the artists demonstrated their talents. I watched a basket being made, saw a woman hand-looming fabric, felt the tinsmith's hammering right down to my toes and learned about soapmaking, glassworks, jewelry creations and leatherworking. Also, I had a first-hand account of what it's like to fire pottery at ridiculously high temperatures! Amazing, the creativity lurking within so many friendly faces! The barn is gorgeous. Penny and Jim have worked for years to make this structure a gathering place. It is warm and welcoming, not at all "barny." Is that a word? Whatever--you know what I mean. No one needs to watch where they walk in the big red barn--a very good thing, I think.

Snowshoeing, anyone?

Good clean living at its best. I know this barn sale made one very special angel smile!