Hello everyone. I trust your summer has been pleasant; that you’ve participated in the making of new memories and found new places to explore. On the other hand, if spending a quiet summer at home, tending the garden, neighborhood barbecues, etc. are your cup of tea I hope you are restored physically, mentally, and emotionally.

I’ve spent my summer months (it’s always summer-like in southeastern Florida) catching up on home improvements, enjoying the companionship of good friends, and trying to avoid the temptation to publish a memoir of my life with a very special man. The weather has been cooler here than up north, but I may be seduced to make a road trip to Ohio in October to visit relatives while drinking in the colorful autumn foliage. I only hope a threatening hurricane will not dictate the time of my departure.

I’ve completed a three-quarter oil portrait commission this summer and also written the first chapter of a new novel - a totally different type of story from my other three novels. This one will require considerable research and, frankly, I’m not sure I can muster up the audacity to attempt the project. However, I’ve learned that when the time is right, I’ll sit down and put fingers to the keyboard with serious intent. The publishing industry is not particularly encouraging to writers in spite of astounding new technology for dispersal of the written word. Can you imagine a world with traditional books?

Soon, my snowbird neighbors will be returning to their winter homes. They will arrive one by one or ten by ten, hurricane shutters will open to mild tropical breezes and patio doors will swing wide. Sweaters and long pants will be exchanged for golf and tennis shorts and sun screen will disappear from drug store shelves. Traffic will increase and lines will be longer at restaurants and grocery checkout counters. Unlike many natives, I look forward to their return as some have become close friends. The neighborhood has been a bit too lonely without them.

I pray the world situation will improve, more of our men and women will return from foreign battlefields, and all hearts filled with worry and uncertainty will find an end to their struggles. My wish is that all of you will experience a sense of thanksgiving for every blessings in a world of unrest.

I would love to hear of any special experiences you’ve had this summer.

Until next time, Marie