Hello again.
Seems like Santa is on the fast track this year, and so is everybody else. Over 80 million people traveled this Thanksgiving, and they anticipate 115 million will travel for Christmas, which is just over two weeks away. That’s a lot of moving parts!
One thing I don’t have to do now is decorate. They went up right after Halloween. I know I mentioned that The Ornament Police will issue a summons and drop a chunk of black coal on your doorstep if you’re not sparkly and bright. It’s a “thing” in the South. I go overboard too. I have thousands of lights in all colors; some are blinking, others are twinkling, and flood lights shine an outline of Santa in the tree. I have life-size reindeer in the front, and the gates are trimmed with garland and wreaths. There are a few photos on the site. It gives me much pleasure to know that a passersby can enjoy the magic of Christmas even for a moment.
Speaking of the Magic of Christmas.: It’s a time to review, renew, and reconnect. It’s also a time to reflect. Find the joy. We might have to look a little deeper from time to time, but it’s there. Trust me. Reflection is good for the soul, and right now, so is a warm blanket. It has been C-O-L-D. Got to put my long-johns on!
I moved to South Carolina to stay warm. But my kids enjoy the cold. They love to ski. Me? No, thank you. Never tried it, never will. I don’t understand why you would want strap your feet to planks that are longer than your own height, and then go careening down the side of a mountain in the cold, cold snow. Give me a fireplace and an easy chair, that soft blanket, and a book.
It’s a stressful time, so be kind to yourself. If you are feeling overwhelmed you kindly excuse yourself, and say “Thank you so much, but I have other commitments.” Like a warm hot bath, and a nap. Being a people pleaser 24/7 isn’t good for anyone’s health. I’ve reminded you several times, when you are on a plane, the flight attendant says: “Put your oxygen mask on first.” You can’t help other people if you’re a hot mess. Be gracious and kind to everyone, including you, if I haven’t already said it enough! 😊
Lots of book news to share. Santa’s Secret is on the shelves, the third book starring four friends Frankie, Nina, Amy and Rachael who take fun-filled holiday vacations each year. Also out now are paperback editions of Santa Cruise, and Santa & Company.
There is also a special e-book release of A Christmas Homecoming, the novella that was adapted into a Hallmark movie, called Unlocking Christmas. People keep asking why they changed the name. Hallmark had another film called A Christmas Homecoming and they didn’t want the audience to be confused. The movie is being aired on the Hallmark Mystery Channel from now until the end of the year.
Tis the season to celebrate the release of the next Sisterhood book, Backwater Justice on December 24th. The Sisterhood find themselves in the Pacific Northwest where young women have gone missing and there are some shady deals involving a very wealthy and powerful family. It’s book 36 in The Sisterhood. The longevity of this series is amazing. Goes to show you women like the satisfaction of seeing justice done, and to celebrate we are having a big Sisterhood contest, an extension from last month.
Enter to win a large collection of at least 30 books (yes, 30!) from the series. Contest ends December 15. Good for gifting, or good for you!
I am including a lot of recipes this month because holidays are a wonderful reason to share a meal.
Be well. Be Safe. Take care of yourself and have a peaceful, wonderful, magical holiday. And a sane, happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.
Warmest wishes,
Fern
P.S. Now we wait and see how long it will take before my little fur family decides the ornaments are their new toys, or any one of the trees looks good for climbing.