What a year – so far!
Whoo Boy! 2026 has been a difficult year, and it’s only the beginning of February. I haven’t written much due to caregiving for loved ones and attending funerals. What a way to start the year!
I spoke to about 80 Snowbirds in Gulf Shores, AL, who were visiting the area for our “warm” winters. It was in the 20° range that morning, and they thought it was no big deal! It was such a lovely group and they warmed my heart!
I did manage to publish a newspaper column about a controversial issue we’ve had with our local library. My takeaway was that our local leaders need to act like adults and find a compromise. Everyone is tired of arguing. Come to find out, the two main battle leaders on either side of the issue moved to Fairhope less than two years before taking charge of and fighting against our library board decisions. I don’t think either was here long enough to understand that our community values peace and neighborliness above proving who is right or wrong. – That’s all about that. For now.
I’ve also been brainstorming about two book projects, which makes me happy enough to forget the other troublesome things in the world.
While I brainstorm and write, I like to cook or paint. If I have busy hands and a warm oven, the ideas start popping. I have to keep a dishtowel next to my laptop on the counter so I can wipe my hands before I start typing notes to myself or I’ll end up with a keyboard full of gravy. Here’s a Turkey Wellington I made while I worked on one of my book projects. It was delicious and the book should be fun too – it’s about Southern ladies (who do things like bake Turkey Wellingtons).
It’s been a great feeling to be in the final stages of writing a children’s book / project I started about a year ago. I can’t tell you much about it now, but I feel like God sent me into the garage to build a bicycle, then changed the plans, and I looked up to find a Ferrari. It’s going to be so awesome, and I know you’ll love it. This note over my desk from C.S. Lewis sums up my goal. I am over the top excited!
And speaking of excitement, it’s Mardi Gras season here on the Gulf Coast, and people are going wild. I announced the Knights of Ecor Rouge parade last week with Mark Swally for WABF1480.com. We had listeners from several different states as well as overseas military personnel.
Valentine’s Day also happens to be, “Book Giving Day.” – I know, I just found out about it as well. The idea is to give books to children to teach them the love of reading. Isn’t that nice? I’m a sappy romantic, but not on Valentine’s Day. I think it’s too forced and and I don’t eat candy anyway. (I know, what a little joy killer I am). But isn’t it nicer to receive flowers or gifts on days when you least expect it? I’ll celebrate the day by pruning my fig tree and giving a book to a child. Bob will probably grill something delicious for me. He’s a sweetie like that.
I hope your year is shaping up to be a good one. It’s going to be smooth sailing from here, right? Happy Valentine’s Day, Happy Mardi Gras, Happy Book Giving Day and Happy Rest-of-2026 Day to you!
Cornbread, for more brainstorming, my Mother admiring the daffodils that are overflowing from every corner of the city, and a new baby in the neighborhood.
Thanks for signing up for the newsletter! (look at the top in the dark blue area above my name). Those who received the newsletter got to see a few inside scoops for upcoming projects – as well as the inside of the Turkey Wellington – Wow! How can life be any more interesting??
Hi Leslie Anne. I miss seeing your pretty face and big smile in person. I think you know I’m in Atlanta now. Close to my children. I’m in a ten story independent living place in Sandy Springs. I am still settling in. I enjoy it very much here. Plus as a bonus I get to see my two great grandchildren (ages two and three) if that doesn’t bring me joy, I don’t know what will. And it does bring me joy. I love to hear see what you’re up to. ♥️
hi there Mary! What a happy note to receive! I knew you were with your grands, but for some reason thought it was in Birmingham. Sandy Springs is beautiful and I know you must love being there. Not only do your great-grandchldren give you plenty to do, but that area has so much going on with museums, concerts and general fun – I’m sure you are loving it. Stay in touch and thanks for reading! – and yes, you are missed!
Leslie Anne,
It’s always enjoyable to read your posts!
That Turkey Wellington makes me want to look up another recipe and cook! Yummy!
Love that fabulous Fairhope and I’m sorry they, too, have to be experience all that controversy. I just pray 🙏 that people just appreciate more- it’s important to just be kind.
I am looking forward to your new writing ✍️ endeavors! Keep writing and thank you for your perspective always! 😊 Debbie
Thank you Debbie. It seems controversy is everywhere these days. Our small town isn’t accustomed to such a thing, but I hope it will get worked out soon. – thanks for the encouragement, and Happy Valentine’s Day to you!
Your Turkey Wellington … beautiful. Martha Stewart would be envious! I bet it was delicious too. Have fun with Mardi Gras. Savannah is gearing up for St. Patrick’s Day ☘️
Oh – St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah – that’s a big party, for sure! – I wasn’t even sure there was a thing called Turkey Wellington, I’ve always known about the beef version, but once I looked it up, sure enough, there it was! Happy Mardi Gras and Pre-St. Patrick’s Day to you!
Oh some seasons are harder than others.
We have had some snowbirds join out Bible Study. They found our church last year and joined us and are back this year. Indiana. I love it!
I love that quote. I don’t remember the author’s name, but he wrote a book about teaching children to read with quality choice books. He remarked that he read children’s books more than anything. I did that for decades. I honestly have missed all the books I used to read each year. I need to just pick a year and warm my heart with a revisit.
Your mother looks good. I know looks can be deceiving and it can be hard watching the aging process. It makes me grateful for each day.
Thanks so much Sandy. I happen to be reading a chldren’s book now – JK Rowling’s The Christmas Pig. – So far, it’s charming. The snowbirds I met seem to have the best of two worlds – pretty clever!