If we were having coffee today, January 17th, I’d say hello from whatever socially-distant platform we were using. We are about a year into this pandemic but it seems more scary now than ever. I have several family members who’ve either had Covid or who are suffering now. Is there a more helpless feeling? I’ve spent many a day in tears over this. Thank you for stopping by on this Sunday afternoon. I appreciate the company.

On a lighter note, I’m happy we’ve rung in a new year. It was a quiet affair here and that was perfectly fine. It was a fitting way to put 2020 behind us. The holidays were also low-key but we made the best of it and kept as many of the traditions as we could. My mom made lasagnes for everyone and sent them over along with cookies and pies and the whole family got on a Zoom call in the afternoon. Christmas was a good day. I received lovely gifts and was able to add several books onto my To Be Read shelf. My sister gave me an adorable bag that my niece made. The front is covered with books. So cute! How were your holidays?

What have you been doing to pass the time? It’s getting chilly here but I’ve been able to get out for walks on the beach and for hikes in the woods. I continue to finish reading books at a furious pace. Completing more book reviews is definitely on my lists of to-dos. I also started a Bullet Journal. Have you tried this? I’ve always been a list-maker and this takes it to the next level. Etsy has become a daily stop for me for supplies which may or may not be a good thing.

My menagerie is doing well. The cats and the dog make my laugh on a daily basis. We recently purchased new living room furniture and the animals have each claimed a favorite spot. The fish…well, let’s say bringing them inside was probably not the best idea. I’ll be happy when they return to the pond.

My writing journey continues to evolve. 2020 was a down year for me. It was the first time in seven years that my views did not exceed the previous year’s on my blog but to be honest, I expected that. I posted less than half as often as usual. I do feel the dry patch is over and I’m ready to get back to it. I’ve completed my Blog Plan for the year and have a rough idea on what I’d like to accomplish. One thing on my list is to submit my writing more often. I’m also working on a new thriller novel and am very pleased with my progress. I’m very excited that I was asked back to the Austin International Poetry Festival in April. I’m hoping things improve enough between now and then so that I can attend. Fingers crossed!

Thank you again for another coffee share. Remember to let me know how you’re doing! I look forward to our conversations.

Until next time…