“Everything you can imagine is real.”
― Pablo Picasso
For me, it's all about the art the next few weeks! What better way to begin the post today than with the debut of a painting done for me by my fabulous, talented neighbor, Becky Carlson. She has been a huge supporter of my writing journey and has read all the books in My American Almost-Royal Cousin Series. (Loud Writer #SQUEE!) I was absolutely delighted this weekend when she gifted me with a painting she had done depicting Cherrywood Hall, the center of my fictional world. It is just as I imagine it and what a treat it is to receive an original painting from a friend and #reader! This will definitely give me needed #inspiration for the writing of book 7 in the series--thank you so much, Becky!💖👑
Tonight we're attending the fabulous Laguna Pageant of the Masters, where paintings are magically brought to life with human participants who are made up and dressed just like the characters in the paintings. I'll be showing pics of this event next week, but today, I wanted to share some of the artistic inspiration I've had the pleasure to see during our trips. Paintings, sculptures, murals--you never know what is going to capture your interest.
I love the fish and bubbles coming out of a whimsical window frame at an eatery in San Francisco. Quirky, vivid colors and oh so perfect for a seafood restaurant! This colorful, futuristic sculpture in the lobby at the Hyatt in San Fran looks fab against the floor walls👇! Can you say #vertigo...
I fell in love with this sculpture that was showcased at the Allegretto Vineyard Resort. The hotel features paintings and sculptures from local artists placed all around the property for their guests to enjoy. For me, this one was breathtaking. The vivid painting below captures the rolling hills surrounding the vineyards in Paso Robles--and that sky is just wow...
Had to show the artsy, neon-lit branches that grace the bar at the Ritz Carlton in Lake Tahoe. Their dazzling colors bounce off the glass and mirror shelving giving an edgy look to this woodsy auberge. A perfect spot for an evening martini I might add...
This painting is of Scarlett O'Hara aka Vivien Leigh, featured in the Margaret Mitchell museum in Atlanta--I do declare, I am absolutely in awe of this one!👉
Let's not forget Las Vegas--from the floral magic at the Bellagio to the baroque glam in the Venetian---art in forms you may not see anyplace else!👇
I love to travel and see the sights no doubt--but sometimes it's the unexpected treasures that make a big impact and a lasting, artistic impression. Have an #inspired week---it's Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:
Let's talk about #Hygge...
The word refined draft for Christmas Bizarre❄Rikkhe St. Claire Hygge & Bisous Holiday Mysteries has been handed back (thank you, Mark Schultz!) and I'm finishing things up this week. Since it's a bit early to start the Christmas promos on social media (not counting #ChristmasInJuly 🎀🎄😁), I'm starting to tweet a few times a week on the topic of hygge.
Roughly pronounced (hoo-gah or huuge depending on the dictionary), living hygge is surrounding yourself with the things that make you feel warm and fuzzy inside (something we all could use these days I think). It includes décor, foods, and yes, even fashion choices (I hereby declare fringed, yoga pants are #Hygge compliant). Bottom line: choose the things that are best for your comfort and well-being...I'm collecting pics of my favorite things--how about you?
It's mystery with a royal flair this week from the writers of Twitter...
Author T.P. Fielden, Burying the Crown (A Guy Harford Mystery Book 2), 5⭐
The battles of World War II are raging and the royal assignments take a mysterious turn for debonair courtier, Guy Harford. Crown jewels; illicit affairs; and behind the scenes, political alliances lead to a trail of deceptive dealings. A devious reporter is out to make the royal’s private lives a matter of public humiliation—will Guy be able to carry out his sensitive investigations and thwart the tattling shenanigans in time? Or become the palace scapegoat?
The death of Anna Duckworth draws Guy into the clandestine world of Prince George, the Duke of Kent. The ladies-in-waiting are in the know, giving Guy numerous, eye-rolling insights. A trip to Tangier offers new speculation that could harm the country’s war efforts. When the duke is killed in a tragic accident, it’s government versus crown services in the high-stakes hunt---will they combine their efforts to safely secure the communications before they fall into nefarious hands?
Author Fielden has written a fascinating story of jilted lovers, political intrigue, and mysterious interludes inspired by historical events. The story provides the reader with a unique view into the complex network of maneuvering that manages the war-time, behind-the-scenes efforts for the government and the crown. The detailed settings, engaging characters and suspense-filled events make for a cracking tale for enthusiasts of historical fiction and whodunnits with a royal flair---a highly recommended read!
Next up in the #reading queue:
Next steps for #BOOKEM...
A little over a year ago, three authors, Amy Reade, Bibiana Krall and myself started our #BOOKEM YouTube channel to focus on highlighting the #WritingCommunity and #Readers that we value so much. All of us were deep in #lockdown, uncertain of what the future would hold.
We're trying to determine our next steps for the channel--it takes a tremendous amount of time and effort to prep for the shows and get them loaded into the YouTube system. Our viewership has been in decline for some time, making us question whether it's still a good idea to go forward with the channel, or switch gears (and perhaps platforms) for our next shows. We'd really appreciate any feedback and suggestions you might have for us. Now that the world is opening up a bit (at least at the time of this writing), it may be a good time to make a change. Thanks so much for your support!
Crowns and Kisses,
Veronica
P.S. More art inspiration from Laguna next week---in the meantime, enjoy the beach (the water was amazing)! Gemma and Rikkhe approve🦩 💖👑
Fabulous post and wowooooo weee on the Cherrywood Hall painting. Beautiful! The art in this post is A + !
I hope the bookem
thing gets worked out as well. Really want to help the writing and reading community. Thanks to all who have been so supportive and champagne toast with a high five to T.P. Fielden. Nicely done there! Have fun tonight and enjoy the living art. Can't wait to hear about it!
Good morning! Wow, what a divine post! You spoke to me. The painting by your neighbor- it’s Cherrywood and it’s also so beguiling. I savored your art highlights, and book reviews. And I can get behind huge compliance! Fantastic post. Re: Bookem- please, please keep going. You were going from strength to strength before your summer break- informative, entertaining. Perhaps an every-other-week schedule would be easier? Maybe showcase an earlier episode on the “off week” ? I would miss your shows if you stopped😭😭