"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life."
Melody Beattie
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Happy day before Thanksgiving--the biggest travel day of the year here in the U.S.! I hope those of you who are venturing out into the skies and onto the rails and/or roads for the upcoming feast day have safe and smooth travels. The OH and I are heading up to Paso Robles tomorrow on the off chance we'll have a little driving relief traveling on the holiday...this story is developing.
This year I am grateful for the many blessings we have experienced. We're healthy, my planned books have published, we've taken some amazing trips, and best of all, we've had the chance to visit in person with family and friends, sharing many a laugh and building new memories.
In a world that's more than a bit upside-down at the moment, I wanted to pause and share a moving poem by Robert Louis Stevenson. The words of this poem have touched me and on this special day of thanks to come, I pray the healing thoughts lift us, if just for a little while.
We Thank Thee
Lord, behold our family here assembled. We thank Thee for this place in which we dwell; for the love that unites us; for the peace accorded us this day; for the hope with which we expect the morrow; for the health, the work, the food, and the bright skies, that make our lives delightful; and for our friends in all parts of the earth. Let peace abound in our small company.
Purge out of every heart the lurking grudge. Give us grace and strength to forbear and to persevere. Give us the grace to accept and to forgive offenders. Forgetful ourselves, help us to bear cheerfully the forgetfulness of others. Give us courage and gaiety and the quiet mind. Spare to us our friends, soften to us our enemies.
Bless us, if it may be, in all our innocent endeavors. If it may not, give us the strength to encounter that which is to come, that we be brave in peril, constant in tribulation, temperate in wrath, and in all changes of fortune, and, down to the gates of death, loyal and loving one to another.
Robert Louis Stevenson
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Wishing you and yours a wonderful day of gratitude and cheer. Enjoy the long, holiday weekend! Don't forget 👉
It's Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:
'Tis the Season for a Cozy Mystery Christmas!
It's that special time of year when all self-respecting authors who have holiday books are posting their wares. I wanted to give thanks to all of you who have re-posted my little book ads--it means a lot! #ThankYou If you're in the mood for a bit of mayhem under the mistletoe (eBooks are 99 cents), you can check out my short story collections and holiday novels here:
A chilling mystery and living the good life this week from the writers of X...
Author John Dolan, Possessed by Death, 5 ⭐
Former private investigator, David Braddock and his blended family have left Thailand and settled into life in England. The kids are in school, his wife, Da has a new career, and David is trying his hand at being a therapist to an eclectic group of clients who need an unbiased, sometimes acerbic view of what may be troubling them. Life is normal, until he is called upon to identify the top half of the remains of his churlish neighbor.
The lead detective on the case warns him not to interfere with her investigation, but David's curiosity is rearing its head. When a few of his therapy clients disappear, he risks the wrath of Da and the detective as he continues his sleuthing. The hunter becomes the hunted as more disturbing finds are discovered, will his investigative meddling lead to a deadly end?
Author Dolan delivers an intriguing, page-turning tale in this latest mystery featuring the clever P.I. with wit, charm, and somewhat dark side. An exciting thriller delving into the seedy side of the London underground that will keep you guessing 'til the end, highly recommended!
Author Janine Marsh, How To Be French, 5 ⭐
Beautiful pictures, history, culture, art, abodes, language, and of course, the food--Author Marsh once again sets the stage for on how to obtain those je ne sais quoi fundamentals Francophiles around the globe hold dear! Chapter after chapter, the author highlights her own journey and experiences throughout, giving readers an inside view of life in France and how to embrace their lifestyle.
I've truly enjoyed reading Author Marsh's books. Her narrative style draws you immediately in, giving readers something new to be learned and bringing a smile to your face as you explore each section. This latest book has certainly brought new additions to my travel bucket list and Francophile goals. It's a lovely read (one to savor again and again--the pictures are gorgeous) and makes a perfect gift idea. Ooh-la-la, highly recommended!
Next up in the reading queue:
Bring on the Black Friday Sales!
Whenever I gather with the Barton ladies, there's one thing in our future I know for certain--SHOPPING! This year we'll be heading back to the Cowgirl Christmas Fair in Paso Robles (not selling this year, just spending) and I can't wait to see the fabulous crafts and wares. Who knows what Christmas presents await--I can feel the credit cards smokin' now, LOL. Happy shopping!
Welcome to my world. Until next time, have a good one!
Crowns and Kisses,
Veronica
P.S. Thanksgiving Blessings to all who celebrate! More pics from our Paso Robles and San Simeon trip coming up next time! Gemma and Rikkhe approve 💖👑
*Painting from the Allegretto Hotel in Paso Robles