LUCY BURDETTE: Summer’s coming very early this year with Memorial Day on May 24, yikes! I think we’re all feeling a little worn down and overworked by the long winter. We wanted to give you a little notice about a change in our summer schedule here at the Reds. Get out your flip flops and back your bags--the Reds are taking a summer vacation! We won't go far and we'll still chat every week, but our summer schedule will be a little different as we all write our books and teach our classes and generally catch up. Maybe even go on vacation! Starting next week, May 25, we’ll have a group chat on Mondays and a writer’s choice on Thursdays. We won’t schedule guests this summer either—they get a vacation too:). We know some of you will be disappointed and will miss reading the blog every day–but, we haven’t taken a break in 15 years! (In other words, we’ve saved up our vacation days and decided now’s the time to use them.:). So what will we be doing?
Reds, I am determined to finish The Paris Recipe by June, before I have to get started on Key West #17. After that, we’ve planned a week getaway in Maine with a bunch of grandchildren and other relatives. And after that, maybe stay home and enjoy the summer in Connecticut. What are your plans for the summer?
RHYS BOWEN: as you can imagine I’m taking baby steps forward into a new stage of life. Living alone is something I have never done before. From college dorm to sharing with friends to marriage. So it will feel strange. Being able to do what I want without consulting someone else. So I’m flying down to grandson’s graduation this weekend. I plan to join Clare and co in San Diego, join Dominic either in Canada or San Juan islands and go to England in September Oh, and finish a book I’ve put on hold and do all the publicity for this summer’s release.
HALLIE EPHRON: Change is good!
I’ve got a flurry of teaching gigs in the next three months, including the Book Passage bookstore’s annual Mystery Writing Conference https://www.bookpassage.com/mystery. Rhys will be there, too! Also Elizabeth George and Lisa Scottoline and Rachel Howzell Hall…
I’ll be giving a talk for the Grand Canyon Sisters in Crime. Teaching my two-week mystery-writing class for SinC Guppies. Giving several workshops for the annual fabulous Surrey International Writing Conference in October.
All of these are on my web site at http://hallieephron.com with links.
Beyond that, my fall to-do list is topped by: Decide what I should do next. I have the start of a novel and some other projects noodling around. A lot of unanswered questions. Very much at a crossroads.
JENN McKINLAY: I’m chiming in from Spain! I’m visiting the set where they’re shooting the adaptation of my novel PARIS IS ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA which will air on Hallmark Plus in July! Thrilling!
This summer will spent traveling a lot - a visit to CT for a book event at the Cragin Library in Colchester on June 12th, a trip to the Nova Scotia cottage at some point, and possibly a week in San Diego. I’m tired just thinking about it. Oh, and I suppose I have to start writing something again. Hmm…what will it be?
JULIA SPENCER-FLEMING: My summer starts with a bang as Youngest brings the Very Tall Dutchman home for two weeks in June to met the family! I’ve cleared off my calendar so we can show him some typical Maine delights - a Sea Dogs baseball game, eating at a lobster shack, hiking in Acadia and visiting a Super Wal-Mart. Yes, that last was among the American experiences he wants to explore.
I’ll be working on a book, about which I can say no more at the moment, and I’m planning to devote much more of my time to my garden/grounds, since I’ve let everything go to wrack and ruin in the past few years. I’m planning a couple of stays at Old Orchard Beach, and rounding out the summer with the wedding of the daughter of dear friends.
When you live in Maine, you don’t travel in the summer, because HERE is where everyone wishes they could be!
HANK PHILLIPPI RYAN: My 2027 book is due September 1. My 2026 book will be published on September 1. You do the math about what I will be doing this summer! And into the fall.
It’s all very exciting, and quite wonderful, and there is absolutely no way I can take a work-free vacation. Happily, luckily, we have a lovely back yard with flowers everywhere and a pool, and sitting outside and being in the lovely (we hope) weather is always so satisfying.
(I just got back from a whirlwind–Teaching at the MIT Weekend Writing Seminar, teaching the International Thriller Writers 8-hour Master Class (!), and a CraftFest Class and so much more. I was the featured speaker at Crime Conn and and and…well, my schedule is packed as you can see here hankphillippiryan.com/events ! )
And Rhys, we are thinking of you every day.
DEBORAH CROMBIE: This summer I will be doing all the edits for my book, A LONG COLD SLEEP, which apparently now has an April ‘27 release. And then I’m hoping to have my long-overdue knee replacement, which I’ve been putting off for at least five years because I was trying to finish books. After that, I can start planning for trips. It will be three years in July since I’ve been to London and I am desperate for a visit!
Red readers, what are your summer plans??
Wow! Everyone's got such full schedules!
ReplyDeleteBefore summer arrives, we're off to Colorado Springs for grandson Zach's high school graduation. Then it's off to Florida for nephew John's retirement from the Army [after thirty years]. After that, we'll have to see . . . definitely taking a bit of time to catch our breath!
Aw...such lovely things! Cannot wait to hear all about it!
DeleteWhile it is perfectly reasonable for the Reds to take the summer to slow down after 15 years of non-stop posts, trying to figure out what will be the first site visited for five out of seven days each week of the summer is not a task I am looking forward to doing. lol!
ReplyDeleteMy summer plans still are led by trying to find a job that allows the government to steal money from me.
I may be going to some concerts thanks to press passes. Triumph in early June, Sammy Hagar / Rick Springfield in mid-June and Deep Purple / Kansas/ Starship in July. I may be paying for a ticket to see John Gorka in August.
Mid-to-late July will see me helping out my friend out at his record shop as his band goes on tour for dates in Canada and the u.s. with Metal Church and Heathen.
Beyond that, I will just be doing the usual stuff. Writing articles and reviews, reading and maybe going to some author signings, maybe even figure a way to go to that Connecticut event Jenn is doing. I would also love to try to figure a way to go to the Terrificon event in Connecticut to meet some of the comic book world legends that will be there.
We'll miss you in the mornings too Jay! Your schedule sounds great and I do hope you find a satisfying job.
DeleteJay, your concert plans sound amazing! They are some of the bands I grew up listening to with my friends. Live music is like a balm for my soul. Enjoy!
DeleteLucy, short of wining the lottery, I have the sinking feeling that any job I end up with will be the deeply unsatisfying kind but hope springs eternal I guess.
DeleteStacia, nothing is guaranteed for the shows uet but we’re hoping it works out the way I laid out the plan here.
Jay, I hope that your job search lands you something that you will really enjoy doing.
DeleteFlora
DeleteMe, above, trying to comment....sheesh! Jay, I found my current job completely by accident. So, fingers crossed that there's a job out there with your name on it and that it won't suck!!
DeleteCannot wait to hear what wonderful things happen to you, Jay! And we will still be here every week!
DeleteMemorial Day is May 25th.
ReplyDeleteI suspect this schedule of two active weekly blogs should become permanent. The time and effort invested in the blog I am sure does not affect your book sales.
Your efforts and time are better spent on your work and having a personal life.
There are quite a few lurkers for the blog, but widespread participation has definitely waned in the last two years. Most commenters are the same everyday. It does not make sense to expend so much effort for a dwindling audience.
Have a great summer!
I think lots of people read and don't comment, and that's okay too! We love our Red community so much!
DeleteThank you for that , Lucy. I am a loyal Reds member who looks forward to reading the Jungle Reds blog daily but do not always comment. I am always interested in what is presented and appreciate the time and effort that all the Jungle Reds writers put into keeping this blog in play. At times it has been the "normal" in a sometimes surreal part of daily living. I think there are so many of us who follow this blog faithfully and are astounded that despite deadlines, obligations, family events and commitments, etc. the Jungle Red Writers continue to engage us all in conversations as well as introduce us to other writers in the world of mystery. To think that the Jungle Red Writers have kept this mystery blog going for 15 years without a break is astounding! Thank you again. I do hope that you all have a wonderful summer catching up with family and friends as well as hopefully taking a well-earned opportunity to nestle in some relaxation time while still keeping busy. Checking in with all of you on Mondays and Thursdays will be all the more appreciated. Cheers and Happy Summer!
DeleteI too, enjoy the daily blog and look forward to it as a group of friends and family who , maybe you don’t call them every day or even every month, but you know they are there. A comfort zone, which we seem to be to one another in good and bad. I find I tend to come back to it after lunch and again mid-afternoon – just to see if there is any news, or to lower my blood pressure with a comforting sit-down. I cherish the people on this list – none of whom I have ever met. (that was really mushy especially for me – I don’t do MUSH!)
DeleteYou are right Evelyn. That's a problem when readers lurk and don't comment - it shows that the vibrancy of the blog is slowing down. Lurkers please don't just look, comment so you bolster the conversation.
Deletethank you Evelyn and Margo--we love your MUSH!
DeleteLucy ~ XOXOXO
DeleteMargo ~ I agree...A comfort zone is always a good thing. And so welcoming A soft landing for so many of us here on this blog. :-)
DeleteMargo, you do MUSH beautifully! I too come back to Jungle Reds a couple of times during the day or evening, just to make sure I catch all of the conversation--even when I don't comment.
DeleteFlora ~ I agree and I often do that as well. I also feel that the number of comments and who does or does not always choose to comment is any indication that this blog is waning in popularity or enthusiasm. Some people are more comfortable as observers. Nor is it lack of positivity as so many of us have said we look forward to checking in and landing in this safety zone. It's a great way to start the day; a friendly camaraderie of sorts. :-)
DeleteIn regards to “lurkers” or the decline of this blog in popularity: there are days when the subject isn’t something I either know much about or just have nothing to contribute. I’m also usually a late arriver (is that even a word?!) and sometimes my thoughts have already been expressed by someone earlier. That doesn’t mean I’m not reading the blog every day. — Pat S
DeleteWhat an interesting assessment! I can tell you we would not have maintained the blog for so long if it had not been--and continued to be--consistently and increasingly valuable to us in every single way. But we all just have to write our books, and we will still be here every week until we are back.
Delete
DeleteThank you for that additional input, Hank. I think this blog is also invaluable to us Red Readers. Whether observing or commenting we appreciate that we can begin our day with a daily dose of Jungle Red Writers and the longevity of this blog is proof of its ongoing strength and popularity. We are grateful to all of you for your hard work and consistency in maintaining this connection with your readers. How lucky we all are being a part of this group!
Thank you, Evelyn. This blog has meant--and still means-- so much to us. We love you all and will look forward to twice-weekly chats even more!
DeleteDeborah ~ XOXO
DeleteI’m with Jay. I think you all deserve time off (and selfishly, if it means some of that time is spent writing books for us to enjoy, I’m all for it!), but I can’t face reading the news first thing in the morning. Like most things, we’ll adapt.
ReplyDeleteWe’re not going on vacation until October when we head to Calgary. We’ll do some sightseeing and then I’ll go to Bouchercon. The summer is already filling up with three concerts (nicely spread out over the summer) and my big-ending-with-a-zero birthday in July. I’ve decided that if I’m fortunate enough to make it to that number, I should throw myself a party. It won’t be big, but I’m planning to be surrounded by some very good friends.
And Julia, we have the same situation living in San Diego; people seem to want to visit. Jenn, give me a call and we can “do lunch” (to speak the lingo of show biz now you’re in with cool kids). ;-)
I wish all of you Reds a wonderful summer. Rhys, I send you hugs and hope you get just the right amount of family and friends time, but also the me time you need/want. — Pat S
See you in Calgary, Pat!
DeleteSounds good Pat, but don't forget to visit here Mondays and Thursdays--we will be missing you all!
DeleteOh, don’t worry, Lucy. Once I get the pattern down, I’ll definitely be here on Mondays and Thursdays! — Pat S
DeleteWe're going to want to hear full reports from Calgary - wish I was going but Nova Scotia beckons.
DeleteI will certaily miss you all. I don't comment much, but read. JRW every day. I do agree, though, you all deserve vacation time. Have a wonderful summer and I'll look forward to when you are posting again. Rhys, thinking of you.
ReplyDeletewe so appreciate you reading Elizabeth! We are posting, every Monday and Thursday!
DeleteWe will all adapt to the new schedule!
ReplyDeleteThrowing a block party on Memorial Day with the requisite burgers and hot dogs on the grill…mainly because my husband was on cleanup at the softball end of season party and brought all the extras home.
The only other definite summer plan we have is going to Iowa for our niece’s annual ALS fundraiser in August coupled with a family reunion of the Gaskells. We will do some other visiting of friends and family while we are up there. Last year it was hotter and more humid in Minnesota/Iowa/Nebraska than it was here in Central Florida at the time we were up there. So much for escaping it!
Hank, are all the ducks still hanging out at your pool? We have ducks at all the pools here at On Top of the World. I guess the chlorine must not harm them or they wouldn’t keep coming back.
thanks Brenda! Have a lovely summer!
DeleteWell, this is unexpected news. You all surely deserve the break, but I will miss my daily visit. I wish you all good writing mojo this summer, good health, and good time off, too, and I'm wishing Rhys an easy transition into the new phase.
ReplyDeleteI don't have any trips planned, and the book due October 1 is going slowly, so I'll be spending the summer writing and gardening and seeing family, with a few days at the beach here and there. Low key and low stress is fine with me.
Low key and low stress sounds perfect Edith.
DeleteFrom Celia: I'm excited about summer vacation and I think there may be a chance for a post perhaps. I have not forgotten Margaret's request for pastry building tips
ReplyDeleteDear Rhys, yes suddenly everything is turned upside down but you, in your inimitable way already have plenty on board. I have just finished The castle in the Glen , which I loved and am working on my Net Gallery review.
As for my plans which are all about regaining strength, having some time at the lake
And starting a new clinical trial.
Get strong Celia!!
DeleteBest of luck with the new trial, Celia! — Pat S
DeleteThank you, Celia. Sending you my best wishes
DeleteI wish you well, Celia, with all my heart.
DeleteThere must be another way to begin the day, but I don't remember. Like Pat S., it won't be reading the news. Like Edith, I wish you all productive summers writing, and fulfilling visits with family and friends. Debs, wishing you quick and complete recovery from knee surgery.
ReplyDeleteI will be flying to Michigan for the 90th. birthday celebration of a dear aunt and a visit with some beloved cousins. Unfortunately, the timing has me missing Jenn's event at my childhood library in Colchester. If I hadn't already promised to fly, I might have planned differently.
We are also going to a dude ranch with Rachel and her family for several days. There are tons of things to do and the boys will love it. I am not sure if I can even mount a horse at this point, so I plan to get a couple lessons in just to see if I can sit in a saddle. It has been several years now, but my chiropractor has really helped my back and neck pain, so, it might be okay.
Lastly, I disagree with Anon above. Books are sold because of this blog. I, for one, am buying them or requesting them from libraries. I haven't only found books by the 7 Reds, but dozens of other authors as well. So, please don't disappear.
We're not disappearing Judy, we'd miss you all too much! I'm going to try for Colchester, sorry I won't see you there. And be careful on your horse:)
DeleteThank you, Judy! I am so ready to be able to do normal things again--and travel!
DeleteI'm sorry you've had to wait so long for your knee replacement. Everyone I know who has had one has gotten back to better-than-normal activities. But it takes time. Be patient with yourself. Good luck!!
DeleteOh Reds, we will miss our daily @What the JRW are thinking and doing” but you surely deserve a summer vacation! Enjoy the trips, and working on your books! You know we are all eagerly awaiting them!
ReplyDeleteRhys, we are thinking of you. Julia, new book! Deb’s, a date for KincaidJames, and a knee replacement!
We have some small trips planned for the summer, James Taylor at Tanglewood on July 3rd, a “girls” to Boothbay Harbor, Maine in July, walks on the various Trustees of the Reservations around Massachusetts, visiting with friends, and chasing the dastardly rabbits and woodchuck from the flower beds. Plus lots of reading (mostly mysteries) of course!
Sounds lovely Suzette--thank you for understanding!
DeleteSuzette, we've seen JT in concert a few years ago. He still puts on a terrific show!
DeleteKudos to you folks for taking a break and tending to your many outside demands, plus a bit of time for yourselves I hope. Not to say you won't be missed, but I'm betting you'll come back refreshed and ready to tackle this extra responsibility again. Never think we take you all for granted. For me, you are my uplifting start to the day and stimulate my little gray cells to get moving again.
ReplyDeleteI'm not planning on traveling this summer, but I will be doing extra volunteering at my library. Our Summer Reading Program kicks off this Thursday and we will be running ragged until August. Tons of kids, cranky parents and doting grandparents who are checking out lots of books so they can meet the reading requirements to win prizes. Your basic madhouse. This summer's theme is "Unearth Reading" and our branch is decked out in dinosaurs and other such critters. The little ones are awestruck to see all of the artwork our librarians have created and it makes for a very festive, if tiring, few months. -- Victoria
Thank you so much Victoria, that means a lot to all of us. I bet your summer reading program is a huge hit and will be so important to those kids!
DeleteNo plans here! Have fun everyone. I'll miss you. Good luck.
ReplyDeletethanks Gillian!
DeleteWhile I don’t always comment, I look forward to reading your blogs while enjoying my morning coffee.
ReplyDeleteI will look forward to your twice weekly format for the summer.
Enjoy your well deserved, and I imagine much needed, summer break.
Rhys, thinking of you as you navigate this new stage of your life. Taking life one day at a time, being kind to yourself and having the support of family and close friends who allow you the space and freedom to just “be” is a great comfort. ( my personal experience).
My own summer plans include a visit from daughter and youngest granddaughter ( now 5 yrs. of age), a visit to Toronto to visit with both daughters & again time with my 5 yr. old granddaughter,and a couple close friends , weddings for two nieces in August and hopefully enjoying some warm sunshine.
Reds and Readers, enjoy your summer.
Dianne Mahoney
thanks so much Dianne, enjoy your family time!
DeleteEnjoy your travels and writing. You all deserve a break ❤️📚
ReplyDeletethank you Dorothy!
DeleteJust like so many responders before me, I read this news with mixed emotions. Of course you all deserve the break and I don't begrudge it! But it will be a big adjustment for those of us who usually read this blog first thing over our morning coffee. I have two thoughts, or maybe requests. Please use at least an occasional entry for "What are we reading?" because I get the best book recommendations from those. And this week, could a few other readers maybe post the name of favorite other blogs they visit to help me find other options?
ReplyDeleteAs to my summer plans, I don't have too many. We are taking a big trip to Central Europe the last week of August and first week of September, visiting Bucharest, Budapest, Vienna and Prague using only train travel in between, which means an overnighter from Bucharest to Budapest. My husband's family is doing a family reunion at Indian Lake, a small lake here in Ohio in early August. And he is volunteering at the Boy Scout national jamboree for the last two weeks of July. I will stay home for most of that time, but his only sister (as opposed to his six brothers), who I love like a sister of my own after all these years, is retiring at the beginning of June and we will probably get together for a few days while he's gone.
that sounds like lots of plans Susan! We will definitely be doing reading posts--including this coming Sunday. If you enjoy cooking or even only eating, please try Mystery Lovers Kitchen. There is a blog there every day with wonderful cozy mystery writers posting recipes and talking books and food. Edith and I are both regulars there...
DeleteGreat suggestion, Lucy!
DeleteMurder is Everywhere. A group of mystery writers who live in different geographical areas of the world from Africa to Greece, posts also from India, Singapore and NY or wherever else they either live or travel
DeleteThey don’t get a lot of response as far as comments from readers, but they do provide cultural and historical information and observations in addition to general insight from their part of the world. Some of the authors are also very good photographers so have an opportunity to show readers a more personal view of their cities and countries.
Thanks for this, Anon! That sounds like a fun read!
DeleteI read Lesa's Book Critiques almost every day. The blog features book reviews and recommendations from Lesa, a retired librarian, almost every day, except on Thursdays, when everyone writes in with reports on what they are doing and reading. Some people's mystery tastes are a bit too cozy for me, but it's a very likable group of people. See https://lesasbookcritiques.com/
DeleteHappy Summer Break/Brake. All of us need space for rest, rejuvenation what a gift to yourselves, Reds, and thank you for giving me no excuse for not getting out of my chair after breakfast except on Monday and Thursday! Elisabeth PS to Anonymous commenters: since Blogger took my name away ages ago, I know it’s hard to remember to sign posts. But I would like to see more people remember. Cheers!
ReplyDeleteThanks Elisabeth--we will see you twice a week and look forward to that!!
DeleteWhy not type your name in when starting a post? The option is right at the top of the post. Select the arrow where it says Comment as:
DeleteAnonymous, lovely suggestion, but Blogger refuses and has refused for at least a year. So I refused to fight anymore and type my name at the end. Cheers, Elisabeth
DeleteThanks, Lucy. And do say “hello” to eastern CT for me. Strange nostalgia for the years all those years ago from western CT to Connecticut College (for women…yes, that many years ago). Elisabeth
DeleteI know all the Reds have been hosting and writing this blog for over a decade and it's hard to keep up the enthusiasm when work and lives have become so busy. I began to notice the slowdown - the blogs having much shorter intro's, the handovers to other authors (which is a good thing too), the fewer number of posters, etc. I hope the slow down for the summer is just that ... for the summer and that you'll be back full throttle in the fall? Is this true Reds?
ReplyDeleteOh and so sorry Rhys, and glad to know you have such a loving family around you to visit and be with.
We have no plans to discontinue the blog, what would we do without you all??
DeleteQuestion is I believe will the blog ever be more than two days a week? Why not at least add one or two authors to Jungle Reds as well? Perhaps make what we are reading or watching occur on the same day each week as a regular feauture.
DeleteI have such mixed feelings about all this, and it's so affirming to read that I'm not alone with the ambivalence. Meanwhile, taking a deep, cleansing breath. ONWARD. I love this group so much...
ReplyDeleteSee y'all MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS!!
ReplyDeleteSee you all on Mondays and Thursdays.
DeleteSummer vacation or the rest of my life starts mostly this afternoon. (9) Most of the people are gone, and my brother should be tomorrow. (0) We still have boxes to move and furniture to shift, but the panic is over. (2) You still can’t move in our house or find anything, but it will dissipate. Salvation Army is very forgiving with what we send! (7) So there will be the start of many loads of dishes, and table cloths, and shifting our things back in place, and feeding stuff to the chickens (No one wants 3 day old sandwiches), but very, very soon (TODAY!) I am stopping to weed, and move the plants in step 1 to the green house. (3) That and Geriatric Row is my intention and we both look forward to no longer having to answer to “jump, How high” after the last 3 years. (7) Jack is building an extension to the garage that we don’t need, but he has ‘plans for it’. (5) I avert my eyes and hold my tongue. (1) Meanwhile, I am cleaning out the garage by way of the dump – anyone need a spare sink that we moved from Ontario 25 years ago and have never needed? (3) We have no plans to go anywhere in spite of a new-t-us vehicle. (6) Peace and serenity will be our motto.
ReplyDeleteOur doors are always open (actually), and Canada is a lovely and friendly place, so drop in anytime. All you need to do is go to Louisbourg, and ask do you know where Margo in Catalone Gut lives, and someone will direct you. You will be welcomed, fed, and given a cat to cuddle, should you want one. (Collect the numbers in the brackets in front of the sentences to get the phone number). I wish everyone a happy summer. May the wild fires be few!
This sounds like an amazing road trip to visit you and check on the progress of the garage LOL. No thanks on the sink!
DeleteMargo, I am on tenterhooks, wondering if the lobsters ever got delivered! Hope they did, and you didn't have to resort to feeding everyone Cheerios.
DeleteOh Canada! Margo, my hub got his Canadian citizenship this year. His parents were Canadian but he was born in the US and has always had US citizenship and Canada has offered citizenship to anyone with a Canadian relative. He always spent his summers visiting his relatives/cousins in Toronto from a young age until he went off to college. We love Canada. They have the nicest people!
ReplyDeleteThey DO have the nicest people!
DeleteIf we can't get together here (except our two days a week -- (thanks Reds for providing that opportunity) is there an alternative blog that can be recommended? I will miss not only our Reds but all the posters' comments, advice and book suggestions. Especially book suggestions and what the REDS are writing as well.
ReplyDeleteThis reminds me, and we should have thought to say this, that we have a Reds and Readers Facebook page already going. It would be FANTASTIC if everyone joined the gang there. Then all the conversations could easily be continued! https://www.facebook.com/groups/6835060499909032
DeleteI was going to say that, too!
DeleteI have never been involved with Facebook and really don’t have a desire to start now. Perhaps I will be missing out, but I would rather be reading books not something else online.
DeleteI, too, do not know how I will start my mornings (aside from Mondays and Thursdays). Every morning I fix my cup of tea and a scone or English muffin and sit down to enjoy this blog. I will miss you so much but also agree that all of you need a break, although it sounds like you will all be very busy elsewhere! As others have said, I do look for book recommendations here as well as making sure I am up-to-date on your books. And I am “here” everyday although I seldom comment. Thank you for this blog, wishing all a good summer (and no hurricanes, please!) Barbara C.
ReplyDeletethanks for the kind words Barbara! You have a good summer too, and I agree, no hurricanes!
DeleteWow, I take a couple of weeks off to have a heart attack and someone changes things around.
ReplyDeleteRhys, I just found out today that you’ve experienced a terrible loss. I am so sorry. Almost 60 years. Much love.
As for the rest of you, continuing the blog two days a week is not a vacation. But it seems writers are always working! I’ll try to drop by more often. It’s been a year of so many changes for me, have about every old lady diagnosis except dementia. (Our neighbor of 25 years didn’t recognize Julie this morning.)
We obviously are staying home this summer, but I expect most of my children will show up a few at a time.
Be well my friends
Sounds like a great summer to me, Ann!
DeleteYou and Julie take good care, enjoy the children when they show up, and the quiet joy of when you are alone. Your posts warm my heart. Elisabeth
DeleteYes please take good care Ann! I'm glad you're well enough to be back in the fray
DeleteOh, Ann, please have a restful recovery summer! Aging is not fun -- golden years, my butt. Oy.
DeleteTake care of yourself, Ann! We are all thinking of you!
DeleteI wish you all a happy summer. I will miss you and all you provide!
ReplyDeleteThis blog has kept me in touch with so many things..Not just your books, but your travels and ideas. New to me authors.... and more. You definitely deserve time off but it seems to me that once a blog shifts gears, it's never the same. Still, the best of everything to all of you! And thank you for all you've given.
Veronica
You're welcome, and we will take some deep breaths and see what makes the best sense over the course of the summer.
DeleteThank you, Veronica! I'm looking forward to to hearing about everyone's summer plans as we go!
DeleteRhys, I've been thinking about you a lot lately, and hoping you are doing well. Good to hear of your plans for going forward.
ReplyDeleteDarling Reds, if anyone has deserved a break it is all of you! Wishing you all a wonderful summer of relaxing when you can! And thank you for your steadfastness up to now. It is so appreciated.
We are starting off with a trip to Portugal and Spain, meeting up with middle daughter, her fiance, and his parents from California, who we have not yet met. We start in Porto, and a few days later begin the shortest leg of the Camino de Santiago, trekking 73 miles in 8 days to Compostella de Santiago in Northwestern Spain. Then another week + of travel in Spain, with youngest daughter meeting us in Seville, along with fiance's sister and her family. His parents are almost exactly our ages: his dad is 3 months older than Steve; his mom was born the day after me! They speak fluent Spanish, so I have been Duolingo-ing for three months in preparation. But despite PT and other help, my hip is only just better enough to walk. The mom and I will hitch rides every day between stops.
We are getting some landscape work done later on, and we have plans to visit oldest daughter in Traverse City. And spending time with my mom. That's plenty!
Karen, that is indeed plenty! What a great trip to Portugal/Spain! In another life, I think I must have been born on the Iberian Peninsula. :-)
DeleteSO much exciting stuff! Awe are eager to hear all about it..xoxoo
DeleteSuch fun to travel with your girls and their new families! I'm sorry about your hip but it sounds like you will manage to enjoy the trip anyway.
DeleteThank you all for the kind words. Three months of therapy has meant I can now mostly walk without pain, but didn't give enough room to build stamina. But Maria is pretty much at m t same level, and I am hoping to make a new friend.
DeleteI have often wondered how you Reds managed daily blog posts. So relieved to learn you are at least partly human and are modifying your posting schedule. Good for you. Mondays and Thursdays are a nice rhythm to get into...As for summer plans: Growing tomatoes... that's it.
ReplyDeleteHA! Well, we do love each other, and it's fun for us to be able to get together every day! ANd yes, Mondays and Thursdays, and of course the Reds and readers facebook page!
Deleteeager to hear about your tomatoes--I am about to fight the squirrel battle again!
We are growing tomatoes too! Hank is right, this blog has grown to mean so much to the seven of us. We truly hated to make changes!
DeleteI'm growing tomatoes, too! Maybe we'll do a "tomato" post as the summer goes on. I have planted a blue variety. They turn a sort of purple-yellow as they ripen. Sounds like a bruise, but actually very pretty.
DeleteFifteen years?! Y'all deserve a vacation! Rhys, thinking of you. Having engrossing work to do, loving family and friends surrounding you--that will all be a comfort to you as you go forward into your new life. Jenn, another person in Spain!! Enjoy!! Julia, when you get your outside property in shape, please come and do mine!! Debs, hurrah!!!! So looking forward to another book! Lucy and Hank, where do you buy your Energizer batteries?? You never stop moving! Hallie--I think it's wonderful how you've managed to combine two great loves--teaching and writing. And I bet your lucky students are equally thrilled.
ReplyDeleteMy summer involves trying to wrestle my property into some sense of respectability without hurting myself, re-discovering how to cook for one without having two weeks' worth of leftovers, and a trip with my older sister to visit youngest nephew in Nashville. And then there's that unfinished fantasy novel, knocking at the door, whispering to me, "Don't be afraid of the middle, you can handle this!"
YES! You can handle the middle! (I teach specific classed and have written several blogs about conquering the Muddle in the MIddle--got to careerauthors.com and check them out!
DeleteFlora you're the best. thanks so much for your kind words!
DeleteMiddles are a bear, Flora, but you can do it. One page at a time!
DeleteOh, woe is me! The JRW writers are going on “vacation” , my church is getting a new pastor, much of the parking at my local library has been removed and I may need to stop going there, and my head is just not taking it all in. JRW is the first blog I read every day. I often read it two and three times a day. I don’t comment as often as I used to because arthritis in my hands makes it painful for me to hold and use my phone. (No computer here.)
ReplyDeleteI don’t understand why you need vacations. I thought that as writers you were all super-human! You are certainly “Super-heroes” in my mind! Thanks to you ladies, I have spent so much money on books, whether print or Kindle or audio. My plans for the summer were to read JRW and to buy and read books recommended by JRW writers.
I’m afraid to tell you to enjoy your vacations, because I’m afraid you’ll enjoy your vacations so much that you won’t want to return.
I’ll still read this summer, but maybe not as much as I had hoped :-(
DebRo
Awww....thank you! And you konw we are all working as well as vacationing...and we will miss you too! And yes, DebRo, we know you are always here!
DeleteDebRo, we Connecticut women can weather change “see you” Mondays and Thursdays 🙃 Elisabeth (relocated Connecticut woman).
DeleteDebRo, LOL! though seriously, I totally get hating change! I hope your new pastor is wonderful. Do you have a handicap parking permit that would help you get there? So glad you'll get to see family this summer.
DeleteOh, and as usual, this August I’ll be going to Chincoteague VA with some relatives. There’s a nice bookstore there. I’ll probably also visit my sister who lives in upstate CT by thevMA line. She lives amidst forest and farmland, a change of pace from my mile-away-from-the-beach neighborhood.
ReplyDeleteDebRo
That sounds lovely, DebRo!
DeleteI think the blog twice weekly should be announced now as a permanent change. This allows all to move on and find other morning rituals.
ReplyDeleteA list of other favorite blogs would be a help to those who have time to read blogs seven days a week.
Readers can always post in the private group on FB, for an alternative meeting
place.
Anon, why don’t we allow all of us, Reds and Readers, to absorb and adapt to this change? This might not be what they decide will be the “permanent” schedule. If you want to investigate other blogs, feel free to do so. (Chicks on the Case, Mystery Lovers Kitchen, 7 Criminal Minds are some blogs I have seen mentioned. You might consider Googling Hank or following her on Facebook because she seems to be affiliated with more groups than seems to be physically possible.) — Pat S
DeletePat, that's a great suggestion. Foot on the boat, foot on the dock.
DeletePat S, my comment was with good intent. Setting expectations earlier than later usually works best.
DeleteUnlike many of you I have a busy law practice and do not read blogs daily.
There seem to be so many that “need” a morning blog, it is cruel to keep them in limbo. Just offering my opinion, you seem to be taking personal offense, ay my opinion, which was definitely not directed at anyone specific.
Your list of blogs may be of interest to those who need their morning blog.
Anonymous...For someone who has a busy law practice you certainly have no problem finding the time to comment continuously throughout this thread. As well as try to defend your opinion which quite frankly at times comes across as bullying. Do you honestly believe that you are the only "busy" individual with a profession and that these folks don't face adversities or challenges in their own lives?! You mistake the Red Readers connection with each other and these seven fabulous authors as having the "need" for a morning blog. If starting one's day on a positive note with others especially during these often challenging times as a "need" then so be it. Support and exchange of ideas is a good thing. I can't always be on this blog everyday due to outside circumstances but whenever I can be I look forward to my morning "fix". Pat S offered you some suggestions and you accused her of taking personal offense. Perhaps it is you who is taking personal offense as you seem intent on being defensive as well as demeaning. Putting a spin on negativity and then trying to give it another name; i.e., reality, is not very helpful.
DeleteAnon, some of us have been friends, online and off, for as long as 20 years. It's more than a need, it's about longstanding connections and friendships.
DeleteSounds like we all have some amazing summer plans! Yay! Good times ahead!
ReplyDeleteYes, and you must remind us when your fabulous movie is on! SO exciting!
DeleteI agree that you must tell us when we can see the movie!! I can’t wait!
DeleteDebRo
I also look forward to reading the blog every day. I don’t always comment since I don’t always feel I have something to say that is relevant to the subject.
ReplyDeleteIf I read something of interest I do check back several times as I like to read what others think.
I always enjoy finding out what the other readers and writers are doing whether it is reading or writing and I will miss that daily opportunity. There again, it is important for everybody to have a chance to rest and recharge. Perhaps we could get a bonus posting here or there if someone has a particularly interesting experience or event they would like to share.
Is there any way readers could post independently so that we could keep in touch?
Although most of us don’t know any of the others personally, they do feel a connection with other commenters and it is like a family. I have appreciated how many people have responded and offered encouragement and suggestions to others who are having some personal issues.
This is another situation where you take something for granted and perhaps this is a chance for the faithful readers to show how much these daily columns have meant to us.
AW, so agree. I love our connections, and they are so precious! And we will be here twice a week, so they wiil still be strong! xxx
DeleteKaren, the lobsters arrived – another panic averted. They were late. There were all girls in their pink frilly tutus (explanation to those who don’t know about lobsters. Like most things they come in 2 sexes. It means that the females have larger hips (truth) and soft little thingys just at the base of the underside of where the tail meets body. In the male, these are hard. The female carries the eggs inside her body until they are fertilized and start to mature, and then released where she carries them on her shell until they mature and go off on their own This is called ‘berried’ – you are not allowed to harvest them then.) When cooked the roe turns red and is a gustatory delicacy. All our family loves it, so we ask to have lobsters in tutu only. 56 arrived suitable presented. It took 2 goes to boil them all (water, salt, lobster, heat). They arrived on the table about 7pm to be served with beer, butter, buns, coleslaw and for the ‘others’ – lasagna. Banana splits with cake for dessert. No cheerios were harmed.
ReplyDeleteSunday was smoked meat sandwiches at lunch, and roast beef, roast potatoes, salad, birthday cake, fruit and my Laura’s famous brownies. Just chocolate.
Most people have gone. Still too many still here. Some cats have come home, the dog is happy, the dishwasher is going (fine dinner means wine glasses, good dishes and silver wear), table cloths, and tomorrow sheets. Leftovers include 6 lobsters not eaten – can you say eyes bigger than your stomach – ham and scalloped potatoes, scraps of roast beef, and bananas. Sun is out but no gardening has been done. Maybe tomorrow… after that some day we will take the tables and chairs back to the fire department – they need them by August.
Sounds like a huge success! And leftover lobster is surely a good reward for all your hard work. Yum, lobster salad!
DeleteSounds like you deserve to put your feet up and read. Hope some of the remaining guests can at least fold sheets and towels.
Margo, in Maine we say if you have enough lobsters leftover to make cold lobster rolls with mayonnaise the next day, you ordered JUST enough.
DeleteWow, that is some party Margo!!
DeleteWow, Margo, I'm sorry we couldn't all teleport there. Although I suspect you are not:-)
DeleteForgot to say, thanks for the fascinating lobster info, too! I had no idea about the frilly tutus!
DeleteAnother faithful blog reader here, who doesn't always comment, yet I appreciate the daily camaraderie of this wonderful community. I'll also miss reading it daily, but do understand the need for vacation, especially after 15 years! At the end of this month I will be embarking on a new life, moving back to our property in East Texas, living alone in temporary housing, while the roof of the old log home gets repaired and the house renovated enough to be habitable again. My husband of 52 years has now been gone for almost 16 months, so that in itself has been quite the journey, which so many of us are now facing. I look forward to continuing to enjoy JRW on a twice weekly basis this busy summer. I also recommend Mystery Lovers' Kitchen as my other favorite blog. Happy summer, everyone!
ReplyDeleteT'was me, Lynn in Texas, fighting Blogger to comment above!
DeleteFrom Karen: good luck, Lynn, in this next phase.
DeleteHugs, Lynn. You've got this!
Deletethanks so much Lynn for understanding.
DeleteGood luck, Lynn, on your new adventure. I hope you'll keep us posted. And for us locals, where in east Texas? My dad grew up just outside Sulpher Springs so I'm sure I have Darden connections there somewhere.
DeleteDebs, in south Franklin county, outside of Mount Vernon. (Further east of Sulphur Springs.)
DeleteLynn, thank you! And life is an adventure, that’s for sure…
DeleteDarling Reds, happy summer break! Fifteen years! I cannot recall when I started reading your blog daily. Maybe ten years ago? Rhys, I often think of you and I’m grateful that you have family nearby and your plans to visit England are still happening. Hallie, I wish I could take your writing classes at the book passage this summer. It sounds wonderful!
ReplyDeleteSummer plans are up in the air. Hope to complete minor repairs at home. Hope to finish the darn declutter. We have too much stuff. And get back to writing my debut novel. Trying to maintain my health. Read more comfort books.
Declutter! Go for it! We are all cheering you on!
DeleteJenn, I meant to say I plan to watch the Hallmark movies based on your book.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Diana!!!
DeleteWe're ALL looking forward to that, Diana!
DeleteWe're looking forward to seeing everyone on Mondays and Thursdays throughout the summer! I promise it's not hard to get into the rhythm of - my favorite fashion/style Substack comes out on Wednesdays and Sundays, and it feels like just the right amount.
ReplyDeleteIncidentally, the first girl on the left of Lucy's photo looks a lot like I did before, ahem, the puberty fairy visited me. :-D
Julia, what is the name of the fashion substack on Wednesdays?
ReplyDeleteI will miss the daily contact with you all, both Reds and Readers, but I'll look forward to Mondays and Thursdays! Summer plans: This Friday, my husband and I will drive to Genoa, catch a ferry to Sardinia, and spend a little over two weeks there. We can't wait. After that, we're home until August, when we'll drive to Logroño in La Rioja, Spain, to see a full solar eclipse. We'll spend a few days in Arles on our way back.
ReplyDeleteWe'll still be here, Kim. We'll have great catch ups on Mondays and Thursdays!
DeleteYour summer trips sound fabulous!
This blog saved me during COVID and continues to be a daily joy. My former neighbor was a part owner in Murder By The Book in Portland, Oregon. She put me on to your blog originally. I get new authors, books that are a must read, and life's little spots of intrigue/interest. Thanks for all that you do. To Rhys, lots of love and care going forward. You are well loved. Enjoy your summer everyone!
ReplyDeleteAwwwww thank you! Xxxxxxx (it got us through Covid, too! )
DeleteI've been reading the blog for years but only comment when I have something to add or for one of the promotions sometimes offered. I will miss the daily read but appreciate that you are still doing two days and not completely taking the summer off. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteWe always know you are here!
DeleteI just survived an 18 road trip: Virginia to Texas. Be here about a month at my husband’s place. Pat D
ReplyDeleteDarn. 18 hour trip.
DeleteYay, you! You are so tough! Rockstar!
Delete