Retreating in Sonoma

Just returned from a delightful three days in the wine country--north of San Francisco. I don't drink wine--but I enjoyed looking at all the vineyards from the road, driving across the Golden Gate Bridge to and from Sonoma, visiting the Jack London Museum, various art galleries and quaint shops, and spending time with my husband Charles and my writing friend Sherry Kyle and others who gathered for a writers' retreat sponsored by Books 'n' Such Literary Agency, which my agent, Janet Grant directs. On the way home we had breakfast in San Francisco at Mel's, an old-fashioned diner, complete with a juke box. It was good to get away from the computer and telephone for a bit of rest, relaxation, good food, terrific fellowship and some helpful workshops. Now to put all that into practice . . . :-)

Profiles in Courage--As We Age

Last Saturday my husband Charles and I went to Roaring Camps (a railroad and station from the 1880s, preserved for current-day visitors) to begin celebrating his 80th birthday--one of many celebrations planned. Charles is from an old railroad family so it was a thrill for him to ride the train, chat with the conductor and sit in the locomotive. We also enjoyed having our artist friend Debbie sketch our profiles! Charles will turn 80 on Oct. 11! I turned 70 in April. Yikes! But life is full and good and we're happy and grateful.

Starting From Scratch

Here is a book I wish I had had when I was starting from scratch many years ago after my long marriage ended. Authors Sharon M. Knudson and Mary Fran Heitzman have gathered together the true-life experiences of 23 women who started over when it was all they could do. Their stories will inspire and motivate you or someone you know to take up life again and make it even better than it was. They also have included recipes, encouraging scripture verses, and lessons learned. This is a must-read for any woman in need of hope and healing when she finds herself single again.

Starting From Scratch When You're Single Again published by Christian Life, 2008.