May 2008

With more stops and starts than usual, the rush toward summer has begun. We have early seeds in the ground and the indoor plants have been moved outside for the season. Next week, we’ll do more planting.

More noticeable is our calendar, filling up so rapidly, some days have three notations. The end of the school year scheduling of contests, concerts, programs, ceremonies and graduations is underway in both cities where we and our grandchildren are involved.

Did I get all I planned finished in preparation? Of course not. That would make life too easy. I did finish my commitment to the workshop on writing life stories so I’ll have one extra open slot in my schedule. That’s a good thing although I’ll miss spending time with the people in the group. And, I have finished my year’s work as a Program chair for one of the women’s organizations where I’m involved. That should give me wiggle room.

In a few days, I’ll pick up my granddaughter in Corvallis so we can go to the Tap Kids dance program at the Hult. If the show is good enough, I may not need to explain why it is I didn’t get my closet cleaned out this month. Or I may try to distract her with some other activity. At any rate, I’m sure it’s going to be a fun visit, it always is. Her summer plans include acting camp. A first in our family. Her brother plans on the coastal band camp. A tradition.

Both of our graduating seniors have decided where they’ll start college in the fall so those preparations are underway. Neither are staying home. Big steps for them, for their parents and for their interested grandparents.

For any readers who order their books on line, I want to mention, I am one of many authors published by small presses who are caught in a squeeze by the giant Amazon. They will only sell my books if they are republished by their own press. They still list my books and reviews but have removed any way to buy them. Frustrating but not the end of the world.

I hope all of you are enjoying the incredible beauty of spring in your part of the world. This part of Oregon is spectacular.

My best,

Jo

My newest novel, Marge, Back on Track, is available for purchase. It can be picked up at The Book Mine in Cottage Grove, The Creswell Chronicle office in Creswell, Thurston Book Exchange in Springfield or Books Without Borders in Eugene. It can also be ordered from my web site, Jo-Brew.com, the chain bookstores and online booksellers or purchased from me in person.

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