inspiration

No After Cruise Blues

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I did it!

My first cruise and my first time outside of the USA. No fear. Just fun!

Recently, my daughter and I set sail for the Eastern Caribbean. What a fantastic experience!

Carnival Celebration

Laura impressed me with her travel knowledge and skills. If it were up to me, I’d still be standing in the wrong line at the airport trying to figure out how to get my luggage tags. She guided us quickly through a maze of travelers via the short TSA line and to our gate.

We arrived in Miami a day early to reduce the worry of a flight delay or cancellation. She’d arranged transportation from the hotel to the port the next morning , and before long, we were herded along with 5,000 other cruisers onto the ship. She’d selected a wonderful ocean view stateroom with a balcony.

The launch party certainly set the mood. Music, dancing, Caribbean Coladas-and a fun-loving cruise director.

I trailed my daughter like a little puppy the first two days afraid I’d get lost and never see her again. When I wasn’t trying to remember which of the nineteen decks held our room, the lido, and of course, the casino, I was challenged with figuring out forward, aft, port, and starboard.

All the walking helped offset the some of the weight gain from visiting the dozens of the food venues. Of course we had to test them all – well, most of them. We did splurge on the Fahrenheit 555 Steak House and Bonsai Teppanyaki, a Japanese steak house. So worth it!

Our first port stop was at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic where we experienced monkeys up close and personal at Monkeyland Punta Cana. It was a little unnerving as they climbed all over me, but I didn’t freak out and they were cute.

The following morning we arrived in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Even though it was hot and humid, Laura and I hiked two and a half miles uphill to one of the historical forts. https://www.nps.gov/saju/index.htm

Later that evening, we set sail for St. Maarten island and when we woke the next morning, we were already in port on the Dutch side ruled by the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The other side is the French Republic. We spent the day browsing through shops, wading in the pristine waters, and lounging under an umbrella sipping cold beer.

The Celebration ship is the largest in Carnival’s fleet. At capacity, it can accommodate 6,5003 passengers plus 1,735 crew members. The enormous size impressed me as we passed numerous smaller cruise ships along the way. However, when we docked in port at St. Maarten next to the largest cruise ship in the world, Wonder of the Sea, I had to laugh.

Hopefully this is the first of many new experiences I’ll enjoy in this chapter of my life. I’m keeping an open mind and kicking fear to the curb! Meanwhile, stay tune for news about The Dahlonega Sisters. Coming soon!

I’d love to hear about your adventures. Drop me a line!

A Fresh Start to the New Year!

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Happy New Year to all who read this! Wishing you peace, joy, and fulfillment of any long-held dreams.

Making annual resolutions—which seldom last longer than a few weeks—is not my thing. Life has a way of interrupting my best planned out schedule like losing weight or being more consistent in posting blogs. One thing for sure, my followers can’t complain about me flooding their inbox with too many posts.

While I try never to make promises I can’t/won’t keep, I do have a tendency to travel the backroads of my mind remembering the footsteps which caused me to stumble and the ones where I marched ahead.

With regret, I did not finish editing my romantic suspense novel, nor did I reach 50,000 words on the next Dahlonega Sisters novel during NANOWRIMO.  I count both as stumbles since they are still works-in-progress which I’m hoping to publish in 2023.

While reviewing the positives and negatives, I was inspired to write about a mountain (okay, maybe it was a hill) I successfully climbed this year.

Fear.

It has always limited my world. I’ve never been bold or brave. Conforming to rules and expectations kept me out of trouble as a kid and for the most part, as an adult. I’m not timid, but I seldom risk venturing into the unknown, especially on my own. My husband of fifty-one year is even less adventurous. As such, the width of our world has been pretty limited.

However, we’ve often been very blessed to vacation across the United States with my brother and his wife. They skillfully and confidently take care of all the arrangements: hotel reservations, car rental, and mapping out all the sights to see. We merely get in their vehicle and enjoy the experience.

This year, my dear friend who now lives in Virginia, invited me to join her at a beach house in the Outer Banks, North Carolina. We’d talked about the possibility ever since she moved away. I’d promised to visit and to spend time at the beach with her. When the opportunity presented itself, I balked. The list of reasons why I shouldn’t go grew quickly: Hubby would be all alone. The cost of airline tickets and car rental would dent our savings. Too many commitments listed on my calendar.

Truth was, none of those things were the issue. It was fear.

Traveling alone freaked me out. I hadn’t flown in more than twelve years, hadn’t rented a car in nearly twenty, and even more important, I’d never driven for hours by myself to an unfamiliar location. I don’t even like to test drive a car when we are looking to buy it.

I’m not a “what if” person, but I sure spent a restless night praying for an answer and trying not to think of things that could go wrong.

The following morning, I woke with new-found confidence. I called my daughter, who travels frequently, and asked for her help. She selected the flight, arranged for a rental, and reassured me I could do this. Suddenly, excitement overtook the fear. I mapped out the driving route, researched the requirements and limitations for flying, and started packing.

Not once did I feel anxious or second guess my decision. There were no delays flying out, the rental car was a breeze, and my Garmin took me right to the driveway of the beach house. I felt like I’d released a new me.

We laughed. We cried. We made new memories. Then, we promised to do it again next year. And, I found a confidence that had escaped me for most of my life. Hubby survived alone. I didn’t get lost or end up in Timbuktu. I could do this!

When I got back home, still feeling pumped with confidence, I filled out applications for passports for my husband and myself. He may not ever use his, but I will. There are places I want to go to and things I want to see.

Shortly after I returned from vacation, my daughter booked for us on a Caribbean cruise which we will take in April 2023. Once I’ve gotten my feet wet on a ship and abroad, I hope to convince my husband to join me on another cruise or some other trip out of the country.

Fear is in my rearview mirror. I hope it stays there!

So here is to the start of a new year. May you face your fears and rise above them.

Blessings to all of you.

Diane

Taciturn

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Some might call it procrastination; others think it’s neglect; perhaps it might be avoidance. I’ve been guilty of all three at times.

Today, I’m choosing to call my seven-month absence from posting on my blog as taciturn. Bartlett’s Roget’s Thesaurus covers my silence quite thoroughly. I refuse to comment on the weather, politics, or religion. My husband would dispute that assertion, but that’s my story and I’m sticking to it. Actually, I’ve been busy doing what writers do. Writing!

After finishing the third book in The Dahlonega Sisters series, https://www.amazon.com/author/dianemhow

I decided to brush the dust off my very first (still unpublished) romantic suspense novel, Burning Embers. It was written during NaNoWriMo. If you aren’t familiar with this supportive writing organization, I encourage you to check it out. https://nanowrimo.org. I’m probably on my tenth round of edits, but I keep plugging away it and hope to see it published by fall of 2022.

Besides weaving stories, I weave baskets. Here are a few I’m getting ready to sell along with my books at a pop-up market at Third Wheel Brewery https://www.thirdwheelbrewing.com/ on May 7. A dozen vendors will display their handmade crafts just in time for Mother’s day. Come check it out and grab a bite to eat while sampling a cold brew. Win, win!

Last but not least, in honor of Mother’s Day, I’m sharing a picture of my Mom and sisters.

I miss her every day and I thank her for teaching me to be responsibe, generous, and unselfish. I will never be as good at it as she was, but I try.

I’m giving away a basket and book package. (sorry, USA only). All you need to do is comment on this post with a note about your mother or a mother figure who influenced your life. I’ll draw a name on May 8th and contact the winner for details.

Can’t wait to hear your stories.

The Eyes of March

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Hello My Friends and Followers.

It’s been a long and challenging few months since I’ve posted. Thank you for spending a few minutes with me today to reflect and project.

Spring is close and I feel a renewed energy in the air. I hope I can share some positivity if you are struggling to find the beauty of the season. Let’s start with some visuals.

Bright cheerful flowers, brilliantly budding trees, azure blue skies. True masterpieces lifting my soul to a brighter place. Although I know rainy days, heavy grey clouds, and frightening storms are scattered throughout the season, I have a renewed determination to endure those days with faith, hope, and love.

I’m finally scheduled for my first COVID-19 vaccine this week and my husband has received both of his. Soon I will be able to visit friends and family with less fear of being infected by the virus.

My husband of 49 years, Wart-nicknamed by his grandfather for being a worry wart- made it through three months of cancer treatments and is doing better than expected thanks to his strong stamina, attentive doctors, and some TLC from me. While the emotional toll has been hard, his physical pain has been minimal. With a positive prognosis, a little more energy, and some warmer weather, he’ll be outside cutting grass and growing his tomato plants soon.

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We’ve seen Hammie, our grand dog more than our daughter, Laura. Hope she’s ready for all the hugs she’s missed. I’ve got a year’s worth coming her way.

Hammie’s had to tolerate a bunch of them, but he doesn’t mind as long as he got a treat.

Spring brings a freshness that exceeds the cold, dark, winter days. Sometimes I have to remind myself that life is good. But, I know it is and I am blessed.

The new season brings thoughts of visiting family and friends, participating in outdoor adventures, and maybe even scheduling a face-to-face book signing.

Until then, you can order a copy of Veins of Gold at https://www.amazon.com/Dahlonega-Sisters-Veins-Gold/dp/1734038330

Enjoy the new season and have faith that spring will bring a renewed sense of hope. If I can help you in the journey, let me know. I’m here for you!

Love you!

Diane

New Book Release!

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Time to snuggle up with a cup of hot cocoa, a warm blanket, and a heart-warming book!

The Dahlonega Sisters are back and ready to entertain!

Will digging up family secrets uncover bones best left buried?

Marge Ledbetter fears once she spits into the small vial and sends it off, nothing will be the same. But she must disprove the outrageous secret she’s been told by a dying woman before it becomes the latest gossip to spread throughout her quaint gold rush town, Dahlonega, Georgia.

Her older sister, Rose Ellen, who is a tad haughty, enthusiastically approves of the ancestry search in hopes of finding a famous relative to add to her bragging list.

Marge’s eccentric twin, Mutzi, vehemently disagrees, fearing the rumor she’s heard most of her life about her and Marge not being sisters is true.

Will the results disprove Marge’s tightly held secret or will The Dahlonega Sisters be faced with news that changes their family dynamics forever?

Veins of Gold

https://books2read.com/u/mvnnLJ and https://www.amazon.com/Dahlonega-Sisters-Veins-Gold-ebook/dp/B08NM337B3. Also available in paperback at https://www.amazon.com/dp/1734038330.

Makes a great Holiday gift for friends and family. Enjoy!

Blessings to all!

Diane

Life Choices

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It never ceases to amaze me how often a friend says “How do you know Jane?” Insert any name you like. The response for me usually is through thirty-three years working at the same place, a lifetime of volunteering with Girl Scouts and a hospice group, or along my writing journey.

It’s fun to make the reconnection and it reminds me of how small our world really is. No matter where I’ve met them, they have a common link, they are good-hearted, respectful, caring friends who have made a difference in my life.

A few days ago, that very thing happened to me. It sparked one thought and then another. Before I knew it, the following poem came to life. I hope you enjoy it. Feel free to share it with those people that have woven love into your life

A Tapestry of Hope

Threads of life connect us all.

Multi-colored ribbons of endless textiles

Tribal motifs, gentle cottons, sturdy burlaps, luxurious silks

Each strand has purpose, each purpose has worth

Some with frayed ends, others miraculously unspoiled

Common and uncommon, grounded by perspective

Woven with tenderness, this rainbow enchantment

Spreads a superlative quilt of warmth and refuge

Over mountains and oceans, religions and politics

Strengthened in crisis, prominent amid disasters

Immune to pandemics, persistent and loyal

These threads of life called LOVE

by Diane M How

Who are the people in your world?

Do you share the same morals and values?

How has it affected the life you are living today?

Recharge! Refresh! Renew!

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Another week on unstable ground. Call it COVID 19 or Corona Virus, whatever you call it, this intrusion into our lives is draining most of the world.

Where do you turn when you need to energize your internal battery?

I turn to Mother Nature to remind me of the rebirth that takes place after cold wintery days leave me feeling a little depressed and restless. This year, I need it more than ever.

The trees are in bloom, like the last mature one standing in our yard. Watching the bare drab limbs transform to a beautiful white cape makes my heart soar.

I can’t help but feel hope when I see the transformation.

On my daily walks, I see bright bursts of yellow daffodils force their way through thawing brown soil, begging for attention from anyone passing their way.

Last fall, my husband transplanted some flowers that were taking over his vegetable garden. Apparently, they enjoyed the move as they are blooming better than ever.

I guess they’ve been refreshed with the new environment.

Change. It’s one of those things most of us struggle with in our lives. The new restrictions and precautions require all of us to do things differently, and that isn’t always easy.

I wrote this poem some time ago, but I think it might help to put things in perspective with the concept of change. It may not be fore everyone, but it is what is in my heart, so I will share it. Perhaps it will help renew a spirit.

The Byways

God tills the ground with gentle hands and prepares for us each day

A road to the salvation land providing we don’t stray

Some days our mind won’t comprehend the journey that we’ve been on

When dark clouds threaten overhead, I pray He’ll send a song

To ease the burden that weighs you down and threatens to blind your sight

For music has a soothing way of shining His great light

Then slowly with the lightest touch He’ll discreetly lift your load

Transparent to the human eye He’ll pave a brand new road

The surface will be different from the path you’ve always known

But fertile land will reappear with seeds of love He’s sown

How do you recharge?

Is change difficult for you?

What does your tomorrow look like today?

Time to Chill

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Too much time in one place? Too much stress to deal with? Too few things to laugh about?

You are not alone. I’ve been trying to avoid making wine my evening meal. It goes great with chocolate, and I have to admit I keep it close on hand.

What can I say? At least I didn’t hoard toilet paper!

I have to exercise twice as long to keep the weight from packing on, so my husband and I take long walks admiring nature’s glorious treasures.

I heard someone say they were so desperate they were house cleaning. Thank goodness I haven’t reached that level, yet.

Seriously, wouldn’t it be more fun to escape to a quaint Georgia town and eavesdrop on some witty, endearing, and resilient sisters as they unravel the mystery of The Gold Miner Ring?

You’re in luck! For the next couple of weeks, the sisters are offering their e-book at a special price.

https://dashboard.bookfunnel.com/bundles/board/fgq2up6cng

Treat yourself to a little chill time. I think you’ll be glad you did.

What are you doing to adjust to our new normal?

What has been the hardest thing to adjust to?

What silver-linings have you found during this past month?

My Silver Lining

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Seems like such a short time ago, our grand dog, Hammie was just a pup. He’s 11 years old now. How time flies, except when you’re confined to quarers for an unknown length of time.

It’s tough right now, trying to find the silver lining in our disrupted world. We’ve been invaded by an invisible, unexpected, and uncontainable virus. As unpredictable as the Corvid-19 journey has been, so have been our responses to it. Confusion, denial, fear, anger, frustration. All reasonable, all understandable. Yet, with any crisis, there is opportunity from which we can benefit. Even Hammie is taking the Shelter in place command seriously.

Some folks use humor to get through the stressful situations. That includes me. I love some of the social media pictures and quotes that make me laugh out loud.

I ignore the rants and raves that do nothing more than stir negative emotions. It doesn’t mean I am oblivious to the seriousness of the situation, but many of the political pokes and ventings do nothing but spread anger and fear. I choose to focus on the positive.

So here are a few of the positive opportunities I’ve been given.

I’m saving lots of money because I traded trips to the casino for daily runs to the store in search of toilet paper. Down to two rolls. I got desperate and ordered some on line. Good news, I found some. Bad news, the deliver day is May 22. I thought it was a typo, but Alexa confirmed it.

I’m getting my daily 10,000 steps in by walking room to room and taking note of the chaos I’ve neglected for some time. Every once in while, I find an object that’s been missing for months. Found a Christmas present I forgot to deliver yesterday. Now won’t they be happy when it shows up in their mailbox. Spreading the joy.

My daily wardrobe consists of sweat pants and a t-shirt. Haven’t had to wash a bra in a week! Just think about the water and soap I’m saving. I saw a Facebook post that said to cut them up to use as a mask when necessary.

I’m not gaining weight because we aren’t eating out. All the burger and chicken are gone by the time I get to the store, so we’re cleaning out the freezer, trying to identify what’s each shriveled, rock hard, frosted package contains.

I’ve got lots of time to clean those closets and organize the pantry now. Could wash windows too. Choosing to save those fun thing in case I get really desperate!

Best part is that I have more time to write, and I am. Veins of Gold is taking form. The Dahlonega Sisters are busy keeping me front and center by my laptop.

The girls wanted me to do something to brighten your day, so they suggested I reduce the price of their first book, The Gold Miner Ring. The e-book is now available for $1.99 at your favorite site. Here’s the link: https://books2read.com/links/ubl/mVrL2p

Stay safe everyone and don’t forget to lighten up. This too shall pass and with a little luck, we’ll all learn something positive from the experience.

What’s your silver lining?