“it's a smile, it's a kiss, it's a sip of wine ... it's summertime!”
― Kenny Chesney
Well, hello, July--let the second half of the year commence! This year for the 4th, the OH and I decided to venture out after dark (Gasp!) to watch the sunset and fireworks at the beach. We went to our fav, coastal hangout, the Ritz in Laguna for a bird's eye view of the sparklers exploding over the ocean.
We haven't done this for a couple of years, but I felt compelled this year to venture out of my avoid-the-crowds comfort zone to experience our nation's birthday celebration firsthand. I wanted a dose of the excitement and magic I used to feel growing up when the fireworks were going off in the night sky.
Breathing in the crisp, ocean air gave me a joyful boost. Just for a moment, we were all united under the stars, ooh-ing and ahh-ing as we watched the sky sparkle down the coast.
An evening under the stars made for a fine Independence Day and was the start of a new tradition for us! Wishing you a wonderful month of July--get outside, have fun, stay cool, and keep those hopes and dreams sparkling! It's Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:
Yup, it's Christmas in July...
A writer's life is never boring. Despite the heat and fireworks, I'm knee deep in the mistletoe, writing and editing my holiday-bizarre tales for the new collection to be featured in A Novel Noel. Krampus, mirrors, snow globes, shillelaghs, and a lost little soul will be making a cozy appearance this year---just the thing to keep the jingle (gray) cells entertained with mystery and magic during the holidays. #HoHoHo stay tuned!
Mind Games on #MurdersWeWrite!
Join Cynthia Raleigh, Amy Reade, Bibiana Krall and moi this Sunday at 4 PM EDT on the Clubhouse app! We're discussing psychological fiction--does it play a powerful role in mystery? Mind games, villains, and backstory--where the why takes you to dark and dangerous places... #DunDunDun
Feathers fly with a murderous twist this week from the writers of Twitter...
Author Lee Strauss, Murder at Feathers & Flair, 5 ⭐
A request to hunt down a missing actor is put on hold when tragedy strikes at a fashion event Lady Ginger Gold hosts at her upscale boutique, Feathers & Flair. One of her high society clients is found murdered, and a necklace with a notorious past goes missing.
Family drama and international intrigue emerge as the investigation unfolds. When Ginger and Basil's working relationship hits a rocky patch, will they be able to put their personal issues aside to catch the killer?
Author Strauss once again pens a clever whodunnit with many twists and turns. I've become a huge fan of this series--the characters, settings, and storylines have me hooked! An entertaining read for cozy mystery fans, highly recommended!
Next up in the reading queue:
Let the Cowgirl Christmas fair planning begin!
My darling SIL, nieces, and I have decided to jump in and do one last Thanksgiving weekend craft fair this year before the oldest daughter heads off to college. This year, I'll be selling books and my lovely nieces will be selling their version of the crown jewels! We love attending this show in Paso Robles--loads of great crafts and vendors selling their wares. A great place to find unique gifts for Christmas too!
My OH has been busy with the band saw preparing table displays...what do you think of my Cherrywood Hall and crown? The fabulous Elegant Designs by Lulu is going to paint them in her Mackenzie Childs inspired black and white check I love so much. Of course, hubby will make sure they're properly adorned with lights, LOL. Any craft fairs you enjoy visiting in your area? 💖👑
Welcome to my world. Enjoy the rest of your week and weekend, friends!
Crowns and Kisses,
Veronica
P.S. I'm so enjoying the recipes Bibiana Krall and I have included in the back pages of Wicked Mist--this basil/slushy martini is a current fav for hot summer nights. I found it during our road trip along the Oregon coast. Wicked, ghoulie green but oh-so #yummo! Gemma and Rikkhe approve 💖👑
I must have one of those martinis, stat.
I'm so happy for you for getting out to enjoy the fireworks on July 4th! I was watching them up and down the coast on a beach 5,000 miles from you. <3
I love Lee Strauss--I need to get my hands on this book. Thanks for another great post, Veronica! See you Sunday! xo
What a cool, new tradition! Looks like the perfect hideout for the 4th! Congrats to all the authors mentioned and wow on the new Christmas cozies on the way! Star would approve!
Ahhh!!! Ooohhh!! Oh…sorry…I’m still looking at your fireworks videos! Another razzle-dazzling post, Veronica. Books. Crafts & a healthy-looking martini! I enjoyed it all!