Tap, tap, tap…Hello?...Is this thing on? Anyone still out there?

Gosh, I know it’s been ages since I last put up a post, and I feel like I should don some sackcloth and ashes for being such a delinquent blogger. However, there has been so much going on around here in the last several weeks that, well…I just haven’t set aside the time to keep everyone up to date. Things have been so crazy that I had to give my pal Mary’s book signing gig a miss last month. I let her know I would be there in spirit, but she didn’t seem to be buying it. Sigh.

So where to start with what’s been going on? I guess the most logical spot would be with Clare. She’s been visiting her daughter for the last few weeks, so Jed and I decided to surprise her when she gets back by remodeling the guest room she uses here at the house. Actually, the remodel isn’t a complete surprise because we wanted her input on colors and fabrics. But being typically Clare, she threw me a look, and reminded me she hasn’t a designer bone in her body (which, to be honest, is true). Basically, I was left to my own devices to decorate the space. Can’t say I was totally disappointed.

Anyway, between picking out paint colors, having the old carpeting ripped up and new hardwood floors installed, changing up the bathroom vanity and lighting (all the better for her to see how much gel she uses to spike that hair), and shopping for new bedding and accessories, well, let’s just say I’ve put quite a few miles on my little Ford Fusion. Clare’s due back early next week, and everything is on schedule to knock her socks off.

While all that’s been going on, Jed has had a few out-of-town meetings that I decided to tag along on. I’ve had such a blast scouring antique shops and funky boutiques in Charlotte, Knoxville, and Raleigh. Unfortunately, all that shopping didn’t burn off the couple of extra pounds that I put on from all the wonderful meals we indulged in. Guess I’ll need to add a few more aerobics classes to my schedule.

What else? Oh, I’ve been trying out some new recipes. Yes, you read that right…I’m becoming a cook! Okay, so maybe not a great cook, but at least I’m trying. Just this past week, I made some slow roasted salmon, tackled a Sicilian-style potato gratin, plus I whipped up some creamy tomato balsamic soup to go with some turkey sandwiches. Will post some of the recipes – with pictures – really soon.

So there you have it. Crazy days, packed with crazy stuff, but all fun. And oh, if you’ll be in Hendersonville, NC this Saturday, stop by the library to hear Mary read from her latest book, A Trip to the Water’s Edge.