I had a fabulous visit out to Carefree. But happy to be back home. Some people think it’s strange that I go to Arizona on vacation but really it’s a fabulous and fascinating place. I love the vegetation and the desert mountain views. And the 70 degree sunny weather. A nice change from home where we’ve hardly seen the sun all winter. Yes! I have a tan!

So, this is one of the reasons they call the place where we stay “the Boulders.” This rock is about three stories high. And it looks even more off-balanced in person.

This is the Saguaro cactus. Like a tree but with no leaves to rake in the fall.

And here’s where I’m getting ready to put for Birdie. YAY!!! (um…that doesn’t happen very often)

And now back to writing…

Tags: Boulders, golf, saguaro
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Sunday, I’m speaking to a group of writers here in Richmond and then I’m off to Arizona for a much needed week of R and R. We’ll be staying at the Boulders Resort in Carefree. Here’s how much I love it–it’s the only resort I’ve ever made multiple visits to. The hotel is spread all over the Sonoran desert with amazing views of either the golf course or fascinating rock formations. There’s a great spa at the resort and tons of fabulous restaurants in the vicinity. I can’t wait to get there!

And speaking of vacations, this summer I’m headed for my first trip ever to Ireland for a once in a life time experience. A small group of women and I are going to do Ireland on horseback. This is so exciting to me for so many reasons. One is because I love horses and riding and I’ve been out of it for a while because of having small children. So when this opportunity came up, I thought, “yes, finally, I’m literally going to be back in the saddle!” It’s also great timing for the release of my next novel SABOTAGE, set in a stable!!! AND I’m going to a country I’ve always wanted to visit. Not to mention, I’ll be with some amazing girls who know how to kick back and have a good time. Can you tell I’m excited?!?!

We’ll be in the saddle for 5-6 hours a day for 6 days in a row, so you can imagine I’m trying hard to get back in “riding” shape. Here’s a picture of me with PJ, a very steady and well-built thoroughbred. He belongs to great friend of mine, who has been kind enough to let me start building some leg back with him.

Tags: arizona, carefree, vacation
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When did Valentine’s Day turn into something for kids? I thought it was supposed to be about getting flowers and going out for a romantic dinner. The last few years at my house Valentines Day has been all about my kids who I’m afraid are starting to see this as a second Christmas. First, they get TONS of candy from their classmates. NO ONE only gives the little cards anymore. There MUST be candy or a gift attached or the poor kid will be marked for life as an outcast. I’d like to know what group of mothers started this annoying tradition. My children also EXPECT gifts. I blame this on the grandparents although I suppose I’ve contributed to this as well. Yesterday, my children received books, candy, stuffed animals, toys, and MONEY. Money for Valentine’s. Sure, nothing says I love you like twenty bucks from granny, right? (Sorry, Mom, but it’s hard to keep up.) The money MUST be spent, of course, which begins this chanting of “Can we go to Target? Can we go to Target?” (Thanks, Mom.)

What did I get for Valentine’s Day? Nothing! Not a single thing. Ok, I bought myself a pair of Lucky jeans and a nice BCBG blouse the other day and told my husband not to worry about it…but I didn’t really mean that. So this is for you guys who didn’t do a think for Valentine’s….Hello, we don’t really mean it when we say “don’t get us anything”…men are such slow learners!

Ok, rant over. And small correction. I did get one thing…this (which basically makes up for how lame the rest of the holiday was…)

Tags: Valentines Day
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